ANNEX - Navigational Audit Guidance
ANNEX - Navigational Audit Guidance
ANNEX - Navigational Audit Guidance
0 COMPANY POLICIES
0.1 SMS Procedure: Crew Management/Function list sea/20 Master
Authority:
• He is the legal mandatory of the owner and manager
• Disciplinary power as per Flag State Laws
• Supreme deciding shipboard authority in any aspect within the limitation of the law and company
instructions
• The Master has the overriding authority and the responsibility to make decisions with respect to the
safety and pollution prevention. This includes requesting the company's assistance or, if the urgency
or potential risk justifies so, the assistance of any other appropriate organization as may be deemed
necessary to mitigate the risks.
• The Master has the overriding authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding the security
of the ship and to request the assistance of the Company or of any Contracting Government as may
be necessary
• If, in the professional judgment of the Master, a conflict between any safety and security
requirements applicable to the ship arises during its operations, the Master shall give effect to those
requirements to maintain the safety of the ship
SMS Procedure: Management Responsibilities/05 Company organization
Master
The Master is the Company's representative on board each vessel and is required to fulfil the specific
instructions of Owners, Charterers and Managers within the guidelines set out in the Company's
documented Safety Management System.
The Master of each vessel holds the ultimate responsibility on board for matters affecting the safety of the
crew, the ship, its cargo and the protection of the environment.
The Master has the overriding authority for the safety of his crew, the vessel and for the protection of the
environment.
0.2 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning Passage/10 Under Keel Clearance Policy
Minimum UKC Policy
The minimum UKC that must be maintained at all times in various areas is defined as a percentage of the
static draft:
• Open waters: 200% of the Static draft
• Shallow waters/ Fairways: 15% of the static draft
(Shallow waters start when the water depth is 3x static draft or less.)
• Inside ports: 10% of the static draft or as per local ports requirements, whichever is highest
• Moored vessels: 0.3 meters
• Berths in open locations: 10% of static draft
SMS Procedure: Management Responsibilities/Navigation policy
Vertical Clearance
Any ship that has to clear an obstacle, such as but not limited to a bridge must adhere to a vertical
clearance of minimum 3 meters. For power cables a vertical clearance of 5 meters should be adhered to. If
a local regulation applies a stricter regulation, the local regulation must be adhered to. If a local regulation
is less strict than this Policy margin, the 3 meters rule must be applied. If a breach is likely to occur, certain
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
measures can be applied (lowering antennas, BWM, etc.) to increase the vertical clearance. A Risk
Assessment will be created to assess the situation.
If the calculated minimum Vertical Clearance is less than defined by the present Policy, the Master must
inform the Company (DPA / Marine Dept.) at the earliest opportunity. The information must include all
relevant details such as but not limited to: minimum Vertical Clearance found, Master's judgments and
suggestions.
Reminder: Charted Bridge Clearances:
Vertical bridge clearances on charts are referenced to mean High Water in tidal areas. Therefore, if the
existing height of tide is below MHW, there will be a greater clearance. If the existing height of the tide is
greater than MHW, there will be less clearance.
0.3 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning Passage/10 Underkeel Clearance Policy
Guidelines on UKC Policy:
A voyage is considered to be all parts of a ship’s passage from load berth(s) to discharge berth(s) including
any passages in ballast either to the load port or after the discharge port for which the ship is planned.
In determining the minimum UKC many factors must be taken into account:
• Integrity of the water depth surveys.
• State of sea and swell.
• Tidal variations, particularly the range and stand (duration at steady level) of tide.
• Variation in water level due to barometric pressure or tidal surges.
• Accuracy of soundings tidal information and predictions. (ZOCs on AVC/ENC charts)
• Accuracy of ship’s draft observations or calculations, including provision for hogging or sagging.
• Increase in ship’s draft due to heel or trim, particularly when ship has a large beam or is rolling and
pitching in a seaway.
• Changes in water density.
• Stability of the seabed (sand wave conditions) or channel bottom.
• The effects of squat.
0.4 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Mooring and Unmooring Procedures/03 Briefing Officers
BRIEFING OFFICERS
Before mooring operations the Master should, in close relation with the Pilot, assemble the Deck Officers
and inform them about the different phases:
• Tugs
• Berthing
• Sending Lines
• Mooring
The mooring plan should be established and be available for each Deck Officer. During this meeting the
importance of safe operations is to be stressed.
Before starting anchoring or mooring operations, the windlasses should be tested. This requirement
should be mentioned in the Master's standing orders.
NOTE: Records of minutes of meeting to be checked.
ANNEX: Circular - Mooring of vessels in tidal ports
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
Pilot and Master shall exchange information regarding navigational procedures, local conditions and the
ship's characteristics. The Master and/or the Officer in charge of the navigational watch shall co-operate
closely with the Pilot and maintain an accurate check on the ship's position and movement.
50. If in any doubt as to the Pilot's actions or intentions, the Officer in charge of the navigational watch
shall seek clarification from the Pilot and, if doubt still exists, shall notify the Master immediately and take
whatever action is necessary before the Master arrives.
Unquote
NOTE: The stand-by position shall be clearly annotated on all relevant navigational charts and time of
stand-by recorded in the deck and engine official log book.
ANNEX: Minimum Watch Composition (check availability of document)
0.7 ANNEX: Example of bridge standing orders:
In reduced visibility immediately comply with international regulations. Do not hesitate to use the whistle
or slow down if necessary. Commence plotting all targets forward of the beam, operate VHF, and inform
the Master and Chief Engineer. For the purpose of these orders reduced visibility is anything less than five
miles.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/09 Navigation during restricted visibility
NAVIGATION DURING RESTRICTED VISIBILITY
The Duty Engineer should ensure a permanent energy supply for fog sound signals. He should be ready to
respond to any bridge orders and should ensure, in addition, that auxiliary machinery used for
maneuvering is readily available.
NOTE: Master standing order to be checked for compliance.
0.8 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Anchoring
GENERAL
Based on equipment design limitations, we distinguish three anchoring situations:
• Anchoring in depths of less than 50 m.
• Anchoring in depths between 50 m. and 110 m.
• Anchoring in depths over 110 m.
When a vessel has to anchor, the Master shall conduct a risk assessment. If the water depth is more than
50 m. the risk assessment shall be formalized using a formal risk assessment form. If the anchoring
maneuver is performed under Pilot's advice, the risk assessment is considered to have been covered by
the Pilot.
Although 110 m. is arbitrary, operational anchoring at more than this depth is to be avoided.
ANNEX: Risk assessment anchoring
NOTE: Risk assessment for anchoring to be checked
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
1 BRIDGE ORGANIZATION
1.1 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/03 Bridge watch keeping
Bridge Procedures....
It is the duty of the Master or his delegate to ensure that joining officers familiarize themselves with the
bridge organization and operations before taking over the watch.
NOTE: All officers should demonstrated familiarization with Navigation policy and SSM procedure for
bridge equipment.
1.2 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/03 Bridge watch keeping
BRIDGE WATCH KEEPING
Watch Composition
The composition of the watch shall at all times be adequate and appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions and shall take into account the need for maintaining a proper look-out.
ANNEX: Minimum Watch Composition
NOTE: Compare deck log book with annexed document during different stages of navigation
1.3 SMS Procedure: Crew management/Function list sea/14 Deck officer
DECK WATCH OFFICER
Watch keeping officer in charge of a navigational or cargo watch.
Navigation Officer: watch 0000 - 0400 & 1200 - 1600
Administration Officer: watch 0400 - 0800 & 1600 - 2000
Executing Safety officer: watch 0800 - 1200 & 2000 - 2400
Authority:
• Take all actions necessary to meet his responsibilities
Responsibilities:
• Head of the sea and cargo watch
• Security duties as instructed by the SSO
• Supervision of the deck ratings during the watch and stand by
• Mooring station on the forecastle, poop deck or on the bridge while entering and leaving port as
decided by the Master
• In charge of the medical care, equipment and medication if appointed by the Master
SMS Procedure: Crew management/Function list sea/19 Master
MASTER
The Master is the owner's and manager's legal representative and the head of the maritime expedition.
Authority:
• He is the legal mandatory of the owner and manager
• Disciplinary power as per Flag State Laws
• Supreme deciding shipboard authority in any aspect within the limitation of the law and company
instructions
• The Master has the overriding authority and the responsibility to make decisions with respect to the
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
safety and pollution prevention. This includes requesting the company's assistance or, if the urgency
or potential risk justifies so, the assistance of any other appropriate organization as may be deemed
necessary to mitigate the risks.
• The Master has the overriding authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding the security
of the ship and to request the assistance of the Company or of any Contracting Government as may
be necessary
• If, in the professional judgment of the Master, a conflict between any safety and security
requirements applicable to the ship arises during its operations, the Master shall give effect to those
requirements to maintain the safety of the ship.
Responsibilities:
• Overall responsible for ALL shipboard activities
• Implementing the Safety, Environment Protection, Health and D&A Policy of the Company
• Motivating the crew in the observation of that Policy
• Supervision of the whole crew and especially the navigating officers during navigational tasks
• Issue appropriate orders and instructions in a clear and simple way
• Verify that specified requirements are observed
• Review the Safety Management System (SMS) and report deficiencies to the shore based
management
• Comply with the instructions in the management system
• Lead the maritime expedition without putting safety, the environment, time or property at
unacceptable risk
• Communications with the manager, owner and charterer
• Overall responsible for the complete familiarization process
• In charge of bridge equipment familiarization
NOTE: Takeover of the watch.
1.4 SMS Procedure: Crew management/Function list sea/14 Deck officer
Responsibilities:
• Head of the sea and cargo watch
• Security duties as instructed by the SSO
• Supervision of the deck ratings during the watch and stand by
• Mooring station on the forecastle, poop deck or on the bridge while entering and leaving port as
decided by the Master
• In charge of the medical care, equipment and medication if appointed by the Master
Particular Responsibilities:
Navigational Officer:
• Passage planning and noon position reports
• Correction of nautical charts and publications (including folio management follow up)
• In charge of the daily tests of the Navigational Bridge equipment.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
2 PASSAGE PLANNING
2.1 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/07 Passage Plan
PASSAGE PLAN
The passage planning shall be prepared by the Navigation Officer from berth to berth including all aspects
of the passage. The tool to prepare the passage plan is "DNV Passage Planner". DNV Passage Planner is in
compliance with the ICS Bridge Procedures Guide and includes a way point editor and a squat calculator
(parameters to be entered as per company UKC policy
2.2 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/08 Appraisal
APPRAISAL
The appraisal stage consists of gathering and contemplating all information relevant to the voyage, before
each voyage begins, including ascertaining risks and assessing its critical areas.....
2.3 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/07 Passage plan
The Navigational Officer will prepare the plan. The Master will assess the plan and approve the plan, in
consultation with the navigating officer. The Navigation team will execute and monitor the plan
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/08 Appraisal
The Master:
• Makes an overall assessment of the intended voyage, in consultation with the navigation team.
2.4 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Passage Planning
• The maximum position fixing interval should be defined in the passage plan. Where the navigational
circumstances may change on a particular leg, i.e. proximity to obstructions or shoals, then the
position fixing interval should be amended accordingly. The position fixing interval shall always be
less than the time to the nearest danger at the relevant speed and must allow the OOW to input at
least 2 positions before the vessel may run into danger.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/07 Passage plan execution and monitoring
• The frequency at which the position is to be fixed should be determined for each section of the
voyage.
2.5 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/03 Paper chart and nautical
publications
PAPER CHARTS AND NAUTICAL PUBLICATIONS
On board of the Company managed vessels, the Officer in charge of charts and nautical documents is the
Navigation Officer.
All ships should carry adequate and up to date official nautical charts, Sailing Directions, lists of lights,
notices to mariners, tide tables and all other nautical publications necessary for the intended voyage.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/04 ECDIS and electronic navigational
charts (ENC)
ECDIS AND ELECTRONIC NAVIGATION CHARTS (ENC)
• The system must use official ENC data (vectorized electronic navigational charts) to IHO S57
standard, which must be supplied by or authorized by a national Hydrographic Office. Such ENC data
must be corrected weekly.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/09 Planning general
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
PLANNING
Passage Planning: General
• Following items should be indicated on the chart, where it enhances safe navigation (Care should be
taken not to obscure the original navigational information):
• Track to be followed
• No go areas
• Chart change
• Waypoints
• Parallel indexing
• Abort all position
• Stream & current information and tidal window if applicable
• Radar conspicuous objects and visual Navaids
• Eventual Reporting Points
• Safe anchoring position(s)
• Pilotage and tug area
Passage Planning: ECDIS
• As a minimum, following items should be indicated on the chart, where it enhances safe navigation,
by use of Manual Chart Objects (Care should be taken not to obscure the original navigational
information):
• Track to be followed
• Waypoints
• Parallel index lines (not from floating objects unless they have been checked for position first)
• Prominent/conspicuous navigation and radar marks
• No-go areas
• Landfall targets and lights
• Clearing lines and bearings
• Transits, heading marks and leading lines
• Significant stream & current information and tidal window if applicable and not automatically
available
• Safe speed and necessary speed alterations
• Changes in machinery status
• Minimum under keel clearance
• Crossing and high density traffic areas
• Safe distance off
• Contingency plans
• Abort positions
• VTS and reporting points, etc.
• Safe anchoring positions
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
2.9 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/07 Passage plan execution and monitoring
Radar can be used to advantage in monitoring the position of the vessel by the use of parallel indexing,
which is a simple and most effective way of continuously monitoring that a vessel is maintaining its track
in restricted coastal waters. Parallel indexing can be used in any situation where a radar-conspicuous
navigation mark is available and it is practicable to monitor continuously the vessel's position relative to
such an object. It also serves as a valuable check on the vessel's progress when using an electronic chart.
NOTE: When radar conspicuous targets are available parallel Indexing shall be used to monitor the
vessel progress against the planned track.
2.10 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/09 Planning general
Vessels must participate in position reporting systems (AMVER, JASREP, AUSREP, etc...) where applicable.
2.11 NOTE: Vessel traffic services (VTS) have been introduced, particularly in ports and their approaches, to
monitor ship compliance with local regulations and to optimize traffic management. VTS can only be
mandatory within the territorial seas of a coastal state.
VTS requirements shall form part of the passage plan and shall include references to the specific radio
frequencies that must be monitored by the ship for navigational or other warnings, and advice on when
to proceed in areas where traffic flow is regulated.
For vessels trading to the US, CFR Title 33 Section 161 gives full details of all Vessel Traffic Service
systems that are required by statute in the United States.
2.12 SMS Procedure: Ship operations -Navigation/Planning passage/10 Under keel clearance policy
Squat calculation
Squat is defined as the supplementary sinkage of a ship relative to the original static draft caused by its
movement at a given speed. It includes the vertical sinkage of the ship as a whole and the sailing trim.
Factors for calculating squat are the speed through the water at the highest foreseeable speed, the block
coefficient (Cb) of the vessel and S2, a factor depending on the cross section area of the ship and of the
channel (which is de facto the factor taking into account the width of influence).
Formula for calculating squat (Barras Formula):
Maximum squat (in meter) = (Cb/30)*(S2)2/3*V2.08
Where: Cb = Block coefficient (see further for clarification).
As As b*T
S2 = Aw = (Ac - As) = (B*H) - (b*T)
As = Cross section area of the vessel amidships in static condition.
Ac = Cross section area of the channel
Aw = Net cross sectional area = Ac - As
b = Extreme ship breadth
B = Width of the channel
T = Static draft of the ship
H = Water depth of the channel
V = Speed through the water
Note: all cross sectional parameters are defined for static condition, which is the condition for zero
speed.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
2.13 SMS Procedure: Ship operations -Navigation/Sailing -ECDIS/05 Passage plan control, execution and
monitoring.
Safety frame:
The Safety Frame (can be named ‘Anti-Grounding cone’ or another name dependent upon the
manufacturer) is intended for setting the size of the area that will be used for the chart data analysis and
for the generation of the Anti grounding alarms, Area Alerts and Navigational Alarms. The trigger points
for Alarms and Warnings are defined by a Cone projected Ahead, Port and Starboard of the vessel. The
size of the Anti Grounding Cone will depend on the ECDlS system in use as well as the size,
manoeuvrability and speed of the vessel. Once a danger has been picked up in the Safety Frame, it will be
necessary for the vessel to avoid it. This delay and time to manoeuvre must be taken into account when
setting up. It is recommended that the safety frame is set in ‘time ahead’ instead of ‘distance ahead’, and
‘distance to Port and Starboard, adapted according to navigational circumstances, i.e. pilotage and
confined waters, coastal waters, or ocean navigation.
3 DUTIES OF THE OFFICER OF THE WATCH (OOW)
3.1 SMS Procedure: Crew management/Function list sea/14 Deck officer
Particular Responsibilities:
Navigational Officer:
• Passage planning and noon position reports
• Correction of nautical charts and publications (including folio management follow up)
• In charge of the daily tests of the Navigational Bridge equipment.
Administration Officer:
• The administration of the communications
• The wages and catering administration
• Assist the Navigational Officer with the correction of charts and publications.
Executing Safety Officer:
• Operability and inventories of all Safety & Security equipment and installations (Executing Safety
Officer)
• Assist the Navigational Officer with the correction of charts and publications
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/03 Bridge watch keeping
Bridge Procedures
The Company adheres completely to, and makes mandatory, the "Bridge Procedures Guide" (ICS) which
shall be on board all vessels and be maintained in good order. Masters have to ensure themselves that all
watch keeping officers have read and understood the Bridge Procedures Guide.
Each master has to comply with the guide, but may obviously add procedures and instructions if
necessary.
Each officer must at all times during his watch comply with the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at sea (COLREG) , with the "Basic Principles to be observed in keeping a navigational watch" of
the STCW Convention and with the Master's Standing Orders.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
3.14 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/07 Passage plan execution and monitoring
Monitoring of the vessel's progress along the pre-planned track is a continuous process. The Officer On
Watch should, whenever in any doubt as to the position of the vessel or the manner in which the voyage
is proceeding, immediately call the Master and, if necessary, take appropriate action for the safety of the
vessel.
ANNEX: Example of Bridge Standing Orders
A good officer, when faced with any unusual circumstance, will apply COMMON SENSE AND THE GOOD
PRACTICE OF SEAMEN to the situation and act accordingly. If you find yourself thinking about calling the
Master then the time has clearly come to do so.
3.15 NOTE: Due to the critical activities undertaken by the Bridge team distractions must be kept to a
minimum. Therefore:
• The use of mobile and satellite phones for personal calls by the OOW is prohibited
• The use of music earphones by the OOW is prohibited
• The use of personal computers (laptops) on the bridge by the OOW is prohibited
• Casual visitors to the bridge are prohibited during standby conditions or where navigation is critical
• The use of radios (entertainment), MP3 players or CD players is prohibited during standby conditions
or when navigation is critical or traffic is heavy.
• The Master should consider disconnecting non GMDSS satellite communications equipment if
incoming calls causes a distraction during standby conditions or when navigation is critical or traffic is
heavy”
3.16 NOTE: The largest scale charts published should be used for navigation. When changing charts the last
position on the previous chart must be immediately transferred as the first position on the next chart.”
3.17 NOTE: Each ship shall have at least one sextant as a part of the outfit of navigational equipment.
Sextants shall be carefully maintained in accordance with the maker's instructions and care taken to
ensure that they are properly corrected and safely stowed when not in use. To ensure that all
navigational officers are fully conversant with the importance of utilizing the sextant, all officers
engaged in carrying out a navigational watch should carry out an astronomical observation on at least
a weekly basis, circumstances permitting. These observations shall be recorded onboard in the vessel’s
‘Sights Book’.
3.18 ANNEX: Example of Bridge Standing Orders
At sea, gyro and magnetic compasses are to be compared frequently and an azimuth bearing is to be
taken after every major course alteration, or at least once per watch.
NOTE: The magnetic compass deviation and gyro error should be ascertained every watch or after major
course changes. All records to be noted in the Compass Observation log. Where weather conditions or
traffic density makes it impractical, this fact should be noted.
3.19 NOTE1: Masters shall ensure that all watch keepers are familiar with the different modes of steering,
together with the methods for changing from one mode to another.
NOTE2: Simple operating instructions with a block diagram showing the change-over procedures for
remote control systems and steering gear power units shall be permanently displayed on the navigation
bridge and in the steering gear compartment.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
3.25 NOTE: A wheelhouse poster providing maneuvering data as required by IMO resolution A.601 (15), shall
be clearly displayed in the Wheelhouse (Note additional requirement of CFR Part 164.35.G.7).
3.26
3.27
3.28
3.29 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/06 Global maritime distress and safety
system(GMDSS)
GLOBAL MARITIME DISTRESS AND SAFETY SYSTEM (GMDSS)
The Master nominates one of the qualified Deck Officers responsible for maintaining the radio log and to
carry out the tests and checks of the equipment as required by SOLAS. The master remains however fully
responsible on all communication matters.
While performing the necessary tests and checks of the equipment precautions should be taken to avoid
false alerts.
The radio logbook to be kept on board depends on the flag state requirements.
3.30 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/07 Passage plan
• Navigational Warnings and T&P Notices must be taken into account. Applicable details must be
noted on the relevant charts. There should be a system in place for the filing and updating of all
Navigation Warnings and T&P Notices
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/06 Correcting electronic charts.
Navigational warnings
Navigational warnings, whether received through Navtex or EGC, must be entered in the ECDIS, when
relevant to the voyage.....The Navtex messages must nonetheless be checked by each OOW, whether
available on the chart and relevant to the voyage.....
3.31 ASI 2011-33
Other Navarea’s than Nav I have to be received from Sat C (SafetyNet) and / or Navtex. Under SOLAS, the
vessel must receive the navigational warning for the current Navarea (and meteorological warnings for
the current Metarea). However IMO recommends that your receiver is programmed to receive also
coastal warnings, and MSI (maritime safety information) for any other Navarea in which the vessel is
expected to sail. Note that the Navarea’s specified do not need to be adjacent to the current area. Of
course the receiver has to be properly programmed, but be aware that when a new area is entered, you
will generally receive only the warnings issued during the last 42 days.
Occasionally missing Navarea’s can be received from the local coordinators (see attached the COMSAR
list). List of contacts for the present voyage may be added in the passage planning. Should you not
received the needed Navarea’s by SafetyNet, thanks to request them. Should they not answer, thanks to
advise Marine (we can also upload the warnings from the various websites - one per area).
3.32
3.33 SMS Procedure: HSEQ-Emergency Manual LPG or LNG/Emergency organization.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
4.18 NOTE: The manual steering control shall be tested daily whilst at sea.
Manual steering control and a dedicated helmsman should be used when undertaking large alterations
of course and when navigating in restricted waters or in areas of high traffic density.
In areas of high traffic density, in conditions of restricted visibility and in all other hazardous
navigational situations where autopilot systems are in use, the OOW shall be able to establish manual
control of the ship's steering immediately. The OOW must make a timely decision whether to employ a
helmsman and ensure that hand steering is engaged before a potentially hazardous situation develops.
When operating in hand steering for a prolonged period, consideration should be given to relieving the
helmsmen every 30-60 minutes in order to maintain the concentration necessary to maintain an
accurate course.
In circumstances as above, the OOW shall have available without delay the services of a qualified
helmsperson who shall be ready at all times to take over steering control.
The changeover from automatic to manual steering and vice versa shall be made by, or under the
supervision of, a responsible officer and shall be recorded in the deck logbook with time and position.
Upon changing over to autopilot the performance should be carefully monitored for at least 10 minutes
to ensure correct operations.
4.19 NOTE: The off-course alarm shall be utilized when the vessel is being steered by the automatic pilot or
when hand steering for long periods. The off-course limit settings shall be checked every time the off-
course alarm is put into operation and at hand over of watches.
4.20 NOTE: The Master shall request the services of a qualified compass adjuster if the compass error
deviations obtained no longer compare favorably with the deviation card or after major structural
alterations, repairs to the ship or after a long period of lay-up. On completion of adjustment, the
adjuster must prepare a deviation cards for the compass.
4.21 NOTE: The deviation card or certificate shall be kept with the ship's certificates and a duplicate shall be
posted on the bridge. A record of the position of the compensation magnets, the position of the soft iron
spheres and the amount and position of soft iron in the Flinders Bar shall be kept with the deviation
card.
The compass shall be adjusted by a qualified compass adjuster if a period of two years has elapsed since
the last adjustment and a record of compass deviations has not been maintained, or the recorded
deviations are excessive or when the compass shows physical defects. (Sire 4.14)
4.22 NOTE: The speed, latitude corrections and the alignment of all repeaters, including those fitted in other
bridge equipment, shall be checked at least once a day.
The gyrocompass is the ship's principal direction indicating equipment and special care must be taken to
maintain it in full operational condition. On vessels fitted with two gyro compasses, the gyro
comparison unit, if fitted, shall be in operation at all times when both gyro compasses are running.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
4.23 SMS Procedure: HSEQ-emergency manual LPG or LNG/Machinery failure/07 Gyro compass failure
GYRO COMPASS FAILURE
In case of Gyro Compass Failure, following actions should be taken:
• If on auto-steering, change to hand steering
• Use magnetic compass for navigation
• Report to the Company
• Check compass error once per watch
• Arrange repairs soonest
• Change radar to head-up
4.24 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/15 Record keeping
Machinery records: course recorder, echosounder and engine recorder
Every noon and upon arrival and departure from port the course recording paper should be marked with
the date, the time and the position in lat/lon. The same goes for all other automatic print -outs such as the
telegraph recorder.
NOTE: The course recorder shall be kept on GMT and checked every watch.
4.25 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/15 Record keeping
The echosounder recording paper should be marked with the port name and switched on at every arrival
and departure. Note that the memory of the echosounder is not always considered sufficient as evidence;
hence the time of switching on and off should be recorded in the deck logbook.
NOTE: When navigating in coastal or restricted waters the echo sounder shall be turned on, an
appropriate scale selected and the amplifying gain adjusted to present a reliable echo return. The echo
sounder should be set to measure under keel clearance and should not be offset to measure depth of
water.
When switching on the echo sounder prior to Standby the reading should be compared with another
source, such as Doppler or charted depth. If echosounder started but not printing record UKC hourly in
deck logbook e.g. column 26 for record keeping.
4.26 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/15 Record keeping
Machinery records: course recorder, echosounder and engine recorder
Every noon and upon arrival and departure from port the course recording paper should be marked with
the date, the time and the position in lat/lon. The same goes for all other automatic print -outs such as the
telegraph recorder.
4.27 SMS Procedure: Ship operations -Navigation/Sailing/04 Electronic aids to navigation
GPS (Global Positioning System)
GPS is the mostly used satellite positioning system. The GPS is a US military controlled positioning system.
Therefore mariners should be aware of the limitations the system might encounter....
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
4.31 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
Shipboard Verification
Master is responsible for all chart corrections and has to review and initial the chart correction log/update
status of all charts held on board. He will cross check the paper chart and publication corrections for the
intended voyage with the electronic correction log. The ECDIS corrections shall be checked on the unit
itself; these reviews shall be noted down in the logbook.
Quarterly (end March, end June, end September and end December) the planning report "Quarterly Chart
Correction Status" (planning attached to the procedure) is to be completed and transmitted to the
company.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/06 Correcting electronic charts (ECDIS)
All officers must be aware of the method to access the evidence that charts have been properly corrected
and are up-to-date to the latest available correction. The Master should ascertain that chart corrections
have been implemented by regular quick checks of the system, as well as thorough random checks before
the start of the voyage. The Master will confirm the thorough checks in the passage planning document.
4.32 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
Shipboard Processing
.... All actions performed in relationship with charts or other nautical publications, such as corrections,
renewal or cancellation of publications… will be logged electronically in this system. As such no paper log
is required anymore. .........
NOTE: Chartco log of correction to be checked.
4.33 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
Shipboard Processing
All vessels are equipped with an electronic charts administration tool (e.g. ChartCo, Chart track) and will
maintain all records up to date in this system. All actions performed in relationship with charts or other
nautical publications, such as corrections, renewal or cancellation of publications… will be logged
electronically in this system. As such no paper log is required anymore. Through the Folio Management,
new editions are automatically supplied (no need to order).
Cancellation of charts should be marked on the chart as soon as a new edition is published. Once received,
the obsolete edition is destroyed to prevent accidental usage; the receipt of the new edition is entered in
the electronic chart log.
4.34 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting
paper charts and publications
PAPER CHARTS AND NAUTICAL PUBLICATIONS
On board of the Company managed vessels, the Officer in charge of charts and nautical documents is the
Navigation Officer.
Documents for actions: Checklists action familiarization
Bridge Familiarization.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
4.35 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
Charts and publications (list of lights, sailing directions, pilot books, list of radio signals, etc.) are always to
be corrected and updated on board. The Company fully adheres to the UKHO publication NP 294
guidelines.
Transmittal of Notices to Mariners (NtM) and tracings for BA Charts is done for the majority of vessels
electronically. For vessels not equipped with such electronic transmittal system of NtM and tracings these
documents are received in the office and mailed to the vessel. When available, corrections received
electronically shall always be considered as primary means for charts and publications corrections.
4.36 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
Charts and publications (list of lights, sailing directions, pilot books, list of radio signals, etc.) are always to
be corrected and updated on board. The Company fully adheres to the UKHO publication NP 294
guidelines.
Transmittal of Notices to Mariners (NtM) and tracings for BA Charts is done for the majority of vessels
electronically. For vessels not equipped with such electronic transmittal system of NtM and tracings these
documents are received in the office and mailed to the vessel. When available, corrections received
electronically shall always be considered as primary means for charts and publications corrections.
4.37 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/05 Correcting paper charts and
publications
T&P corrections
Navigational Warnings and T&P Notices must be available on the voyage charts and all applicable details
must be noted down or attached to the relevant charts.
The reference shall be clearly marked in pencil on the left side of the chart, ONLY when the chart has been
corrected for T&P. A suitable record and filing system has to be in place.
SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/06 Correcting electronic charts (ECDIS)
T&P information
The normal way to update T&P on the ENC voyage cells is by way of update CD received from the
Admiralty on a regular basis. However, not all countries include T&P corrections in a digital format, which
means that, depending on the originating country, these T&P's might then not be included in the CD
updates. A list of countries, evolving regularly, is appended to the procedure.
In fact the only guaranteed source of T&P information is the Notices to Mariners.
Accordingly, the vessel shall prepare a list of T&P's applicable to the voyage charts and verify on each
occasion that these have been included in the ENC. If they are not included electronically, the T&P notice
must be entered manually on the ENC cell.
The Admiralty provides a relatively convenient way to determine the applicable T&P for the voyage charts
through their Admiralty Digital Catalogue. It must be noted however that this catalogue is updated only by
means of the regular Admiralty Update CD's (neither by the AUS nor ChartCo). There can be a gap of some
weeks between CD-delivery and actual situation. Therefore, the paper ‘Notices to Mariners’ must always
be consulted to ensure that no T&P notice is missed. Vessels provided with Internet access can easily
download the weekly catalogue update from the UKHO website.
Additionally, ENC updates may occasionally be issued late and therefore may not be synchronized with the
corresponding Notices to Mariners (NM) and updates for paper and Admiralty Raster Chart Service (ARCS)
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
charts.
Consequently, it is possible to have a situation where the ECDIS NM's may not be synchronized with the
paper NM's.
Additionally, the electronic T&P information can be displayed in an unfamiliar format (e.g. info symbol)
that has to be interrogated to reveal its content.
4.38 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation
ANNEX: BMI: 2008-001 version 1.1 Electronic charts.
4.39 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation
ANNEX: BMI: 2008-001 version 1.1 Electronic charts.
4.40 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/06 Correcting electronic charts (ECDIS)
CORRECTING ELECTRONIC CHARTS (ECDIS)
The normal way to update ENC/ARCS cells is by way of Update CD from the Admiralty sent to each
concerned vessels on a regular basis. Between receipts of update CD's, the Company provides several
ways to update the voyage cells on a weekly basis:
Admiralty Update Service
'Admiralty Update Service' is available per e-mail. This has been satisfactorily tested and can be
implemented fleet-wise. The software for this is already on board of each vessel, on the Admiralty Utilities
CD. The self-explanatory instructions manual for the AUS is also on this CD in pdf. The AUS allows the
vessel to get the AVCS/ARCS corrections for the voyage cells by e-mail. The size is visible beforehand and
is usually acceptable. T&P corrections are included in the AUS, if they originate from countries which issue
them digitally. For vessels provided with Internet access, the AUS is the preferred procedure for updating
the ECDIS Charts, as the vessels have direct access to the UKHO updating website.
ChartCo
In a similar manner, vessels equipped with ChartCo can be provided by weekly updates of the ENC Cells.
This enables the vessels to make a CD with these weekly updates.
4.41 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/05 Navigation using ECDIS
NAVIGATION USING ECDIS
Over Reliance
When working with ECDIS, there is always a danger that deck officers take the accuracy and verity of
information presented by the system for granted - in essence, steering by the ECDIS alone. ECDIS brings
tremendous advantages to navigators in the form of information, position-keeping and situational
awareness; however, it does not replace the need to undertake proper watch keeping. It is important for
navigators to cross-check the picture presented by the ECDIS against other navigational systems and
sources of information. Among the dangers associated with over -reliance are improper functioning of the
ECDIS itself, an incorrect position fix via satellite systems, incorrect chart data, faulty sensor readings and
simple human error. Furthermore, ECDIS can lure deck officers into a false sense of security.
The Company requires all officers involved in navigational watches with ECDIS to recognize:
• that a potential risk of improper functioning of the system and of data inaccuracy is inherent in the
system
• that the displayed hydrographic data are not more reliable than the survey data on which they are
based
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
• that the display sensor data are not more reliable than the respective sensor systems they originate
from
• that ECDIS is only a tool that supports the mariner in the performing of the navigational tasks
• that errors/inaccuracies in one subsystem may influence the performance of other subsystems and
potentially render the ECDIS useless.
The Company requires all officers involved in navigational watches with ECDIS to perform a navigational
watch which is not based on only one system.
The Company requires all officers involved in navigational watches with ECDIS to assess:
• The integrity of the system and all data at all times
• That he/she must also use other available aids to navigation and determine which ones are
appropriate.
The risks of over-reliance can be minimized by the application of preventive measures during the
control/monitoring phase of the passage plan, as prescribed by the Company.
4.42 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/04
ECDIS and electronic navigation charts.
Electronic Chart Types
Official electronic nautical charts can be in one of two formats:
• Electronic navigational charts (ENC) are official vector nautical charts. When displayed on type-
approved ECDIS equipment, they are equivalent to paper charts, as approved by the Flag State
Administration.
• Raster navigational charts (RNC) are official raster nautical charts. When displayed on ECDIS
equipment, they are not fully equivalent to paper charts and an appropriate folio of up-to date paper
charts is required.
A clear distinction between raster and vector charts must be made:
• ENCs or vector charts are compiled from a database of individual items (objects) of digitized chart
data and displayed as a seamless chart. When used in an electronic navigation system, the data can
then be re-assembled to display either the entire chart image or a user selected combination of data.
ENCs are intelligent in that systems using them can be programmed to give warning of impending
danger in relation to the vessel's position and movement.
• RNCs or raster charts on the other hand are produced by digitally scanning a paper chart image. The
resulting digital file may then be displayed in an electronic navigation system where the vessel's
position can be shown. Since the raster chart display is merely a digital photocopy of the original
paper chart, the image has no intelligence and other than visually, cannot be interrogated.
4.43 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Planning passage/04
ECDIS and electronic navigation charts.
Electronic Chart Types
Official electronic nautical charts can be in one of two formats:
• Electronic navigational charts (ENC) are official vector nautical charts. When displayed on type-
approved ECDIS equipment, they are equivalent to paper charts, as approved by the Flag State
Administration.
• Raster navigational charts (RNC) are official raster nautical charts. When displayed on ECDIS
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
equipment, they are not fully equivalent to paper charts and an appropriate folio of up-to date paper
charts is required.
A clear distinction between raster and vector charts must be made:
• ENCs or vector charts are compiled from a database of individual items (objects) of digitized chart
data and displayed as a seamless chart. When used in an electronic navigation system, the data can
then be re-assembled to display either the entire chart image or a user selected combination of data.
ENCs are intelligent in that systems using them can be programmed to give warning of impending
danger in relation to the vessel's position and movement.
• RNCs or raster charts on the other hand are produced by digitally scanning a paper chart image. The
resulting digital file may then be displayed in an electronic navigation system where the vessel's
position can be shown. Since the raster chart display is merely a digital photocopy of the original
paper chart, the image has no intelligence and other than visually, cannot be interrogated.
4.44 NOTE: During production, ENCs are assigned a compilation scale based upon the nature of the source
data they are based on, and are allocated to a navigational purpose band related to this. As shown in
the table below there are 6 navigational purpose bands (scale ranges are indicative only).”
Navigational Purpose Name Range
1 Overview < 1:1,499,999
2 General 1:350,000 – 1:1,499,999
3 Coastal 1:90,000 – 1:349,999
4 Approach 1:22,000 – 1:89,999
5 Harbor 1:4,000 – 1,21,999
6 Berthing > 1:4,000
4.45
4.46 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/04 Electronic aids to navigation
As a minimum, the GMDSS Radio Log should provide details of:
• Training of persons assigned to send distress alerts
• General training given to relevant crew members with regard to distress and safety procedures
• Operational status of the communication equipment, including its sources of energy
• Details of daily, weekly and monthly tests of equipment and batteries including the monthly security
check of each battery and its connections, the results of the monthly check on the condition of the
batteries and their compartment or compartments and the monthly inspection results of the
condition of all aerials and insulators.
• A summary of distress, urgency and safety radio communications
• Important incidents relating to the radio service
Where appropriate the position of the ship at least once per day........
4.47 NOTE: The Master shall ensure that there are equipment specific instructions in place, adjacent to the
relevant pieces of equipment, to assist an unskilled operator to send an emergency GMDSS
communication.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
4.48 NOTE: There shall be a procedure in place for earthing or isolating the main transmitting antennas
whilst the vessel is alongside the berth. Where it is not possible to earth or isolate the main transmitting
antenna in port, then the GMDSS station shall be powered down.”
4.49 SMS Procedure: HSEQ – Emergency manual LPG or LNG/Emergency organization/08 Communications
External: Ship-Ship or Ship-Shore
It is the primary duty of the Officer On Watch (GMDSS) to contact other ships or shore stations in an
emergency using any means at his disposal (W/T, R/T, SATCOM, VHF).
Details of the emergency together with requirements for assistance should be transmitted without delay.
The officer on watch must be provided with all necessary details. This will include:
• Ship's position (lat. and long. also reference to land)
• Course and speed (if under way)
• Set and drift
• Weather conditions, including sea state and ice conditions
• Details of emergency
• Details of casualties
• Assistance required
NOTE: Emergency pro-forma messages shall be compiled ready for transmission via Sat communications
4.50 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing/04 Electronic aids to navigation
Training and familiarization
The Masters and navigation officers must be fully aware of the operations and functionalities of their
ECDIS. To achieve this level of awareness the Company is sending all deck officers to an operator course
for the specific equipment available on their vessel. Additionally, no officer shall be permitted to be in
charge of a Navigational watch before he/she has been thoroughly familiarized on board with the Bridge
equipment. A thorough familiarization process specifically for the ECDIS shall be undertaken when a new
officer joins the vessel. A ship Specific procedure shall cover the ECDIS familiarization process.
Aside from normal operation of the system, it must not be left for the designated navigation officer to
have sole knowledge on the updating procedures and process: all officers must be fully aware of how to
proceed with updates. All officers must regularly be involved and trained in the process by the designated
navigation officer.
To facilitate the familiarization and the daily operation of the system, the ECDIS quick guide shall be
available in the vicinity of the equipment. Additionally, the Company puts Seagull's Training System at the
disposal of the vessel's crews, which contains several modules pertaining to the use of ECDIS, as well as a
training workbook and procedure. A ship and equipment specific chapter has been drawn up to ascertain
the proper familiarization of an officer following the workbook with the ECDIS equipment on his vessel.
4.51 SMS Procedure: HSEQ Emergency manual / ECDIS failure
So as to prepare the officers to the unlikely event of an ECDIS total failure, a drill shall be held on board on
a three-monthly basis. A drill involving the Company and the Makers shall be held once a year, in a similar
manner as Table top exercises.
Exmar Shipmanagement NV
SHIP OPERATIONS - NAVIGATION NAV-Annex
ANNEX: Navigational Audit Guidance
closely with the Pilot and maintain an accurate check on the ship's position and movement.
If in any doubt as to the Pilot's actions or intentions, the Officer in charge of the navigational watch shall
seek clarification from the Pilot and, if doubt still exists, shall notify the Master immediately and take
whatever action is necessary before the Master arrives.
5.3 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing under pilotage/04 Master pilot exchange
Where pre-arrival exchange has not taken place, extra time and searoom may need to be allowed in order
to discuss the plan fully before pilotage commences.
The Pilot should be handed the Pilot Card and shown the Wheelhouse Poster. The Wheelhouse Poster
provides a summary of ship maneuvering information. A maneuvering booklet containing more detailed
information may also be available on the bridge.
There will be circumstances where a debriefing between one of the Bridge Team members and the Pilot
could identify improvements in the conduct of further pilotage operations.
5.4 NOTE: Standard form from BPG updated for ship specific equipment to be in use.
5.5 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing under pilotage/05 Watch keeping under pilot
Despite the duties and obligations of Pilots, their presence on board does not relieve the Master or the
Officer in charge of the navigational watch from their duties and obligations for the safety of the ship. The
Pilot and Master shall exchange information regarding navigational procedures, local conditions and the
ship's characteristics. The Master and/or the Officer in charge of the navigational watch shall co-operate
closely with the Pilot and maintain an accurate check on the ship's position and movement.
5.6 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing under pilotage/05 Watch keeping under pilot
The relation ‘Bridge Team’ and Pilot is fully described in the publication ‘Bridge Team Management’
(chapter 7. Navigating with a Pilot on board) and must be fully adhered to. Any order given by the Pilot
directly to the helmsman must be controlled by the bridge team.
5.7 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing under pilotage/03 Pilot Boarding
PILOT BOARDING
All requirements from the Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seaman Chapter 6 (Means of
Access and Safe Movement) are to be fulfilled and are fully adhered to.
5.8 SMS Procedure: Ship Operations - Navigation/Sailing under pilotage/04 Master pilot exchange
The Pilotage Passage Plan should be discussed with al members of the Bridge Team prior to the Pilot
boarding the vessel. The Master should advise the Bridge Team that the Pilot will effectively be a new
member of the ship’s Bridge Team, who may not be familiar with the vessel ’s equipment or handling
characteristics. The Master should emphasize that the presence of a Pilot aboard the vessel does not
release the Bridge Team from their respective duties or responsibilities.