The estimation of speed and knowing when to reduce speed when approaching a berth is not always easy and confidence can only come with experience. On very large ships, such as VLCCs, some guidance may be available from reliable doppler logs, but on many ships, a doppler log is not available. In any case, total reliance upon instrumentation is not wise and is no substitute for experience. A pilot jumping from one ship to another, sometimes several during one duty period has to develop a "feel" for the type of ship he boards and con "by the seat of his pants." Speed Many casualties are proven … [Read more...]
Rule 6 – Safe Speed
Section 1 — Conduct of Vessels in any Condition of Visibility Rule 6: Safe Speed Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions. In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into account:- Meaning: A very difficult statement ‘Safe Speed’. Any vessel, which is sailing has some speed and with that, it can cause trouble for others as well as to itself. If the speed is very low and the … [Read more...]