Why Verification is so Important in Marine Navigation For recreational sailors, whether seasoned skippers or weekend adventurers, the thrill of exploring the open waters comes with the responsibility of navigating safely and efficiently. While modern technology, such as GPS and electronic chart plotters, has made marine navigation more accessible and convenient than ever, relying solely…
The Enduring Value of Paper Charts in the Digital Age In today’s digital world, electronic nautical charts (ENCs) have become the norm for maritime navigation. With their real-time positioning, easy updates, and user-friendly interfaces, it’s easy to see why many mariners have shifted to digital solutions. As a racing skipper, I’m a huge fan of…
Why are bananas supposed to be bad luck on boats? If you’ve ever set sail or chatted with seasoned sailors, you might have stumbled upon a curious maritime superstition: bananas are bad luck on boats. This peculiar belief, like tales of mermaids and ghost ships, has been passed down through generations. But why do these…
Are charted depths based on the worst-case scenario? Traditional and electronic navigation charts (ENCs) provide us with an understanding of depth, particularly near the coastline. Generally, we ask ourselves: Can we float? After all, we don’t want to run aground! The numbers provided on charts give a likely worst-case scenario, known as chart datum. For…
Introduction Navigational aids have been crucial for maritime safety for centuries, but you may be surprised to learn that the standardisation of the buoyage system didn’t materialise until the 1980s. Among the various systems developed, the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) buoyage system stands out for its global adoption…
“Under the weather” is commonly used to describe feeling ill or unwell. Its origin can be traced back to maritime language and practices. Here are the key points of its origin: Overall, the phrase “under the weather” has its roots in maritime culture, symbolising the relationship between bad weather and feeling unwell, whether from direct exposure or…
In the vast expanse of the world’s oceans, where the unpredictable forces of nature and the ever-shifting moods of the sea collide, mariners have long relied on a timeless companion—the Shipping Forecast. Originating in the early 20th century, this iconic broadcast has transcended its humble beginnings to become a cultural touchstone, embodying tradition and practicality…
Weather is a dynamic and ever-changing aspect of our natural environment that profoundly impacts our daily lives. From sunny days to thunderstorms, the variety of weather conditions we experience results from complex interactions within Earth’s atmosphere. This article will delve into the key factors that cause weather and explore the intricate mechanisms that shape our…
The COLREGs define a “vessel” as “every description of watercraft… used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.” Despite this, a notable anomaly existed in the UK’s regulations, limiting the application of COLREGs to a “ship” under the Merchant Shipping Act 1995 (MSA 95). This discrepancy led to a significant…
Helicopter rescue operations at sea are critical in saving lives during maritime emergencies. Whether responding to shipwrecks, medical emergencies, or search and rescue missions, helicopter teams face unique challenges in the dynamic and often harsh marine environment. This article explores the best practices for helicopter rescue at sea, focusing on the key considerations and strategies…
If you believe the Earth is flat, you're about to fall off the edge...
If you believe the Earth is flat, you're about to fall off the edge...
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