The growth of technology on board ships has made incredible things possible. Leaps forward such as satellite navigation and dynamic positioning have delivered amazing benefits. But at what cost? Has technology diminished the art of seafaring and undermined what it means to be a seafarer?
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Sleep is one of the most important issues at sea. Tired, fatigued, stressed and distracted people make mistakes. So ensuring there is enough time to rest, and that you can get quality sleep is all important. Is enough done at sea to aid restful sleep?
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The Philippines' House of Representatives committee on overseas workers has approved a new “Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers” designed to ensure working and living conditions that are consistent with Philippine law and international maritime conventions.
Read MoreWatchkeeper - A watchkeeper is someone who keeps watch on board a ship. The term “watchkeeping”, therefore concerns the division of personnel over a set time period to operate a ship continuously.
The cyber security concerns which are facing shipping are often talked about. However, it seems this could just be part of a wider problem. With an aging seafarer population, there are concerns some crews are behind the curve when it comes to technology. Is this true?
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There have been some very sad stories lately of seafarers being beaten, and of relationships breaking down at sea. There can be a pressure cooker atmosphere on some ships. So what can seafarers do to build relationships and make life at sea one of friendship and camaraderie? Let’s look at the 12 steps to making good things happen
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There are many criticisms that seafaring is not as exciting as it used to be. Given that it may have involved historically involved keel hauling that may not be a bad thing. But how can work be more fun and battle back against boredom?
Read MoreYou don’t just go away to sea for the money – but let’s face it, it helps. So what can you do to make sure you earn as much as possible, but also save and invest wisely too? No point working yourself to a frazzle if your cash isn’t toiling as hard as you are. But there can be pitfalls, so what do you need to watch out for?
We often talk about seafarer happiness, and the effect that has onboard. What about seafarer pain? It is too easy to forget that shipping safety and performance can rest on how seafarers feel as they go about their business – and teeth are a big part of this.
Read MorePeople have always gone to sea for many different reasons – for some there is still a sense of adventure, for others the challenge, while some are in for the money - and pay the cost of being away fro...
Pack it up, pack it in, let me begin…when you are all set to leave the house to head back to sea it can be a real pain. So what are the essential bits and bobs which every seafarer needs....
It used to be that being a seafarer was something of immense pride – but is this still the case?
Whether it's Hollywood, novels, documentaries, or good old fashioned history class, the lives of famous sailors (whether fictional or real) have permeated most parts of popular culture. As a member of...
One of the most challenging aspects of life at sea is to somehow keep relationships and friendships alive despite being away so often. Communication via the internet can help those fortunate enough to...
In the multi-cultural maritime world, “Maritime English” is the key to making things happen. But how did it become that way, is it for the best and just how important is it to understand the language ...
