0800–0900 – Proceeded to cargo holds to carry out bilge soundings.
Used the sounding tape correctly
under supervision and recorded the measurements. Also assisted in checking temperature levels inside
each hold using an infrared thermometer.
0900–1000 – Performed oxygen level monitoring in the cargo holds using a portable gas detector.
Ensured proper calibration and sampling procedures. All data collected was reported to the Chief Officer
for documentation and evaluation.
1000–1100 – Assisted the Bosun in the maintenance of mushroom vents on the main deck. Tasks
included opening the covers, cleaning internal parts, and checking for signs of corrosion or blockage.
1100–1200 – Continued with mushroom vent maintenance. Helped apply marine-grade grease to
moving parts and ensured that all components were reassembled and functioning properly after
inspection.
1300–1400 – Assisted the Third Officer with fire hydrant maintenance. Applied grease and Vaseline to
hydrant caps and threads to prevent corrosion and ensure ease of use during emergencies. Checked for
leaks and confirmed the readiness of the hydrants.
1400–1500 – Continued fire hydrant checks across various stations on deck. Helped ensure each unit
was secured, labeled, and free from obstruction. Discussed with the Third Officer the importance of fire
line integrity for emergency preparedness.
2000–2100 – Began bridge watch. Maintained a proper lookout and observed radar and AIS for nearby
traffic. Took hourly position of the vessel and plotted it on the chart under the supervision of the Officer
of the Watch.
2100–2200 – Took gyro error by azimuth of the star Antares, using a pelorus and corrected using
Norrie’s Nautical Tables. Calculated error and cross-checked with the bridge team. Reinforced my
understanding of gyro-compass correction procedures.
2200–2300 – Participated in collision avoidance and traffic monitoring. Applied appropriate COLREGs
based on the developing traffic situation and practiced situational awareness and decision-making under
the guidance of the Third Officer.
2300–0000 – Continued lookout duties and monitored vessel’s surroundings under night conditions.
Communicated observations to the Officer of the Watch and maintained proper watch handover
documentation at the end of the shift..
Trainee's Remarks on COLREG Study (Expanded Rule-by-Rule)
Part A – General
Rule 1 – Application: I learned the scope of application of the COLREG rules, recognizing that they apply
to all vessels upon the high seas and in all waters connected to the sea navigable by seagoing vessels.
Rule 2 – Responsibility: Understood that nothing in the rules exonerates any vessel, owner, master, or
crew from the consequences of neglect or failure to comply with the rules and that good seamanship
and special circumstances must be considered.
Rule 3 – General Definitions: Studied essential definitions such as power-driven vessel, sailing vessel,
vessel not under command, restricted in ability to maneuver, and others to ensure correct
interpretation of rules.
Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules
Rule 4 – Application: This rule confirmed that Rules 5 to 10 apply in any visibility condition, emphasizing
continuous compliance.
Rule 5 – Look-out: Emphasized maintaining a proper lookout at all times by sight, hearing, and all
available means to assess the situation and risk of collision.
Rule 6 – Safe Speed: Understood the factors affecting safe speed including visibility, traffic density,
maneuverability, background light, wind, sea state, and radar capabilities.
Rule 7 – Risk of Collision: Learned how to determine the risk of collision using radar and visual
observations, particularly the importance of bearing change and distance.
Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision: Studied the need for early and substantial action to avoid collision, the
effectiveness of maneuvers, and maintaining safety after action.
Rule 9 – Narrow Channels: Learned vessel conduct in narrow channels including keeping to the
starboard side, avoiding anchoring, sound signals, and overtaking procedures.
Rule 10 – Traffic Separation Schemes: Understood the rules for entering, crossing, and navigating in
traffic lanes and separation zones, including the role of small vessels and fishing vessels.
Rule 11 – Application: Reaffirmed that Rules 12 to 18 apply to vessels in sight of one another.
Rule 12 – Sailing Vessels: Learned priority rules for sailing vessels on opposite tacks or the same tack.
Rule 13 – Overtaking: Studied how to identify overtaking situations and responsibilities of the overtaking
vessel.
Rule 14 – Head-On Situation: Understood the need for both vessels to alter course to starboard in head-
on encounters.
Rule 15 – Crossing Situation: Learned which vessel gives way when two power-driven vessels cross paths
and how to act appropriately.
Rule 16 – Give-Way Vessel: Understood the necessity for the give-way vessel to act early and
significantly to avoid collision.
Rule 17 – Stand-On Vessel: Learned the obligations and limitations of the stand-on vessel and when it
may take avoiding action.
Rule 18 – Responsibilities Between Vessels: Studied the priority of vessels constrained by conditions like
fishing, sailing, or maneuverability over power-driven vessels.
Rule 19 – Restricted Visibility: Learned how to proceed at safe speed, avoid sudden maneuvers, and use
radar and sound signals appropriately when visibility is reduced.
Part C – Lights and Shapes
Rule 20 – Application: Reviewed the need for lights and shapes from sunset to sunrise or during
restricted visibility.
Rule 21 – Definitions: Learned precise meanings of masthead light, sidelights, stern light, towing light,
etc.
Rule 22 – Visibility of Lights: Studied required visibility ranges for different types of lights based on vessel
size.
Rule 23 – Power-Driven Vessels: Learned configurations for underway, towing, pushing, and when not
making way.
Rule 24 – Towing and Pushing: Understood lighting requirements for vessels involved in towing
operations based on length and configuration.
Rule 25 – Sailing Vessels: Studied light and shape signals for sailing vessels underway or under oars.
Rule 26 – Fishing Vessels: Learned special signals for trawlers and other fishing operations to avoid
conflict with other vessels.
Rule 27 – Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Ability to Maneuver: Understood signaling
requirements and their meanings.
Rule 28 – Constrained by Draft: Learned about the all-round red-white-red lights and their significance.
Rule 29 – Pilot Vessels: Studied distinguishing lights for vessels engaged in pilotage duty.
Rule 30 – Anchored or Aground: Learned signals required for anchoring and aground situations.
Rule 31 – Seaplanes: Understood adaptations for seaplanes on water.
Part D – Sound and Light Signals
Rule 32 – Definitions: Studied types of sound signals and their intended uses.
Rule 33 – Equipment Requirements: Learned about equipment based on vessel length and use of bell,
whistle, and gong.
Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals: Understood signal patterns for altering course, overtaking,
and danger signals.
Rule 35 – Restricted Visibility: Studied sound signals made at intervals by various vessels in fog or
restricted visibility.
Rule 36 – Signals to Attract Attention: Learned the appropriate use of light or sound to attract attention
safely.
Rule 37 – Distress Signals: Reviewed international signals indicating distress and the need for assistance.
Rule 38 – Exemptions: Understood conditions under which certain vessels may be exempted from rules.
Annex I – Positioning and Characteristics of Lights and Shapes
1. Definitions: Studied terms relevant to light and shape configurations.
2. Vertical Positioning: Learned spacing and height above deck.
3. Horizontal Positioning: Understood minimum distances and angles between lights.
4. Direction-Indicating Lights: Studied requirements for lights indicating direction.
5. Sidelight Screens: Learned purpose and construction to prevent light visibility outside intended arc.
6. Shapes: Understood materials, sizes, and usage of black shapes for day signaling.
7. Color Specifications: Learned chromaticity standards and use of specific colors.
8. Light Intensity: Studied luminous intensity standards ensuring visibility.
9. Horizontal Sectors: Understood horizontal angles for various lights.
10. Vertical Sectors: Learned elevation angles and tolerances.
11. Non-Electric Lights: Studied equivalency requirements in luminous intensity.
12. Maneuvering Light: Understood additional light used with sound signals.
13. High-Speed Craft: Learned special provisions for fast vessels.
14. Approval: Understood standards and approval requirements for navigation equipment.
Annex II – Additional Signals for Fishing Vessels
General: Reviewed application of signals when vessels fish near each other.
Close Proximity: Studied signal arrangements preventing gear entanglement.
Trawlers: Learned extra signals used by vessels engaged in trawling.
Purse Seiners: Studied visual signals used during purse seine operations.
Annex III – Technical Details of Sound Appliances
General: Learned design and capability requirements.
Whistle: Studied frequency and construction standards.
Bell and Gong: Understood size and tone quality requirements.
Approval: Learned about certification and compliance procedures.
Annex IV – Distress Signals
Studied all acceptable distress signals including flares, SOS, smoke, radio signals, and others. Emphasized
correct usage during emergencies.
This in-depth study greatly expanded my knowledge and confidence in navigating safely and correctly
interpreting maritime signals and rules.