From Overwhelmed to In Control – Stress-Free Passage Planning with APEM If you’re new to navigation and planning your first cross-Channel trip, the process can feel overwhelming. That’s where the acronym APEM comes in—Appraise, Plan, Execute, Monitor. These four steps help ensure your passage is safe, legal, and enjoyable. Let’s walk through each stage, using…
The International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is an internationally recognised qualification that certifies an individual’s ability to operate a pleasure craft safely. It is particularly useful for those who wish to hire or operate boats abroad, as many countries require proof of competence before allowing access to their waters. This guide outlines the steps necessary…
A Practical Guide To Licensing Requirements If you have stood on a yacht and asked yourself whether you need a licence to take charge, you are not alone. Rules vary by country, the boat you sail, and whether you own or charter it. This guide covers the UK, Mediterranean, and Caribbean. It includes links to…
The History of the Beaufort Scale The Beaufort Scale is perhaps one of the best-known ways to measure wind force, offering a standard method to classify wind speeds based on their effects both on land and at sea. It’s a valuable tool used by meteorologists, sailors, and engineers, significantly influencing modern understanding of wind strength…
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…
The Pros and Cons of Marine AIS for Recreational Mariners Safety and navigation are paramount concerns for recreational mariners. The adoption of Marine Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology has significantly changed the boating experience, offering benefits and posing challenges. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of AIS for recreational mariners and…
If you belive the Earth is flat, you're about to fall of the end...
If you belive the Earth is flat, you're about to fall of the end...
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