Centrifugal Air Compressors – The Pulse of Large-Scale Ship Operations

Introduction Centrifugal air compressors are the backbone of many large vessels, especially those requiring significant volumes of compressed air for process control, cargo operations, and automation. Relying on rotational energy and dynamic compression rather than positive displacement, these machines deliver reliability and efficiency with fewer moving parts than classic reciprocating designs. Technical Characteristics Principle: Air […]

Understanding LPG Deepwell Cargo Pumps: A Chief Engineer’s Perspective

Onboard an LPG carrier, one of the most vital pieces of equipment in the cargo handling system is the deepwell cargo pump. For a junior engineer joining the vessel, it is important to understand not just what the pump does, but also why it is fitted, and how it works. Purpose of a Deepwell Cargo […]

What is a Marine Boiler?

Handling Flame Failure or Fuel Pump Trips Without the Panic Let’s be honest. When the boiler trips unexpectedly and the flame goes out, it can feel like everything suddenly stops around you especially if you’re at sea and steam is needed for fuel heating or cargo operations. The auxiliary boiler is one of those things that […]

FIRST DAY ONBOARD – ENGINE ROOM CHECKS.

Stepping onboard as a new Engine Cadet or Junior Engineer is more than just reporting for duty — it marks the start of your professional reputation at sea. From my 28 years in the engine room, I can tell you that the first day sets the tone for your entire contract. The quicker you familiarize […]

Foul Anchor Causes, Risks, and How to Free It

Anchoring is one of the most common operations for a ship, but it is not bereft of hazards. One of the common anchoring problems on the ships is the foul anchor. Unless properly addressed, a foul anchor may endanger lives, destroy equipment, and delay operations. It is important that every Master and deck officer understands […]

What Every Seafarer Must Check in Their Employment Agreement Before Joining the Ship

There’s a moment every seafarer knows well — the phone call or email that says, “Your vessel is confirmed. Joining details to follow.” You feel that mix of excitement and focus: the mind starts running through packing lists, travel plans, and maybe even a mental image of the vessel you’ll soon call home. But there’s […]

Top Professional Memberships Every Seafarer Must Know

From CMMI and IME(I) to The Nautical Institute, ICS, and seafarers’ unions such as NUSI, find out 8 essential professional memberships that will enhance your maritime career. Introduction In the sea-faring industry, your Certificates of Competency might land you a job, but your professional memberships establish your credibility, grow your network, and give you constant […]

100 + Common Maritime Abbreviations – Professionally Grouped

Ship Types & Cargo (1–25) VLCC – Very Large Crude Carrier Suezmax – Max size for Suez Canal Panamax – Max size for Panama Canal Capesize – Too large for canals LNG – Liquefied Natural Gas LPG – Liquefied Petroleum Gas Ro-Ro – Roll-On/Roll-Off vessel LASH – Lighter Aboard Ship OBO – Ore-Bulk-Oil Carrier GC […]

Safety Officer on Board: A Complete, Practical Guide to Roles, Responsibilities, and Daily Routines

Meta description: A deep-dive guide to the shipboard Safety Officer’s purpose, duties, inspections, training, documentation, and day-to-day routines—covering appointment, safe working practices and conditions, PPE, familiarisation, safety committee work, drills, accident/near-miss management, area inspections, and records. Built from shipboard procedure requirements and written for real life at sea. 1) What the Safety Officer is for […]

Understanding the Principle of Sweat on Ships: Causes, Risks, and Prevention

One of the biggest issues in cargo quality preservation during shipping by sea is sweat-induced moisture damage. It can occur on any voyage and has resulted in massive cargo loss over history. It is important that every mariner is aware of the principle of sweat — what it is, why it happens, and how to […]