The Mariner's Blog

Types of Bow Designs Used For Ships: What Actually Makes a Difference
  • Jan 8, 2026
  • Charles Hays
Types of Bow Designs Used For Ships: What Actually Makes a Difference

Observing vessels at the dock reveals significant differences in bow configurations. Two ships on the same route, similar size, yet completely diff...

What Is a Nautical Sextant and How to Use It for Navigation
  • Jan 7, 2026
  • Charles Hays
What Is a Nautical Sextant and How to Use It for Navigation

A sextant is one of the most elegant and reliable navigation instruments ever created. For centuries, mariners have used sextants to determine thei...

ISPS Code Compliance Checklist: Security Requirements for Ports and Ships
  • Jan 5, 2026
  • Charles Hays
ISPS Code Compliance Checklist: Security Requirements for Ports and Ships

What Is the ISPS Code? The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code entered into force on July 1, 2004, under SOLAS Chapter XI-2. ...

How to Read and Use Admiralty Chart Catalogue: Navigator's Complete Guide
  • Dec 29, 2025
  • Maya Deiss
How to Read and Use Admiralty Chart Catalogue: Navigator's Complete Guide

What Is the Admiralty Chart Catalogue and Why Do Navigators Need It? The Admiralty chart catalogue is the fundamental reference system for locating...

GMDSS Radio Equipment Inspection Checklist for Commercial Vessels
  • Dec 29, 2025
  • Charles Hays
GMDSS Radio Equipment Inspection Checklist for Commercial Vessels

Commercial vessels depend on GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System) equipment for emergency communications. Regular inspections prevent...

Choosing Between IMO Model Course 1.30 and 1.32 for ECDIS Training
  • Dec 27, 2025
  • Maya Deiss
Choosing Between IMO Model Course 1.30 and 1.32 for ECDIS Training

What ECDIS Training Certification Do Vessels Need? SOLAS requires all officers in charge of the navigation watch on vessels 3,000 GT or larger to h...

Best Maritime Navigation Software for Professional Vessels in 2025
  • Dec 26, 2025
  • Maya Deiss
Best Maritime Navigation Software for Professional Vessels in 2025

Professional vessel operators need software that ensures SOLAS compliance, prevents port state detentions, and integrates with fleet management. Re...

Electronic vs Paper Charts: When to Use Each for Safe Navigation
  • Dec 26, 2025
  • Charles Hays
Electronic vs Paper Charts: When to Use Each for Safe Navigation

Modern navigation relies on electronic charts, yet paper charts remain essential for safety and regulatory compliance. While NOAA discontinued all ...

ECDIS Type Approval Requirements: Choosing Compliant Navigation Systems
  • Dec 25, 2025
  • Maya Deiss
Essential Maritime Publications for Your Library: Navigator's Complete Reference Guide

Every merchant vessel operates within international maritime regulations established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). These regula...

How to Choose the Right Nautical Charts for Gulf of Mexico Navigation
  • Dec 24, 2025
  • Charles Hays
How to Choose the Right Nautical Charts for Gulf of America Navigation

Navigating the Gulf of America requires precision, local knowledge, and most importantly, the right nautical charts. With over 1,000 charts coverin...

ECDIS Type Approval Requirements: Choosing Compliant Navigation Systems
  • Dec 24, 2025
  • Maya Deiss
ECDIS Type Approval Requirements: Choosing Compliant Navigation Systems

What is ECDIS Type Approval and Why Does it Matter? ECDIS systems must pass rigorous type approval before installation aboard vessels. Type approva...

Maritime Safety Equipment Inspection Checklist for Year-End Compliance
  • Dec 23, 2025
  • Charles Hays
Maritime Safety Equipment Inspection Checklist for Year-End Compliance

Year-end represents a critical compliance deadline for commercial vessel operators. All safety certifications and decals expire December 31st of th...