Challenges for a mariner going back to sea duty after 20 years on land

Posted on by Dr.Shaji

Challenges for a mariner going back to sea duty after 20 years on land

Returning to ship duty after 20 years on land can be challenging for a ship crew member. Here are some of the key challenges they may face on a modern ship:

Physical Challenges

  1. Rustiness in maritime skills: After 20 years on land, their maritime skills, such as navigation, sailing, and emergency procedures, may be outdated or rusty.
  2. Physical demands: Ship work can be physically demanding, requiring long hours, heavy lifting, and working in challenging weather conditions.
  3. Sleep pattern adjustments: The crew member will need to adjust to a new sleep pattern, as ship life often requires working irregular hours and sleeping in a compact cabin.

Technological Challenges

  1. Familiarization with modern ship systems: Modern ships have advanced technology, such as automated navigation, communication systems, and engine management. The crew member will need to learn these new systems.
  2. Digitalization and computer-based systems: Many ship operations are now digitalized, and the crew member will need to become proficient in using computer-based systems for tasks such as navigation, cargo management, and communication.
  3. Cybersecurity awareness: With the increased use of technology on modern ships, cybersecurity is a growing concern. The crew member will need to be aware of cybersecurity best practices to protect the ship’s systems and data.

Cultural and Social Challenges

  1. Adapting to a new community: The crew member will need to adapt to a new community on board, with different personalities, cultures, and ways of working.
  2. Hierarchical structure: The crew member will need to adjust to a hierarchical structure, with clear lines of authority and communication.
  3. Living in close quarters: Ship life requires living in close quarters with colleagues, which can be challenging for someone who has been living on land for 20 years.

Regulatory and Compliance Challenges

  1. Familiarization with new regulations: The crew member will need to familiarize themselves with new regulations, such as those related to safety, security, and environmental protection.
  2. Certification and training: The crew member may need to undergo certification and training to meet the requirements of modern ship operations.
  3. Compliance with ship management systems: The crew member will need to comply with the ship’s management systems, including those related to safety, quality, and environmental management.

Personal Challenges

  1. Homesickness and separation from family: The crew member may experience homesickness and separation from family, which can be challenging for someone who has been living on land for 20 years.
  2. Adjusting to a new routine: The crew member will need to adjust to a new routine, including working hours, meal times, and leisure activities.
  3. Maintaining physical and mental health: The crew member will need to maintain their physical and mental health, which can be challenging in a demanding maritime environment.

To overcome these challenges, it’s essential for the crew member to:

  • Receive comprehensive training and familiarization with modern ship systems and operations
  • Be supported by the ship’s management and crew
  • Be willing to adapt and learn new skills
  • Prioritize their physical and mental health

What is the scenario of modern ship operation

the operation of ships has undergone significant changes over the last 20 years, driven by advances in technology, changes in regulations, and shifts in the global maritime industry. Here are some key developments that have transformed ship operations:

Bridge and Navigation

  1. Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS): Replaced traditional paper charts with digital ones, enhancing navigation safety and efficiency.
  2. Global Positioning System (GPS): Became widely available, providing accurate positioning and reducing reliance on celestial navigation.
  3. Automatic Identification System (AIS): Enables vessels to share their position, course, and speed with other nearby ships and coastal authorities.
  4. Integrated Bridge Systems (IBS): Combines multiple navigation and communication systems into a single, user-friendly platform.

Propulsion and Machinery

  1. More efficient engine designs: Modern engines are more fuel-efficient, reducing emissions and operating costs.
  2. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and alternative fuels: Growing adoption of LNG and other alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  3. Azipod propulsion: Electric propulsion systems that improve maneuverability and reduce fuel consumption.
  4. Condition-based maintenance: Advanced sensors and monitoring systems enable predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and increasing efficiency.

Safety and Security

  1. International Safety Management (ISM) Code: Mandatory safety management system for ships, focusing on risk assessment and mitigation.
  2. Security regulations: Implementation of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to counter piracy and terrorism threats.
  3. Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB): Mandatory equipment that sends distress signals in emergency situations.
  4. Survival techniques and equipment: Advances in life-saving appliances, such as emergency beacons, life rafts, and survival suits.

Communication and IT

  1. Satellite communication: Widespread adoption of satellite communication systems, enabling faster and more reliable communication.
  2. Email and internet access: Common on modern ships, facilitating communication and access to information.
  3. Shipboard networks and cybersecurity: Growing importance of network security and cybersecurity measures to protect shipboard systems and data.
  4. Big data and analytics: Increased use of data analytics to optimize ship operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

Environmental Regulations

  1. MARPOL Annex VI: Regulations to limit emissions of sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and other pollutants.
  2. Ballast Water Management (BWM) Convention: Mandatory treatment of ballast water to prevent the spread of invasive species.
  3. Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI): Regulations to improve the energy efficiency of new ships.
  4. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions: Ongoing efforts to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change.

Crewing and Training

  1. International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW): Mandatory training and certification standards for seafarers.
  2. Competency-based training: Focus on developing specific skills and competencies rather than just accumulating sea time.
  3. Crew resource management: Emphasis on teamwork, communication, and decision-making to improve safety and efficiency.
  4. Wellness and mental health: Growing recognition of the importance of seafarer wellness and mental health.

These changes have transformed the shipping industry, making it more efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly. However, they also present challenges for crew members returning to ship duty after a long period on land.

The challenges the a mariner or officer with old experience will face when returning to ship service after a long period on land.

Outdated Knowledge and Skills

  1. Technological advancements: Modern ships have undergone significant technological upgrades, making older systems and procedures obsolete.
  2. New regulations and standards: Changes in international regulations, such as those related to safety, security, and environmental protection, require updated knowledge and skills.
  3. Different ship designs and equipment: Newer ships have different designs, equipment, and systems, which can be unfamiliar to those with older experience.

Rusty Seamanship Skills

  1. Loss of practical experience: Prolonged absence from ship duty can lead to a decline in practical seamanship skills, such as navigation, anchoring, and mooring.
  2. Changes in weather forecasting and route planning: Advances in weather forecasting and route planning require updated skills and knowledge.
  3. Different communication protocols: Changes in communication protocols, such as the use of digital communication systems, can be unfamiliar to those with older experience.

Cultural and Social Adjustments

  1. New team dynamics: Returning to ship duty means adapting to new team dynamics, including working with younger crew members who may have different work styles and expectations.
  2. Different shipboard culture: Modern ships often have a different culture and work environment, with a greater emphasis on safety, efficiency, and environmental protection.
  3. Living and working conditions: Shipboard living and working conditions have changed over the years, with newer ships often having more comfortable accommodations and better working conditions.

Personal Challenges

  1. Physical demands: Ship work can be physically demanding, and returning to ship duty after a long period on land can be challenging for those who are not physically prepared.This will be more aggregated if the dreaming seafarer is nearing his sixties
  2. Mental health and wellness: The maritime industry has recognized the importance of mental health and wellness, and returning to ship duty can be stressful and challenging for those who are not prepared.
  3. Family and social adjustments: Returning to ship duty often means spending extended periods away from family and friends, which can be challenging for those who have become accustomed to a more traditional lifestyle.

To overcome these challenges, it’s essential for mariners and officers with old experience to:

  • Receive comprehensive training and familiarization with modern ship systems and operations
  • Be supported by the ship’s management and crew
  • Be willing to adapt and learn new skills
  • Prioritize their physical and mental health

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