Joining as Master

Question 1

Vessel in poor condition on joining?

Answer 1

Serious concerns over the company. Their implementation of ISM, SMS.

Would want a full review of the SMS, planned maintenance system, check verification of officer. Check companies SMC, DOC. Contact DPA. Superintendent.

Question 2

Duties on taking over as master?

Answer 2

Check PMS.
Check most recent Port state control inspection.
Meet with Stew / Cook / CE / Chief Off
Take over official documents and certification and make an entry to the effect “Master assume command on this day and takes over official documents “
Take keys for safe.
Count money.
Check SMD.
Enquire as to experience of crew.
Check any recent non conformity
Handover cert of reg and appendix name to back.
Make round of vessel.
Cargo ops, charter party agreement, passage plan.

Question 3

How would you prepare for a port state control inspection?

Answer 3

ILO
ISPS
ISM
STCW
All logbooks signed.
Ensure compliance with all above.
Check last port state control inspection report findings are in order and been
Ensure the following:
Ships - Certs up to date and valid.

Navigation equip emend in order and up to date, charts, compass, GMDSS
LSA -Fire doors clear, control plan in place

If there is known damage to equipment or ship Class and Flag should have provided certs. Ship will not be detained if Port State were previously informed.

Question 4

Masters standing orders?

Answer 4

Duties of the watchkeeper.
Handing over the watch.
Anchor watch duties.
Dealing with bridge emergencies.
Dealing with shipboard emergencies.
Navigation with pilot onboard
Heavy weather precautions.

A guide on how to run the ship in the absence of the master.

Observe ColRegs at all times.
Plot position at reg intervals. Maintain planned track as indicated.
Call is via reduces below 3nm
If traffic causing concern
If difficulty experienced maintaining course
On failure to sight land
On failure of steering gear, propulsion generator or other essential nav equip
Heavy weather
If vessel meets hazard to Nav
Receipt of telex
In any emergency or any time of doubt

Whilst in port
Safe means of access maintained
Moorings / G’way tended
Whilst working cargo large list to be avoided

Pre sailing
Hatched secured for sea
Anchors and spieling pipes checked
All loose gear stowed away

Question 5

If pressed on joining as master? With short handover period.

Answer 5

Do not sail unless fully happy and familiarized with the vessel. Fully in your right to request to joining early for a full familiarization.