Section 9: Gyrocompass (Challenge Questions)

Question 1

What will be your actions as the Master of a vessel if the only gyro onboard fails in the middle of the Atlantic ocean?

In the above scenario, describe the steps you would take to minimise the various risks involved.

Answer 1

Change over to steer by magnetic compass.

1. Immediately changeover to steer by magnetic compass.
2. Inform all OOWs to take celecstial fixes during every watch and to check for compass errors.
3. Inform the DPA.
4. Fill in AMSA Form 18 and 19.
5. Since the gyrocompass is a critical equipment, a flag dispensation is needed.
6. Enlist help from ships in the vicinity to navigate nearer to land.
7. Get replacement gyrocompass to the nearest port or the next port of refugee.