A Dry Dock Diary: Behind the Scenes of Vessel Revitalization

A Dry Dock Diary: Behind the Scenes of Vessel Revitalization

Ships regularly require dry docking, the process of hauling them out of the water for maintenance and repairs. This is analogous to taking a ship to a marine hospital for a checkup and any necessary treatment to keep it seaworthy and extend its useful life. A dry dock diary is a first-hand account of a…

Breaking Free: Troubleshooting Common Vessel Anchor Issues

Breaking Free: Troubleshooting Common Vessel Anchor Issues

Anchors provide a sense of safety for ships at sea, but like any other instrument, they can develop problems that need to be addressed for the crew’s wellbeing and the vessel’s continued safe passage. In order to ensure the stability and safety of the ship at anchor, it is crucial for any sailor to be…

Forgotten Voyages: The Tragic Fate of Abandoned Ships

Forgotten Voyages: The Tragic Fate of Abandoned Ships

Ships that were once brimming with life and purpose might occasionally meet a demise that is fitting of tragedy and disrepair. A heartbreaking and frightening reminder of the fleeting nature of maritime endeavours is provided by abandoned ships, which are vessels that have been left to the whims of the elements and the passage of…

Shipwrecked Souls, Lasting Lessons: The Estonia Ferry Disaster Revisited

Shipwrecked Souls, Lasting Lessons: The Estonia Ferry Disaster Revisited

On the evening of September 28, 1994, a catastrophic accident involving a ferry from Estonia took place in the Baltic Sea. It is considered to be one of the most tragic maritime disasters in contemporary history. The passenger and automobile ferry MS Estonia was travelling from Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, to Stockholm, the capital…

Rust, Barnacles, and Corrosion: Battling the Elements and Wear on Vessel Surfaces

Rust, Barnacles, and Corrosion: Battling the Elements and Wear on Vessel Surfaces

Natural factors such as saltwater, marine organisms, and corrosive substances are a constant enemy of maritime boats. Vessels’ exteriors can sustain significant wear and damage from exposure to these environments. Rust, barnacles, and corrosion are ubiquitous foes that can seriously compromise a ship’s strength, performance, and safety. The implications of these factors are discussed, as…

Sailing Into History: Unveiling the Prinzessin Victoria Luise – The World’s First Cruise Ship

Sailing Into History: Unveiling the Prinzessin Victoria Luise – The World’s First Cruise Ship

The Prinzessin Victoria Luise, the first cruise ship in history, is one of the most prestigious and significant ships in the annals of maritime history. As we set out on a journey through time, we learn the amazing tale of this pioneering ship that paved the way for a revolution in leisure travel. The Emergence…

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG)

International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG)

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code or IMDG Code was adopted in 1965 as per the SOLAS (International Convention For Safety Of Life at Sea) Convention of 1960 under the IMO. Also, some of the provisions of MARPOL are extended in the IMDG Code. IMDG Regulations are updated periodically. In 2020, the 2018 edition came…

Real Life Incident: Cargo Fire Takes 10 Days To Extinguish

Real Life Incident: Cargo Fire Takes 10 Days To Extinguish

A general cargo vessel was laden with cut timber tightly encased in plastic-wrapped bundles, both within the cargo hold and on the deck. During departure from the loading berth, it was noticed by the linesman that an electrical extension cord connecting the vessel to the quay had not been disconnected. Although the crew on the…