
Coordinate with pilots, tugboats, and mooring crews to ensure safe and accurate vessel positioning during berthing and unberthing. Conduct pre-berthing checks to confirm berth readiness, including clearance of obstructions and availability of fenders, bollards, and mooring lines. Supervise mooring and unmooring operations and ensure lines are properly secured or released. Communicate with the ship’s master, pilot, and port control to relay berthing instructions and operational updates. Monitor weather, tide, and current conditions to determine safe windows for berthing or unberthing. Act as on-site coordinator during berth operations to prevent collisions, equipment damage, or environmental spills. Enforce compliance with port safety procedures and marine regulations during vessel operations. Maintain detailed records of vessel movements, berth occupancy, and operational incidents. Report maintenance or safety issues related to berthing infrastructure (e.g., bollards, fenders, gangways). Provide feedback to marine operations management regarding berth efficiency, turnaround times, and operational improvements.
Command and navigate the ferry along scheduled routes, ensuring timely arrivals and departures. Monitor weather conditions, tides, and sea traffic using radar, GPS, and other navigation systems. Maneuver the ferry during berthing, unberthing, and docking at terminals. Ensure full compliance with IMO, SOLAS, and local port authority safety regulations. Conduct and oversee lifeboat drills, fire drills, and evacuation procedures. Lead emergency responses in the event of mechanical failure, collision, or medical emergency. Ensure safe embarkation and disembarkation of passengers and vehicles (if Ro-Ro). Supervise onboard crew (deck, engine, and hospitality staff) and maintain discipline and efficiency. Manage crowd control and passenger safety, especially during peak periods or rough weather. Communicate with ferry terminals, port authorities, and coast guard via radio or digital systems. Provide announcements and instructions to passengers regarding safety or delays. Coordinate with engineers and technical staff for any vessel-related concerns. Maintain the ship’s logbook, voyage reports, fuel logs, and incident reports. Ensure valid certification of the vessel and crew, and oversee inspections.
Oversee crew recruitment, selection, and onboarding processes. Manage crew rotations, contracts, and compliance with Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) standards. Handle HR administration, including payroll and benefits for seafarers and maritime staff. Facilitate training and development initiatives for maritime personnel. Address employee relations issues and support compliance with labour regulations.
Take full command of the vessel, ensuring safe and lawful operation at sea and in port. Oversee and approve all navigational plans, route plotting, and watchkeeping schedules. Make critical decisions during emergencies, adverse weather, or navigational hazards. Ensure proper loading, stowage, securing, and discharge of cargo in compliance with international maritime regulations and safety standards. Monitor cargo condition, stability, and vessel trim throughout the voyage. Lead the ship’s officers and crew; ensure discipline, motivation, and efficient performance. Ensure crew certification, rest hours, and welfare are compliant with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC). Enforce compliance with international maritime laws (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code), flag state regulations, and port state control. Maintain proper documentation including the ship’s logbook, cargo manifest, and crew records. Act as the ship’s safety officer, conducting regular drills (e.g., fire, abandon ship, man overboard). Respond to emergencies and coordinate evacuation or rescue operations when needed. Serve as the point of contact between the vessel and the shipping company, port authorities, customs, and agents. Report voyage progress, incidents, or delays to the shipowner or designated shore-side contact.
