Lifeboat Operation and Launching

Lead and assign tasks to the deck crew for routine maintenance, cleaning, painting, and repair work. Instruct junior seafarers and ensure tasks are completed to required standards and within safety guidelines. Oversee all mooring, unmooring, and anchoring activities. Ensure the correct handling of ropes, wires, and mooring winches; supervise line handling during port calls. Assist officers in supervising cargo operations, including loading, lashing, and securing. Ensure deck machinery (cranes, winches, hatch covers) and gear are operational and well-maintained. Direct maintenance of the ship’s exterior, including decks, hull, rails, and fittings. Check and manage painting, rust removal, greasing, and general upkeep tasks. Ensure safety equipment (lifeboats, fire hoses, life rafts) is in good condition. Lead deck crew during safety drills and emergency situations. Report unsafe practices or equipment deficiencies to the Chief Officer. Maintain work logs and tool inventories. Report progress and issues directly to the Chief Officer.

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.

Navigate the ship safely using radar, GPS, ECDIS, and other electronic systems. Stand watch on the bridge to monitor vessel position, speed, and surroundings. Maintain logs and records of navigational activities. Assist in planning and supervising the loading, stowage, securing, and discharge of cargo. Ensure cargo operations comply with safety regulations and vessel stability requirements. Monitor ballast and draft levels to maintain proper trim and balance of the ship. Inspect and maintain life-saving and firefighting equipment (lifeboats, extinguishers, fire hoses). Participate in and lead safety drills (fire, abandon ship, man overboard). Respond to onboard emergencies and support ship-wide safety measures. Oversee maintenance of the ship’s exterior and deck machinery (e.g., winches, cranes, mooring equipment). Supervise deck ratings (e.g., Able Seafarers) and assign maintenance tasks. Ensure compliance with pollution prevention measures (e.g., MARPOL requirements). Assist with port arrival and departure procedures, including mooring and unmooring. Liaise with port authorities, pilots, cargo handlers, and other stakeholders as needed. Handle ship documentation and clearance under the Captain’s supervision. Follow international maritime conventions (STCW, SOLAS, MARPOL) and company procedures. Keep accurate logs related to navigation, safety checks, and cargo operations. Report deficiencies, incidents, and non-conformities to the Captain or superintendent.

Stand navigational watch (bridge watch) and ensure safe passage of the ferry. Use radar, GPS, AIS, and ECDIS to monitor vessel position and traffic. Adjust course and speed as instructed by the Captain or based on sea conditions. Assist in maneuvering the ferry during docking operations. Coordinate with deckhands for mooring, anchoring, and gangway deployment. Conduct regular safety checks on life-saving appliances (LSA) and firefighting equipment (FFA). Supervise lifeboat drills and passenger evacuation exercises. Respond to onboard emergencies and coordinate with safety crews. Lead deck ratings (Able Seafarers, Deckhands) in daily operational and maintenance tasks. Ensure compliance with safety and operational procedures on deck. Oversee loading and securing of vehicles and cargo. Ensure passenger flow is managed safely during embarkation and disembarkation. Maintain navigation and safety logs. Assist in writing reports for incidents, inspections, or audits.

Safely maneuver the tugboat during ship assist operations (e.g., pushing, pulling, escorting, towing). Coordinate closely with Marine Pilots, Port Control, and the bridge team of the assisted vessel. Make real-time navigational decisions, especially during strong currents, poor visibility, or emergency situations. Supervise tugboat crew (deckhands, mates, engineers), delegate duties, and ensure adherence to safety standards. Conduct pre-mission briefings and debriefings for towing or harbour assist operations. Ensure compliance with IMO regulations, port authority guidelines, and company standard operating procedures. Lead emergency drills and oversee the maintenance of firefighting, life-saving, and towing equipment. Use radar, AIS, GPS, and electronic chart systems to navigate and position the tug. Maintain a proper watch, especially when operating in congested port waters. Complete towage operation logs, incident reports, and compliance forms. Report mechanical or navigational issues to relevant technical departments.

Conduct safety inspections of vessels, terminals, and equipment. Ensure adherence to local and international maritime safety regulations (e.g., SOLAS, ISM Code, STCW, MARPOL). Keep safety manuals, checklists, and documentation up to date. Organize and lead emergency drills (e.g., fire, evacuation, abandon ship). Ensure crew competency in using life-saving appliances (LSA) and firefighting equipment (FFA). Maintain emergency response plans and coordinate with local authorities. Identify potential hazards and implement mitigation measures. Conduct risk assessments for ferry operations, passenger handling, and port activities. Deliver safety briefings to crew and passengers (especially on passenger vessels like ferries or cruises). Train staff on personal protective equipment (PPE), emergency protocols, and environmental safety. Respond to accidents, injuries, or near-miss incidents. Lead root-cause investigations and recommend corrective actions. Maintain logs and submit reports to regulatory bodies or management. Liaise with the Marine Department Malaysia, port authorities, and class societies during audits or inspections. Ensure proper documentation during vessel certification and safety drills.