Maritime Communication & Navigation

There is a myriad of navigation tools and equipment a crew can utilise to get around. Some examples include a…

• Gyrocompass – A gyrocompass is an important tool used onboard both ships and submarines alike. Many modern vessels have satellite navigation systems, such as GPS and other navigation tools, that will transmit data to a built-in gyrocompass for correction.
• ECDIS – A Electronic Chart Display and Information System, otherwise known as an ECDIS, is an innovative navigation computer that serves as a modern, digital alternative to traditional nautical charts. The system is usually connected with other navigational equipment onboard.
• Radar – A radar locates any targets around a vessel such as other ships and obstacles. The data can be used to avoid collisions and is very useful in the event of adverse weather such as a storm.

There are many different kinds of communication methods seafarers use to communicate with one another while at sea. Radio-based communication is a very effective method of communication onboard and as a result, is the most common found on vessels. There are also satellite-based tools such as a satellite transceiver.

These days, ship navigation is very precise. There are a number of navigation tools onboard a modern vessel that work together to allow a crew to expertly navigate their journey. Modern GPS-based navigation tools for example utilise satellites which allow vessels to navigate confidently, accurately and precisely without any incidents occurring. GPS is usually used in conjunction with other tools such as a radar, gyrocompass and/or ECDIS.

Ship-to-ship communication is when two vessels communicate with one another when at sea and is most commonly implemented via radio. The normal, globally recognised procedure is to call the other ship via radio on channel 16. Once contact has been made, both vessels will agree to another station which leaves channel 16 free for other ships to utilise. Radio calls can also be made directly on other channels if prior arrangements have been made.

Today, vessels at sea generate, collect and transmit increasing volumes of data. To achieve maximum efficiency, wireless communications have been utilised for decades, with many ships relying on VHF installation, satellites and WIFI to talk to one another – so how do ships communicate at sea?

The most common form of modern communication at sea is via VHF radio. However, communication can also be carried out by sound or visual signalling or even electronically.

Most modern vessels do have internet access which is provided via a wireless connection. This is usually provided via satellite connection which requires the installation of specific hardware and infrastructure onboard.