International Radiotelephony Spelling Alphabet or NATO phonetic alphabet or ICAO phonetic alphabet, is the most common radiotelephone spelling alphabet.

A fire onboard may happen in every vessel and is one of the most dangerous emergencies for a vessel. But, what are the most usual causes and the preventive actions to be taken?

Why is a ship called she? “Ships are referred to as ‘she’ because men love them” or “like a woman, a ship is unpredictable”, tradition used to say. But seriously, what is lagging behind this language idiom?  

The term ‘unintentional grounding’ in shipping describes the accidental impact of the ship on seabed or waterway side. Such accidents effect on both the ship and the environment, but the worst scenario is to lead in the loss of human lives.

Have you ever wondered what is the difference between gross and deadweight tonnage?  

Industry stakeholders have discussed a lot about the pros and cons of paperless navigation concluding that ECDIS does have an edge over the traditional paper chart navigation. However, the question for the navigating officers remains the same. Can they steer the vessel, following a pre scheduled passage plan, avoiding grounding?

One of the worst situations a seafarer can encounter during his/her sea service is the order by the master to abandon vessel in the face of danger. If not properly conducted, this operation, instead of saving lives, may lead to unexpected losses. In this regard, regular abandon-ship drills are vital to prepare crew.

Oil and gas industry offers an exciting variety of career opportunities both offshore and in technical disciplines on land. While working in this sector may be associated with intense shifts and hard working conditions, it is also known for high salaries, chances to travel the world, as well as working with cutting-edge technologies.

At circumstances of an uncontrolled fire on board or in cases of vessel sinking, abandoning a ship is the most practical option, however there are a few precautions to be taken under consideration.

Fires onboard form a great part of maritime casualties. One way to address them is the proper training through efficient and regular drills, which ensure that crew members are ready to handle a fire onboard. But what are the steps to be followed for a proper fire drill?