Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Fundamentals of Marine Communication

• Understand the importance of effective marine communication for safety and efficiency.
• Learn about communication methods used in maritime operations:
• VHF (Very High Frequency) radio.
• HF/MF radio.
• Satellite communication.
• AIS (Automatic Identification System).
• NAVTEX (Navigational Telex).

2. Marine Radio Communication and Protocols

• Operate VHF and HF/MF radios following proper procedures.
• Understand standard maritime communication phrases and radio etiquette (IMO SMCP).
• Identify key marine radio channels and their designated uses.
• Follow call sign and phonetic alphabet standards for clarity in communication.

3. Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Compliance

• Understand the purpose and structure of GMDSS.
• Learn about Distress, Urgency, and Safety (MAYDAY, PAN-PAN, SECURITE) signaling.
• Operate GMDSS equipment, including EPIRBs, SARTs, and DSC-enabled radios.
• Follow procedures for emergency radio communications and search and rescue (SAR) coordination.

4. Maritime Safety Coordination and Operational Communication

• Communicate effectively for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore coordination.
• Understand port entry and pilotage communication requirements.
• Coordinate cargo handling, docking, and departure procedures.
• Follow collision avoidance communication procedures under COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

5. Regulatory Compliance and Legal Aspects of Marine Communication

• Ensure compliance with IMO (International Maritime Organization) communication regulations.
• Understand SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) and MARPOL (Marine Pollution) communication requirements.
• Follow ISPS Code (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) for secure maritime communication.
• Maintain radio logs and documentation in compliance with flag state regulations.

6. Emergency Communication and Crisis Management

• Develop effective communication strategies for onboard emergencies.
• Coordinate marine firefighting, oil spill response, and evacuation procedures.
• Follow SAR (Search and Rescue) coordination protocols with MRCCs (Maritime Rescue Coordination Centers).

7. Advances in Marine Communication Technology

• Explore AIS-based vessel tracking and digital selective calling (DSC) systems.
• Learn about E-navigation and emerging satellite-based marine communication solutions.
• Implement IoT and AI-driven vessel monitoring and coordination systems.

8. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Analyze real-world marine communication incidents and lessons learned.
• Participate in simulated distress calls, emergency response, and vessel coordination exercises.
• Develop a standardized marine communication and compliance protocol for a fleet or port operation.

Target Audience

• Ship officers and crew members
• Port authority personnel and vessel traffic service (VTS) operators
• Maritime safety and compliance officers
• Marine logistics and operations managers
• Offshore oil & gas personnel and emergency response teams