AI-drawn illustration. Simplified to explain the idea, not to scale.
Slide 2 · MASTER ⟷ PILOT
MASTER ⟷ PILOT
EXCHANGE
A two-way exchange of critical information to ensure a safe and efficient passage.
MASTER SHARES
Ship Particulars
LOA, beam, draught (current & max), air draught, displacement and manoeuvring characteristics.
Bridge Team Composition
Roles of Master, OOW, helmsman, lookout and additional conning officers. Clarify order relay.
Engine Status
Current RPM, sea speed and whether the engine is on manoeuvring mode.
Operational Limitations
Current draught, air draught, manoeuvring characteristics and any operational limitations, including UKC where relevant.
Intended Passage Plan
Full plan approved by the Master including critical points, contingency anchorages and abort points.
Tug Requirements
Number, location and when they will be made fast. Working language and communication arrangements.
Equipment Status
Mooring and anchoring equipment, lines, wires, windlasses, capstans ready and tested.
Defects / Irregularities
Any navigational equipment out of service, unusual rudder response or engine limitations.
PILOT SHARES
Pilotage Plan
Intended navigation plan, agreed courses, speeds and critical turning points.
Local Conditions
Tides, currents, wind, visibility forecast and expected changes en route.
Navigational Aids
Status of lighthouses, buoys, RACONs, VTS signals and other aids.
Restrictions
Day/night navigation, minimum acceptable visibility, maximum wind for berthing and any draft or air-draft constraints.
Tug Details
Number, bollard pull, push/pull configuration and side positioning of each tug.
Local Regulations
Harbour-master's orders, speed limits and prohibited areas.
Contingency Arrangements
Alternative berth, emergency anchorage or route if conditions deteriorate.
Estimated Timings
Estimated timings at critical waypoints may be discussed where relevant.
SHARED UNDERSTANDING = SAFER PILOTAGE
Slide 3 · PREPARING FOR
PREPARING FOR
NAVIGATION THROUGH
PACK ICE
Get the vessel, crew and equipment
ready before entering ice.
HULL & ICE CLASS
Ships operating in ice should comply with their
certified ice class or Polar Ship Certificate where
applicable. Stay within the vessel's operational
limitations and PWOM.
STEERING &
PROPULSION
CHECKS
Free the rudder, propeller and steering gear from
ice, snow and debris. Ensure all systems are fully
operational.
DECK
SECURING
Secure all cargo, equipment and loose items.
Protect lifesaving appliances and firefighting
equipment from ice and snow.
HEATING &
FROST
PROTECTION
Protect and test all frost-sensitive systems.
Check heating, fuel lines, deck lines, fire mains and
cooling systems for freezing risks.
NAVIGATION
EQUIPMENT
Test and cross-check all equipment: echo sounder,
Doppler log, gyrocompass(es), radar (X-band &
S-band), GPS and communications.
CREW TRAINING
& BRIEFING
Designate the Ice Navigator (STCW trained officer).
Conduct briefings on ice hazards, navigation
limitations and emergency procedures.
ICE CHARTS &
VOYAGE PLANNING
Use latest ice charts, satellite imagery and pilot
advice. Plan routes, identify leads and safe areas.
Include contingency measures in the plan.
PLAN • PREPARE • PROTECT
Preparation today ensures safer operations in ice.
Slide 4 · OPERATING IN ICE
OPERATING IN ICE
BEST PRACTICES
Follow proven principles whether transiting with icebreaker assistance or independently.
WITH ICEBREAKER ASSISTANCE
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
The icebreaker Master is in charge of the convoy. Follow all speed and manoeuvring instructions.
MAINTAIN ASSIGNED SEPARATION
Maintain the separation distance directed by the icebreaker, taking account of ice conditions, visibility and speed.
KEEP THE PROPULSION RUNNING
Maintain minimum ahead revolution to keep the ship steerable and prevent the propeller from clogging.
USE AGREED COMMUNICATIONS
Use the pre-arranged VHF channel or sound signals as agreed before entering the ice.
WATCH THE ICEBREAKER
Monitor the icebreaker's manoeuvres and wash.
Be ready to adjust speed or stop as required.
REPORT IF BESET
If the ship becomes beset or experiences difficulties, reduce speed, report position and await instructions.
WITHOUT ICEBREAKER ASSISTANCE
MINIMUM SAFE SPEED
Proceed at the minimum safe speed consistent with maintaining steerage and prevailing ice conditions.
USE OPEN LEADS
Keep to well-defined leads and open water. Avoid brash ice, rubble fields and areas of grounded ice.
MONITOR STEERING & PROPULSION
Monitor rudder response, steering gear and propulsion performance continuously.
AVOID EXCESSIVE MANOEUVRES
Avoid excessive engine or rudder movements that could increase the risk of damage in ice.
SHARP LOOKOUT
Maintain a sharp lookout for pressure ridges, floes and changes in ice conditions.
REASSESS & SEEK HELP
If repeated attempts to make safe progress are unsuccessful, reassess the route and seek assistance if required.
SAFE ICE NAVIGATION =
PREPARATION + COMMUNICATION + CONTINUOUS RISK ASSESSMENT
Verified with
ICS & IMO Guidance
