[esailor Team]

Level: Chief Mate Unlimited
Examiner: Mamun Rahman
Date: Dec 2021
Attempt: 2nd
Duration: 1 hour
Result: Pass

Logged in 15 minutes early, for the examiner to log in eight minutes early, and launch straight into the exam, after usual opening protocol. Wanted to check I knew what syllabus I had followed. He had no interest in my previous failed attempt; it was a fresh start.
Questions are in as best order as I can remember, and I’ve forgotten some already. Questions were based on multiple scenarios.

New Chief Mate on Large Container Vessel
What documentation/certification do you require to load/unload/carry cargo?
What information will you find on DG DoC?
Corrosive spill from stowed container. Actions?
As SSO, how to prepare for upcoming ISPS Verification?
Master 3000 on Small General Cargo Vessel
Indonesian 2nd Mate joining, what documents to check?
17yo Deck Cadet joining, what documents to check? Concerns?
Chief Mate on Large Bulk Carrier
Loading iron ore, fast rate, ballast pump suddenly fails. Actions?
Actions to restart loading? Info to enter into Loadicator?
Preparing to sail, very deep draught, what are primary concerns on departure?
What do you understand by dynamic UKC? What is bow cushion?
RoR
Scenario – PDV crossing you on port side. Actions? Why/What Rule?
Scenario – Being overtaken in Narrow Channel. Concerns? Action of overtaking vessel? Your action? Why/What rule?
Lights – FV, all info.
Lights – NUC, all info.
Lights – Aground, all info.
Verbal – You see Flashing 5Y 20s, identify
No radar plotting!

Recap
The examiner went back to questions I just wasn’t giving the info he wanted. He really rephrased them until I understood and realised what he was looking for.
During ISPS question, in the heat of the moment I forgot to mention SSAS and drill record, but I managed here. Wanted LRIT too.
During crew handling question, I hadn’t mentioned Security Awareness/Duties. He also wanted to know about Confirmation of Receipt Application for foreign national. I forgot what it was called, but remembered the validity.

Debrief
And so it was a pass! I really thought I had failed, as I knew I wasn’t providing some crucial information; exams are stressful enough without the spectre of a previous failed attempt hanging over you! The examiner, however, was fantastic. Very patient with me, and really went to great efforts to rephrase questions until I understood them. If it hadn’t been for the opportunity to address previous questions, I’m sure I would’ve failed. He did warn me that you won’t always get that opportunity; speaking from experience, that is definitely true. I’m very grateful for his exam style and approach

A massive thanks to Vinil and Shane, GMA prep was brilliant, and a big thanks to the group too.

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