[esailor Team]

Chief Mate Unlimited Oral Report

I’ve tried to summarise the topics that I was questioned on however I already can’t remember the specifics. A lot of the questions were related to my ship type (Antarctic Research) so I wouldn’t worry if some of them seem a bit obscure. There was also a lot about the new build I’m currently working on.
The exam was based around conversation which made it difficult to identify the questions, however it helped to ease the nerves.
He introduced himself and provided a safety brief. Explained auditor present but not taking part in examination. Asked about my experience so far and also where I completed the prep course. He also commented that he recognised me from somewhere!
He had a look through my discharge book and commented I had a good range of experience. Asked about some of the trips. Also had a quick look through my own certificate file.

• Certification for your new vessel
• Tell me about the Polar Code
• What extra requirements/equipment for Polar Code
• Special Purpose Ships Code + requirements. How last vessel met these
• Stability and subdivision criteria for new ship
• Navigating in ice – lots on this, quite specialised (won’t be relevant for most candidates)
• Other vessels in Antarctica. What assistance have you offered
• How receive nav warnings when in polar waters
• Duties and considerations of Chief Officer for planning passage
• What was GM of last vessel
• Distress received from fishing vessel down south – VHF DSC
• Methods of rescue
• LSA on last ship and new ship
• Typical itinerary for your vessels
• What cargo and tell me about cargo operations (break-bulk, container and bulk fuel)
• Asked about what research and survey work we do
• How load cargo and mobilise for the season
• Securing of cargo
• Maintenance of hatches
• Maintenance and inspection of cranes
• Considerations when planning passage across Drake Passage
• ENC coverage and paper charts in Antarctica
• Preparations for entering ice
• Sailing vessel crossing (daylight)
• CBD crossing (daylight)
• Safe water mark
• Port hand lateral mark
• Preparations for restricted visibility
• Restricted visibility scenario using counters on table. Target appears 3’ starboard bow.

Asked what work I was doing in the shipyard and if I was enjoying it. Progress of ship and opinion on the project.
Commented to auditor that I had performed very well and no need for further questions. Wished me good luck and said he will see me for the surveys when the build is finished.
I was prepared for much worse so it came as a pleasant surprise. He stopped me half way through a lot of the answers. I just tried to act confident and cover a broad range of topics within my answers, as the questions seemed to be rather open.
Many thanks to everyone who’s helped along the way.
And best of luck, it’ll be over before you know it!

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