MT 46: Coastal Piloting and Seamanship – 4 credits, 6 hours

Course Description:
This course introduces the student to nautical chart work, coastal piloting and the principles of general seamanship. The coastal piloting topics of the marine compass, nautical charts, piloting, tides and currents, position determination, navigational aids and electronic navigation are all covered. Also included are the seamanship principles of life saving, general fire fighting, the Rules of the Road and marlinspike seamanship. The class will contain two practical “hands-on” cruises; Jamaica Bay and New York Harbor. Instruction will consist of three hours of lecture (Coastal Piloting), one hour of recitation (Rules of the Road), and two hours of laboratory (Practical Seamanship) per week.

TextBook
Maloney, E.S., Chapman Piloting, Seasmanship and Small Boat Handling, 63rd Edition, 1999, ISBN 0688168906, Sterling Publications, London, UK

Key References
United States Coast Pilot, #2: Atlantic Coast, Cape Cod to Sandy Hook, 31st. edition, 2001, Publisher: National Ocean Service, NOAA, US Department of Commerce

Eldridge Tide and Pilot Book, 2003 edition, Eldridge Publishing, Boston, MA

New Skipper’s Bowditch, 1999, Louttit, James, R., Publisher: W.W. Norton and Co.: New York, NY

American Merchant Seaman’s Manual, 6th edition, Hagler, W.B., Cornell Maritime Press, Centreville, MD

COLREGS Book, Szczurek, G., Houston Marine Training Services, Kenner, LA.

Unified Rules Book, Szczurek, G., Houston Marine Training Services, Kenner, LA.

Grading Policy

Course Outline and Objectives

Unit #1: THE MARINER’S COMPASS – 4 hours
Reading assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 15

1.1 Magnetism, the basic compass principle
1.2 Compass construction
1.3 Boxing the compass
1.4 Compass selection
1.5 Compass installation
1.6 Compass error: variation and deviation
1.7 Determination of deviation, causes of deviation
1.8 Application of variation and deviation
1.9 Compensation of deviation on a vessel?s compass
1.10 Special compensation situations
1.11 Hand bearing compass, flux-gate compasses, gyro-compasses, pelorus

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 1

1.1 Define magnetism and explain how it is applied to the basic compass principle.
1.2 Describe the function of the card, pivot, bowl, expansion bellows, oil, float and gimbals as they apply to the construction of a modern compass.
1.3 Demonstrate how to box a compass, being sure to list all cardinal, intercardinal, and combination Points. List the degree equivalent of each.
1.4 List the factors to be considered when selecting a compass.
1.5 Describe the general procedure to be followed when installing a compass aboard a vessel.
1.6 Define compass variation and deviation.
1.7 Describe the process by which deviation for a particular compass is determined. List and describe the factors which can cause deviation.
1.8 Demonstrate how variation and deviation must be applied when determining a vessel?s course, heading or bearing to a particular station.
1.9 Describe the process to be followed when compensating a vessel?s magnetic compass, using internal adjustments.
1.10 Describe how magnets or magnetic objects can be utilized to correct difficult compensation situations.
1.11 List direction finding instruments other than the traditional magnetic compass. Briefly describe how each works.

The roles played by the police, judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, juries, and corrections officers

Unit #2 AIDS TO NAVIGATION:
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 16

2.1 Types of Navigational Aids (Nav. Aids)
2.2 Buoy characteristics
2.3 Light characteristics (minor)
2.4 Day beacons
2.5 IALA-B Buoy system and US Waterway Marking System
2.6 Primary and secondary seacoast lights
2.7 Fog signals
2.8 Range markers

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 2

2.1 List the seven basic types of Nav. Aids and briefly describe each.
2.2 Describe the characteristics that are used to describe the function of different buoys.
2.3 List and explain the five different light characteristics found on minor Nav. Aids.
2.4 Identify various daybeacons and briefly describe their functions.
2.5 Summarize the features of the two buoyage systems: IALA-B and USWMS
2.6 Briefly describe the characteristics of primary and secondary seacoast lights and describe the ten different light phases which can be utilized by these lights.
2.7 List the four different methods of producing Nav. Aid fog signals and briefly describe their operation.
2.8 Demonstrate how ranges and directional lights are utilized to insure safe navigation of hazardous areas.

Topic #3: GOVERNMENT PUBLICATIONS – 6 hours
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s, chapters 17, 20

3.1 Tide tables
3.2 Tide current tables
3.3 Tide current charts
3.4 Coast pilots
3.5 Navigational chart catalogs and charts
3.6 Light lists
3.7 Notice to mariners

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 3

3.1 Briefly describe the effect the earth, sun and moon have on the cause of tides.
3.2 Explain what spring and neap tides are and describe their causes.
3.3 Define: charted depth, mean low water, tidal range, height of tide, mean high water
3.4 Demonstrate how to use a tide table to predict at tidal phase at a specific location Demonstrate how to use a tidal current table to predict the times of maximum and minimum tidal flow for a particular location
3.5 Demonstrate how to use a tidal current chart to predict the direction of tidal flow.
3.6 Describe the type of information that is contained in a Coast Pilot and demonstrate how to use the pilot to “review” and area prior to entering it with a vessel.
3.7 Demonstrate how to use a chart catalogue to select charts for a specific location
3.8 Demonstrate how to use a light list to obtain information about a specific coastal light List the information contained in the Local Notice to Mariners and describe how that information contributes to safe navigation

Topic #4 THE NAUTICAL CHART – 4 hours
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 18

4.1 Charts vs maps
4.2 Longitude and latitude
4.3 Direction
4.4 Distance
4.5 Scale and chart selection
4.6 Basic chart information
4.7 Chart colors
4.8 Vertical and leaning lettering
4.9 Depths
4.10 Nature of the bottom
4.11 Land areas
4.12 Man-made features
4.13 Buoys and beacons
4.14 Lights
4.15 Dangers to navigation
4.16 Electronic aids to navigation and fog signals
4.17 Nature of the coastline and coast features
4.18 Ports, harbors and control points
4.19 Buildings and structures
4.20 Units of measurement

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 4

4.1 Briefly describe the differences between land maps and navigational charts.
4.2 Define: a) longitude b) latitude
4.3 Demonstrate how to measure direction on a nautical chart.
4.4 Demonstrate how to measure distance on a nautical chart.
4.5 Describe the differences between small scale and large scale charts and explain when each should be used.
4.6 On a nautical chart locate the General Information Block and briefly describe the contents.
4.7 Briefly describe the purpose of each of the five colors found on nautical charts.
4.8 Explain the difference between the two types of lettering used on nautical charts.
4.9 Demonstrate how to use depth features on nautical charts and Table Q of chart #1 to obtain water depth information.
4.10 Demonstrate how Table S of Chart #1 can be utilized to determine the nature of the sea floor displayed by the chart.
4.11 Utilizing Table C of Chart #1 demonstrate how to “read” land features on a chart.
4.12 Utilizing Tables H, I and J of Chart #1 demonstrate how to read man made features on a chart.
4.13 Utilizing Table L of Chart #1 demonstrate how to read buoy and beacon features on a chart
4.14 Utilizing Table K of Chart #1 demonstrate how to read light features on a chart.
4.15 Utilizing Table 0 of Chart #1 demonstrate how to read dangers to navigation on a chart.
4.16 Utilizing Tables M & N of Chart #1 demonstrate how electronic Nav. Aids and fog signals are displayed on a chart.
4.17 Utilizing Tables A & B of Chart #1 demonstrate how to read a chart to determine the nature of a coastline.
4.18 Utilizing Tables D & G of Chart #1 demonstrate how control point, port and harbor information can be read from a nautical chart.
4.19 Utilizing Table I of Chart #1 demonstrate how buildings and structures are represented on nautical charts.
4.20 Utilizing Table E of Chart #1 describe how units of measurement are displayed on nautical charts.

Topic #5: BASIC PILOTING PROCEDURES – 8 hours
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 19

5.1 Directions and angles
5.2 Measuring direction
5.3 Measuring distance
5.4 Time, the 24 hour clock system
5.5 Measurements, limits of precision
5.6 Terms used in Dead Reckoning (D.R.)
5.7 Basic principles of D.R.
5.8 Labeling of D.R. chart work
5.9 D.R. chart work
5.10 Distance (D), Time (T) and Speed (S) calculations 5.11 D, S, T recitation

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 5

5.1 Demonstrate how direction can be expressed as a function of an angle in three digit form.
5.2 Utilizing parallel rulers or a course protector, demonstrate how to measure direction on a nautical chart.
5.3 Utilizing dividers or a calibrated ruler demonstrate how to measure distance on a nautical chart.
5.4 Describe the principles of the 24 hour clock system. Demonstrate how to convert ?civilian? time into time expressed by the 24 hour clock.
5.5 Explain to what degree of precision, direction, distance, time, speed, position and tide variation should be measured.
5.6 Define: course, heading, speed, distance
5.7 List and explain the three basic principles to be followed when Dead Reckoning.
5.8 List and explain the guidelines to be followed when labeling a D.R. track.
5.9 Demonstrate how to lay a D.R. track on a chart and label the track correctly.
5.10 Recite the three basic distance, time and speed formulas. Demonstrate how to conduct time, speed and distance calculations.
5.11 With a 95% success rate complete the D.S.T. problems assigned by your instructor.

Topic #6: POSITION DETERMINATION – 6 hours
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 21

6.1 Definition of terms
6.2 Line of Position (LOP) labeling
6.3 Fixes
6.4 Triangles of position
6.5 Visual observations
6.6 Relative bearings
6.7 Horizontal angles
6.8 Danger bearings
6.9 The running fix
6.10 Doubling the angle on the bow
6.11 Radio direction finders
6.12 Radar bearings and distances
6.13 LORAN-C
6.14 Global positioning Systems, GPS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 6

6.1 Define: Line of Position, Circle of position
6.2 Demonstrate how to label an L.O.P.
6.3 Demonstrate how to obtain a fix from two or more L.O.P.’s.
6.4 Demonstrate how to construct a triangle of position
6.5 Demonstrate how to obtain visual bearings to various objects from your position by sighting over a compass and utilizing a hand bearing compass.
6.6 Demonstrate how to measure relative bearings.
6.7 Demonstrate how to use a three armed protractor to obtain a fix by measuring two horizontal angles.
6.8 Demonstrate how a single L.O.P. can be used to keep a vessel out of a danger area.
6.9 Demonstrate how to obtain and chart a running fix
6.10 Explain how doubling the angle on the bow is utilized to determine a vessel’s position before the sighted object is abeam.
6.11 Explain how information provided by electronic radio direction finders can be used to determine position.
6.12 Describe how radar provided information can be used to determine a vessel?s position or fix.
6.13 Explain how LORAN-C is utilized to determine a vessel?s position.
6.14 Demonstrate how to use a global Positioning System to “fix” a vessels position

Topic #7: Cruise of Jamaica Bay and New York Harbor, 8 hrs., (4 hrs. each), (labs 11,12)
Reading Assignment: US Coast Pilot, Volume #2, chapters #1, 11

Assignment: Your instructor will outline for you two cruises that will conducted by the class aboard the training vessel. The first cruise will be of Jamaica Bay and the other will be of New York Harbor. Each cruise will being from and terminate at the Kingsborough Community College Marina. Your instructor will demonstrate in class how to plan and “lay-out’ the cruise. Prior to boarding the vessel for a cruise students are required to submit an instructor approved cruise plan.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT 7

7.1 Demonstrate how to determine the origin and end of a cruise leg.
7.2 Demonstrate how to plot a compass course for the cruise leg.
7.3 Explain the relationship between cruise legs and waypoints.
7.4 Demonstrate how to verify your position as you travel along a cruise leg.
7.5 Describe how you would determine your cruising speed as you travel along a cruise leg.
7.6 Demonstrate how you would calculate your E.T.A. as you travel along a cruise leg.
7.7 Describe how the coast pilot was useful in planning your cruise.
7.8 Describe how you may verify your position utilizing depth data as you travel along your cruise legs.
7.9 Demonstrate how a triangle of position can be used to verify your position as you travel your cruise leg.
7.10 Demonstrate how your pre-cruise planning is useful in the safe passage of your vessel along the cruise route.

Topic #8: Introduction to vessels and lifesaving equipment, 2 hrs., (lab #1)
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapters 1, 2 & 3

8.1 Directions aboard a vessel
8.2 Terms related to the hull
8.3 Vessel motions
8.4 Relative directions
8.5 Personal Flotation Devices, (PFD’s)
8.6 Putting on a PFD
8.7 Throwing a life-ring
8.8 ‘T” Boat lifesaving requirements
8.9 Characteristics of lifesaving equipment

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT #8

8.1 Describe how directions aboard a vessel are defined
8.2 Define the function of the various parts of the hull identified by you instructor
8.3 Describe how vessel stability is effected by the vessel motions of pitch, roll and yaw
8.4 Diagram the directions: ‘on the bow’, ‘forward of the beam’, ‘abeam’, ‘abaft the beam’ and ‘on the quarter’
8.5 Describe the differences between, type 1,2,3 and 4 PFD’s
8.6 Demonstrate how to “don” a type 1 PFD in less than 60 seconds
8.7 Demonstrate how to throw a life-ring 75 feet
8.8 List the lifesaving equipment required to be carried aboard an inspected “T” boat as per 46 CFR part 180 of the US Coast Guard rules for passenger carrying vessels
8.9 Described how 46 CFR part 180 lifesaving equipment must be designed to be approved for use aboard an inspected vessel

UNIT #9: Introduction to Fire Fighting at Sea, (4hrs.), (labs. 2,3)
Reading Assignment Chapter 10,12

9.1 Causes of fires
9.2 Fire prevention
9.3 The fire tetrahedron
9.4 Classification of fire
9.5 Extinguishing agents: water, CO2, dry chemical, foam, “purple K”
9.6 Fire fighting systems
9.7 How to fight a fire
9.8 US Coast Guard required fire fighting equipment for inspected vessels

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT #9

9.1 List and describe some of the more common causes of fire aboard a vessel.
9.2 Briefly describe how fires can be avoided aboard a vessel.
9.3 List the four components that are necessary if a fire is to occur.
9.4 List and describe the four classes of fire.
9.5 List five forms of extinguishing agents and describe how each works.
9.6 Diagram the construction of a fixed fire fighting system and describe how it operates.
9.7 Outline the process to be followed when fighting a fire.
9.8 Demonstrate how to use the tables located in 46 CFR Part 181 to determine the type and quantity of fire fighting protection to be carried aboard inspected vessels.

Unit #10: Marlinespike Seamanship, (4 hrs.), (labs. 9,10)
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 13

10.1 Glossary of Marlinespike terms
10.2 Construction of fiber rope
10.3 Introduction to knots, bends and hitches
10.4 Eye and short splice
10.5 Whipping and seizing fiber rope
10.6 Rope handling and care
10.7 Splicing braided lines
10.8 Parts of a block
10.9 Types of blocks and tackle
10.10 Mechanical advantage of block and tackle

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT #10

10.1 Define the marlinespike terms contained the American Merchants Seaman’s Manual and Chapman’s Coastal Piloting and Seamanship
10.2 Identify twisted, braided and plaited rope and list the advantages and disadvantages of natural and synthetic rope materials. 10.3 Properly tie the following knots: clove hitch, half hitch, slipped half hitch, overhead knot, figure eight, reef, square, sheet bend, double sheet bend, carrick bend, bowline, catspaw and sheepshank
10.4.Construct an eye and short splice
10.5 Perform both a plain and sail-makers wipping on a line
10.6 Explain how various knots effect line strength
10.7 Describe some of the general rules to be followed when caring for and handling both synthetic and natural fiber rope
10.8 Label the parts of a block.
10.9 Rig the following types of block and tackle: whip tackle, gun tackle, two-fold-purchase
10.10 Calculate the mechanical advantages of whip tackle, gun tackle, two-fold-purchase

Unit # 11 Anchoring, ( 4 hrs.), (labs. 7,8)
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 11

11.1 Choosing the proper anchor
11.2 Parts of the anchor
11.3 Anchoring terminology
11.4 Parts of ground tackle
11.5 Determining scope
11.6 How to anchor
11.7 Clearing a fouled anchor
11.8 Use of the sentinel and anchor buoy
11.9 Double anchoring techniques

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT #11 ANCHORING

11.1 Describe how you would select an anchor for a particular vessel operating in the Mid-Atlantic region
11.2 Label the different parts of a danforth, yachtsman, navy and plow anchor
11.3 Define the basic terms used when anchoring
11.4 Identify all the parts of property designed ground tackle.
11.5 Demonstrate how to calculate the proper scope for different anchoring situations.
11.6 Describe the proper steps to be followed when anchoring a vessel.
11.7 Describe how to clear a fouled anchor
11.8 Describe how to use a sentinel and an anchor buoy
11.9 Diagram how to “double anchor” a vessel

Unit #12 Small Boat Handling, (6 hrs), (labs. 4,5,6)
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s Chapter 7

12.1 Effect of wind and current on a hull
12.2 Dock line identification
12.3 Utilizing dock lines to assist vessel handling
12.4 Single propeller vessel ahead
12.5 Single propeller vessel astern
12.6 Weight distribution

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT #12 SMALL BOAT HANDLING

12.1 Explain how a vessel’s “sail” area and draft combine with the wind and current to effect vessel movement
12.2 Diagram and explain the function of the following dock lines: bow, stern, forward spring, forward breast, after spring, after breast
12.3 Demonstrate how to “spring” a vessel from a pier using spring or breast lines
12.4 Draw a diagram that illustrates the of effects of forward propeller rotation and produced torque on a conventional hull
12.5 Draw a diagram that illustrates the of effects of reverse propeller rotation and produced torque on a conventional hull
12.6 Diagram how weight distribution will effect the performance of a conventional hull

Unit # 13 Inland and International (COLREGS) Rules of the Road, (12 hrs.), recitation
Reading Assignment: Chapman’s 4,5

13.1 Basic definitions
13.2 Light definitions and visibility requirements
13.3 Lights for various size vessels underway
13.4 The vessel “Pecking Order”
13.5 Lights to be displayed by special-purpose and towing vessels
13.6 Day shape definitions
13.7 Steering and sailing rules
13.8 Whistle signals
13.9 Sound signals in restricted visibility
13.10 Distress signals

UNIT #13 INLAND RULES OF THE ROAD

Part A – General
Rule 1 – Application
Rule 2 – Responsibility
Rule 3 – General Definitions

Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules
Rule 4 – Application
Rule 5 – Lookouts
Rule 6 – Safe Speed
Rule 7 – Risk of Collision
Rule 8 – Action of Avoid Collision
Rule 9 – Narrow Channels
Rule 10 – Vessel Traffic
Rule 11 – Application
Rule 12 – Sailing Vessels
Rule 13 – Overtaking
Rule 14 – Head-On Situation
Rule 15 – Crossing Situation
Rule 16 – Action by Give-Way Vessel
Rule 17 – Action by Stand-On Vessel
Rule 18 – Responsibilities
Rule 19 – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility

Part C- Lights and Shapes
Rule 20 – Application
Rule 21 – Definitions
Rule 22 – Visibility of Lights
Rule 23 – Power-Driven Vessels Underway
Rule 24 – Towing and Pushing
Rule 25 – Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
Rule 26 – Fishing Vessels
Rule 27 – Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their Ability to Maneuver
Rule 28 – Reserved
Rule 29 – Pilot Vessels
Rule 30 – Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
Rule 31 – Seaplanes

Part D – Sound and Light Signals
Rule 32 – Definitions
Rule 33 – Equipment for Sound Signals
Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals
Rule 35 – Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
Rule 36 – Signals to Attract Attention
Rule 37 – Distress Signals
Rule 38 – Exemption

UNIT #13 INTERNATIONAL RULES OF THE ROAD, (COLREGS)

Part A – General
Rule 1 – Application
Rule 2 – Responsibility
Rule 3 – General Definitions

Part B – Steering and Sailing Rules
Section I – Conduct of Vessels in Any Condition of Visibility

Rule 4 – Application
Rule 5 – Look-out
Rule 6 – Safe Speed
Rule 7 – Risk of Collision
Rule 8 – Action to Avoid Collision
Rule 9 – Narrow Channels
Rule 10 – Traffic Separate Schemes

Section II – Conduct of Vessels in Sight of One Another

Rule 11 – Application
Rule 12 – Sailing Vessels
Rule 13 – Overtaking
Rule 14 – Head-On Situation
Rule 15 – Crossing Situation
Rule 16 – Action by Give-Way Vessel
Rule 17 – Action by Stand-On Vessel
Rule 18 – Responsibilities Between Vessels

Section III – Conduct of Vessels in Restricted Visibility

Rule 19 – Conduct of Vessel in Restricted Visibility

Part C- Lights and Shapes

Rule 20 – Application
Rule 21 – Definitions
Rule 22 – Visibility of Lights
Rule 23 – Power-Driven Vessels Underway
Rule 24 – Towing and Pushing
Rule 25 – Sailing Vessels Underway and Vessels Under Oars
Rule 26 – Fishing Vessels
Rule 27 – Vessels Not Under Command or Restricted in Their Ability to Maneuver
Rule 28 – Reserved
Rule 29 – Pilot Vessels
Rule 30 – Anchored Vessels and Vessels Aground
Rule 31 – Seaplanes

LEARNING OBJECTIVES FOR UNIT # 13 RULES OF THE ROAD

13.1 Define basic terms used in the Rules of the Road.
13.2 Diagram of the arcs of visibility and list the visibility distances for required lights.
13.3 Identify the side of a vessel and its direction of travel on the basis of observation of its lights.
13.4 List in order of right of way the vessel “pecking order.”
13.5 Identify the function of a vessel solely on the basis of display lights.
13.6 Diagram the day shapes required to be displayed by vessels as per the Rules of the Road.
13.7 Identify the function of a vessel based on day shape information.
13.8 Diagram how the steering and sailing rules are used to avoid collision at sea.
13.9 List the whistle signals to be sounded by vessels while under operation in clear visibility.
13.10 Identify a vessel and the nature of its operation by its sound signal in fog.
13.11 List the sixteen different distress signals recognized by Rules of the Road.
13.12 Complete with a 90% success rate the US Coast Guard qualifying examinations for the Inland and International Rules of the Road

LABORATORY SCHEDULE

Week #1 Lifesaving Equipment
Week #2 Fire fighting
Week #3 Fire fighting Week
Week #4 Small Boat Handling
Week #5 Small Boat Handling
Week #6 Small Boat Handling
Week #7 Anchoring
Week #8 Anchoring
Week #9 Marlinspike Seamanship
Week #10 Marlinspike Seamanship
Week #11 Cruise Jamaica Bay
Week #12 Cruise New York Harbor