Who's navigating? Keeping the right attitude (Oct 2018)

In this issue, we talk to shipmates Niel Borja (left) and Louie Anthony (right), who are currently serving on the oil/chemical vessel, M/T Ginga Jaguar. Third Officer Niel discovered The Navigator as a cadet - and found it so helpful that he introduced it to his shipmates, including his First Officer and Assistant Chief Officer, Louie. Here, they discuss their lives at sea and their thoughts on how to be an effective lookout.

What do you like most about a career at sea?
N – I have always believed that there is more to life than the land and have been fascinated about how ships work. This led me to the Maritime Academy of Asia and the Pacific in the Philippines and then on to my career at sea. At sea, I enjoy seeing sunrises, sunsets and celestial bodies. I never would have thought that such things could give direction to my life (pun intended).
L – I like being able to travel and explore other countries, culture, people, food, etc. The sea has allowed me to see different places and people – something that I will treasure forever. It’s a lifechanging experience, as you learn so many new things from other people, their perspectives and the country they live in. From that point, you can analyse things and make adjustments to become a better person and seafarer.

What is the most important lesson you have learned during your career to date?
N – Not everything always goes your way. You must remain flexible and versatile. Remember that every situation requires a better version of you. Never be defeated. Just get back up and try again.
L – Have a positive attitude. Being a seafarer is not an easy job; we may be conquering the seven seas, but we are far away from our loved ones. Onboard ship, you cannot choose your companions and you’ll encounter all types of different people. You must maintain a harmonious atmosphere and that all starts with the right attitude.

What is the most important skill for maintaining a lookout?
N – You must not be hampered with any other thoughts or concerns (such as paperwork) and must maintain situational awareness whatever happens. Create a scenario regarding what needs to be done, prioritising the safety of all involved.
L – The most important skill for a lookout to master is to not fall asleep during the watch! Seriously though, I think the most important skill is to be attentive and observant at all times. You should make sure all your senses are alert, especially your eyes and ears, as the lives of your crew mates depends on how vigilant you are.

What do you find most challenging about keeping a lookout?
N – Making sure you are not bombarded with other thoughts that could distract you. You must be ready to execute things promptly and in the right way. Colregs can help to back up your decisions, but readiness of self is something you can only find within you.
L – The most challenging time to keep a lookout is when the ship is navigating busy ports like Singapore and China. For me, Chinese ports are top of my list when it comes to places that need a particularly strict lookout. The traffic there is so heavy and it’s like going through the eye of a needle at times!

How did you first come across The Navigator? Has it changed anything about how you work onboard?
N – I first encountered the magazine in my final year as a maritime cadet. I have kept myself informed of it ever since and have enjoyed sharing it with my fellow crew members. The Navigator has vastly changed the way I study and work onboard. It is never dull. It has different themes every issue with articles and advice from renowned mariners who have already conquered the great seas all over the world. Learning is a continuous process and The Navigator is a great instrument to sustain the cycle.
L – I first came across The Navigator when I was still a second mate. I found a magazine that was left in my cabin – the issue about Bridge Resource Management. I have since downloaded the app to help keep me on track with new issues. Reading The Navigator has helped change my perspective and improve my knowledge. It is like having a compressed source of information that tackles the basic issues and topics to improve safety onboard. I believe The Navigator is a good foundation for those who are starting their careers at sea.