Describing the job at sea..
Now that I have a following of loyal ‘readers’….
After waiting for nearly 6 hours, our ship was given the go ahead to ‘depart for sea.’ Now we’re off to get fuel, or ‘Bunkers’ as it is called…about 1 million gallons-worth.
As crew members, Able Seamen (AB) actively take a role standing-by at the Bow or Stern, and heave-in on the wires and Lines (ropes) as needed and at the direction of a Deck Officer such as myself. However, Since I am fairly new to this ’size’ ship, I’ve not been in-charge of ‘mooringoperations’, but rather, on the Bridge-taking down notes as to what is happening and handling the engine controls and helm orders to the steering. Also, I am another set of eyes for the Captain and Harbor Pilot, who are controlling the vessel’s actions.
There are dozens of tasks to accomplish before a ship can set-sail for sea..
-Getting the engines warmed up and ready(the engines have been turned off for a couple of days)
-Securing the Stern ramps and making sure all equipment is ’stowed’ in their designated spots
-Completing a ‘Gear Test’ of The steering mechanism;making sure the controls on the Bridge work
-Getting Anchors ready, if the event demands their use.
Some of these tasks take 2-3 hours prior to departing the dock, in order to get prepared.On the Watch, I had to get all the equipment on the Bridge, ready to use for departing-The Gear Test. In the end, a massive hunk of steel manages to slowly, ease its way out the harbor. All as a result of coordinated efforts of its crew.As Mariners, we still look up,at a passing ship as it comes between us and the other side of the Harbor..just hundreds of feet away. Anyone would marvel at the sight! Well, with that, I have to go get ready to ‘Take the Watch’ on the Bridge.
Until next time,
Nadir
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