Navigation in Shallow Waters

This publication is a guide to ship handling in shallow waters. Drawing on feedback from full-size vessels and ship models, it examines the specific challenges that are experienced in ship performance when navigating in restricted waters. It uses worked examples to analyse risks and to highlight best practice techniques.

Foreword

This publication, by Captain Eduardo Gilardoni and Captain Juan Presedo, covers many aspects of ship handling in shallow waters. It contains theoretical and practical information for ships navigating in open water and in confined channels.

The publication relates specifically to vessels in shallow waters because feedback from full-size vessels and ship models has consistently shown that ship performance is much less efficient in shallow water than in deep water. It is, in effect, a risk analysis that examines possibilities of ship accidents and discusses methods of prevention.

I am pleased to see numerous references in this publication to my work on squat and interaction, and particularly as it is applied to the practical aspects of navigation and ship handling. The authors aimed to cover a gap in the existing texts relating to ship handling in shallow waters and the differences that Masters may experience when compared with deep water conditions. They have certainly succeeded in doing so.

I strongly recommend this publication for those ashore and on board ship and as

an introduction for maritime students. The text, methods, diagrams and equations are easy to follow and understand.

Finally, if you are a student, good luck in your maritime studies. If you are either sea going or shore based, best wishes for continued success in your chosen career. I hope that this book will be informative and of value to you.

Dr C B Barrass MSc FRINA

International Maritime Consultant

Foreword

About the Authors

Author’s Note

Introduction

Abbreviations

Chapter 1 – Shallow Waters

Chapter 2 – Directional Stability

Chapter 3 – A Ship Navigating in a Channel

Chapter 4 – Squat

Chapter 5 – Effect of Current, Tide and Wind

Chapter 6 – The Ship Describing a Curved Path

Chapter 7 – Thrusters

Chapter 8 – Differences in Turning Moments for Different Ship Types

Chapter 9 – Physical Position of the Ship Handler

Chapter 10 – Factors Involved in Stopping a Moving Ship

Chapter 11 – Use of the Anchor as a Ship Handling Tool

Chapter 12 – Emergency Procedures in Ships

Chapter 13 – Embarking and Disembarking Pilots

Chapter 14 – Working Harbour Tugs

Chapter 15 – Rudders and Special Propellers

Chapter 16 – Twin Screw Ships

Chapter 17 – Commercial and Legal Considerations for Masters in Charge of Vessels Moving in Restricted Waters

Appendix A

Appendix B

Reflections of an Experienced Ship Pilot

Bibliography