ECDIS Passage Planning and Watchkeeping (Digital)

This publication equips navigators with a thorough knowledge of ECDIS, contributing towards safer ship operation/navigation and a more effective bridge team. It encourages operators to practise the use of every function and technique available on ECDIS, such as setting correct safety depths and safety contours, as well as understanding topics such as scale minimum (SCAMIN) and alarm management.

Updated ECDIS screenshots and illustrations such as the APEM (appraisal, planning, execution and monitoring) flowchart aid readers’ understanding of best practice techniques.

This 2021 edition of ECDIS Passage Planning and Watchkeeping sets out procedures for the correct configuration of ECDIS and, utilising the APEM methodology, it highlights best practices for passage planning and watchkeeping.

To obtain the complete benefits of ECDIS and be confident in its use, an ECDIS operator should:

• Be proficient in setting up the ECDIS, particularly the safety and display settings
• be aware that while ECDIS may display a ‘position’, it is important to understand how that position has been derived and how to verify its accuracy.

Practising the use of every function and technique available on the ECDIS is one of the most effective ways an officer can maintain and develop their navigation skills at sea. Learning how to use each type of ECDIS thoroughly, and mentoring others to do the same, contributes towards a safer ship operation and a more effective bridge team.