NOTES ON HANDLING SHIPS IN ICE

Ice traditionally affects both manouverability and speed of the vessel very seriously and this eventually results in the commercial outcome of the voyages being impacted. This equally applies to all merchant ships regardless of their class, size or type. Some vessels are originally designed and constructed to be operated in heavily iced waters.

Such vessels are commonly capable of operating in ice-covered seas provided they are handled by duly experienced staff. However, the marines should not rely only on the technical capabilities of the vessel and they will have to consider all potential aspects of ship safety and economics when planning a particular voyage.

It should be noted that the deficiencies related to the organization and communication, routing operations and relevant instructions are frequently identified as the causes of the maritime accidents and damage to the ships hull and machinery leading to the loss of human lives, significant negative impact on the environments and commercial losses.

The present monograph was prepared by the expert in shipping and is intended to be used by the navigators handling 1A and 1AS classed vessels. The publication will be greatly appreciated by the bridge crew of the ships engaged in operations in the iced waters who will find useful information and practical instructions.