1.

  Gyro Compass
It is used for finding the right direction. Unlike magnetic compass, gyro compass is not
hampered by an external magnetic field.  It is used to find the correct North Position,
which is also the earth’s rotational axis to provide a stable directional source. Its
repeater system must be present in the steering platform for emergency steering.

2.   Radar
The seagoing vessels depend on S-band and X-band frequency radar system for
navigation as it can detect targets and display the information on the screen such as the
distance of the ship from land, any floating objects (an island, rocks, iceberg etc.), other
vessels, and obstacles to avoid a collision. It is a rotating antenna which discovers the
surrounding area of the ship.

3.   Magnetic Compass
The magnetic compass work in conjunction with the magnetic field of the earth and is
the essential means of the direction indicating device. It is used to get a planned course
for the voyage. This ship navigation equipment is usually fitted at the centre line of the
ship on the monkey island.  A transmitting magnetic type compass is fitted so that the
output can be displayed in the bridge panel.

4.   Auto Pilot
The ship bridge layout is filled with equipment and tools used for navigation. The
autopilot is considered to be one of the most effective bridge navigational equipment as
it assists the human operator in controlling the ship by keeping the steering in autopilot,
which allows them to concentrate on broad aspects of the operation.

5.   ARPA
Automatic Radar Plotting Aid displays the position of a ship and other vessels nearby. The radar
displays the position of the ships in the vicinity and selects the course for the vessel by avoiding
any kind of collision.
6.   Automatic Tracking Aid
Just like ARPA, automatic tracking aid displays the information on tracked targets in graphic and
numeric to generate a planned layout for a safer and collision-free course.
Echo Sounder
It is used to measure the depth of the water below the ship’s bottom using sound waves which
work on the principle of transmission of sound waves and an audio pulse which will bounce off
a reflecting layer, returning as an echo to the source.
9. Electronic Chart Display Information System
ECDIS is a development in the navigational chart system used in naval vessels and ships. With
the use of the electronic navigation equipment, it has become easier for a ship’s navigating
crew to pinpoint locations, and attaining directions are easier than before.
Automatic Identification system
AIS is also among the types of a navigation system which helps to pinpoint the location and
other navigational statistics of ships. AIS uses VHF radio channels as transmitters and receivers
to send and receive messages between ships which endeavours to fulfil a lot of responsibilities.

List of publications on ships

1. IAMSAR  ( international aeronautical and maritime search and rescue manual)
2. SOLAS
3. MARPOL
4. IMDG:
5. Interco.
6. Admiralty tide tables
7. Guide to port entry.
8. Code of safe working practices for bulk cargo vessels.
9. Ship captains medical guide.
10. Sight reduction tables.
11. Tidal stream atlases.
12. Bridge procedures guide.