03/08/2026
VALUABLE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM LEARNING FOR OUR OOW CADETS MADE POSSIBLE BY MARITIME INDUSTRY SUPPORT
SAMTRA's Officer of the Watch (OOW) cadets participated in an educational field trip last month which included visits to several key maritime organisations in Cape Town.
The excursion provided an excellent opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world maritime operations, by exposing cadets to the practical aspects of navigation, vessel traffic management, search and rescue coordination, marine communications and lifesaving equipment.
Day one included visits to the TNPA Port Control Tower, where cadets observed how vessel movements are monitored and coordinated within the Port of Cape Town.
The importance of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) in ensuring the safe and efficient movement of ships entering and leaving the harbour was observed and cadets gained a deeper appreciation of how communication, situational awareness, radar surveillance, and decision-making contribute to maintaining safety in one of South Africa's busiest ports.
The group then visited the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Cape Town, where they learned about South Africa's responsibilities in coordinating maritime search and rescue operations across a vast region.
A MRCC presentation demonstrated how distress alerts are received, assessed, and responded to through cooperation between rescue authorities, vessels, and aircraft.
This experience reinforced the critical role of emergency preparedness, international cooperation and effective communication in saving lives at sea.
Day two began with an educational tour to Viking Lifesaving Equipment, where our cadets were introduced to internationally approved lifesaving appliances and survival equipment used on board ships.
The session covered the inspection, servicing, and maintenance of life rafts, immersion suits, lifejackets, and other emergency equipment. It also included a practical demonstration on how to set up the few lifesaving equipment during emergency situations.
Seeing these systems up close helped cadets understand the importance of regular maintenance and compliance with international safety standards in protecting lives during maritime emergencies.
The next stop was the Cape Town Marine Radio Station, where cadets gained practical insight into marine communication systems and radio operations.
The importance of maintaining reliable communication between ships and shore stations, particularly during emergencies and routine vessel operations, was emphasized during this visit.
The demonstrations reinforced classroom knowledge of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and highlighted the responsibility of navigational officers to communicate clearly and accurately.
The final visit was aboard an offshore supply vessel operated by OSC Marine Group which gave the group a first-hand experience of the working environment of a commercial vessel. They observed the bridge layout, navigational equipment, safety systems, engine support functions and daily operational routines.
Discussions with the vessel's officers and crew provided valuable career advice and practical knowledge about life at sea, teamwork, professionalism, and the responsibilities expected of future deck officers.
OUR SINCERE THANKS TO ALL OF THE ABOVE-MENTIONED ORGANISATIONS FOR SHARING THEIR TIME AND EXPERTISE SO GENEROUSLY WITH OUR CADETS.
VIKING Life-Saving Equipment
South African Maritime Safety Authority
Transnet National Ports Authority
OSC Marine Group
