Good Communication Practices

When communicating with each other during free time or for reasons other than work;

This is sometimes not as simple as it seems, but crew members should keep these factors in mind and think before speaking. This will be less likely to cause discomfort, disputes or disrespect with their communications. 

When it comes to communication during work, it is easier to get it right, provided the proper procedures are followed. As was clearly stated before, focusing on closed-loop communication is the key to ensuring maximum safety on board a yacht. This is done through:

• Using Maritime English which consists of standard, known and agreed-upon phrases. This will simplify the process and ensure complete understanding.
• Waiting for a response from the receiver ensures that the message has been understood.
• When the feedback is not received, or it does not match the original message, the message should be repeated and, if need be, simplified further to help with understanding.
• Non-verbal communication, such as gestures, can be used to enhance verbal communication.
• Eye contact and physical contact, if possible, should be used to improve the effectiveness of the message.

Effective communication requires Listening. Crew members should ensure that they are focused on communication to avoid any misunderstanding. Communication is significant onboard yachts in the case of emergencies where increased stress levels reduce the ability of the seafarers to communicate and listen effectively or when the crew are under pressure due to the presence of important guests or the owners. This results in misunderstandings at the worst time possible; during such incidences, especially in an emergency, precise communication is key. 

Anchoring and Mooring's operations are stressful situations, and that may lead to communication mishaps due to crew members focusing on their individual tasks and not fully listening to communication. An easy fix to such cases could be done using a briefing carried out before the specific operation, informing the crew of what would be expected from them during the operations and how it should be done.  

Therefore, effective communication is deemed one of the critical factors that can ensure a safe onboard environment. This will not only result in safer voyages, but it will also maintain good relationships between the crew and ensure an optimum working environment.