Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland

A record number of students will take part in the 5^th annual Nautical Skills Competition at the Marine Institute (MI) this weekend. Organized by the Company of Master Mariners of Canada (NL Division), the competition brings together students enrolled in MI’s Nautical Science program to test their skills and abilities and network with some of this region’s most experienced mariners.

“This competition is a fantastic learning opportunity for students,” said Captain Chris Hearn, divisional master of Company of Master Mariners of Canada (NL Division) and the director of MI’s Centre for Marine Simulation. “Working in teams, the first, second and third year students will complete five exercises in the areas of dynamic positioning, seamanship, cargo work, ship handling/navigation and offshore operations.”

Students will have 45 minutes to complete each exercise – which will begin with a 1-2 minute safety moment that highlights how they will incorporate safety into their exercise tasks. Extra marks will be awarded for creativity. 

Additional points will also be awarded for how well the teams incorporate visiting high school students into their exercises. This year, additional competition observers are coming all the way from Croatia. Two faculty and three students from the University of Rijeka are at MI to learn more about the Institute’s Nautical Science program and the Nautical Skills competition. 

Directed towards Nautical Science students, the Nautical Skills Competition is facilitated by volunteers of the Company of Master Mariners of Canada (NL Division) and promotes the maritime sector, encourages team building and professionalism, and fosters a culture of safety. 

During the day-long event, participants have an opportunity to network with some of this region’s most experienced mariners, interact with fellow cadets and put their education to the test in a pursuit for top prize and their name on the Captain Jim Thorpe trophy. Check out this video to find out more about this exciting competition. 

The Company of Master Mariners of Canada (CMMC) is a professional association for those qualified to command. It is a not-for-profit organization established to encourage and maintain high and honourable standards within the nautical profession, to further the efficiency of the Sea Service, and to uphold the status, dignity, and prestige of the marine profession.

This competition is made possible by the support of local, national and international companies. 2016 sponsors include: Atlantic Towing, Woodward Group of Companies, Kongsberg Maritime, McKeil Marine, Fednav, Rutter, Oceanex, Canship Ugland, Groupe Ocean, Secunda, Wrightway, Teekay, Marine Atlantic, Falck Safety Services, Avalon Custom Brokers, Atlantic Pilotage Authority, NEAS, Global Maritime, Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University, Virtual Marine Technology, Survirtec Group and FMC Technologies.