Navigational Audit

Navigational Audit – Overview

Navigation remains one of the most critical areas under review by risk assessment teams and charterers. While navigational audits are already a formal requirement under TMSA 3 – Stage 4 for tankers, they are also increasingly adopted in other trades such as bulk carriers.
Although not yet mandatory in every segment, a navigational audit is a clear demonstration of a company’s operational quality and commitment to safety. It also serves as a valuable performance improvement tool, helping operators meet both internal standards and charterers’ expectations.

Navigational Audit – Details

Our navigational audits provide a thorough, independent assessment of:

  • Bridge operations and how the vessel is navigated by the crew.
  • Shoreside support systems that back up onboard decision-making.
  • Navigational and bridge management practices to identify potential weaknesses or errors.

By focusing on real-world operational conditions, these audits can reveal gaps that, if left unchecked, could lead to collisions, groundings, or other critical incidents. Beyond identifying risks, the process also highlights opportunities for improving Safety Management Systems (SMS) and strengthening bridge team performance.

Navigational Audit – Why Choose Us

  • Charterer Confidence: Demonstrate compliance with TMSA and other industry frameworks, strengthening your vessel’s commercial prospects.
  • Risk Mitigation: Detect and address human factor risks before they escalate into costly incidents.
  • Operational Excellence: Provide constructive feedback to enhance bridge management and navigational safety.
  • Cross-Sector Relevance: Suitable for tankers, bulk carriers, and a wide range of vessel types.
  • Continuous Improvement: Use audits as a proactive tool to refine procedures and support long-term SMS development.