1. Introduction to ECDIS

• Overview of ECDIS and its importance in modern navigation.
• Components and hardware of an ECDIS system.

2. Regulations and Standards

• International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements for ECDIS.
• International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) standards.
• SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements.

3. ECDIS Hardware and Software

• Different types of ECDIS systems and their components.
• Installation, setup, and configuration of ECDIS.

4. Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs)

• Types and sources of electronic charts (ENCs and RNCs).
• Updating and maintaining electronic charts.
• Chart datums and projections.

5. ECDIS Functions and Features

• Basic and advanced navigational functions.
• Route planning and monitoring.
• Safety features such as alarms and alerts.
• Integration with other navigational systems (GPS, AIS, radar).

6. Navigational Operations with ECDIS

• Position fixing and course plotting.
• Passage planning and execution.
• Navigational watchkeeping with ECDIS.

7. Safety and Risk Management

• Safety settings and parameters in ECDIS.
• Use of safety contours and depth areas.
• Collision avoidance and anti-grounding functions.

8. System Limitations and Failures

• Understanding the limitations of ECDIS.
• Procedures for handling ECDIS failures.
• Backup arrangements and traditional navigation methods.

9. Case Studies and Practical Exercises

• Analysis of incidents and accidents involving ECDIS.
• Real-world scenarios and practical exercises.
• Simulator training to apply ECDIS knowledge.

Practical Training Components

• Simulator Training: Hands-on practice using ECDIS simulators to replicate real-life scenarios.
• Chart Exercises: Tasks involving route planning, monitoring, and navigation using electronic charts.
• System Setup and Configuration: Practical exercises in setting up and configuring ECDIS equipment.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the ECDIS course, participants should be able to:

• Operate ECDIS systems confidently and competently.
• Plan and monitor voyages using ECDIS.
• Integrate ECDIS with other navigational tools and systems.
• Recognize and respond to ECDIS alarms and alerts.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
• Handle ECDIS malfunctions and revert to traditional navigation methods when necessary.

Certification

Participants who successfully complete the ECDIS course typically receive a certificate of proficiency, which is often required for officer certification and to comply with international maritime regulations.

Conclusion

The ECDIS course is essential for modern mariners, providing them with the skills and knowledge to use this critical navigational tool effectively. The course ensures that mariners are prepared to integrate ECDIS into their daily operations, enhancing the safety and efficiency of vessel navigation.