Fifteen personnel from the Royal Bahamas Defence Force’s patrol craft HMBS DURWARD KNOWLES successfully completed a one-week Sea Training and Craft Assessment Program at HMBS CORAL HARBOUR during the past week.
This development course, which is aimed at strengthening the understanding of Bridge Resource Management, Seamanship, Voyage Planning and Voyage Management, provides for a standardized and professional training across the RBDF’s fleet. This is to ensure maximum lifespan and optimal performances of these craft by the Officers and Marines.
Led by Commander William Sturrup, who serves as RBDF Search and Rescue Coordinator and Sea Training Officer, along with a knowledgeable team of RBDF instructors, some of the topics covered included Small Arms, Seamanship, Steering Gear Failure, Rules of the Road, Risk Assessment and Risk Management, Man Overboard and Firefighting. The training provided for group discussions and practical exercises for the participants.
This sea-training programme designed for the Squadron Department, was conducted in the RBDF Ship’s Bridge Simulator at the Defence Force Base. This equipment, which was officially dedicated during a brief ceremony at HMBS CORAL HARBOUR on Thursday September 24, 2020, allows for ongoing training for the entire fleet.