Conversation on Merchant Ship
Contents
Chapter 1. Arrival in Japan and Embarkation
1. On the plane – The Customs Declaration Form 2. Talking with Other Passengers
3. Customs Inspection
4. Meeting with an Agent: Situation(1) Agent Found Easily 5. Meeting with an Agent: Situation(2) Agent Arrives Late 6. At Tokyo Station
7. At the Mizushima Port Service Boat Station 8. Getting Lost
9. At a Convenience Store 10.In a Taxi
Chapter 2 On Board a Tanker
11.Self-Introduction – The Captain’s Cabin 12.the COC Room of the Tanker
13.Self-Introduction on a Passage 14.Being Taken to a Cabin
15.Getting to Know the Ship- The Bridge
16.Getting to Know the Ship- Communication Facilities 17.Getting to Know the Ship- A Cabin
18.Getting to Know the Ship- The dining Hall 19.Getting to Know the Ship- The Upper Deck 20.Getting to Know the Ship- The Poop Deck 21.Getting to Know the Ship- The Engine Room
22.Getting to Know the Ship- The Engine Control Room 23.Getting to Know the Ship- The galley
24.Getting to Know the Ship- The Toilet 25.Getting to Know the Ship- The Chamber
26.Getting to Know the Ship- The Deck Tool Store 27.Getting to Know the Ship- The Engine Store 28.Conversation During a Meal
29.Welcome Party 30.The Gymnasium 31.The Recreation Room
Chapter 3. Safety Training on Board
32.Safety Training – On Deck
33.On the Deck of a Bulk Carrier in Port 34.Dangers on a Tanker
35.tanker Fires and Explosions 36.Toxicity Hazards on a Tanker
37.Oxygen Deficiency on a Coal-Ore Carrier 38.Safety Training on the Forecastle
39.Using the Accommodation Ladder 40.Safety on the Stairway
41.Safety in the Galley 42.Safety in the Cabin
Chapter 4 Health and Hygiene
43.Making a Habit of Washing Your Hands 44.Sanitation and Cleaning
45.Deck Cleaning
46.Keeping Your Cabin Tidy 47.Garbage Disposal
48.Washing Clothes
49.The Importance of a Balanced Diet 50.First Aid – Abdominal Pains 51.First Aid – Headaches
52.First Aid – Fingers Caught in Doors and Other Injuries 53.First Aid – A Foreign Object in the Eye
54.First Aid – Removing a Fishhook Caught in a Finger 55.Going to the Hospital
56.Preventing Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Chapter 5 KYT – Kiken Yochi Training
57.What is KYT?
58.KYT – Four Rounds Method
59.KYT - Morning Meeting in the General Office
60.KYT – Tool Box Meeting in the Engine Control Room 61.A Meeting in the Engine Control Room
62.A Meeting in the Galley
Chapter 6 Navigation
63.Navigating a Narrow Channel 64.Bad Visibility
65.An Engine Problem
66.Talking on the VHF Radio with Another Ship(1) 67.Talking on the VHF Radio with Another Ship(2) 68.Talking on the VHF Radio Before Entering Port 69.Entering Port(1)
70.Entering Port(2)
71.Preparing the Mooring Lines
72.Discussing the Navigation Schedule 73.Taking Over the Navigation Watch 74.Taking Over at the Engine Room
Chapter 7 General Duties on Board
75.The Ship’s Safety and Sanitation Meeting
76.Conversation with an Agent at the General Office 77.Conversation with the Authorities
78.Discipline on Board 79.Working Conditions 80.Union Meeting on Board 81.Supplying the Ship’s Stores 82.Supplying Provisions
Chapter 8. Cargo Handling
84.Talking with the Foreman on Deck
85.Complaining to the Driver of the Cargo Loader 86.Lashing Down the Cargo on a Container Ship 87.Lowering the Gangway
88.Connecting a Hose
89.Meeting with the Berth Master in the COC 90.Starting to Discharge Crude Oil
91.Washing Crude Oil
Chapter 9. Preparations for Departure
92.Station on the Bridge for Leaving Port(1) 93.Station on the Bridge for Leaving Port(2) 94.Preparing to Leave Port in E.C.R.
95.Warning Up the Main Engine 96.Testing the Main Engine
97.Increasing the Main Engine Speed Chapter 10. Bunkering
98.Meeting for Receiving Fuel Oil
99.Receiving Fuel Oil at the Starboard Manifold 100. Receiving Fuel Oil
Chapter 11. Maintenance
101. Work Schedule Meeting at the General Office 102. Maintenance of the Chambers
103. Removing Old Paint 104. Painting
105. Greasing Up
106. Overhauling the Fuel Oil Purifier 107. The Diesel Generator
108. Removing a Motor
Chapter 12. Muster drills
109. The Drill for Abandoning Ship 110. Fire-fighting Drill
Chapter 13. Docking
111. Meeting with the Shipyard – Deck Schedule 112. Supervising a Job in the Shipyard
113. Meeting Before Proceeding to the Shipyard 114. Working in the Engine Room at Dry Dock(1) 115. Working in the Engine Room at Dry Dock(2)
To All the Seamen about to Embark on the World Voyage!
Welcome on Board! Conversations on Merchant Vessels recreates various situations that seamen often encounter on board merchant ships, plus some scenes that take place on shore. Each situation is selected for the purpose of familiarizing seamen with the realities of their life, while learning English, which is the universal language of navigation. By practicing the conversations, notes and keywords, you can experience, first hand, realistic developments that occur on board merchant vessels. The conversations also include some practical advise on seamen’s life, actual navigational operations, realistic descriptions of ship-bound equipment and navigation techniques.
The level of English increases gradually as the story unfolds. In the first few chapters, conversations are general with simple vocabulary and grammatical structure. These language elements become slightly more difficult as you progress. However, you needn’t worry. Most of the difficult words and technical terms are explained in simple English in the <Notes> that appear below each conversation. These terms, or keywords, are clearly marked with red ink in the text. Now you need not consult a dictionary each time you encounter an unknown word!
In order to help you learn the accurate pronunciation, intonation and rhythm, which are all important aspects of language learning, four compact disks (CDs) are provided for you. Close-to-real depiction and enactment of each scene has been created through the voice talents of Bianca Allen, Dennis Falt, Michael Naishtut, Greg Irwin and other professional voice actors and narrators.
So just sit back and enjoy the 115 dramatized scenes that you are likely to encounter on board a merchant ship. Now, listen to the CDs first and read the textbook later. Of, if you prefer, listen as your eyes trail on the text. However you study, remember that the best way of mastering a language is by hearing and repeating. Just like a baby picking up its mother tongue, listen to the sounds of English over and over and repeat them. Then study with the textbook and review the Notes.
Lastly, all the members of the editorial staff wish each one of you the best of luck in sailing across the world while learning English. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Bon voyage!
Chapter 1. Arrival in Japan and Embarkation
1. On the Plane – The Customs Declaration Form
(Announcement)
Ladies and Gentlemen, we will soon be distributing immigration forms and customs declaration forms. Please fill them out and ask the cabin attendants if you require any help.
Santos: What does “Occupation” mean on this Immigration Form?
Cruz: It means the kind of business we are in. I guess we can write “seaman.” Santos: Ok.
Cruz: I brought 400 Lucky Strike cigarettes and 200 Seven Stars cigarettes with me. I wonder if I have to declare them.
Santos: I’m not sure. Let’s ask the cabin attendant. Excuse me, may we ask you a question? Ca: Sure.
Cruz: I brought a total of 600 cigarettes with me. Do I have to pay tax on them?
Ca: Tax exemption for non-Japanese citizens is up to 400 Japanese cigarettes and 400 non-Japanese ones.
Cruz: I see. I have 400 non-Japanese cigarettes and 200 Japanese ones, so I don’t have to pay any tax, right?
Ca: That’s right. You don’t have to declare them on the Declaration Form. Santos: I brought a camera with me. Should I declare it?
Ca: If your camera is new and its price is over ¥100,000, then it is a taxable item. But if you do not have any other article worth more than ¥100,000, then a camera is taxable only if it cost you more than ¥20,000.
Santos: My camera isn’t new.
Ca: OK. Then you don’t need to declare it as long as it clearly looks used. Santos: I see. Thank you for your help.
Cruz: Yes, thanks a lot. Ca: You’re welcome.
Immigration form: personal information required before entering a country
Customs Declaration Form: information about the items you are carrying when entering a country cabin attendant(s): flight (or ship or train) crew who takes care of the passengers
occupation: job, profession, line of work
declare: officially announce ->declaration: official announcement
tax exemption: not required to pay tax ->to exempt….from = to free a person from obligation taxable: will be required to pay tax
Cruz: I’m bored with the scenery. All I can see are clouds. (Pointing at a mountain). Wow! Look! That must be Mr. Fuji! It’s exactly like in the picture I saw.
Santos: It’s really beautiful! Is the white stuff on top snow?
Pass: Yes, it’s snow. You’re lucky to see it so clearly. It’s quite beautiful. Is this your first time in Japan?
Cruz: No, it’s our second time, but we didn’t see Mt. Fuji last time. We’re really lucky this time. Pass.: Are you both here on business?
Cruz: No, we’re seamen. A Japanese company hired us, and we’re going to board a ship in Mizushima.
Pass.: You’re seamen? It’s the first time I’ve ever met any seamen. Nice to meet you. Working at sea seems like a tough job,. Where are you from?
Santos: I’m from Manila in the Philippines.
Pass.: I’ve never been to Manila, but I saw on TV that it’s quite a modern city. Cruz: It sure is. Is Mt. Fuji covered with snow throughout the year?
Pass.: No, it isn’t. during the summer months, from June to august, the snow is gone completely. After that, it is the fall season until the end of November. During the winter, from November to around April, Mt. Fuji is covered with snow.
Cruz: I see.
Pass.: Well, enjoy your view and have a good trip.
Pass.: Passenger. a person traveling on e.g. a boat or train scenery: the view of the landscape
Mt. Fuji: also called Fuji-san. The highest mountain in Japan and often the symbol of the country first time in….: the first experience or the first visit to the place in question
going to board a ship: going to ride on a ship – go on board = to get on a train, plane, or boat throughout the year: all through the year, always, January through December
completely: fully. 100%, to the fullest extent, all the way have a good trip: enjoy your trip
3. Customs Inspection
C.o.: You’re seamen, aren’t you? Will you please open your suitcases? Santos: OK. There you go.
Cruz: I have two cartons of cigarettes. C.o.: May I see them?
Cruz: (taking one carton from his carry-on and the other from his suitcase) Here they are.
C.o.: (Carefully inspecting them for concealed items) Thank you. That’s OK. May I check the contents of your suitcase?
Santos: No problem. Go right ahead.
C.o.: (Looking at each item one by one) What’s this? Santos: It’s some medicine I bought in the Philippines.
C.o.: Let me have a look inside. (Taking out some packages) What’s this medicine for? Santos: It’s for the stomach.
C.o.: OK. Thank you. Please go ahead. Next, please.
Santos: He really took his time. I was starting to lose my patience!
Cruz: You said it! I’d heard that they were very strict with drugs. I hear there’s a lot of smuggling from Southeast Asian countries. That’s why they are so thorough.
C.O.: Customs Officer a public servant working at Customs liquor: a strong alcoholic drink, alcoholic drinks / beverages
carry-on: a piece of luggage a passenger is allowed to take inside an airplane; carry-on-board luggage
concealed items: hidden objects - to conceal = to hide, to obstruct from view Go right ahead: continue – “Feel free to do what you want.”
medicine: medication, pharmaceutical drugs, medicinal drugs
lose my patience: to become angry (after waiting for a long time in this case) You said it!: Exactly! You can say that again! Yes, I agree.
strict: following the rules very closely. Enforcing the law drugs: illegal chemical substances, narcotics
smuggling: carrying something into or out of a country illegally (against the law). – smuggle thorough: complete, full.
4. Meeting with an Agent: Situation (1) agent Found Easily
Santos: (At Narita Airport’s Arrival Lobby) Wow! There are so many people! Where’s Mr. Yamada, our agent?
Cruz: He must be waiting for us, holding a placard with our names on it. Look! This might be him.
Santos: Excuse me. Are you Mr. Yamada from International Marine? We’re Cruz and Santos from the Philippines. We’re supposed to board The Persian Adventure.
Yamada: Oh, hello, Mr. Cruz and Mr. Santos. Welcome to Japan. My name is Yamada, and I work for International Marine.
Cruz: Nice to meet you, Mr. Yamada. My name is Conrad Cruz, Third mate. Santos: Nice to meet you. My name is Manuel Santos. I’m third engineer. Yamada: How was your trip?
Cruz: It was great! We saw Mt. Fuji from the plane. It was beautiful. Yamada: I’m glad to hear that. Did you have any problems with Customs? Santos: No, we didn’t, but we were searched quite thoroughly.
Yamada: That’s understandable. Customs officers are now very strict. Drug smuggling from Southeast Asia has been increasing.
Cruz: They looked through our luggage. Is it that easy to find drugs?
Yamada: According to the news, they often find drugs that way. There is a minibus waiting for us, so let’s get going.
placard: a sign. (a piece of card with people’s names written on it) Third Mate: a member of a ship’s crew who helps to steer the ship
Third Engineer: a member of a ship’s crew who works in the ship’s Engine Room …we were searched: A customs official examined us and our suitcases.
luggage: suitcases, trunks, etc. usually carried for traveling, large bags containing clothes according to..: from what I’ve heard or read…
…let’s get going: …let’s go, let’s move
5. Meeting with an Agent: Situation (2) agent Found Easily
(Cruz and Santos exit into the Arrival Lobby. Suddenly, a Japanese woman calls them over.) Stranger: Excuse me, are you Mr. Vincent from the Philippines ABC Company?
Cruz: No, I’m not. I’m not with the Philippines ABC Company. Stranger: Oh, wrong person. I’m sorry.
Cruz: I think our agent has a placard with our names on it. Let’s try to find him. (Ten minutes later)
Santos: He doesn’t seem to be here. Have we got the meeting place wrong? There are two terminals at Narita Airport. This is Terminal 1, isn’t it?
Cruz: Well, let’s wait for a few more minutes. We don’t know the agent’s phone number anyway. Let’s go sit on that bench over there.
(Ten more minutes later)
Santos: Look! That man seems to have a placard with our names on it. Excuse me. Are you Mr. Yamada? We’re Santos and Cruz from the Philippines.
Yamada: Oh, thank goodness! I’m glad we were able to meet up. We were delayed by the traffic. There was a big accident on our way to the airport. I’m sorry to have kept you waiting.
suddenly: without warning. An unexpected surprise
wrong person: a different person, not the right person, not the person one is looking for crowd: a large number of people
… seem to be …: appear to be… - “he doesn’t seem to be here.” = “I don’t think he is here” thank goodness: “How lucky!” an expression of relief = Thank God.
We were delayed…: we were held up and therefore could not come on time… traffic: cars on a highway or a road
I’m sorry to have kept you waiting: I’m sorry I kept you waiting. (a frequently used apology when arriving late)
6. At Tokyo Station
(Transferring from the Yamanote Line to the Tokaido Shinkansen)
Cruz: I think this is the right way, but with all these people, I’m not sure! It must be rush hour now. commuting always seems to be bad.
Santos: Let’s ask someone. (He stops a passerby.) Excuse me, is this the way to the Shinkansen? Passerby: There are several Shinkansens. Which one are you looking for?
Santos: The Tokaido Shinkansen. We are going to Shin-Kobe.
Ask the station staff for more information. Santos: Straight ahead? OK. Thank you very much. Cruz: Let’s go.
(At the ticket gate)
Stat. staff: Ah, just put your tickets in the slot over here. This is an automatic gate. Santos: Thank you. Which platform does the train leave from?
Stat. Staff: Platform 16.
Santos: Platform 16? Thank you.
Cruz: We should eat on the train. Let’s buy some food.
Santos: That’s a good idea. I’d like to have some typical Japanese food. (At a stall nearby)
Cruz: “Makunouchi-bentou.” This looks like a Japanese packed lunch. I’ll have that. Santos: OK. I’m going to try this one here.
transferring: changing trains – transfer = change over, move over Shinkansen: Japanese bullet train, super-express train
Tokaido Shinkansen: the super-express trains serving mainly the Pacific coast of Japan’s mainland commuting: traveling back and forth, i.e. to and from work
passerby: a bystander; person on the street straight ahead: forward without turning slot: long hole or groove
platform: waiting place for a train typical: most common, representative stall: small stand or shop
Makunouchi-bentou: Japanese-style boxed lunch with rice and assortment of cooked meats, fish, and vegetables
7. At the Mizushima Port Service Boat Station
Santos: (To the female staff at the Service Boat Station) Excuse me. We want to board The
Persian Adventure. When does the service boat leave?
Staff: Marine No.1 leaves at 1 pm. She’s over there.
Santos: Thanks. By the way, has The Persian Adventure come into berth yet?
Staff: Well, she was supposed to be here at 12 o’clock, so I suppose she has. Look. You can see her there.
Cruz: Oh, is it the one with the reddish funnel? Staff: Yes, that’s the one.
Cruz: Do you know the schedule?
Santos: That’s way too short, isn’t it? Staff: All specialized carriers do the same.
Cruz: I’d like to buy some snack. Is there a shop around here?
Staff: There is a convenience store further down the street. Go out here, turn left at the corner, and then go straight for about 200 meters. You’ll find it on your right.
Cruz: Thank you.
Staff: Be sure not to miss the service boat.
Santos: Don’t worry. We still have 30 minutes until it leaves. Let’s go!
Mizushima: a port city in Okayama, located in southwestern Japan service boat: water taxi
berth: mooring place, to moor (a ship/boat)
was supposed to …: should have been, is scheduled to be… funnel: the chimney for a ship’s steamer
ETD(Estimated Time of Departure): the scheduled time when ship will leave port details: the facts, detailed information
specialized carrier: type of ship, i.e. tanker, container ship, etc.
convenience store: a small corner store selling all kinds of goods which is open longer than most other store – convenient: easy to use
on your right: on the right-hand side of a person miss: fail to catch
8. Getting Lost
Santos: I thought it would be easy to find the shop, but I don’t see it anywhere.
Cruz: Gee, we must have lost our way. Maybe we turned at the wrong corner. Everything’s written in Japanese with kanji everywhere! I can’t understand a thing.
Santos: We’ll have to turn back. Let’s go back to that corner. Cruz: We don’t have enough time. Let’s ask someone.
Santos: Do they speak English? I’ve heard that ordinary Japanese people are not very good at speaking English.
Cruz: Let’s ask that student. Excuse me, do you speak English? Student: Yes, I’m studying English at school. Can I help you?
Cruz: Oh, great! We want to go to the convenience store nearby but we’re a little lost.
meters. You’ll see some traffic lights. Turn left there, and you’ll find it. Cruz: Thank you very much.
Student: You’re welcome. Are you seamen?
Cruz: Yes, we are. We’re boarding a tanker in Mizushima.
Student: It takes five minutes from the shop to the boat station. Will you know how to get there? Cruz: Yes, we will. We just came from the station so we’ll be able to get back.
Student: That’s good. Take care of yourselves. Bon voyage! Cruz: Hey, thank you very much.
must have lost our way…: got lost or went the wrong way, took the wrong way. I can’t understand a thing…: I cannot (do not) understand anything
ordinary: plain, simple, or usual – extraordinary: special, unusual nearby: close to - the station nearby: the station that is close
traffic lights: a set of lights used to control traffic. also called “traffic signs”
Take care of yourselves.: be safe, be OK, and look after yourselves. – “Take care of yourself.” when addressing a single person
Bon voyage!: Have a nice trip! Have a safe journey!
9. At a Convenience Store
S. Clerk: May I help you?
Santos: Yes. I’d like to buy some cookies. S. Clerk: They are on that shelf over there.
Santos: These are chocolate-flavored cookies. Excuse me, how much are these? I can’t see the price.
S. Clerk: I’m sorry, but all the prices are bar-coded only. Those are 400 yen. Santos: Thanks.
Cruz: Four-hundred yen is a bit expensive. Let’s look for cheaper ones. How about these? It says “Potato Chips” on the packet. They’re only 230 yen.
Santos: It’s quite light for such a big packet but it looks good. OK, I’ll buy two of these. Cruz: I’ll get two bags, too.
S. Clerk: Do you want to pay for these separately or together? Santos: Together, please.
S. Clerk: That comes to 966 yen.
Cruz: Ah, isn’t it supposed to be 920 yen since they are 230 yen each? S. Clerk: You need to add the 5% consumption tax, which comes to 46 yen. Cruz: We have to pay tax on everything?
S. Clerk: I’m afraid so. Will that be all? Cruz: Yes. Here’s a thousand yen.
S. Clerk: Thank you. Here’s your change: 34 yen.
Santos: Thank you. (They go out of the shop.) Wow! That young girl was looking after such a big shop all by herself!
Cruz: I heard that Japanese people are pretty honest and there isn’t much shoplifting.
S. Clerk: sales clerk
chocolate-flavored: taste like chocolate price: cost
bar-coded: price on package read by a computer scanner a bit expensive: a little expensive, not cheap – a bit = a little look for …: try to find
cheaper: cost less, priced lower separately: one at a time, not together
consumption tax: 5% tax on things bought at stores (in Japan) a thousand yen: 1,000 yen
change: money left after a purchase, money you get back after paying for something shoplifting: stealing, taking something without paying, especially from a shop
10. In a Taxi
Cruz: We should get going. We don’t have much time left. Shall we take a taxi?
Santos: Yes. But can we catch one easily? Ah, here comes one now! flag it down! Oh, there’s already a passenger in ti. That’s no good.
Cruz: Here comes another one! It’s stopping. The red lamp at the front seems to mean that it’s free.
Santos: Wow! The door opens automatically! Japanese taxis are amazing! (They get in the taxi)
Driver: Hell. Where to, sir?
Santos: To the Service Boat Station at Mizushima Port, please. How much will that be?
Driver: Mizushima Port, Service Boat Station. All right. The basic fare is 56 yen for the initial two kilometers. There’s an additional charge of 80 yen per 200 meters. So it will cost about 640 yen from here.
Driver: No. generally speaking, it costs more in urban areas than in rural areas. Santos: Is it a difficult job?
Driver: Not really. It’s a good way to earn a living. Here we are at the Service Boat Station. Santos: Oh, great! We’re back just in time.
Driver: Just a moment. I’ll pull over. Santos: How much is it?
Driver: (Checking the meter) It’s 640 yen.
catch: take, take hold of…
flag it down. : hail or wave to taxi driver free: not in use, available
automatically: by itself, without having to do anything amazing: wonderful, great
initial: first
an additional charge: extra cost. additional –add (to increase)
Generally speaking,… : speaking in a general manner, without giving specifics; usually, regularly urban area : city
rural area : country, farmland
earn a living : work, have a job to make money
just in time: in time, not late – I was just in time … (I was not late. I came on time)
Chapter 2. On Board a Tanker
11. Self-Introduction – The Captain’s Cabin
(After knocking at the door of the Captain’s cabin)
C/off: Captain, Third Mate Conrad Cruz and Third Engineer Manuel Santos are here, sir. Capt: Come in. I’ve been expecting you.
C/off: Let’s go in. captain, I’d like to introduce you to Third Mate, Mr. Conrad Cruz and Third Engineer, Mr. Manuel Santos.
Cruz: Nice to meet you, Captain. I’m Third Mate Conrad Cruz from Manila. I am 22 years old and I am determined to do my best.
Santos: Nice to meet you, sir. I’m Third Engineer Manuel Santos. I’m also from Manila. I am 23 years old and I hope to do my best, too.
Capt: (Shaking hands) Nice to meet you both. I’m Captain Shimoda. Welcome aboard The
Perian Adventure. Please have a seat.
Cruz / Santos: Thank you, sir.
Cruz: Yes, it is, and I’m a little nervous. I’ve never been on such a large ship
Capt: Oh, don’t worry. Everyone is nervous the first time. Just watch your step and don’t get into any trouble. I expect everyone to work hard, but if you don’t understand something, just ask one of us. In Japan, we have a saying: “Asking for help is a momentary shame, but never asking for help is a lifetime shame”. The worst situation is when you pretend that you understand when you really don’t, and then you fail to do your work right.
Cruz/Santos: We’ll keep that in mind, sir.
C/off: chief officer
expect: wait for …., to look forward to something
… determined to do my best: will try hard to do the best I can nervous: worried, uneasy
watch your step: be careful, look where you are going get into trouble: have or cause problems
saying: proverb, adage, motto momentary: short, brief, temporary shame: disgrace, loss of honor
lifetime: for your whole life, until you die, throughout your life pretend: act as if, make believe
fail: not succeed, be unable to accomplish something
12. The COC Room of the Tanker
2/off: Hi, you’re the Third Mate, Mr. Cruz, aren’t you? Welcome on board. I’m the Second Mate and my name is Tanaka. Nice to have you with us.
Cruz: Nice to meet you. My name is Conrad Cruz. I’m 22 years old and I’m from Manila. 2/off: Is this your first time on a tanker?
Cruz: Yes, it is. I’ve been on 1 200,00-ton bulk carrier before, and I received tanker training in the Philippines, which was mainly lectures. I also trained using a tanker simulator at one of the Japanese shipping company’s training centers. It was quite helpful.
2/off: I did that simulator training, too. Training is different from the real job, but it’s quite helpful. By the way, I’m from Hiroshima. I have a wife and three children. The eldest one is 13. he is a junior high school student. My family comes to see me whenever my ship arrives in Japan. They have already been to my cabin and made a big fuss.
Cruz: That’s great. I’m single and my parents live with my elder brothers. Both of my brothers work for Japanese companies in the Philippines. There are a lot of differences in culture and in social structure between Japan and the Philippines. I’m dying to learn about Japan. 2/off: That’s a great attitude Learning about each other’s culture helps us understand each other
COC: Cargo oil control
2/off: second officer, also called second mate (the rank that comes after first mate) second mate: a friendly way of addressing the second officer
bulk carrier: large ship that carriers raw goods in its hold simulator: machine for practice
shipping company: large company that owns and operates boats Hiroshima: large port city in Western Japan
… made a big fuss: made a big issue about something single: unmarried
elder brother(s): older brother(s)
difference(s): things that are not the same or similar culture: arts, philosophies, products of any society social structure: organization of a society
I’m dying to …: want to do something very much attitude: way of thinking, behavior and manners
13. Self-Introduction on a Passage
Santos: (To a Japanese crewmember passing by) Hello! I’m Third Engineer, Manuel Santos. I just came on board.
2/Eng: Hi. Nice to meet you. I’m Second Engineer, Suzuki. I was checking a pump so I couldn’t come to the Engine Control Room when the Chief Engineer introduced you.
Santos: Boy, I was surprised by the size of the engine. It’s the first time that I’ve seen such a big one!
2/Eng: This ship keeps us busy and she’s a good one to learn many different jobs on. Santos: I’m sure I’ll learn a lot. The small number of crew also surprised me.
2/Eng: Well, it means that each crewmember takes on a lot of responsibility. I do hop you’ll become familiar with the ship quickly, and do your job well. We all count on each other. I’ll help you whenever there’s something that you don’t understand. Your hands, feet, and body. You know, hands-on experience. That’s the way Japanese people work.
Santos: I see. I was told the same back home
2/Eng: It’s important to work hard. Doing a good job helps you gain confidence. Oh, by the way, I should tell you more about myself. I’m 30 years old. I’m single and I come form Yamaguchi. I like fishing. Pretty handy when you work on a boat, don’t you think?
Santos: Sure. I’m 23 years old and I come form Manila. I don’t have any hobby. I just like reading.
crewmember: a member of a crew (all the people working on a boat, airplane, train, etc.) 2/eng: second engineer
Chief Engineer: the highest-ranking engineer on a ship responsibility: duty, work a person has to do
become familiar with… : to come to know something well count on: depend on, rely on, expect somebody else’s help
instruction book(s): a book that shows or teaches things, procedures, etc. hesitate: be slow to act, speak or decide, for example, as a sign of uncertainty hands-on experience: learning by doing or through active participation confidence: trust, feeling sure, feeling of assurance
handy: convenient, easy to use or apply
14. Being Taken to a Cabin
2/off: OK, I’ll take you up to your cabin. Just follow me. We are on D-Deck now. your cabin is on B-Deck, two floors above. Let’s take the elevator.
Cruz: Is the elevator in service all the time?
2/off: Except during an emergency. And you should always use good manners. Shut the door quietly but trimly, that sort of thing. Here we are. This is your cabin.
Cruz: Thank you.
2/off: The next cabin is the Chief Mate’s. and the first Engineer, Second Engineer, and Third Engineer’ cabins are also on this floor.
Cruz: Is the Chief Engineer on the same deck as the Captain?
2/off: That’s right. There’s a water fountain over there for when you are thirsty. Next to it is the laundry room. There are two washing machines. One is for underwear and slightly dirty clothes. The other is for heavily-stained clothing such as oily coveralls. Please tell the Chief Officer if they go out of order.
Cruz: OK. By the way, your English is very good.
2/off: Thank you. I’m very glad to hear that. I often read English newspapers and try to brush up on my English all the time. Here, why don’t you settle down in your cabin?
Cruz: Thank you.
in service: working, in operation
emergency: a sudden, urgent development of a serious matter First Engineer: a ship’s crew in charge of the engines
water fountain: a device for supplying fresh drinking water
washing machine(s): a machine which washes clothes automatically underwear: undergarment, clothes worn directly on a person’s body heavily-stained: badly soiled, very dirty
coverall(s): loose, one-piece garment worn by workmen (to protect clothes) out of order: not working, broken
brush up: to improve, to polish up
settle down: to live in an ordinary way, to feel relaxed, to become less nervous
15. Getting to Know the Ship – The Bridge
Cruz: The eye altitude on the VLCC seems very high. How high is it?
2/off: It is 26 meters when fully loaded and 37 meters at ballast level. The ship is now half loaded so it is about 32 meters.
Cruz: The steering stand looks like a car’s steering wheel. It doesn’t look like a ship’s wheel at all. This is the engine control panel. This must be the engine telegraph. And this is the telephone that connects you to the Engine Room, isn’t it?
2/off: Yes, it is. All you have to do is pick up the receiver and speak. The rest are all meters related to the engine. This is the Doppler Sonar. It’s more accurate than the electric-magnetic log. It is especially helpful when coming into berth.
Cruz: Oh, this is the radar, and it hs ARPA!
2/off: ARPA is very useful. Make sure to remember that using your own eyes is essential. You should never rely solely on the radar. Don’t depend on the radar picture for information. Always confirm with the naked eye, even if visibility is bad.
Cruz: Yes, I understand.
2/off: The ship is equipped with an electrical charting system. It shows the position of the ship by receiving signals from the GPS. But observing the position with your own eyes, especially for cross bearing, is one of the basics for a deck officer.
Cruz: I will learn cross bearing properly. Is this the GMDSS? 2/off: Yes, I’ll tell you about it later.
eye altitude: eye level (altitude = height, distance from sea level) VLCC: Very Large Crude Carrier
fully loaded: a ship’s holds are filled to capacity
ballast: a heavy material (usu. Seawater) placed in a ship’s tank for greater stability – at ballast level (sailing with no cargo)
telegraph: a communication system over directly connected wires
receiver: a part of a telephone, television, etc. which receives incoming signals
Doppler Sonar: a sonar working on the Doppler principle which is used to measure a ship’s speed electric-magnetic log: a ship’s speed measuring mechanism operating on an electromagnetic system ARPA: Automatic Radar Plotting Aids
naked eye: unaided eye, seeing things with one’s own eyes visibility: the distance that can be seen without using instruments electrical charting system: electrical display of navigational charts GPS: Global Position Satellite System
cross bearing: a method of finding out a ship’s location GMDSS: Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
16. Getting to Know the Ship – Communication Facilities
Santos: Excuse me. May I come in? Capt: Sure. Come in.
Santos: I brought my passport, my mariner’s license, and my seamen’s book.
Capt: Thank you. The expiration date of your passport is in 2010, so you have ten more years. Is this seamen’s license Filipino? This ship’s Panamanian, so we need a Panamanian license. Do you have one?
Santos: Yes, I do, but I left it in my cabin.
Capt: I need to see it. Will you bring the license and the seamen’s book later, please? Do you have vaccination certificates?
Santos: I have a cholera certificate. I’ll bring it later, too.
Capt: Oh, we don’t need the cholera certificate. Do you have a yellow fever certificate? Santos: No, I don’t.
Capt: That’s not good. You won’t need it for this voyage, but you might need it for the next one. You should get your yellow-fever vaccination done next time you are in Japan. It is too late to get it now.
Santos: I’m sorry. I wasn’t told about it. By the way, the radio equipment seems completely different.
Capt: It was changed when we started using the GMDSS. Santos: So all information is exchanged with the GMDSS?
Capt: Yes, you can say that. Most messages sent between the ship and headquarters are done by INMARSAT. In the waters around Japan, we use the coastal telephone system, which covers a wide area since it also recently started using the satellite system. Another communications system we use is the VHF telephone for contacting pilots and other vessels. You can use INMARSAT for private telephone calls, too.
mariner’s license: a license issued to seamen expiration: coming to a close or end or termination Filipino: of or native of the Philippines
vaccination: immunization using vaccines
certificate: a paper proving or certifying something
cholera: an acute infection with watery diarrhea, vomiting, cramps (often fatal)
yellow fever: an acute disease transmitted by mosquitoes, characterized by the body turning yellow (jaundice)
headquarters: main office, head office
INMARSAT: International Maritime Satellite
satellite: man-made flying object on the Earth’s orbit serving various purposes
17. Getting to Know the Ship – A Cabin
Cruz: This is quite a big room, with a big window, a shower and a toilet.
2/off: The ship’s accommodations were built by the Japanese ship owners. They used to be much less attractive than the accommodations on European ships. Conditions have improved lately, though.
Cruz: Is this telephone used only on board?
2/off: Yes, it is. It’s mostly used by the Quartermaster to call you 15 minutes before your watch. There is a coastal telephone system at the Bridge and in the General Office. It covers the Japanese coastal area and also the Bashi Channel area. We use it to communicate with the head office.
Cruz: Can I drink the water from the tap?
2/off: No, you shouldn’t. it’s only for washing and rinsing. We call it “fresh water.” It is distilled seawater that comes from an evaporator in the Engine Room. It may contain unwanted bacteria. You should drink the water only from the water fountains.
Cruz: Do I have to clean my cabin myself?
2/off: Basically, yes. But the Mess Boy sweeps the ship once a week. He also changes the bed sheets every two weeds.
Cruz: The word “antenna” is written on this box by the wall. What is this antenna for?
2/off: This is a radio antenna. When you connect your radio to it, you can hear short-wave broadcast in your cabin. Take a single electrical wire and wind it 10 to 20 times into a coil with a diameter of about 10 cm. Then connect one end of the coil to this antenna terminal and the other to the ground terminal. Put the coil close to the radio. You can hear short-wave clearly that way.
accommodation(s): living quarters, living areas ship owner(s): people or companies which own a ship less attractive: not favorable, not likeable, not appealing
Conditions have improved…: conditions have become better… quartermaster: a crew to take her steering
Bashi Channel: a channel found between Taiwan and the Philippines tap: faucet (tap water = water running from a faucet)
evaporator: a machine used to heat and make vapor of a liquid
unwanted bacteria: harmful microorganisms which may cause illnesses short-wave broadcast: radio broadcasts sent via waves of short wave lengths diameter: a straight line passing through the center of a circle
18. Getting to Know the Ship – The Dining Hall
C. Stew: Here’s the Third Mate table, and there is the Third Engineer’s table.
Cruz: Thank you. Breakfast is served at seven o’clock, lunch at twelve o’clock, and dinner’s served at five-thirty?
C. Stew: That’s right. But the Third Mate’s dinner is served at five o’clock because you have to relieve the Chief Mate when he eats dinner. It is a self-serve dining room, so make sure that you return your dirty dishes to the basin in the galley after you finish your meal. Cruz: I will. What kind of food do you serve here?
C. Stew: Mainly Japanese food for the Japanese, and Filipino food for the Filipinos. But sometimes, we serve the same meal for everyone, such as when we have steak. Can you eat Japanese sashimi or sushi?
Cruz: No problem. I like sukiyaki I’m interested in Japanese food, so I cut some Japanese recipes out of a newspaper and brought them with me.
C. Stew: That’s good! I’ll prepare something special for you someday. I think that we will serve
sukiyaki for the welcome party after we’re off at sea.
Cruz: That’s splendid! Will we be able to drink beer?
C. Stew: We have a company policy about alcohol. You can drink, but there’s a limit. In any case, just enjoy yourself and don’t get drunk.
C. Stew: Chief steward
is served: (meals are) offered or presented relieve: to release a person from duty galley: the kitchen of a ship or an airplane
sashimi: a typical Japanese dish of sliced fresh, raw fish
sushi: a typical Japanese dish of sliced raw fish placed on balls of seasoned rice sukiyaki: a typical Japanese dish cooked with sliced beef and vegetable
recipe(s): a list of ingredients and procedures for preparing food, medicine. Etc. off at sea: sailing in high waters not moored in a port
19. Getting to Know the Ship – The Upper Deck
C/off: Let me show you the deck. Be sure to wear your helmet whenever you work on deck. There’s one that has “THIRD OFFICER” written on it.
Cruz: Oh, I found it.
C/off: We must go up one floor above the Upper Deck to D-Deck. The entrance used should be the one opposite this one. Exit from the starboard side. Both doors on the Upper Deck should be shut firmly like this. Don’t use this door unless there’s an emergency.
Cruz: Is this the Deck Seal Tank of the Inert Gas System?
C/off: Inert gas is sent to this deck seal tank through that big pipe after it is generated by the Inert Fan Room on top of the Engine Room. From here, it provides inert gas to each tank through the deck pipeline. The Deck Seal Tank is the most basic safety device. Seawater is continuously supplied from the Engine Room.
Cruz: Is it sent through a special pump:
C/off: It’s sent through the GS pump, the fire pump, and any other specialized deck seal seawater pump. If one pump breaks down, another one takes its place
Cruz: This mooring winch looks like it’s hydraulically operated.
C/off: Yes, there’s one hydraulic pump in the Steering Engine Room for the aft winch. Another is in the Center Store for the mid-ship winch, and the third one is in the Bosun Store for the fore winch. Inform the Engine Room before you turn them on or off.
Cruz: Are these the main pipelines: No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, the inert line, and the COW line?
C/off: The pipelines are color-coded for easy identification. This is a small line. This is a bunker line. This is a fire line. This is a foam line for the fire line.
opposite: the other side, the side facing you
starboard side: the right-hand side of a ship or aircraft
Deck Seal Tank: a tank used for collecting inert gas to seal off the deck in case of fire Inert Gas System: a system of a network of pipelines for supplying inert gas
safety device: equipment used to enhance safety
GS pump (general service pump): a pump used for general purposes, such as supplying fresh water mooring winch: a winch used for taking up a rope or chain used for mooring a ship
hydraulically operated: something working by means of a fluid under pressure aft: toward the rear of a ship
identification: a proof of a person’s identity
20. Getting to Know the Ship – The Poop Deck
2/off: I stand on the Poop Deck when berthing except when berthing SBM or anchoring. You have to let me know whenever we do a trial run of the engine. We do it every time we leave port. I then check if aft is normal, and then I check for fishing boats or small boats or if the crew has left any fishing tackle outboard. As for the accommodation ladder, we heave it up a little when the ship moves. After that, we do an engine test by contacting the Engine Room. Santos: I see. How about checking the steering gears?
2/off: We do it before or after the engine test. You should do it after I enter the Steering Engine Room. I check the movement of the rudder and see if the hydraulic system works well. Cruz: Communication between us is done only by transceiver?
2/off: Basically yes, but we can also use the one in the Steering Engine Room. Cruz: What’s this wire?
2/off: It is a fire wire. A tugboat uses this wire to pull the ship from the berth when she can’t move on her own, or in case of a fire during cargo loading and unloading. Regulations about setting this wire in port are very strict, so you have to follow the rules. This should be set whenever the ship enters the Maritime Traffic Safety Law areas in Japan.
Cruz: Is the Emergency Fire Pump Room under this deck?
2/off: Yes, it is. It’s just as described on the side of this door. It’s under the Steering Room. Ask one of the engineers how to operate it later.
Poop Deck: a partial deck on the stern superstructure of a ship SBM(single buoy for mooring): a method of mooring a ship
anchoring: preventing a ship’s free movement with a heavy object cast overboard trial run: a test run
fishing tackle: fishing gear
accommodation ladder: a ladder used to help people board a ship rudder: a plate secured to the stern of a ship used to direct its course
hydraulic system: a mechanical system which is powered by pressurized liquid transceiver: a portable transmitter and receiver in one unit
Maritime Traffic safety Law: a set of rules for navigating specified traffic routes in Japan as described…: as specified, as stated, as written in…
21. Getting to Know the Ship – The Engine Room
1/eng: Here’s your new workplace, The Persian Adventure’s Engine Room.
Santos: Oh, the engine is huge! The room is bigger, brighter, and quieter than I thought.
1/eng: It isn’t very noisy at port, but it become quite noisy at sea. So be sure to wear earplugs when you work in here. It is important to keep the lighting equipment well
maintained for safety reasons. Since you are in charge of electricity ,you are also responsible for the safety of the workplace.
Santos: My job seems challenging and I’m excited. By the way, did you change the main Engine fuel oil from heavy fuel oil to diesel oil before entering port?
1/eng: We used to do that, but FO valves have improved recently. We can now use heavy fuel oil even while in port. Remember to always keep the FO pump working.
Santos: Where are the cargo pumps? I don’t see them.
1/eng: For safety reasons, they are in the Pump Room in another section. All lights in the Pump Room are gas tight.
Santos: How do you switch pumps?
1/eng: We use the No. 1 Group when outbound, and the No. 2 Group when inbound. We switch pumps while warming up the engine before we leave port.
Santos: Do the two diesel generators run the same way?
1/eng: The Second Engineer, who is in charge of the diesel generators. Adjusts their operating times according to his work plan.
Santos: Does the maintenance plan apply to the main engine and to all of the important auxiliary machines such as the generators, the air compressors, and the boilers?
1/eng: You got it! Proper maintenance is essential for safe and economical navigation.
1/eng: first engineer
workplace: a place where a person works
earplug(s): a set of plugs inserted in the ear to cut off noise well maintained: well taken care of…
for safety reasons: to enhance safety, to avoid danger challenging: difficult
heavy fuel oil: a grade of fuel oil used to power a vehicle FO valves: fuel oil valve
FO pump: fuel oil pump
gas-tight: equipped with a mechanism for shutting off gas diesel generator(s): a power generator powered by diesel oil economical navigation: sailing at low cost
1/eng: Let me briefly show you the Control Room equipment. This ship is a so-called M0 ship. The main engine can be operated from three places: the Bridge, here in the Control Room, and locally.
Santos: What situations require the main engine to be operated from the Bridge or locally?
1/eng: We usually operate the main engine from the Bridge while at sea. We have to operate locally when the remote-control system breaks down. But special skills are required for that. We check and practice local operation before entering and leaving port. Will you be training soon?
Santos: Yes, but I’m not sure about the schedule.
1/eng: The main engine is a Hitachi B&W 8S80MCE. Its CSO is 18,071 kilowatts at 69.7 RPMs. The diameter of the cylinders is 800 mm, and the piston stroke is 2,592 mm.
Santos: That’s huge! A cylinder is big enough for an adult to work inside it.
1/eng: Exactly. We can go and see a cylinder when we are changing an exhaust valve. Santos: I’ll look forward to that.
1/eng: The main engine and most auxiliary machines are operated and turned on and off here in the Control Room. We can check their condition, too.
Santos: Do you mean that no one needs to stay in the Engine Room?
1/eng: Not exactly. As I said before, we use the M0 system so we don’t need to check it while at sea. All of the Engine Room crewmembers engage in maintenance work. An engineer and an oiler assigned to an M0 watch have to check and maintain the main engine and the equipment in the Engine Room. Whenever the M0 alarm rings, they have to respond to it.
briefly: using just a few words, shortly M0: man in machinery space zero
remote-control system: a way of controlling the operation of equipment from a faraway location practice: to do as a habit
CSO: continuous service output(连续输出功率)
RPM(revolution per minute): a unit indicating the rotating speed of a turning object diameter: the straight line passing through the center of a circle
cylinder: a chamber housing a reciprocating piston piston stroke: a single movement of a piston
exhaust valve: a valve through which exhaust gas or liquid is discharged auxiliary: subsidiary, supplementary, being related to
assigned to … : given the task of doing something
23. Getting to Know the Ship – The Galley
Santos: Is it OK if I put the dirty dishes here? C. stew: Sure. How was your meal?
Santos: It was very tasty. I really liked the juicy steak and the big lobster. How much are your food expenses for us all?
C. stew: They are now 1,500 yen a day per person. This is in accordance with the contract between the shipping companies and the All Japan Seamen’s Union. This budget allows us to buy good food that is supplied in Singapore.
Santos: Do we stop in Singapore?
C. stew: No, we don’t. we get the food from Singapore from a supply boat. It comes on several slings, and unloading it is hard work. Will you help us next time because we need all the arms we can find?
Santos: I will. By the way, may I use the refrigerator in the galley?
C. stew: No problem. You have to write your name on your food, and make sure to keep the refrigerator clean. You may also use the microwave oven.
Santos: I usually have snacks during the night navigation watches, so I brought cup-of-noodle soups along. Can I boil water in the microwave oven?
C. stew: No, you shouldn’t use the microwave for that. You can use the water boiler in the galley. After you finish eating, remember to rinse the container before disposing of it.
expense(s): the amount of money spent
in accordance with … : conforming to … following… budget: a pre-set amount of money one can use
sling(s): looped ropes or straps used for lifting something microwave oven: an oven which use microwaves to cook food
night navigation watch(es): a night duty usu, on the Bridge and Engine Control Room container: a can, bag, or box, etc. which can hold things inside
disposing of … : throwing away, getting rid of
24. Getting to Know the Ship – The Toilet
2/off: Let me show you the toilet.
Cruz: Are there common toilets only in front of the COC?
2/off: No. there are some in front of the workers’ room on the Upper Deck, and others in the crew quarters on C-Deck. The deck crew does the cleaning, but we must also make an effort
to keep them clean.
Cruz: Is the flush water seawater?
2/off: Yes, it is provided by the GS pump in the Engine Room. You must immediately report any problem to the Chief Officer, for example, if the toilet clogs up or if the water doesn’t stop running. That way repairs can be done quickly. We are all responsible for the maintenance of the ship.
Cruz: Yes, sir. What should I do if I flush and water doesn’t come out?
2/off: In that case, you can wash up using tap water by connecting the hose to the fresh water faucet. If that doesn’t work, use the bucket to pour water in the toilet. It usually works that way.
Cruz: I hope it never happens to me.
2/off: This ship is OK. When you are on an old ship, there are many problems with pipes and filters getting clogged, and it makes flushing difficult, it not impossible.
Cruz: I heard that the toilet paper is stored in the Deck Store. When may I take some?
2/off: There are rolls in that locker. When they run out, ask the Assistant Officer for more. You may take some to your cabin, too.
COC: Crude Oil Control
crew quarter(s): living areas spaces for members of the crew make and effort to … : try to do something
flush: to wash away with water as in flush toilet immediately: right away, promptly
clogs up: obstruct the movement of something
faucet: tap, a device for regulating the flow of liquid, such as water impossible: not possible, something that cannot be done
run out: to completely use up and have nothing more left
25. Getting to Know the Ship – The Chamber
C. stew: Here are the goods that you ordered. Please take the ones with your name or rank writhen on them.
Cruz: These are mine. Three cartons of cigarettes and three cases of cola.
Santos: These three cases of juice and the case of cup-of-noodles are mine. Do you always deliver the goods after leaving port?
C. stew: Sure. I usually take orders before entering port, and then I send them by telex to a ship chandler. The ship advances the payments, and then we withdraw what you owe from your salary.
Santos: Can we buy anything?
C. stew: In general, yes. Groceries, cigarettes, and soap are the most common items. You can also buy electrical appliances if you don’t mind paying high prices.
Cruz: I did not order any this time. But next time, can I buy fresh foods such as milk, eggs, or vegetables?
C. stew: Sure. You can make special orders. But we serve such food almost everyday. We keep them in the Chamber, so you can ask the steward to give you some, and you can store them for a few days in the refrigerator.
Santos: Is the Chamber partitioned?
C. stew: Yes, it’s partitioned into four rooms. You have the Lobby, the meat section, the Fish section, and the vegetable section.
goods: products, merchandise deliver: to bring to a destination
ship chandler: a retailed dealer of goods and equipment, especially supplying ships withdraw: to take out (take out money in this case)
owe: money being borrowed from someone groceries: foodstuff, household supplies
electrical appliance(s): a device which is powered by electricity partitioned: divided into different sections
26. Getting to Know the Ship – The Deck Tool Store
A/off: First, here is the Carpenter’s Shop. Tools for the deck are stowed here and in the Deck Tool Store. We keep the small tools, the screw drivers, the wrenches, the Japanese carpenter tools, and the special purpose maintenance tools in this area.
Cruz: Do you repair the pneumatic motor for the accommodation ladder here?
A/off: Yes, we do. The digital gauge used to observe the ullage of the cargo is stowed and overhauled here, too. As you might know, you must return each tool to its original place.
Cruz: The tools are stored very neatly.
A/off: Here’s the Deck Tool Store. Large tools are stowed here, you know, the chipping tools and the hoses. We also have the shock spanners used for loosening or tightening the cargo-valve bolts, claw bars, chain hoists and grease pumps.
Cruz: Do you also have the Paint Store and the Consumable Goods Store?
A/off: Yes. I keep the key to the Consumable Goods Store. You will get working gloves every month. The Paint Store is outside.
Cruz: (Out in the Paint Store) Here it is. There seems to be various kinds of paint.
A/off: Most of it is deck paint called Denatured-tar Epoxy. You mix the base with the hardener. Make sure to clean the brushes after you use them. Rinse them in thinner and then soak them in water. If you don’t do this, the brushes will be ruined, and we’ll have to throw them away.
A/off: Assistant Officer
carpenter’s shop: workshop where carpentry is done Deck tool store: tool storage located on the deck screwdriver(s): a tool used for turning screws
wrench(es): a hand tool with adjustable jaws for gripping things
special purpose maintenance tool(s): tools used to carry out special maintenance(repair) work pneumatic: working with air pressure
ullage: amount of liquid in a cask or barrel or oil tanker overhauled: opened up to clean the inside of something chipping tool(s): a tool used to remove things
claw bar(s): iron bar with a bent and forked end consumable goods: materials that can be used up
working gloves: heavy cotton gloves used for handwork Denatured-tar epoxy: thermosetting resin of a changed quality hardener: a substance used to make other things solid or harden up thinner: a liquid used to dilute paint, etc.(turpentine)
soak: to dip in a liquid such as water
27. Getting to Know the Ship – The Engine Store
2/eng: Here is the Consumable Goods Store. Whenever you take something out, you should write down the date, the name and number of the article, and your name in this notebook. The First Engineer has the key to this room.
Santos: You mean this notebook hanging on the wall? There are so many articles. How can I remember each one?
2/eng: Consumable goods are separated into three departments: the Deck, the Engine, and the purser. The Spare Parts Store is in the Engine Room. Let’s go down there now so I can show you.
Santos: Are the spare parts of all the machines stowed in the Spare Parts Store?
2/eng: Not all, but most of them. For example, the spare parts for the conditioning refrigerator plant or for the provision refrigerator plant are stowed near them, and some parts for the main engine are in the workshop.
Santo: Hmm, supplying seems rather hard work. How do you manage that?
2/eng: To control the supply properly, we must note the date and the number of the part in the spare parts list in the Engine Control Room. We have been thinking of introducing a system to enter all of the data into a computer. It would control the spare parts inventory on the ship or on shore.
purser: officer in charge of money matters spare part(s): extra components
conditioning refrigerator plant: cooling unit to air condition rooms provision refrigerator plant: cooling unit to chill foodstuffs
inventory: a record of things a person (or a ship) has
28. Conversation During a Meal
Santos: I feel better now that we’ve left port.
Cruz: Well, we sure have a lot to learn from now on. Everyone on board is kind and willing to help when we ask them. It’s tough work but well worth doing.
Santos: It sure is . I an really determined to work hard. C. stew: Hi! Have you learned the ways with the ship yet?
Cruz: Yes, thank you for your help. The food’s delicious, and we’ll manage with our new jobs. By the way, where are you from?
number of seamen there has dropped, and there aren’t any more young seamen.
Santos: I’m sorry to hear that. Isn’t Nagasaki the place where the Americans dropped an atomic bomb during World War II?
C. stew: Yes, it is, but that happed long before I was born. Cruz: Tell me more about Nagasaki.
C. stew: The city has an interesting history. During the Tokugawa Era, it was the only port open to foreign trade. Dutch sailors and traders used to come here.
Santos: Oh, I’ve heard about some exotic mansion in the city.
C. stew: That’s the Glover Mansion. Holland Slope is also famous. There is a Dutch-style theme park nearby.
Cruz: I’d love to go there.
willing to …: be ready to do something
well worth doing …: important enough to spend the time and energy delicious: tasty, yummy, good to eat
Nagasaki: a port city located in the western part of Kyushu two decade(s): 20 years
atomic bomb: a bomb with destructive power from the release of nuclear energy World War II: second world war
Tokugawa era: the time of the longest military government in Japan, ruled by Tokugawa shoguns foreign trade: exchanging of goods with a foreign country
Dutch: of or the people of Holland exotic: foreign, strange, and attractive mansion: a large house
Glover mansion: old mansion of the glover family in Nagasaki, known for the beautiful gardens and as a model for the opera Madame Butterfly
Holland slope: a famous tourist spot in Nagasaki
theme park: an amusement park laid out with a special plan
29. Welcome Party
C/off: Everyone, we’re hosting a welcome party for the new members on board. First, I would like to ask Captain Shimoda for a welcome address on behalf of the crew.
Captain: Gentlemen, let me say a few words to welcome you aboard The Persian Adventure. This ship sails between Japan and the Persian Gulf. Loading ports for this voyage are Ras Tanura in Saudi Arabia and Kharg Island in Iran. Our ETA is May 30th. It will take a total of six days to load the cargo in the Persian Gulf, so the arrival date at Kawasaki, the discharging port, will be around June 23rd. we can expect moderate weather throughout the voyage. However, we might have poor visibility due to rain or monsoons in the Indian Ocean. Safe navigation is most important. Also keep yourselves in good health. The steward crew has prepared a wonderful dinner, so have fun and enjoy the party. Thank
you. (applause)
C/off: Thank you very much, Captain. Now, we will ask our Chief Engineer to make a toast. Does everyone have a glass?
C/eng: Gentlemen, welcome to the great and beautiful VLCC, The Persian Adventure! I’m Chief Engineer Sato. First, I’d like to turn your attention to the gorgeous sunset outside. How lucky we are! I would like to make a toast to our health, our families, and to the safe navigation of this ship. Cheers!
All: Cheers! (Applause)
C/off: thank you very much. Enjoy the feast before you: sukiyaki, sashimi, and much more. Later on, we will have karaoke. Everyone is welcome, even the ones who can’t carry a tune!
hosting a welcome party: to hold a party (a merry gathering) address: to speak to, make a formal speech
on behalf of …: on the part of, representing someone else
Persian Gulf: a body of water in the Arabian Sea between the Arabian Peninsula and Iran Ras Tanura in Saudi Arabia: port city of Saudi Arabia in the Persian Gulf
Kharg Island in Iran: islands located off the southwestern coast of Iran in the Persian Gulf ETA: estimated time of arrival
discharging port: a port where the cargo is unloaded moderate weather: mild and favorable weather monsoons: seasonal strong winds and heavy rain
Indian ocean: large body of water stretching from Asia to Australia and A`frica make a toast: raise a glass and drink to honor something
Cheers!: interjection used when making a toast
feast: large specially prepared meal usually to celebrate something can’t carry a tune: be a poor singer, cannot sing well
30. The Gymnasium
Santos: The party last night was great fun. The Chief Officer really poured his heart out when he sang My Way.
Cruz: Yeah, but it’s bad for our health to eat so much. We have to stay in shape and exercise regularly.
2/Off: Hey, did you say you would be exercising?
Cruz: I sure did. We want to sweat it out a bit. What kind of exercise do you do, Second Officer?
2/Off: I always lift weights and do push-ups, and then I run around the deck three times. I’m starting to get flabby. What kind of sports is popular in your country?
Santos: We used to swim, bowl, and box at school. But there are few facilities, so we can’t always enjoy sports. How about in Japan? I know that many sports are very popular there. 2/Off: As far as children are concerned, the most popular sports are baseball, basketball, and
recently, soccer. And there are many schools that specialize in all kinds of sports, from swimming to Japanese fencing. Parents encourage their kids to take part in sports. At traditional festival, we have children’s sumo tournaments at shrines. As for professional sports, sumo is the national sport, but we also enjoy baseball, football, and golf.
Cruz: I have watched Japanese sumo tournaments on TV. Foreign sumo wrestlers seem to be doing well recently.
2/Off: Oh, yes. Some sumo wrestlers come from Hawaii. OK. I will go for a jog now. You should wear good jogging shoes so that you won’t hurt your knees.
poured his heart out: showed his emotion or feeling stay in shape: not to put on weight, to stay slim
exercise regularly: to engage in sport or exercise on a regular basis sweat it out: to exercise until sweat comes out
lift weights: pick up and raise heavy items in an effort to build muscles flabby: loose, lacking force or stamina
few facilities: there are not many facilities
As far as children are concerned… : talking about children specialize in: to become particularly good at
sumo tournaments: a tournament of a traditional sport of Japan go for a jog: go to run lightly
31. The Recreation Room
Santos: Let’s go watch a video.
Cruz: That’s good idea since we can’t watch TV in here. What kind of videos do they have? Santos: There are quite a few American movies and many Japanese movies. But we don’t
understand Japanese.
Cruz: American movies are fun. Let’s watch light, entertaining ones rather than serious movies.
Santos: How about “Back to the future”? It’s about a young boy’s adventure. He travels in time into the past and the future.
Cruz: This one here is pretty good. It’s “Home Alone”. It’s about a little boy who outwits thieves.
2/Eng: Hi. Will you be watching a video? May I join you?
Santos: Sure. Come right in. We were trying to decide what to watch.
2/Eng: There are many good Japanese videos. The best one is “Otoko wa Tsuraiyo”. You can translate that as “Men Have It Hard.”
Cruz: What’s it about?
