Communication is an essential part of human interaction. The benefits of effective communication are
many and obvious as they enhance all aspects of our personal and professional lives. Ineffective or
misunderstood communications in our personal lives may give rise to problems or embarrassment but
in our professional lives the results of misunderstandings may have much more serious results. In the
world of international shipping, with seafarers from many countries sailing on ships trading to all parts
of the world, effective communication between those on board and between ship and shore is vitally