1 Prior to proceeding to sea, the master shall
ensure that the intended voyage has been planned using the appropriate
nautical charts and nautical publications for the area concerned,
taking into account the guidelines and recommendations developed by
the Organization.footnote
2 The voyage plan shall identify a route which:
-
.1 takes into account any relevant ships' routeing
systems;
-
.2 ensures sufficient sea room for the safe passage
of the ship throughout the voyage;
-
.3 anticipates all known navigational hazards
and adverse weather conditions; and
-
.4 takes into account the marine environmental
protection measures that apply, and avoids as far as possible actions
and activities which could cause damage to the environment.
3 The owner, the charterer, or the company, as
defined in regulation IX/1, operating
the ship or any other person, shall not prevent or restrict the master
of the ship from taking or executing any decision which, in the master's
professional judgement, is necessary for safe navigation and protection
of the marine environment.