Navigating with Icebreaker Assistance

Any voyage that involves more than one vessel is considered a joint operation. This includes voyages that employ icebreaker assistance. When navigating with the assistance of an icebreaker, there are additional procedures to follow and concerns to take into account.

When a vessel is approaching a convoy that will be led by an icebreaker, radio communication must be established in order to follow the instructions of the icebreaker. When traveling with an icebreaker, that icebreaker is in command of the convoy. This means that the icebreaker determines the following:

• Position of the vessel in the convoy
• Speed of operation
• Distance between ships

It is the responsibility of the ship to establish and maintain communication with the icebreaker, as well as the following:

• Comply with any and all instructions given
• Notify the icebreaker of any difficulties experienced maintaining position, speed, or distance
• Immediately notify the icebreaker of any damage sustained

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