In the bustling waters of Makassar Port, Indonesia, ships often find themselves in tight spots, navigating close quarters that can test even the most seasoned seafarers. A recent study, led by Joe Ronald Kurniawan Bokau from the Division of Navigation Convergence Studies at the National Korea Maritime and Ocean University, has shed light on the stress and workload these situations can induce. Published in the journal ‘Applied Sciences’ (translated from the original Latin), the research offers valuable insights for maritime safety, training, and risk assessment.
Bokau and his team recreated six close-quarter scenarios based on real-world Automatic Identification System (AIS) data from Makassar Port. They then evaluated 24 Indonesian seafarers using heart rate variability (HRV), perceived stress scale (PSS), and the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) workload assessments. The findings revealed that crossing angles, particularly 135° port and starboard encounters, significantly influence physiological stress levels. Interestingly, age was found to be a moderating factor in these stress responses.
While no consistent relationship was found between workload and HRV metrics, the study underscores key human factors that can impair navigational performance under cognitively demanding conditions. “By integrating AIS-derived traffic data with simulation-based human performance monitoring, this study supports the development of intelligent maritime training frameworks and adaptive decision support systems,” Bokau explained.
For the maritime industry, these insights present both challenges and opportunities. As traffic densities at sea continue to rise, so does the need for effective training and decision support systems. The study’s findings can help design more targeted and intelligent training programs, better preparing navigators for high-stress situations. Moreover, the integration of AIS data with simulation technology can enhance situational awareness and risk assessment, contributing to safer maritime operations.
The research also highlights the importance of considering human factors in the design of maritime technologies. As automation increases, understanding how these technologies affect human performance becomes crucial. By doing so, the industry can ensure that technological advancements truly enhance safety and efficiency, rather than introducing new risks.
In essence, this study serves as a reminder that behind every ship’s journey, there are human beings making critical decisions. By better understanding and supporting these individuals, the maritime industry can navigate the challenges of the future more safely and effectively. As Bokau put it, “The research contributes to broader efforts toward enhancing navigational safety and situational awareness amid increasing automation and traffic densities at sea.”