Damla Gerzeli
ISTANBUL
Summary
Experienced and highly skilled Ocean-Going Master with a degree in Maritime Transportation and Management Engineering from Istanbul Technical University. Demonstrated expertise in ship operations, condition surveys, and marine safety, with a solid background as a ship surveyor on behalf of P&I Clubs. Proven leadership capabilities through board service at the Turkish Ocean-going Masters' Association (TURKAPDER) and active membership in Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA). Adept at navigating complex regulatory environments and committed to advancing maritime standards. Looking to leverage extensive industry knowledge and leadership experience in challenging maritime operations roles.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Master Mariner
IMZA MARINE DENIZCILIK A.Ş
11.2022 - 10.2024
- TYPE OF VESSELS : OIL& CHEMICAL MR SIZE TANKERS -CARRYING CPP
- Evaluated vessels prior to departure, documented concerns and coordinated timely repairs.
- Monitored weather conditions closely, adjusting course as needed to avoid severe storms or unfavorable sea states that could impact vessel performance or crew safety.
- Maximized cargo capacity utilization by effectively stowing different types of goods according to industry best practices.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for each voyage, mitigating potential hazards and ensuring safe navigation at all times.
- Ensured compliance with international maritime regulations and company policies, maintaining an unblemished safety record.
- Implemented cost-saving measures in ship operations, reducing overall operating expenses while maintaining high-quality service standards.
- Led emergency response efforts during critical situations such as fires or medical emergencies on board, ensuring crew safety and minimal damage to the vessel.
- Enhanced vessel safety by implementing rigorous training programs and conducting regular drills for crew members.
- Coordinated with shore-based support teams to maintain accurate inventories of provisions, spare parts, and equipment for smooth operation during voyages.
- Maintained detailed records of all aspects of ship operations in accordance with regulatory requirements, facilitating audits by external agencies when needed.
- Coordinated timely cargo loading and unloading operations, minimizing port turnaround time and maximizing productivity.
- Operated specialized equipment, including winches, cranes and derricks during ship operations.
- Read output of various gauges or displays and documented information in engineering logs.
- Installed, tested and configured new shipboard equipment for use.
- Worked alongside cargo team to conduct safe loading and unloading operations.
- Inspected and tested vessels while under normal and special operating conditions to identify concerns.
- Met requirements for government-issued certifications, keeping ship in full compliance.
- Supervised operation of ship water and waste systems for crew of 26.
- Supervised operation of ship water and waste systems for crew of 26.
- Troubleshot and resolved mechanical problems with various systems and equipment.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Senior Surveyor/Consultant
C MARINE SURVEY AND CONSULTANCY
11.2021 - 11.2022
- Performing numerous navigational audits as both auditor and auditee
- Have experience about oil/chemical tankers special survey periods , dry-dock periods , shipyard maintenance , cargo tank coating supervising for epoxy and marine line coatings, chrome tanks and lines passivating operation
- Versed about tank cleaning operations on oil /chemical tankers
- Pre-purchase surveys.(especially oil &chemical tankers)
- P&I Condition and H&M surveys
- Handling of Oil/Chemical Cargoes
- Tank cleaning operations in oil /chemical tankers
- SIRE&CDI vettings readiness, PRE-VETTING inspections
- Navigational Audits
- Dangerous Goods, Risk Assessment of Liquefied Cargoes
- Practical experience in navigation, ship handling, cargo handling and ship maintenance
- Draft surveys, Loading and discharging supervision
- Incident investigations
- Investigations including groundings and collisions
- Bunker surveys, on / off hire and condition surveys
- Surveys for cargo consignees and underwriters
- Drydock supervision
Master Mariner
ANKACHART LOJISTIK
06.2021 - 11.2021
- TYPE OF VESSELS : ASPHALT/BITUMEN TANKER
- Evaluated vessels prior to departure, documented concerns and coordinated timely repairs.
- Monitored weather conditions closely, adjusting course as needed to avoid severe storms or unfavorable sea states that could impact vessel performance or crew safety.
- Collaborated with port authorities to expedite clearance procedures, ensuring smooth passage through international waters.
- Conducted comprehensive pre-voyage inspections of the vessel''s seaworthiness and ensured compliance with regulatory requirements before departure from port.
- Oversaw the maintenance of all ship systems, scheduling routine checks and coordinating repairs as necessary to minimize downtime.
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Troubleshot and resolved mechanical problems with various systems and equipment.
- Directed crew members cleaning, maintaining and painting or varnishing various ship areas.
- Supported ship navigation by inspecting, testing and aligning equipment for proper operation.
- Moored vessels to wharfs with proper use of correct lines.
- Kept shipboard firefighting and lifesaving equipment properly maintained for use in emergency situations.
- Installed, tested and configured new shipboard equipment for use.
- Read output of various gauges or displays and documented information in engineering logs.
- Managed onboard personnel, including hiring, training, and evaluating performance to ensure a competent and efficient workforce.
- Coordinated timely cargo loading and unloading operations, minimizing port turnaround time and maximizing productivity.
- Maintained detailed records of all aspects of ship operations in accordance with regulatory requirements, facilitating audits by external agencies when needed.
- Led emergency response efforts during critical situations such as fires or medical emergencies on board, ensuring crew safety and minimal damage to the vessel.
- Implemented cost-saving measures in ship operations, reducing overall operating expenses while maintaining high-quality service standards.
- Developed strong relationships with clients by providing exceptional customer service and prompt communication regarding shipment status updates.
- Completed shipboard or shore patrols based on current needs, orders, or objectives.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Developed and maintained courteous and effective working relationships.
Chief Officer
BOREALIS MARITIME
12.2016 - 03.2021
- TYPE OF VESSELS : OIL& CHEMICAL TANKERS
- Ensured accurate documentation of all navigational activities in accordance with regulatory requirements for safe record-keeping practices.
- Collaborated with shore-based management teams to address vessel performance issues promptly and effectively.
- Supported efforts to maintain vessel certifications by conducting internal audits and preparing for external inspections from regulatory bodies or classification societies.
- Improved onboard safety culture by promoting open communication and encouraging proactive hazard identification.
- Maintained strict compliance with national and international maritime regulations to uphold company reputation.
- Supervised mooring and unmooring operations, ensuring the safe and efficient handling of lines and associated equipment.
- Optimized cargo loading and discharge operations for increased efficiency and reduced turnaround times.
- Coordinated emergency response drills to enhance preparedness for real-life situations such as fire, medical emergencies or abandon ship scenarios.
- Used online catalogs and local merchants to order parts and materials for vessel.
- Docked and undocked vessel using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, lighthouses and buoys to make safe and accurate operational decisions.
- Completed regular vessel inspections to identify deficiencies and coordinate corrective actions.
- Loaded cargo according to ship capacity and appropriate weight load distribution.
- Kept watch aboard vessels to identify changing conditions or potential issues and implement corrective actions.
- Directed ships' speeds using specialized knowledge of local winds, water depths and hazards.
- Addressed guest needs, questions, or concerns to create optimum experience onboard.
- Thoroughly inspected boats before each embarkment to verify maximum reliability.
- Set ships' courses to avoid reefs, outlying shoals or other hazards using lighthouses or buoys.
- Inspected and assessed telecommunication systems and navigational instruments to prepare for and manage safe piloting.
- Towed and maneuvered vessels in harbors and open seas, communicating movements to passing vessels.
- Took responsibility for ship operations in cases of injury or illness.
- Handled lines to moor vessels to wharfs, tie up vessels to other vessels and rig towing lines.
- Managed efficient supply and food replenishment at port stops.
- Enhanced vessel safety by implementing rigorous inspection and maintenance protocols.
- Improved crew morale through team-building activities and open lines of communication between all ranks on board.
- Coordinated with Captain and interior team to develop daily guest activity objectives and weekly itineraries.
Chief Officer / D. Watch Officer /D. Cadet
SENER PETROL DENIZCILIK
01.2010 - 11.2016
- TYPE OF VESSELS : OIL& CHEMICAL - OIL&CHEMICAL&GAS CARRIER TANKERS
- Created detailed reports on ship performance for submission to higher-ranking officers or company representatives as required.
- Assisted in cargo loading and unloading processes, maximizing efficiency and minimizing delays.
- Enhanced ship safety by conducting thorough daily inspections and maintenance tasks.
- Inspected life-saving appliances periodically to ensure proper functioning in case of an emergency situation.
- Maintained excellent communication, coordinating with fellow officers, crew members, and shore-based personnel for smooth operations.
- Led drills on firefighting, life-saving equipment usage, and emergency procedures to maintain crew readiness for crisis situations.
- Managed emergency situations swiftly, mitigating potential risks to crew members and the vessel''s integrity.
- Supported safe navigation through constant vigilance and adherence to international maritime regulations.
- Conducted security rounds on board the vessel regularly to prevent unauthorized access or breaches in safety protocols.
- Conducted regular crew training sessions, promoting a culture of continuous improvement on board the vessel.
- Coordinated with engineers when troubleshooting technical issues affecting navigation systems or propulsion machinery.
- Maintained and enhanced benchmark status with inspecting agencies.
- Kept operations in compliance with applicable local, state and federal safety and environmental regulations.
- Assisted with maintenance of fuel systems and associated components.
- Moored vessels to wharfs with proper use of correct lines.
- Updated logs for onboard equipment and machinery following correct documentation procedures.
- Documented and reported safety-related concerns or incidents.
- Supported ship navigation by inspecting, testing and aligning equipment for proper operation.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Maritime Transportation And Management Engineering
Istanbul Technical University
Istanbul, Turkey07-2011
Skills
- Watchkeeping Procedures
- Bridge Teamwork
- Shipboard Management
- GMDSS Communication
- Port State Control
- Cargo Operations
- Celestial Navigation
- Ship Handling
- ISM Code Compliance
- Marine Surveying
- Maritime Security
- Pollution Prevention
- International Regulations
- Vessel maintenance
- Maritime Safety
- Firefighting procedures
- Pre-purchase surveys (especially oil & chemical tankers)
- P&I Condition and H&M surveys
- Handling of Oil/Chemical Cargoes
- Tank cleaning operations in oil /chemical tankers
- SIRE & CDI vettings readiness, PRE-VETTING inspections
- Navigational Audits
- Dangerous Goods, Risk Assessment of Liquefied Cargoes
- Practical experience in navigation, ship handling, cargo handling and ship maintenance
- Draft surveys, Loading and discharging supervision
- Incident investigations
- Investigations including groundings and collisions
- Bunker surveys, on/off hire and condition surveys
- Surveys for cargo consignees and underwriters
- Drydock supervision
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Leadership skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Decision-Making
- Relationship Building
- Safety Procedures
- Physical Fitness
- Self Motivation
- Analytical Thinking
- Risk Assessment
- Time management abilities
- Stress Management
Jobtitle
OCEAN GOING MASTER (MASTER MARINER) / MARINE INSPECTOR / CONSULTANT
Languages
Turkish
Native language
English
Advanced
C1
Affiliations
- Chamber of Marine Engineers in Turkey
- Turkish Ocean-going Masters Association
- WISTA -Women's International Shipping & Trading Association
Certification
- Bridge Resource Management (BRM) – Accredited training centers.
- Ship Handling Training Course
- Operational use of electronic chart display and Information Systems Training Course
- Liquid chemical Cargo and Ballast Handling Training Course
- Oil Tanker Cargo and Ballast Handling Training Course
- Shipboard Safety Officer Training Course
- Ice Navigation and winterization Training Course
- Ship Security Officer (SSO) – Authorized certification bodies recognized by the flag state.
- Advanced Fire Fighting (AFF) - Various authorized providers.
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System Operator's License (GMDSS-O) - Federal Communications Commission.
- Medical First Aid Provider - Various authorized providers.
- Basic Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations Certificate – International Association of Independent Tanker Owners or similar bodies.
- Basic Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations Certificate – International Association of Independent Tanker Owners or similar bodies.
- Advanced Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations Certificate – International Association of Independent Tanker Owners or similar bodies.
- Certificate in Maritime Cybersecurity Awareness– Maritime cybersecurity organizations or recognized maritime education and training institutes.
- First Aid Certification
- Voyage Planning and Execution Certification– Recognized maritime educational institutions.
Additional Information
I have extensive experience working on vessels registered under Turkish, Panama, and Malta flags, and hold official endorsements from the maritime authorities of both Panama and Malta.
Timeline
Master Mariner
IMZA MARINE DENIZCILIK A.Ş
11.2022 - 10.2024
Senior Surveyor/Consultant
C MARINE SURVEY AND CONSULTANCY
11.2021 - 11.2022
Master Mariner
ANKACHART LOJISTIK
06.2021 - 11.2021
Chief Officer
BOREALIS MARITIME
12.2016 - 03.2021
Chief Officer / D. Watch Officer /D. Cadet
SENER PETROL DENIZCILIK
01.2010 - 11.2016
Bachelor of Science - Maritime Transportation And Management Engineering
Istanbul Technical University