Nautical Term: CQD

Definition of CQD

Customary Quick Dispatch, also known as CQD, is a nautical term signifying a rapid call for assistance. It’s a customary way for mariners to summon aid from nearby ships in case of emergency.

For instance, in a crowded shipping lane, a merchant vessel’s engine suddenly fails, putting the ship at risk of drifting into the path of oncoming ships. In such a situation, the stricken vessel’s crew would immediately send out a CQD signal, alerting nearby ships of the emergency and seeking their assistance.

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