VTS VTS Communication Procedures Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A VTS operator needs to convey that a vessel is running into a dangerous, shallow area. According to the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP), which message marker is most appropriate to use at the beginning of this transmission?
- ADVICE
- INFORMATION
- INSTRUCTION
- WARNING (Correct answer)
Correct answer: WARNING
The message marker 'WARNING' is used to inform others about a danger. 'ADVICE' is a recommendation that is not mandatory, 'INFORMATION' is for general navigational or traffic data, and 'INSTRUCTION' is a mandatory order. Since the vessel is heading into a dangerous situation, 'WARNING' is the correct and most urgent marker to use.
Question 2: During a routine communication, a VTS operator asks a vessel, 'What is your present maximum draft?'. The vessel's officer is unsure of the exact figure at that moment. What is the correct SMCP response?
- "No information."
- "Wait, I will check."
- "Stand by" (Correct answer)
- "Question not understood."
Correct answer: "Stand by"
According to the IMO SMCP, when information is not immediately available, the correct response is 'Stand by', which can be followed by a time interval within which the information will be provided. This is a standard, concise phrase that is universally understood.
Question 3: A vessel entering a VTS area fails to make its required initial report. The VTS operator is also unable to establish communication with the vessel on the designated VHF channel. Which of the following should be the VTS operator's immediate next step?
- Assume the vessel is monitoring and transmit instructions in the blind.
- Dispatch a pilot boat to intercept the vessel.
- Attempt to contact the vessel on an alternative frequency, such as VHF Channel 16. (Correct answer)
- Restrict all other traffic in the area until communication is established.
Correct answer: Attempt to contact the vessel on an alternative frequency, such as VHF Channel 16.
In a communication failure scenario, standard procedure is to first attempt contact on other available frequencies, with VHF Channel 16 being the primary global distress, safety, and calling channel. Transmitting in the blind is a subsequent step if other attempts fail. Dispatching a boat or restricting all traffic are more drastic measures to be taken if the situation escalates.
Question 4: Which of the following elements is typically required in a vessel's Sailing Plan report to a VTS upon getting underway?
- Crew member nationalities.
- Last port of call's weather conditions.
- Vessel name, position, destination, and draft. (Correct answer)
- Cargo insurance provider.
Correct answer: Vessel name, position, destination, and draft.
A sailing plan, or initial report, provided to VTS typically includes essential information for traffic management and safety. This includes the vessel's name for identification, its current position, its intended destination within the VTS area, and its draft, which is critical for navigational safety in depth-limited waters.
Question 5: A VTS operator observes two vessels on a converging course and determines a risk of collision exists. The operator communicates, 'ADVICE. Vessel Alpha, alter course to starboard, pass astern of Vessel Bravo.' How must the master of Vessel Alpha interpret this communication?
- As a mandatory order that must be followed without deviation.
- As a suggestion that can be disregarded if the master disagrees.
- As a binding instruction, but only if the master is a VMRS user.
- As a strong recommendation that should be carefully considered, but the master retains ultimate responsibility. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: As a strong recommendation that should be carefully considered, but the master retains ultimate responsibility.
The message marker 'ADVICE' indicates a recommendation from the VTS. While it should be given serious consideration, it is not legally binding like an 'INSTRUCTION'. The master of the vessel always retains the ultimate responsibility for the safe navigation of their ship and may deviate from the advice if they assess it to be unsafe.
Question 6: To ensure clarity and brevity in VHF voice communications, IALA guidelines and the SMCP recommend a specific speaking rate for VTS operators. What is the generally recommended speaking speed?
- As fast as possible to keep the channel clear.
- Approximately 120 words per minute. (Correct answer)
- Between 200 and 220 words per minute.
- The operator should match the speaking speed of the vessel's pilot.
Correct answer: Approximately 120 words per minute.
For clarity, especially when communicating with non-native English speakers, VTS best practices recommend a deliberate and clear speaking rate. A speed of around 120 words per minute is suggested, which is slower than a typical conversational pace, to ensure the message is understood correctly.
VTS VTS Communication Procedures Questions and Answers
A VTS operator needs to convey that a vessel is running into a dangerous, shallow area.
According to the IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases (SMCP), which message marker is most appropriate to use at the beginning of this transmission?