Practice Test Geeks(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test
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Communication Procedures Flashcards

7 cards from real VTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Communication Procedures flashcards as text

  1. Which SMCP phrase should a VTS operator use to instruct a vessel to reduce speed immediately?

    Answer: 'Decrease your speed immediately'

    IMO SMCP includes the standardized instruction 'Decrease your speed immediately' as the correct phrase when ordering an urgent speed reduction.

  2. When two vessels are in communication with VTS simultaneously and their messages overlap causing interference, what should the VTS operator do?

    Answer: Instruct both vessels to stand by and call each one individually

    The standard procedure is to ask all stations to stand by and then re-establish contact with each vessel individually to restore orderly communications.

  3. A vessel reports it is 'burdened' in an encounter situation. In VTS communication context, what does this mean?

    Answer: The vessel is the give-way vessel and must maneuver to avoid the other

    A 'burdened' vessel is the older term for the give-way vessel — the one required by the Rules of the Road to maneuver to avoid collision.

  4. What is the purpose of a VTS 'traffic image'?

    Answer: A real-time mental or displayed picture of all vessel traffic within the VTS area

    The traffic image is the VTS operator's comprehensive, continuously updated picture of all vessels and their movements within the area of responsibility.

  5. A vessel requests permission to overtake another vessel in a narrow channel within the VTS zone. What should the VTS operator do first?

    Answer: Check the traffic image for conflicting traffic and consult with the vessel ahead before responding

    The operator must assess the traffic situation and confirm with the vessel to be overtaken before authorizing the maneuver, as consent and safety clearance are required.

  6. What does the abbreviation 'ETA' stand for in VTS position reports, and how should it be reported?

    Answer: Expected Time of Arrival, reported in UTC using a four-digit time group

    ETA means Estimated Time of Arrival and is standardly reported as a four-digit UTC time group (e.g., 1430Z) to avoid time zone confusion.

  7. When a VTS operator issues an instruction versus providing information, what is the key distinction?

    Answer: Instructions require vessel compliance; information is advisory and the master retains discretion

    VTS instructions carry a mandatory compliance obligation under applicable regulations, while information and advice are provided for the master's use in decision-making without removing their authority.