Practice Test Geeks(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test
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Core Nautical Knowledge 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 Core Nautical Knowledge flashcards as text

  1. In IALA buoyage System B (used in the Americas), what color is the starboard-hand buoy when entering from seaward?

    Answer: Red

    In IALA System B, red buoys mark the starboard side when entering from seaward, following the 'red right returning' mnemonic.

  2. What is 'squat' in the context of vessel navigation?

    Answer: The increase in a vessel's draft caused by its forward motion through water

    Squat is the hydrodynamic phenomenon where a moving vessel sinks deeper in the water, increasing its draft, especially pronounced in shallow or restricted waters.

  3. What does the term 'LOA' mean when referring to vessel dimensions?

    Answer: Length Overall

    LOA stands for Length Overall, which is the maximum length of a vessel measured from the foremost to the aftermost point of the hull.

  4. A vessel displaying a black ball forward during daylight hours is indicating what?

    Answer: The vessel is at anchor

    A single black ball displayed forward is the day shape for a vessel at anchor, as required by COLREGS Rule 30.

  5. In VTS, what is a 'mandatory reporting point'?

    Answer: A specific geographic position where vessels must report to VTS

    A mandatory reporting point is a designated geographic position, often marked on charts, where vessels are required to call VTS and report their position and intentions.

  6. What is 'freeboard' on a vessel?

    Answer: The distance from the waterline to the main deck edge

    Freeboard is the distance measured from the waterline to the upper surface of the freeboard deck, indicating how much of the hull is above water.

  7. What signal does a vessel sound when operating in restricted visibility in a fog?

    Answer: One prolonged blast every 2 minutes (power-driven underway making way)

    COLREGS Rule 35 requires a power-driven vessel making way in restricted visibility to sound one prolonged blast at intervals of not more than 2 minutes.