Communication Procedures Flashcards
6 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 6 Communication Procedures flashcards as text
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?
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.
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?
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.
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?
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.
Which of the following elements is typically required in a vessel's Sailing Plan report to a VTS upon getting underway?
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.
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?
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.
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?
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.