PCOC Navigation and Route Planning 3

Question 1

When using a compass to navigate, what is 'variation'?

Accepted Answer

The difference between true north and magnetic north

Answer

Variation is the angular difference between true geographic north and magnetic north at a given location.

Question 2

What does a square red daymark (day beacon) indicate?

Accepted Answer

The starboard side of the channel returning from sea

Answer

Square red daymarks mark the starboard (right) side of the channel when returning from sea under IALA-B.

Question 3

What does the term 'set' describe in current navigation?

Accepted Answer

The direction toward which the current is flowing

Answer

Set is the direction a current is flowing toward, which affects the vessel's actual course over ground.

Question 4

A vessel is approaching a narrow channel. According to navigation rules, what should the operator do?

Accepted Answer

Keep to the starboard (right) side of the channel

Answer

Rule 9 of the Navigation Rules requires vessels in narrow channels to keep to the starboard side when safe and practicable.

Question 5

What is a 'fix' in navigation terms?

Accepted Answer

A confirmed position determined by two or more reference points

Answer

A fix is a navigator's confirmed position determined by taking bearings from two or more known references.

(PCOC) Pleasure Craft Operator Card Practice Test