RYA Day Skipper Meteorology & Passage Planning — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The Beaufort Scale Force 6 is described as a:
- Strong breeze — 22–27 knots, large waves beginning to form (Correct answer)
- Near gale — 28–33 knots
- Gale — 34–40 knots
- Fresh breeze — 17–21 knots
Correct answer: Strong breeze — 22–27 knots, large waves beginning to form
Force 6 = Strong breeze, 22–27 knots. Sea state shows large waves with extensive white foam crests. Day skippers should be cautious in Force 6, especially offshore.
Question 2: In the UK, a shipping forecast uses the term 'imminent' for a gale warning. This means the gale is expected:
- Within 6 hours (Correct answer)
- Within 12 hours
- Within 24 hours
- Has already started
Correct answer: Within 6 hours
BBC Shipping Forecast timing: 'imminent' = within 6 hours; 'soon' = 6–12 hours; 'later' = more than 12 hours from the time of issue.
Question 3: A rapidly deepening low pressure system (bomb cyclogenesis) is characterised by:
- Central pressure falling by 24 mb or more in 24 hours — very dangerous rapidly worsening conditions (Correct answer)
- Gradual deterioration over several days
- Fog forming ahead of the system
- High pressure building behind it
Correct answer: Central pressure falling by 24 mb or more in 24 hours — very dangerous rapidly worsening conditions
A 'weather bomb' or explosive cyclogenesis is defined as central pressure falling 24 mb or more in 24 hours. It produces very rapid onset of severe conditions with little warning.
Question 4: On a weather map, what does a cold front symbol (triangular teeth) indicate about the wind direction as it passes?
- Wind backs (shifts anti-clockwise) ahead of the front, then veers (shifts clockwise) sharply after passage (Correct answer)
- Wind remains steady throughout front passage
- Wind drops completely during front passage
- Wind becomes southerly behind the front
Correct answer: Wind backs (shifts anti-clockwise) ahead of the front, then veers (shifts clockwise) sharply after passage
As a cold front passes in the northern hemisphere, wind veers sharply (clockwise shift), pressure rises rapidly, temperature drops, and conditions may improve after a brief squall.
Question 5: A skipper is planning a Channel crossing. The forecast shows a 'ridge of high pressure' between two lows. This provides:
- A brief but often favourable weather window of light winds and possible fog (Correct answer)
- Prolonged stable conditions for days
- Severe thunderstorms
- Gale force winds
Correct answer: A brief but often favourable weather window of light winds and possible fog
A ridge provides a temporary improvement — often lighter winds and good visibility — but may be accompanied by sea fog as warm air cools. The window is typically short-lived.
Question 6: When planning a coastal passage, SOLAS V requires all mariners to:
- Use all available weather information and plan the voyage before departure (Correct answer)
- Carry EPIRB on all vessels
- File a float plan with the coastguard
- Have a licensed radio operator
Correct answer: Use all available weather information and plan the voyage before departure
SOLAS Chapter V (Safety of Navigation), applicable to all vessels, requires passage planning including consideration of weather, hazards, and escape routes before departure.
RYA Day Skipper Meteorology & Passage Planning
The Beaufort Scale Force 6 is described as a: