RYA SRC VHF Channel Usage 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is Channel 77 designated for?
- Inter-ship communications (Correct answer)
- Port operations
- Distress relay
- Coastguard working channel
Correct answer: Inter-ship communications
Channel 77 is designated as an inter-ship working channel, available for vessel-to-vessel communications. It is one of several channels dedicated to ship-to-ship use away from distress and port traffic.
Question 2: Which channel is designated for search and rescue operations coordination?
- Channel 16 is used initially, then coordinating channels as directed by coastguard (Correct answer)
- Channel 70 for all SAR operations
- A dedicated SAR-only channel exists
- Channel 67 only
Correct answer: Channel 16 is used initially, then coordinating channels as directed by coastguard
SAR operations are coordinated initially on Channel 16 and then on channels designated by the coordinating authority (HM Coastguard). There is no single fixed SAR channel — the coastguard will direct communications.
Question 3: What is meant by 'traffic list' in VHF radio operations?
- A list of vessels for which shore stations have messages waiting (Correct answer)
- A list of vessels currently using Channel 16
- A log of all VHF transmissions made
- A list of vessels approaching a port
Correct answer: A list of vessels for which shore stations have messages waiting
A traffic list is broadcast by coast radio stations listing the names of vessels for which they have messages waiting. Vessels hearing their name should contact the coast station to receive their message.
Question 4: What is the VHF frequency range used for marine communications?
- 156 to 174 MHz (Correct answer)
- 108 to 136 MHz
- 27 MHz band
- 300 to 500 kHz
Correct answer: 156 to 174 MHz
Marine VHF communications use the frequency range 156-174 MHz. This band provides reliable short-range communications and is internationally standardised for maritime use.
Question 5: Why are VHF channels numbered rather than referred to by their frequency?
- Channel numbers are easier to communicate and remember than MHz frequencies (Correct answer)
- Frequencies change seasonally
- Channel numbers are required by international law
- Frequency references are classified information
Correct answer: Channel numbers are easier to communicate and remember than MHz frequencies
Channel numbers are used because they are easier to communicate clearly over the radio and simpler to remember than exact MHz frequencies. The international channel numbering system ensures all mariners use the same reference.
Question 6: What is the correct response if you accidentally transmit on Channel 16?
- Briefly announce it was an accidental transmission and clear the channel (Correct answer)
- Ignore it as accidental transmissions are harmless
- Switch off the radio immediately
- Transmit a PAN PAN to explain the situation
Correct answer: Briefly announce it was an accidental transmission and clear the channel
A brief announcement explaining the accidental transmission and immediately clearing the channel is the correct procedure. This prevents other stations from thinking there is an emergency and keeps Channel 16 as clear as possible.
RYA SRC VHF Channel Usage 4
What is Channel 77 designated for?