RYA Yachtmaster GMDSS & Yachtmaster Oral Exam

Question 1

What does GMDSS stand for and what is its purpose?

Accepted Answer

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System — an internationally agreed framework of radio and satellite systems to alert rescue services and communicate in emergencies

Answer

GMDSS is the internationally agreed system (under SOLAS) using DSC VHF/MF/HF radios, EPIRB, SART, and Navtex to alert rescue services to distress, co-ordinate responses, and broadcast safety information.

Question 2

A SART (Search and Rescue Transponder) is activated when:

Accepted Answer

It receives a 9 GHz radar transmission — it then responds with a series of blips on the searching radar, giving a bearing and range to the casualty

Answer

A SART is a passive device that activates when interrogated by a 9 GHz (X-band) radar. It responds with a distinctive 12-blip display on the radar screen, giving rescuers a clear bearing and range to survivors.

Question 3

Under GMDSS sea area A1, a vessel is within range of a VHF DSC coast station. What sea area A2 adds to this coverage?

Accepted Answer

MF (medium frequency) DSC coverage for vessels up to approximately 400 nm from shore

Answer

GMDSS Sea Areas: A1 = VHF DSC range (~20–50 nm). A2 = MF DSC coverage (~400 nm). A3 = Inmarsat geostationary satellite coverage (most ocean areas, excluding polar). A4 = Remaining polar areas (HF and other).

Question 4

In the Yachtmaster Offshore oral exam, what is a candidate expected to demonstrate regarding emergency procedures?

Accepted Answer

Detailed knowledge of MOB procedures, fire, flooding, Mayday, medical emergencies, and abandon ship — and the ability to lead the crew through them decisively

Answer

The oral exam tests practical readiness to skipper a vessel offshore. Examiners expect candidates to demonstrate that they could lead a crew through any emergency calmly, correctly, and decisively.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the 'precautionary principle' for a Yachtmaster skipper?

Accepted Answer

Make conservative, safety-first decisions — when in doubt about weather, equipment, or crew readiness, do not proceed or seek shelter early

Answer

The Yachtmaster Offshore syllabus and oral exam strongly emphasise conservative decision-making: the skipper has ultimate responsibility for crew safety and must apply the precautionary principle when conditions are marginal.

RYA Yachtmaster Practice Test

RYA Yachtmaster Practice Test

RYA Yachtmaster GMDSS & Yachtmaster Oral Exam