RYA Yachtmaster Pilotage & Harbour Entry 2

Question 1

What is a 'leading line' in pilotage?

Accepted Answer

Two marks or lights kept in line to indicate a safe approach course into a harbour

Answer

A rope used to lead a vessel alongside the quay

Answer

The first course steered after departing a harbour

Answer

A depth contour used as a guide when approaching shallow water

Question 2

When berthing alongside in a tidal river with a strong current, the skipper should ideally approach:

Accepted Answer

Heading into the current for better control and a natural brake

Answer

With the current from astern to increase steerage

Answer

At 90 degrees to the current and use the tide to swing alongside

Answer

Downwind regardless of the current direction

Question 3

In IALA Region A (UK and Europe), when entering a harbour from seaward, a red port-hand buoy should be left:

Accepted Answer

To port (on your left)

Answer

To starboard (on your right)

Answer

On either side depending on the channel width

Answer

As far astern as possible before turning

Question 4

A lighthouse is described as 'Oc' (Occulting) in the light list. What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The light is on for longer than it is off

Answer

The light is off for longer than it is on

Answer

The light produces a single long flash every 10 seconds

Answer

The light changes colour with each flash

Question 5

Approaching a harbour entrance at night, a single white light is seen dead ahead. This could indicate:

Accepted Answer

Any of the above and the source should be verified before proceeding

Answer

A vessel at anchor only

Answer

A safe water (fairway) mark only

Answer

A vessel's stern light only

Question 6

When using a GPS chartplotter as an aid to pilotage in confined waters, the recommended practice is to:

Accepted Answer

Use GPS to support visual pilotage while cross-checking with transits and clearing bearings

Answer

Rely on GPS position alone as it is highly accurate in coastal waters

Answer

Switch off the GPS to avoid distraction and use only visual marks

Answer

Trust the chartplotter display over crew lookouts in poor visibility

Question 7

A harbour pilot book is most valuable because it provides:

Accepted Answer

Detailed local information on hazards, approach marks, tidal gates, and facilities

Answer

Official permission to enter the harbour

Answer

A substitute for up-to-date Admiralty charts

Answer

The exact berthing charges applicable on arrival