SVOP Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield SVOP facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What does a green can-shaped buoy indicate when navigating a channel? → Port (left) side of the channel when returning from sea
2. What does the term "bearing" refer to in marine navigation? → The direction to a point relative to the vessel’s position
3. What is the purpose of a spring line when berthing? → To prevent the vessel from moving forward or backward along the dock
4. At what sea state would a small commercial vessel typically consider seeking shelter? → Wave heights exceeding 2 metres (Sea State 5) for a vessel under 12 metres
5. A marine forecast for your area mentions 'advection fog'. Which of the following conditions is most likely to cause this type of fog? → Warm, moist air moving over a colder sea surface.
6. When leaving a berth with the wind blowing the vessel onto the dock, what is the best technique for a single-screw vessel? → Use an after spring line and engine ahead to pivot the bow out, then go astern
7. Which of the following is the most effective way to avoid collisions on the water? → Keeping a proper lookout and maintaining a safe speed
8. Which term refers to the theoretical point above the center of buoyancy through which the force of buoyancy acts when the vessel is heeled? → Metacenter (M)
9. What is the best action to take if you see a man overboard? → Shout “Man overboard!” and keep the person in sight
10. When operating in a narrow channel, which side should you keep to? → Starboard side
11. What is the range limitation of a VHF marine radio operating at 25 watts? → Approximately 20 to 60 miles depending on antenna height above sea level
12. What is 'leeway' in vessel operation? → The sideways drift of a vessel caused by wind or current acting on the hull
13. When using GPS for navigation, what does the term "waypoint" mean? → A specific location or point along a route
14. What is the primary tool used for marine navigation to plot a course? → Nautical chart
15. Which document is required to legally operate a marine VHF radio in U.S. waters as a U.S. citizen? → No license is required for recreational boaters in U.S. waters
16. When communicating on VHF radio, what technique should you use to indicate you are finished speaking and expect a reply? → Say 'Over' to signal you have finished your transmission and await a response
17. What is an MMSI number used for in marine communications? → It is a unique nine-digit number that identifies a vessel in DSC and AIS transmissions
18. Which VHF channel is the international distress, safety, and calling channel? → Channel 16
19. When must an operator use a kill switch (engine cut-off) lanyard? → Whenever the operator is the only person aboard or when required by the vessel's design
20. On a nautical chart, 'Variation' is the angular difference between: → True North and Magnetic North
21. A vessel is described as being 'trimmed by the stern'. What does this mean? → The draft at the stern is greater than the draft at the bow.
22. What is the correct procedure for using a portable fire extinguisher (PASS technique)? → Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side
23. Under the Collision Regulations, which of the following vessels has the highest priority or 'right-of-way' over all the others listed? → A vessel not under command.
24. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, who holds the ultimate responsibility for the safety of the vessel and all persons on board? → The Master of the vessel.
25. How far in advance should a vessel send a MAYDAY relay if it receives a distress signal but does not hear a Coast Guard response? → Immediately after confirming no response for at least three minutes
26. According to Transport Canada's requirements for small commercial vessels built after March 31, 2005, which standard must be used for assessing their stability? → International Standards Organization (ISO) 12217-1.
27. What is the primary purpose of a pre-departure checklist for small vessel operators? → To ensure all safety equipment is on board and in working order
28. A small vessel has a high Metacentric Height (GM). What handling characteristic is it most likely to exhibit? → A quick, stiff, and potentially violent rolling motion.
29. Which instrument is used to measure the depth of the water beneath the vessel? → Fathometer
30. A 'Strong Wind Warning' is issued by Environment Canada for a marine area. What range of wind speeds should a vessel operator expect? → 20 to 33 knots