SVOP Marine Communications and VHF Radio 3

Question 1

What information should a float plan include when filed with a responsible person ashore?

Accepted Answer

Vessel description, persons aboard, intended route, departure and return times, and emergency contacts

Answer

A float plan should document vessel description, persons aboard, intended route, departure and expected return times, and emergency contact information to assist SAR operations if overdue.

Question 2

What is the range limitation of a VHF marine radio operating at 25 watts?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 20 to 60 miles depending on antenna height above sea level

Answer

VHF radios are line-of-sight communications devices, so range depends heavily on antenna height; typical ranges are 20–60 miles between vessels with elevated antennas.

Question 3

When communicating on VHF radio, what technique should you use to indicate you are finished speaking and expect a reply?

Accepted Answer

Say 'Over' to signal you have finished your transmission and await a response

Answer

'Over' is the correct radio procedure term meaning your transmission is complete and you expect a response from the other party.

Question 4

What is the correct way to spell a difficult word or vessel name over VHF radio?

Accepted Answer

Use the NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie…)

Answer

The NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta…) is the international standard for spelling out words over radio to avoid misunderstanding.

Question 5

Which of the following is the correct format to give your position in a MAYDAY call when no GPS is available?

Accepted Answer

Give a bearing and distance from a known landmark or navigational aid

Answer

Without GPS, mariners should state their position as a bearing and distance from a known charted landmark or navigational aid to help rescuers locate them.

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP - Small Vessel Operator Proficiency Practice Test

SVOP Marine Communications and VHF Radio 3