VTS Communication Procedures & Protocols 3

Question 1

What does the proword 'WILCO' mean in maritime radio communications?

Accepted Answer

Will comply with instructions received

Answer

'WILCO' (Will Comply) indicates the operator has received, understood, and will act on the instructions.

Question 2

A VTS operator needs to relay a message to a vessel that cannot hear the originating station. Which proword introduces the relayed message?

Accepted Answer

I RELAY

Answer

The proword 'I RELAY' is used to indicate that the following message is being relayed on behalf of another station.

Question 3

Under IMO guidelines, what minimum information must be included in a VTS Vessel Traffic Report (VTR)?

Accepted Answer

Vessel name, position, course, speed, and destination

Answer

IMO Resolution A.857(20) specifies vessel name, position, course, speed, and destination as the minimum VTR content.

Question 4

What action should a VTS operator take when a vessel fails to acknowledge a mandatory report obligation?

Accepted Answer

Initiate contact attempts on the designated working channel and log all attempts

Answer

The operator should attempt contact on the designated channel and document all attempts before escalating.

Question 5

In GMDSS terminology, what does 'DSC' stand for?

Accepted Answer

Digital Selective Calling

Answer

DSC stands for Digital Selective Calling, a system that allows automated distress and safety calls.

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test