VTS Core Nautical Knowledge 5

Question 1

What is the significance of a vessel being 'constrained by her draft' (CBD)?

Accepted Answer

The vessel's ability to maneuver is severely restricted due to available water depth relative to her draft

Answer

A vessel constrained by draft is one whose ability to deviate from her course is severely restricted due to her draft in relation to the available depth of water, giving her special privileges under COLREGS.

Question 2

What is a 'fairway' in the context of VTS and port navigation?

Accepted Answer

The navigable channel or safe passage route for vessels

Answer

A fairway is the navigable part of a waterway, harbor, or channel that is kept clear and maintained for safe vessel passage.

Question 3

What does AIS stand for, and what is its primary function in VTS?

Accepted Answer

Automatic Identification System; transmits vessel identity, position, and voyage data

Answer

AIS is the Automatic Identification System, a transponder-based system that automatically transmits vessel identity, position, course, speed, and other data to VTS and nearby vessels.

Question 4

A vessel's 'displacement' refers to what measurement?

Accepted Answer

The weight of water displaced by the vessel's hull, equal to the vessel's total weight

Answer

Displacement is the weight of water displaced by a floating vessel, which by Archimedes' principle equals the total weight of the vessel.

Question 5

In a VTS context, what action should an operator take upon identifying a potential close-quarters situation between two vessels?

Accepted Answer

Immediately inform both vessels of the situation and provide relevant traffic information

Answer

A VTS operator should promptly inform all relevant vessels of the close-quarters situation, providing traffic information such as positions and courses to help masters make safe decisions.

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test

(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test

VTS Core Nautical Knowledge 5