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Constanta Maritime University

Navigation
II-nd year
2-nd term







CONTENTS



UNIT 1: VHF COMMUNICATION URGENCY & SAFETY

UNIT 2: SEARCH AND RESCUE

UNIT 3: ROUTINE COMMUNICATION

UNIT 4: VTS STANDARD PHRASES
















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UNIT 1


VHF COMMUNICATION: URGENCY & SAFETY



SPEAKING

Describe the images below.
Which image indicates that there is serious danger for vessel and crew?
Which image indicates that there is imminent risk for navigation?








In radiotelephone communications, a call of three repetitions of pan-pan is used to
signify that there is an urgency on board a boat, ship, aircraft, or other vehicle but that, for the
time being at least, there is no immediate danger to anyone's life or to the vessel itself. This is
referred to as a state of urgency. This is distinct from a Mayday call, which means that there is
imminent danger to life or to the continued viability of the vessel itself.

Thus, "pan-pan" informs potential rescuers (including emergency services and other
craft in the area) that a safety problem exists whereas "Mayday" will call upon them to drop
all other activities and immediately initiate a rescue attempt.


Procedure and structure
Example of an Urgency Message on VHF:


3

Announcement and message on VHF by MV Garland GFCC



FORMAT:
Address and Identify:
PAN PAN (3x)
ALL STATIONS (3X)
This is MV ....../call sign (3x)
Spoken Message: - the position of the vessel
- time of transmission (not required)
- nature of danger and relevant data
- any other important information and requirements

TRANSMISSION:

Adress PAN PAN- PAN PAN- PAN PAN
and
ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS
Identify:
This is MV Garland Golf Foxtrot Charlie Charlie
MV Garland Golf Foxtrot Charlie Charlie
MV Garland Golf Foxtrot Charlie Charlie

Spoken Message:
My position five six degrees one eight minutes N/ zero
degrees three seven minutes E.
I am manoeuvring with difficulty. I have problems
with main engine.
I require tug assistance.
Advice: all ships keep clear.
OVER.

Procedure and structure of an Urgency Message (MMSI included)

After the transmission of a DSC Urgency Call switch the transmitter to VHF Channel 16 or
frequency 2182 kHz (if not automatically controlled) and commence the urgency traffic as
follows:

PAN PAN (repeated three times)
ALL STATIONS (repeated three times)
THIS IS
- the 9-digit MMSI of the vessel plus name / call sign or other identification
- the position of the vessel
- the text of the urgency message.


4

PAN PAN PAN PAN, PAN PAN
ALL STATIONS ALL STATIONS ALL STATIONS
THIS IS TWO-ONE-ONE-TWO-THREE-NINE-SIX-EIGHT-ZERO
MOTORVESSEL "BIRTE" CALL SIGN DELTA ALPHA MIKE KILO
POSITION SIX TWO DEGREES ONE ONE DECIMAL EIGHT MINUTES NORTH
ZERO ZERO SEVEN DEGREES FOUR FOUR MINUTES EAST
I HAVE PROBLEMS WITH ENGINES
I REQUIRE TUG ASSISTANCE
OUT




Examples of standard phrases used in Urgency Traffic

An urgency traffic always has to commence with stating the position of the calling vessel if it is
not included in the DSC alert.
Technical failure
1. I am / MV ... not under command.
2. What problems do you have / does MV ... have?
I have / MV ... has problems with engine(s) / steering gear / propeller / ... .
3. I am / MV ...is manoeuvring with difficulty.
4. Keep clear of me / MV ... .
5. Navigate with caution.
6. I require / MV ... requires tug assistance / escort / ... .
7. I try / MV ... tries to proceed without assistance.
8. Stand by on VHF Channel ... / frequency ... .
9. Standing by on VHF Channel ... / frequency ... .

Cargo
1. I have / MV has ... lost dangerous goods of IMO-Class ... in position ... .
2. Containers / barrels / drums / bags / ... with dangerous goods
of IMO-Class ... adrift near position ... .
3. I am / MV ... is spilling
~ dangerous goods of IMO-Class ... in position ...
~ crude oil / ... in position ... .
4. I require / MV requires oil clearance assistance - danger of pollution.
5. I am / MV ... is dangerous source of radiation

Ice damage
1. I have / MV ... has damage above / below waterline.
5

2. What kind of assistance is required?
I require / MV ... requires
~ tug assistance.
~ ice-breaker assistance / escort / ... .
3. I have / MV ... has stability problems due to heavy icing.
4. Can you proceed without assistance?
Yes, I can proceed without assistance.
No, I cannot proceed without assistance.





SAFETY

Safety to be used when the message contains an important navigational and meteorological
warning.

Procedure and structure
Example of a Safety Message on VHF:

Announcement and message on VHF by MV Explorer GBUT

FORMAT:
Address and Identify:

SECURITE (3X)
ALL STATIONS/SHIPS (3X)
This is M.V. ........./call sign (3X)
Spoken Message: - the position of the vessel
- time of transmission according to UTC
- nature of imminent risk for navigation and relevant data
- any other important information and requirements.

TRANSMISSION:

Adress SECURITE SECURITE SECURITE
and ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS, ALL STATIONS
Identify: This is MV Explorer Golf Bravo Uniform Tango
MV Explorer Golf Bravo Uniform Tango
MV Explorer Golf Bravo Uniform Tango

Spoken Message:
My position bearing two five niner degrees from Falls
Light, distance one decimal five miles.
Time: April twenty one three four five hrs. UTC.
Information:
Buoy Foxtrot Lima one in position two five niner
Degrees from Falls Light, distance two miles, missing.
OUT

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Procedure and structure of a Safety Message (MMSI included)

After the transmission of a DSC Safety Call switch the transmitter to VHF Channel 16 or
frequency 2182 kHz (if not automatically controlled) and transmit the safety message as
follows:

SCURIT (repeated three times)
ALL STATIONS (or all ships in a specific geographical area, or to a specific station)
(repeated three times)
THIS IS
- the 9-digit MMSI of the vessel plus name / call sign or other identification
- the text of the safety message.

SCURIT SCURIT SCURIT
ALL SHIPS ALL SHIPS ALL SHIPS IN AREA PETER REEF
THIS IS TWO-ONE-ONE-TWO-THREE-NINE-SIX-EIGHT-ZERO
MOTORVESSEL "BIRTE" CALL SIGN DELTA ALPHA MIKE KILO
DANGEROUS WRECK LOCATED IN POSITION TWO NAUTICAL MILES
SOUTH OF PETER REEF OVER


Examples of standard phrases used in Safety Communications

A. Meteorological and hydrological conditions
I. Winds, storms, tropical storms, sea state

1. What is wind direction and force in your position / in position ... ?
Wind direction ...(cardinal points/half cardinal points), force Beaufort ... in my
position / in position ... .
2. What wind is expected in my position / in position ... ?
The wind in your position / in position ... is expected
~ from direction... (cardinal points/half cardinal points), force
Beaufort ... .
~ to increase / decrease.
~ variable.
3. What is the latest gale / storm warning?
The latest gale / storm warning is as follows:
Gale / storm warning. Winds at ... hours UTC in area ... (met.area) from direction
...(cardinal points/half cardinal points) and force Beaufort ...
backing/veering to ... (cardinal points/half cardinal points).
4. What is the latest tropical storm warning?
The latest tropical storm warning is as follows:
Tropical storm warning at ... hours UTC. Hurricane... (name) / tropical cyclone / tornado /
willy-willy / typhoon ... (name) with central pressure of ... millibars / hectopascals located in
position ... Present movement... (cardinal points/half cardinal points) at ... knots. Winds of ...
knots within radius of ... miles of centre. Seas smooth/moderate/rough/high. Further
information on VHF Channel ... / frequency ... .
7


5. What is the atmospheric pressure in your position / in position ... ?
The atmospheric pressure in my position / in position ... is ...
millibars/hectopascals.
6. What is the barometric change in your position / in position ... ?
The barometric change in my position / in position ...
is ... millibars / hectopascals per hour / within the last ... hours.
The barometer is steady / dropping (rapidly) / rising (rapidly).
7. What maximum winds are expected in the storm area?
Maximum winds of ... knots are expected
~ in the storm area.
~ within a radius of ... kilometres / miles of the centre.
~ in the safe / dangerous semicircle.
8. What is sea state in your position / in position ... ?
The smooth/moderate/rough/high sea - slight/moderate/heavy swell in my position
/ in position ... is ... metres from... (cardinal points/half cardinal
points).

9. Is the sea state expected to change (within the next hours)?
No, the sea state is not expected to change (within the next hours).
Yes, a sea / swell of ... metres from ...(cardinal points/half cardinal points)
is expected (- within the next hours).
10. A tsunami / an abnormal wave is expected by ... hours UTC.

II. Restricted visibility

1. What is visibility in your position / in position ... ?
Visibility in my position / in position is ... metres / nautical miles
Visibility is restricted by mist / fog / snow / dust / rain.
Visibility is increasing / decreasing / variable.
2. Is visibility expected to change in my position / in position ... (within the next
hours)?
No, visibility is not expected to change in your position / in position... (within the
next hours).
Yes, visibility is expected to increase / decrease to ... metres / nautical miles in
your position / in position ... (within the next hours).
Visibility is expected to be variable between ... metres / nautical miles in your
position / in position ... (within the next hours).

III. Ice
1. What is the latest ice information?
Ice warning. Ice / iceberg(s) located in position ... / reported in area around ...
No ice located in position ... / reported in area around ... .
2. What ice situation is expected in my position / area around ... ?
Ice situation is
~ not expected to change in your position / area around ... .
~ expected to improve / deteriorate in your position / area around ... .
Thickness of ice is expected to increase / decrease in your position / area around ... .
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3. Navigation is dangerous in area around ... due to floating ice / pack ice / iceberg(s).
4. Navigation in area around ... is only possible
~ for high-powered vessels of strong construction .
~ with ice-breaker assistance.
5. Area around ... temporarily closed for navigation.
6. Danger of icing in area around ... .

IV. Abnormal tides

1. The present tide is metres above / below datum in position ... .
2. The tide ... is metres above/below prediction.
3. The tide is rising / falling.
4. Wait until high / low water.
5. Abnormally high / low tides are expected in position ... at about ... hours UTC /
within ... hours.
6. Is the depth of water sufficient in position ... ?
Yes, the depth of water is sufficient in position ... .
No, the depth of water is not sufficient in position ... .
The depth of water is ... metres in position ... .
7. My draft ... is metres - can I enter / pass ... (charted name of place)?
Yes, you can enter / pass (charted name of place).
No, you cannot enter / pass (charted name of place) - wait until ... hours
UTC.
8. The charted depth of water is increased / decreased by ... metres due to sea state /
winds.

B. Navigational warnings involving:
Land- or seamarks
Defects
...( charted name of light / buoy) in position ...
~ unlit / unreliable / damaged / destroyed / off station / missing.
Alterations
2 ... ( charted name of lightbuoy / buoy) in position ...
~ (temporarily) changed to ...(full characteristics).
~ (temporarily) removed.
~ (temporarily) discontinued.
New and moved
3. ...( charted name of light / buoy) ...(full characteristics)
~ established in position ... .
~ re-established in position ... .
~ moved ... kilometres / nautical miles in ... (direction) to position ... .

4. (Note: Only for major fog signal stations).
Fog signal ...( charted name of light / buoy) in position ... inoperative.
Drifting objects
Superbuoy / mine / unlit derelict vessel / ... (number) container(s) adrift in vicinity
...(position) at ...(date and time if known).



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Electronic navigational aids

1.GPS/GLONASS Satellite ...(number) unusable from ... (date and time) to ...(date and
time).Cancel one hour after time of restoration.
2. LORAN station ...(name or number of master / secondary) off air from ...(date and
time) to... (date and time). Cancel one hour after time of restoration.
3. RACON/RAMARK/ERICON ... (name of station) in position ... off air from ...(date
and time) to... (date and time). Cancel one hour after time of restoration.

Sea bottom characteristics, wrecks

Use REPORTED when position is unconfirmed, and use LOCATED when position has
been confirmed by survey or other means

1.Uncharted reef / rock / shoal / dangerous wreck / obstruction
reported / located in position ... .
2.Dangerous wreck in position... marked by ... (type)buoy ...(distance in
kilometres/nautical miles ) ...(direction).


COMPREHENSI ON

I. Look at these statements and decide whether Distress, Urgency, or Safety procedures
should be used:

a) 100 miles southwest of Landsend engine broken down.
Require tug assistance. .......................................
b) From Harbourmaster Falmouth yacht Belinda overdue on voyage
c) from Cromer to Falmouth left Cromer 10
th
March report any
sightings to Loyds London. ........................................
d) Diving operations in progress at nine north platform ship movement
within a radius of 500 metres prohibited until further notice. ........................................
e) Ship holed in engine room. Sinking. Requests immediate
assistance. .........................................
f) Gale warning southwest gale force winds imminent in sea
Areas Dover Thames. .........................................
g) 52.30 North 16.20 West fire in number two hold ships in vicinity please stand by. .......

II. For each piece of information in a, b and c, draw up a message:

a) MV Empress requires tug assistance

MV Empress (MMSI-Code 286 172 000 call sign ZAKP-) with reduced manoeuvrability
due to problems with main engine requests tug assistance and advises all vessels to keep
clear. Her position is 59 degr. 25 min. N / 000 degr. 52 min. E.

b) MV Nordic Star reports that a buoy is unlit
MV Nordic Star (MMSI - Code 668 743 000 call sign GBLA), in position bearing 145
10

degrees from Boyle Light, distance 3 miles, time: May 13 at 1340 UTC, reports that there is
no light on Buoy AL -2 in position 140 degrees from Boyle Light, distance 2.5 miles.

c) MV Seaborne reports a pirate attack

MV Seaborne (call sign DKEL MMSI Code 235 786 000) transmits a message on VHF. Her
position is 24 degr. 29 min. N / 042 degr. 18 min. E. Her engine room and bridge are on fire.
The vessel is sinking. Crew are abandoning ship. There are 26 members on board. Four of
them have been injured and two were killed. Two lifeboats have been launched.

III. Transform the following statements into standard phrases:

a) Vessel is unmanoeuvrable due to problems with main engine.
b) Other traffic in the vicinity is asked to keep clear.
c) Vesssel is losing dangerous substance (IMO class 6).
d) There is immediate risk of pollution.
e) We are performing dangerous operation is posn. 69 degr. 29 min. N / 042 degr. 53 min. E.
Traffic is requested to keep distance from us.
Visibility is reduced due to fog.





























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UNIT 2
SEARCH AND RESCUE


Listen to the CD-ROM (IMLP) and write down the conversation between the two
ships.
What is the purpose of SAR organizations?

Describe the images below and try to guess what might have happened.





SAR-organizations have been established in territorial- and high-seas
areas to perform co-ordination and render services in cases of distress. These services are
provided within a Search and Rescue Region (SRR), which is associated with a Rescue-Co-
ordination Centre (RCC). When a SAR operation is started, a SAR Mission Co-ordinator
(SMC) at the Rescue Co-ordination Centre will guide the operation until rescue has been
effected or it has become apparent that further efforts will be hopeless.
The SMC will designate a vessel in the vicinity of the distressed vessel or aircraft that
participates in the search as the On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) until a Search and Rescue Unit
(SAR-vessel) is available at the spot. The OSC must co-ordinate on-scene activities and must
ensure that reliable communications are maintained. Vessels that are able to render
assistance because they are in the vicinity of the distressed unit are "able to comply"
and must transmit a "Received Mayday" as soon as they have received a DSC-
acknowledgement from a coast station.
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SITUATION REPORT (SITREP)

A situation report (SITREP) is transmitted by the Rescue Co-ordination
Centre (RCC) and On-Scene-Co-ordinator (OSC) to all vessels and other stations as soon as
details of the incident or accident have become clear enough to indicate SAR involvement.
A SITREP is transmitted by the OSC to keep the SAR Mission Co-ordinator (SMC)
informed of on-scene mission progress and conditions. A SITREP is also transmitted by n
assisting vessels and helicopters to inform the OSC. The short-form SITREP is used to
provide the earliest notice of an emergency.
Short-form SITREP (earliest notice of emergency) by San Juan Rescue Co-
ordination Centre on Sept. 12 15.20 hrs. Identity of casualty: Dutch ore-carrier Pacific Star -
Papa Kilo Delta Echo of 85,000 GT - owned by Jansen-Shipping Netherlands), on fire in
posn. 21 degr. 0 min. S / 068 degr. 16 min. W. (Search & Rescue-Region Brazil), underway
from Sao Paulo to Cape Town; number of crew: 12. Fire-fighting assistance is required.


- Priority (distress / urgency) Distress
- Date and Time September 12
Time: 1520 hrs UTC
- From RCC San Huan Rescue Coordination Centre

- To All vessels in vicinty of position
21 degr. 0 min S / 068 degr. 16 min W
- SAR SITREP number 1

- Identity of casulaty Pacific Star - PKDE
(name, call sign, Flagstate) Dutch registration
- Position (latitude / Longitude) In position 21 degr 16 min W

- Situation: Message Distress

Date and time September 12 at 1520 hrs UTC
Nature of distress Pacific Star is on fire
- Number of persons at risk 12
- Assistance that is required Fire fighting assistance and SAR
- Co-ordinating Centre San Juan Rescue Coordination Centre.


The full form SITREP transmitted by RCC is used to pass amplifying or updating
information durin a SAR operation. Additional operation must include:
- Detailed description of the vessel
- On scene weather conditions
- Actions already taken
- Search area, as planned by RCC.
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Full-form SITREP transmitted by SAR-vessel "Vendor" to inform the RCC on Sept. 12
1610 hrs. Helicopter- and oil-clearance assistance are required. Fire fighting started - 5
crewmembers from lifeboat taken o/b Vendor; number of injured persons: 3.
ZJRU and BCHH are able to comply. Weather good with NW winds 3 to 4 B. - overcast
with good visibility - Sea State 4 (moderate). Contact with helicopter-station soon; VHF
Ch. 67.

- Priority (distress / urgency) Distress
-From Search and Rescue Unit Vendor
Time: 1520 hrs UTC
- To San Huan Rescue Coordination Centre
- SAR SITREP 2
- Identity and casualty Pacific Star- PKDE Dutch Registration

- Position (Latitude /longitude) 21 degr. 0 min S / 068 degr. 16 min W

- Description of Emergency Pacific Star on fire
- Situation: Message Distress
Date and time September 12 at 1610 hrs UTC
Nature of distress fire
- Number of persons at risk 12
- Assistance that is required Helicopter assistance/ oil clearnace
assistance
- Co-ordinating Centre San Juan Rescue Coordination Centre.
- Description of casualty ore carrier of 85,000 GT, owned by
Jansen-Shipping Netherlands / underway
from Sao Paolo to Cape Town
- On-scene weather Wind NW Beaufort force 3/4b overcast
good visibility
Sea state: code 4 (moderate)
- Initial actions take: Fire fighting started / 5 crewmembers
Taken on board from a life boat
- Search area Brazil SRR
- Coordinating instructions OSC: SRU Vendor / vessels complying:
ZJRU and BCHH / Communication on
channel 67
- Future plans Will establish contact with helicopter
station asap
- Additional information and conclusion Number of injured persons on board: 3.










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COMPREHENSI ON

I. Choose one suitable word:
Small or.............(1) massive/ enormous/ great fires, flooding that will cause such a(n)
...........(2) inclination/ bending/ list that the vessel will capsize and be wrecked, collisions,
groundings, acts of piracy, persons overboard, .................(3) inquiries/ injuries/infirmities and
casualties, major environmental pollutions, minor damages or damages beyond repair any
................(4) occurrence/misfortune/mishap, accident or disaster will inevitably have
consequences for the vessel and cargo, her crew and the environment. These consequences
may range from catastrophic to ......................(5) minimal/minor/minimum.
When there is a total loss of ship and/or cargo, loss of lives, or a ....................(6)
widespread/widened/disseminated and severe environmental damage, we speak of
catastrophic consequences. When there is severe damage to ship and/or cargo, when
seriously...............(7) wounded / injured / hurt persons require hospitalisation, or when there
is severe environmental damage, we speak of major consequences.
When there is significant damage to ship and/or cargo, when injured persons ...............(8)
need/requests/require medical attention, or when there is significant local damage to the
environment, we speak of moderate consequences.



II. Project: Transmit by VHF or in written form the bold assignment:

Role Play:
- Role A: Distressed vessel: Bulgarian Container-carrier Pearl Head VRSE of 85,000 GT-
Owner: Kandinsk-Shipping Varna-Bulgaria, underway from Sao Paulo to Norfolk-
USA., on fire in pos. 36 degr 49 min N/ 075 degr.25 min W. Date: Sept 28
- Role B: RCC Norfolk Radio (Search & Rescue-Region USA)
- Role C: MV Seaborne- IRSL (able to comply)
- Role D: MV Empress- ZAKP (able to comply)
- Role E: Search and Rescue Unit (SRU) Vendor

1- MV Pearl Head transmits a MAYDAY on VHF.
2- RCC Norfolk Radio transmits a eritten message by Inmarsat to indicate to all vessels
in vicinity to report to Pearl Head. Time: Sept. 28 1250 hrs. UTC.
3- Seaborne transmit a Received Mayday on VHF.
4- Empress transmits a received Mayday on VHF.
5- Seaborne transmits a Supplementary Received Mayday
6- Empress transmits a Supplemenatry Received Mayday.
15

7- A NAVTEX message is transmitted to all vessels: Search & rRscue Unit Vendor will
act as On-scene Coordinator and must start SAR operations. SRU-Vendor is aleardy in
Pearl Heads vicinity and proceeds towards her position.
RCC transmits a Silence Fini at 1300 hrs UTC.
8- SRU Vendor Tranmits a written short-form SITREP by Inmarsat to RCC-Norfolk
radio (SAR-Region USA).
9- SRU Vendor has reached Pearl Head and transmits a VHF message to all vessels at
1310 hrs. UTC.
10- Seaborne transmits a VHF message to all vessels at 13.15 hrs UTC.
She reports that she is in distressed position and has taken on board 10 survivors from
one lifeboat. There are 2 persons with injuries and they need hospitalization. She will
assist with fire-fighting operation.
11- Empress tranmits a VHF message to all vessels at 13.20 hrs. UTC.
She reports that she is in distressed position and has taken on board 8 survivors from
one lifeboat. There are 4 persons with injuries.

III. Fill in thre balnks with one suitable word:

1. I will .................cargo to stop listing.
2. MV Christina ..........tug assistance.
3. Keep ..........lookout and report to the Master.
4. They are ............... radar search.
5. What is the result of the search? The result of search is positive. ......vessel in position
018 degr.21 min. N, 23 degr. 12 min. S.
6. I will proceed to pick up the survivors. .............. lifeboats.
7. In smooth water and when sailing straight ahead the ship is usually at ...... keel.
8. .ground is reported in the anchorage.
9. By .. draft is understood the distance from the water line to the highest point of the vessel.
10. Please check the ..........gear before commencing cargo operations.
11. The surface of the cargo is constantly made equal by special pumps in
circumstances.
12. The pilot will . the ship that has requested pilotage.
13. The pilot .is waiting for the incoming vessel.
14. M V Ulysses sail last week.
15. During the voyage they met with ..swell.
16. Sailing in .waters requires avoiding crossing vessels.
17. The ship was deviated from the course by the .currents.
18. The master asked the bosun to ..the chain.
19. The shore ..are prepared to load the ship.
20. Five minutes ago we received a gale .. .
16

UNIT 3
ROUTINE COMMUNICATION
As it was mentioned in UNIT 1, a Routine Message is transmitted to ensure safe
navigation. Routine communication comprises intership communication, exchange of data in
port operations, communication between vessels and VTS-stations, inshore radar stations, pilot
stations, bridges and locks.
A non-GMBSS vessel announces a routine message on the VHF by addressing the receiving
station or ship, after which she identifies herself by giving name and call sign.
This method is called "Address and Identify". The receiving station will then acknowledge the
reception of the announcement by using the same method.
If conditions for establishing contact are unknown or expected to be bad, the
addressing and identification must be done three times.
("Holly Radio - Holly Radio - Holly Radio - this is MV Christina Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel - MV
Christina Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel - MV Christina Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel").
When conditions are good, the best way to establish contact is to address once, and
identify twice ("Halifax Radio, this is this is MV Christina, MV Christina Papa Kilo Alfa
Hotel"). After first contact has been established, addressing and identification is done only
once.
Example of a Routine Message on VHF by NQN-GMDSS WES,

Announcement on VHF by MV Christina PKAH (non- GMDSS vessel) calling Holly
Radio; acknowledgement by Holly Radio

Address Holly Radio - Holly Radio - Holly Radio
and
Identify: This is MV Christina (Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel)
MV Christina (Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel)
MV Christina (Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel)
On VHF-channel one three;
How do you read me? OVER

Address: Christina
Christina
and Christina Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel

Identify: This is Holly Radio
Holly Radio
17

Holly Radio
I read you signal strength four
................................................
OVER


Calling unknown vessel
If a message must be transmitted to a vessel whose name and call sign are unknown, the
address must be made to all vessels, followed by the address to the unknown vessel by
indicating her position.
Announcement of the message is allowed on channel 16.
On GMDSS-vessels the MMSI-code of an unknown vessel can be read from the radar display
with the Automatic Identification System (AIS).
After the announcement has been acknowledged, communication will be continued on a VHF-
channel that is chosen by the receiving station or vessel.
Urgent Message
In case of an urgen message (note: not an Urgency message!) the phrase How do you read
me? Will be left out. Instead, the actual message will follow immediately after identification.
Urgent Routine message on VHF: MV Christina PKAH to unknown vessel in pos. 2 cables
S of Boyle Light to indicate that Christina is at anchor and unknown vessel is on a collision
course. She must alter her course to starboard side.
Address: All vessels, all vessels, all vessels.
and
Identify: This is MV Christina
MV Christina
MV Christina Papa Kilo Alfa Hotel.
Message: Information: iam at anchor in the middle of the fairway.
Warning: you are steering a dangerous course;
Advice: you must alter course to starboard;
Repeat: you must alter course to starboard.
OVER
GMDSS vessels announce a routine message through Digital Selective Calling (DSC).
After the DSC acknowledgement has been received, the conversation will continue on a VHF-
channel that is chosen by the receiving station or vessel.
Procedure and structure.
Example of a Routine Message on VHF by GMDSS VESSEL.
18


Message after DSC-announcement by MV Cathar IRSL and acknowledgement by Holly
Radio. MV cathar wishes to know whether she requires pilotage.
Message
Holly Radio,
This is Cathar India Romeo Sierra Lima.
Question: Must I take a pilot?
OVER
Cathar- India Romeo Sierra Lima,
This is Holly Radio.
Answer: no, pilotage not compulsory.
OUT

The Ship Reporting System
The Standard Marine Alphabet must be used when names or call signs are spelt.
In the IMO Ship Reporting System the letters of the alphabet have been given standard
meanings. Coast Station may request a vessel to give a Maritime Report and a Position Report
(MAREP/POSREP) prior to entering the port.
A MAREP/POSREP will make conversation short and clear.
The first four letters (Alfa / Bravo / Charlie / Delta) are used for the POSREP. "Charlie"
indicates a longitude/latitude-position;
"Delta" indicates a position as a bearing and distance from a fixed point. In VHF-conversation
a Delta- position indication must always be preceded by the word "bearing". Like so:
"My position: bearing zero four rive degrees from Falls Light, distance two decimal / five
miles".
Note that numbers are always pronounced in separate digits (045 = zero four five).
However, in helm orders numbers are as written (15 degrees = fifteen degrees).

SHIP REPORTING SYSTEMS: MAREP/POSREP The meaning of letters of the alphabet

POSREP

Alpha
Bravo
- Vessel's name + Call Sign
- Day of month + time (UTC/Local/Zone)
19


Charlie
Delta

- Position: latitude + longitude
- Position: as a bearing and distance from a fixed point
MAREP

Echo
Foxtrot
Golf
Hotel
India
Juliet

Kilo
Lima
Mike
November
Oscar
Papa
Quebec
Romeo
Sierra
Tango
Uniform
Victor
Whiskey
X-Ray
Yankee
Zulu
- True course
- Speed (in knots)
- Last port of departure
- Time and point of entry info the system
- Destination + ETA
- Deep-sea or local pilot
on board
- Time of exit from the system
- Intended track
- VHF-channels guarded
- Time of next report
- Draft
- Cargo (type and quantity)
- Any deficiencies or limitations
- Any pollutants or dangerous goods o/b
- Weather conditions
- Ship's representative or owner
- Size and type of vessel
- Medical personnel
- Number of persons o/b
- Any other useful information
- Request to relay rep ort to other system
- End of report.




Listening skills: Recording of a coastal radio station (CD ROM, Plucinska 2004).

20

SHIP REPORTING SYSTEMS - EXAMPLES

Example1

SINGAPORE STRAITREP AREA PROCEDURES 001 15-01-00 SIN 1
STRAITREP
Mandatory Ship Reporting System
in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore
Operational area of STRAITREP and
Geographical Position for Submitting Reports

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) adopted the
MANDATORY ship reporting system STRAITREP in 1998.
This system applies to the STRAITS OF MALACCA
and SINGAPORE

Ships of the following categories are required to participate
in the system:

1. vessels of 300 GT and above;
2. vessels of 50 metres or more in length;
3. vessels engaged in towing or pushing with a combined GT of 300 and above, or
with a combined length of 50 metres or more;
4. vessels of any tonnage carrying hazardous cargo, as defined in paragraph 1.4 of
resolution MSC.43(64);
5. all passenger vessels that are fitted with VHF, regardless of length or GT; and
6. any category of vessels less than 50 metres in length or less than 300 GT which
are fitted with VHF and in an emergency uses the appropriate traffic lane or
separation zone in order to avoid immediate danger.


Essential information report required from a participating ship:

IMO SRS items:
ALPHA, CHARLIE, DELTA, ECHO, FOXTROT, PAPA,
QUEBEC, ROMEO.
Note: ALL positions are referred to the WGS 84 datum.

1. The operational area of the STRAITREP covers the Straits of Malacca and Singapore
between longitudes 100 39.9 E and 104 22.9 E as shown in SIN 2 and SIN 3.
The area is divided into nine sectors, each has an assigned VHF channel as shown
below:
Sector 1 VHF Ch 66 (Klang VTS)
Sector 2 VHF Ch 88 (Klang VTS)
Sector 3 VHF Ch 84 (Klang VTS)
Etc.

2. Ships entering the operational area shall report when crossing the limits mentioned in
paragraph 1 or when crossing a line joining Tg. Piai (01 15.50N 103 30.65E) and
Pulau Karimun Kechil (01 09.20N 103 24.25E) or when leaving port or anchorages in
the area or before joining the traffic lane of the TSS.

21

3. Ships entering the operational area shall report when approaching from the South via
Selat Riau, abeam of Karang Galang Lt. (01 09.58N 104 11.37E) or via Selat Durian,
report when Pulau Jangkat Beacon (00 57.89N 103 42.62E) is abeam and when
approaching from the East Johor Strait, abeam of Eastern Buoy (01 17.87N
104 05.89E).

4. A ship approaching from any direction other than those specified above shall on
reaching sector 7, sector 8, or sector 9 as appropriate report by giving the vessels
position in terms of bearing and distance from one of the following reference points:
(i) Palau Iyu Kechil Lt. (01 11.48N 103 21.13E)
(ii) Sultan Shoal Lt. (01 14.38N 103 38.88E)
(iii) Raffles Lt. (01 09.60N 103 44.45E)
(iv) Sakijang Lt. Bn. (01 13.30N 103 51.27E)
(v) Bedok Lt. (01 18.54N 103 55.96E)
(vi) Tg. Stapa Lt. (01 20.57N 104 08.14E)
(vii) Horsburgh Lt. (01 19.81N 104 24.34E)
As an alternative, the position can also be given in latitude and longitude.



Example 2
MGN 128 (M+F) Navigation in the Dover Strait
Introduction
1.) The Dover Strait and its approaches are among the busiest shipping lanes in the world
and pose serious problems for the safety of navigation. The traffic separation scheme, its
associated inshore traffic zones, the Channel Navigation Information Service (CNIS) and
the mandatory reporting system (referred to as CALDOVREP) have been designed to
assist seafarers to navigate these waters in safety. There is therefore a need for careful
navigation in this area in accordance with the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea 1972 (as amended) and for use to be made of the CNIS and the
CALDOVREP scheme. MGN 28 contains guidance on the observance of traffic
separation schemes in general. Details of the CALDOVREP scheme and CNIS are
contained in the Admiralty List of Radio Signals Vol. 6 Part 1 and the Mariners
Routeing Guide for the English Channel and Southern North Sea (BA Chart
No.5500).The International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea are to be found
in Merchant Shipping Notice No. M1642/COLREG 1.
2.) The number of collisions in the Dover Strait and its approaches has declined since the
introduction of the traffic separation scheme and its mandatory application for all ships in
1977. Nevertheless the risk of collision is ever present and heightened if vessels do not
comply with the requirements of the scheme, and Rule 10 in particular.
3.) MANDATORY REPORTING SYSTEM
On 1 July 1999, a mandatory reporting system CALDOVREP was introduced, which
replaced the existing system MAREP/POSREP.
All vessels over 300gt must report as follows:
i) NE-bound traffic to Gris Nez Traffic via VHF Ch 13 when abeam the
22

Bassurelle lightbuoy (5033N;00058E).
ii) SW-bound traffic to Dover Coastguard via VHF Ch 11 not later than crossing a
line drawn from North Foreland Light (5123N;00127E) to the Belgian and
French borders (5105N;00233E).
iii) Vessels which are not under command, anchored in the traffic separation
scheme, restricted in their ability to manoeuvre or with defective navaids are also
required to report.
Inshore Traffic Zones
4.) The French Inshore traffic zone extends from Cap Gris Nez in the north to a line
drawn due west near Le Touquet in the South. The English Inshore Traffic Zone (EITZ)
extends from a line drawn from the western end of the scheme to include Shoreham to a
line drawn due South from South Foreland.
5.) A vessel of less than 20 metres in length, a sailing vessel and vessels engaged in
fishing may, under all circumstances, use the English and the French inshore traffic
zones. With respect to the application of Rule 10(d) to other vessels, it is the view of the
MCA that, where such a vessel commences its voyage from a location beyond one limit
of either zone and proceeds to a location beyond the further limit of that zone, it should
use the appropriate lane. Exceptions to this are when a vessel is calling at a port, pilot
station or destination or sheltered waters within that zone. In all other cases, vessels
should use the appropriate lane of the traffic separation scheme if it is safe to do so,
unless some abnormal circumstances exist in that lane. In this context reduced visibility
in this area is not considered by the MCA as an abnormal circumstance warranting the
use of the zone.

COMPREHENSI ON & VOCABULARY
1. Role Plays: MAREP/POSREP
Role A: RIJEKA RADIO
Role B: SOLITARY SEAGUL, NB6R
On August 6 - Rijeka Radio requests a MAREP/POSREP from a Norwegian tanker Solitary
Seagull NB6R - owned by North Sea Oil and represented by Jadroagent Rijeka, underway
from her last port of call (Dubai) to - Omialj Oil Terminal with 188,300 tons of crude oil.
Her L.O.A. is 235 metres, her beam is 29 metres. She carries 1.55 ton of dangerous substance
of IMO-class 3. Weather is good, with north easterly winds of 5 Beaufort.
There are 21 crewmembers and a sea pilot on board. Her draft fore is 19.3 metres; drat aft is
21.9 metres. The radio operator of the Solitary Seagull transmits a MAREP/POSREP to -
Rijeka Radio on VHF at 12.30 UTC in position 155 degrees 3.5 miles from the Galiola Isle.
Her course is 283 degrees true at a speed of 9 knots. She expects to reach Omialj Port on
March 7th at 16.30 hrs. local time. Deficiencies: Port pilot hoist not operational. The ARPA
23

Radar needs servicing. She requires repairs of her shaft generator. The working VHF
channels guarded are 20 and 24.

Play the conversation with your pair-mate and record it.


ALFA
BRAVO
CHARLY
DELTA
ECHO
FOXTROT
GOLF
HOTEL
INDIA
JULIETT
KILO
LIMA
MIKE
NOVEMBER
OSCAR
PAPA
QUEBEC
ROMEO
SIERRA
TANGO
UNIFORM
VICTOR
WHISKEY
YANKEE
ZULU

After you have made your MAREP/POSREP report read it slowly and aloud and record it.


2. Four sententces in the text below consist of jumbled words or parts. Rewrite these
sentences by putting the words or parts separated by the slash (/) in the right order:

At 1645 hours the Master took over the con of the ship advising the OOW. put steering
ship was on The hand. At the same time the engine speed was reduced from full sea
speed to full ahead on the telegraph setting. End of passage was recorded at 1654 hours
as the ship altered course and steadied onto a heading of 327 degrees, the approach
course to the pilot boarding area south of Hanko No.6 buoy. that the ship / Hanko No.1
beacon abeam / was passing / the OOW / At the same time / advised the pilot station .
The Pilot advised the ship that due to the weather conditions he would board the City of
Sunderland to the north of Gustavsarn Island where the ship could provide the pilot
launch with a good starboard lee. at 1730 hours / that the Superfast Ferry / The Pilot
advised the Master / was to sail from Hanko West Harbour.
At 1700 hours the Chief Officer relieved the OOW who advised him of the current
24

situation with regard to the pilot boarding. con had the master the. The visibility was
reduced to less than a mile in the snow showers. The OOWs last duty was to mark the
course recorder for arrival at Hanko before leaving the bridge.

3. Supply the missing words:

- helm - order - steady - course - turning - ship - steady as she goes - deflection
- watch - steering

Altering the course
If the ship is turning and the Officer of the 1.__________ wants to change to a straight
2.__________ , then he'll say 3.__________ when the ship is heading in the direction he
wants to. So the 4.__________ order "Steady" is used when she is turning. But when the ship
is more or less on a straight course and the Captain just wants to confirm it, he says
5.__________ . The extreme 6.__________ is "Hard-a-port" or "Hard-a-starboard". It means
putting the 7.__________ as fast over as it will go so that the 8.__________ moves to the
angle of maximum 9.__________ effect. There is a rudder indicator that shows the rudder
10.__________.

4. Supply the missing words:

- distress - strait - visibility - tow - towing line - collision - assistance - wreck buoy -
weather - navigational - signal - channel - heading

Situation Report

The motor ship FLIPPER
Fishaven Strait Information Service (F.S.I.S.)

Fishaven Strait Information Service (F.S.I.S.), this is Flipper. How do you read me?
Over.
- Flipper, I read you with 1.__________ strength six. Switch to 2.__________ 12.
Over.
F.S.I.S., this is Flipper. What is the 3.__________ situation in the strait? What is the
state of the 4.__________?
Flipper: Here is the Situation Report:
Part One: While a dry-dock was being towed a 5.__________ parted 6 miles off
Green Point buoy injuring one man. A tug boat is trying to establish 6.__________
Part Two: There are sharp squalls in the Fish Haven 7.__________ .
8.__________ is reduced by fog.
Part Three: There is a vessel in 9.__________ in position 220 degrees on course 080.
While drifting without power she came into contact with an unlit 10.__________ .
There has been a 11.__________ between a Liberian tanker and a Japanese
container vessel in position 225 six miles off Fishaven Point. Stand by to render
12.__________.
What is your heading? Over.
F.S.I.S., I shall stand by to render assistance. My 13.__________ is 030. Over.


25

UNIT 4
VTS STANDARD PHRASES
What is the purpose of VTS?
What is VTS designed for?
What is the purpose of the traffic image?


A vessel traffic service (VTS) is a marine traffic monitoring system
established by harbour or port authorities, similar to air traffic control for aircraft. Typical
VTS systems use radar, closed-circuit television (CCTV), VHF radiotelephony and automatic
identification system to keep track of vessel movements and provide navigational safety in a
limited geographical area.
A service implemented by a competent authority, VTS is designed to improve the
safety and efficiency of navigation, safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine
environment. VTS is governed by SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 12 together with the
Guidelines for Vessel Traffic Services [IMO Resolution A.857(20)] adopted by the
International Maritime Organization on 27 November 1997.
The VTS traffic image is compiled and collected by means of advanced sensors such as radar,
AIS, direction finding, CCTV and VHF or other co-operative systems and services. A modern
VTS integrates all of the information in to a single operator working environment for ease of
use and in order to allow for effective traffic organization and communication.


Operator Working Position from Helsinki, Finland, VTS covering the area from
Emsalo to Inkoo. The image shows a typical state-of-the-art integrated operator working
position. In areas that are covered with VTS there are certain procedures for vessels to follow
such as Area Procedures, Sector Areas, Arrival and Departure Reports, Approach Procedures,
Pilotage Procedures and many more. Each of the above procedures are named with respect to
the area that they serve. For example in Norway, Oslofjord the Area Procedures are called
"OSL1" and "OSL3" and in Netherlands, Rotterdam, Maas Approach and Maas Entrance are
called "RTM2" and "RTM6" respectively.
26

A VTS should always have a comprehensive traffic image, which means that all
factors influencing the traffic as well as information about all participating vessels and their
intentions should be readily available. By means of the traffic image, situations that are
developing can be evaluated and responded upon. The data evaluation depends to a great
extent on the quality of the data that is collected and the ability of the operator to combine this
with an actual or developing situation. The data dissemination process exists of conveying the
conclusions of the operator.

IMO STANDARD MARINE COMMUNICATION PHRASES 2001


III/6.2 - PHRASES FOR PROVI DI NG VTS SERVI CES

6.2.1.1 - Navigational warnings
Unknown object(s) in position ... .
Ice/iceberg(s) in position ... /area around ... .
Unlit derelict vessel adrift in vicinity ... at ... (date and time).
Dangerous wreck/obstruction located in position ... marked by ... (type) buoy.
Hazardous mine adrift in vicinity ... at ... (date and time).
Uncharted reef/rock/shoal reported in position ... .
Pipeline leaking gas/oil in position ... - wide berth requested.
No sufficient depth of water in position ... .
U.N. exclusion zone extending ... kilometres/nautical miles from ...- all vessels keep clear.
Navigation closed in area ... .


6.2.1.2 - Navigational information

Oil slick in position ... .
Current meters/hydrographic instruments moored in position ... wide berth requested.
Platform ... (name/number) reported/established in position ... wide berth requested.
... (charted name of light/buoy) in position ... unlit/unrealiable/damaged/off
position/missing/destroyed.
Fog signal... (charted name of light/buoy) in position ... inoperative.

6.2.1.3 - Traffic information

Gunnery/rocket firing/missile/torpedo/underwater ordnance exercises in area bounded by
... (positions) and ... from ... (date and time) to ... (date and time).
Wide berth requested.
Cable/pipeline operations by ... (vessel) in vicinity ... /along line joining ...
(position) from... (date and time) to... (date and time). Wide berth requested.
Contact via VTS channel ... .
27

Salvage operations in position ... from ... (date and time) to ... (date and time).
Wide berth requested. Contact via VTS channel ... .
Seismic/hydrographic operations by ... (vessel) ...,from ... (date and time) to ... in
position... Wide berth requested. Contact via VHF channel ... .
Oil clearance operations near MT ... in position ... . Wide berth requested.
Transhipment of ... (kind of cargo) in position ... Wide berth requested.
Difficult tow from ... (part of departure) to ... (destination) on ... (date).
Wide berth requested.
Vessel not under command in position ... /area ... .
Hampered vessel in position ... area ... (course ... degrees, speed ... knots).
Vessel in position ... on course ... and speed ... not complying with traffic regulations.
Vessel crossing ... traffic lane or course ... and speed ... in position ... .
Small, fishing boats in area around ... - navigate with caution.
Submarines operating in sea area around ... . Surface vessels in attendance.

6.2.1.4 - Routeing information
Route ... /Traffic Lane ... suspended.
Route ... /Traffic Lane ... discontinued.
Route ... /Traffic Lane ... diverted.


COMPREHENSI ON & VOCABULARY
1. Insert the missing parts of the VHF conversation:
Passing through the Gibraltar Strait

This is an extract from real VHF communications (names and fact have been changed,
however!). Make the necessary changes applying the IMO SMCP pharses and ITU Radio
Regulations rules.
- Italian vessel Moon Fish
- Lloyd's Signal Station at Gibraltar (L.S.S.)

Lloyd Signal Station, this is the Italian container vessel Moon Fish, CCT4. Over.
- Moon Fish, 1 4, Over.
Roger, Sir, 1 - 4.

(............. after a while ............)

Lloyd Signal Station, 1.________ the Italian container vessel Moon Fish. Over.
- Moon Fish. Good morning to you 2.________ Italian flag?
Roger. Italian flag.
- What is your last port of call, Sir, and what is 3.________ ?
My last port of call is Savannah, US. Next port of call Napoli. We sailed from Savannah
28

on 24th November. Over.
- Roger, Sir. Are you loaded or in ballast? Loaded or in ballast, Sir?
Yes, Sir 4. .________ . The cargo is 22,456 metric tons, and 1,843 TEUs on board,
1,843 TEU containers. Over.
- Roger, Sir. And your range and your bearing? Repeat 5.________ from
Europa Point light, please, Sir?
Bearing from our ship to Europa Point light is 008 degrees, and distance eight miles,
eight miles. The course is 072, repeat 072. Over.
- Roger, Sir. Thank you very much, indeed. Thank you for that information,
Sir. Have a pleasant and a quiet voyage to Naples, Italy. Should you
6.________ any further information or assistance while in the Gibraltar
area, Lloyd's Signal Station is listening on channel 1 - 6. Pleasant voyage, Sir.
O.K. Thank you very much, Sir. 7.________ a good watch. Out.


2. Read the story and do the two tasks.

A gang of 13 pirates, armed with knives and swords, attacked your ship off the coast of
southern Nigeria. The pirates retreated after failing to get on board. The ship was empty and
the freeboard was about 12 feet. No injuries or damage to the vessel were reported.
Task 1: Five minutes after, you report to Tiger VTS about the pirates attack. VTS may ask
questions if you do not give enough or relevant details that are needed for compiling a report
to the Coast Guard.
(Actors: Capt. of m/v Dragon and Tiger VTS operator)

Task 2: two weeks later you are in a pub retelling the bloodcurdling
adventures off the Nigerian coast. Although you left the pub on all fours, you do remember
the story. Will you share it?
(You may use the following words and phrases: bare hands, paint balls, bow and arrows,
kung-fu, etc).

3. Fill in the blanks with an appropriate word:

Vessel traffic services - VTS - are shore-side (1) ............ which range from the provision
of simple information messages to ships, such as position of other traffic or meterological
hazard (2) ..........., to extensive management of traffic within a port or waterway.
29

Generally, ships entering a VTS (3) ............ report to the authorities, usually by radio, and
may be (4) ............. by the VTS control centre. Ships must keep (5) ................ on a specific
frequency for navigational or other warnings, while they may be contacted directly by the
VTS (6) ..................... if there is risk of an incident or, in areas where traffic flow is regulated,
to be given advice on when to proceed. SOLAS Chapter V (Safety of Navigation) states that
governments may establish VTS when, in their opinion, the (7) ............... of traffic or the
degree of risk justifies such services.

4. Correct the following VTS standard phrases by supplying the required word:

a) Dangerous mine adrift.
b) Large berth required.
c) Hindered vessel in position 12 degr, 34 min. N / 014 degr. 23 min E.
d) What is your present track?
e) Have you swapped course?
f) You must rise anchor.
g) You are allowed to anchor at 1530 hrs UTC.
h) Large vessel is leaving the fairway- stand clear of the fairway approach
i) Your course is deviating from the radar reference lane.