Where candidates go wrong
The most common failure is treating VTS, VTIS and Port Operations Radio Service (PORTS) as interchangeable, and being unable to explain what each service actually obliges you to do as master. A second failure is not knowing where to look up the information before arrival.
The three service types
VTS — Vessel Traffic Service A fully managed service provided in high-traffic or complex ports. Three components may be provided individually or combined:
- Information service — broadcasts of traffic, navigational hazards, weather.
- Traffic organisation service — active sequencing, separation and movement plans.
- Navigational assistance service — radar-assisted guidance in poor visibility.
Participation is compulsory under SOLAS V/12 for ships to which that regulation applies. As master you must report on the required working channel, comply with movement instructions, and make mandatory position reports at designated points or times. Failure to do so is not a radio issue — it is a failure of command.
VTIS — Vessel Traffic Information Service A lesser service: information is provided but the port authority does not organise traffic or issue binding instructions. You receive; you decide. The obligation on the master is to monitor the designated channel and make any required reports, but the routing and timing decisions remain entirely yours.
PORTS — Port Operations Radio Service The basic working service: port operations, berth allocation, pilotage requests. No navigational management is implied.
Distinguishing your obligations
| Service | Port authority instructs? | Master's primary obligation |
|---|---|---|
| VTS | Yes | Comply with movement instructions; mandatory reports |
| VTIS | No | Monitor; make required reports; self-regulate |
| PORTS | No | Working communication only |
At command level you must know before entering port which regime applies and on which channel, so that your passage plan and watch handover briefings reflect the correct obligations.
ALRS — Admiralty List of Radio Signals
ALRS Volume 6 (in two parts) is the primary reference for VTS and port radio information worldwide. It lists:
- Which service category applies to each port.
- Mandatory reporting points and the information required.
- Working channels and watch requirements.
- Operating hours.
Digital versions are updated via Admiralty Digital Publications or NP286 SD cards. When planning a port entry you cross-reference ALRS with the port's own NOTAMs/Port Information and any relevant Notices to Mariners. ALRS data should be regarded as baseline; always check for local supplements.
Command-level obligation
Under SOLAS V/12 the master is responsible for compliance with VTS requirements. This cannot be delegated without the watchkeeper understanding exactly what reports are due, at what waypoints, and in what format. A pre-entry briefing covering VTS obligations, reporting waypoints and the consequences of non-compliance is the mark of a competent master.