Question 14 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is C. ### Why Option C (3 short blasts) is correct The scenario describes a power-driven vessel operating *Inland* (as specified by the question) that is backing out of a berth with another vessel in sight (i.e., operating in sight of another vessel). The rules governing maneuvering and warning signals are found in **33 CFR Subchapter E - Inland Navigational Rules (The Inland Rules)**. According to **Rule 34(a)(i)** of the Inland Rules, when power-driven vessels are in sight of one another and meeting, crossing, or **overtaking**, they must use the maneuvering signals (one short blast for "I intend to leave you on my port side," two short blasts for "I intend to leave you on my starboard side"). However, the action described—**backing out of a berth**—is a specific maneuver that involves moving astern. **Rule 34(c)** specifies the signal for vessels operating astern: > "When a power-driven vessel is **operating astern**, except when a part of a maneuvering signal, the vessel shall sound **three short blasts**." The vessel is using its engines to back out of the berth (operating astern). This signal (three short blasts) must be given **in addition** to the required preliminary warning signal of **one prolonged blast** when leaving a dock or berth (Rule 34(g)). Therefore, the signal for operating astern (3 short blasts) is the additional signal required. ### Why the other options are incorrect **A) 1 blast:** One short blast signifies "I intend to leave you on my port side" (Inland Rule 34(a)(i)) or "I intend to pass you on my port side" (Inland Rule 34(e)). It is an intention signal for passing maneuvers, not the signal for operating astern. **B) 2 short blasts:** Two short blasts signifies "I intend to leave you on my starboard side" (Inland Rule 34(a)(i)) or "I intend to pass you on my starboard side" (Inland Rule 34(e)). Like option A, it is an intention signal for passing maneuvers, not the signal for operating astern. **D) no additional signal:** Rule 34(c) mandates the use of three short blasts when a vessel is operating astern. Therefore, an additional signal *is* required beyond the mandatory one prolonged blast (Rule 34(g)) given when leaving a dock or berth.