Question 50 AB01 - Able Seafarer

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (One prolonged blast):** Option A, "One prolonged blast," is correct because this is the specific sound signal mandated by both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the U.S. Inland Rules (Rule 34(e)). This rule dictates that a vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or waterway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction is required to sound one prolonged blast. This signal serves as a warning to any approaching vessel that is not yet in sight. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **B) Two short blasts:** This signal indicates a maneuver (such as "I intend to leave you on my port side" in Inland waters, or "I am altering my course to port" in International waters) or an intent to overtake. It is not the prescribed signal for approaching a blind bend. * **C) One short blast:** This signal indicates a maneuver ("I intend to leave you on my starboard side" in Inland waters, or "I am altering my course to starboard" in International waters). It is used for changes in course or intention during close-quarters maneuvering, not as a general warning for approaching a blind obstruction. * **D) One long blast:** While "long" and "prolonged" are often used interchangeably in general discussion, the precise term defined by the Rules (Rule 32) is "prolonged blast" (meaning a blast of from four to six seconds duration). More importantly, using "one long blast" outside of the definition in the context of maneuvering signals could be confusing, but the term "prolonged" is the standard used in Rule 34(e) for the blind bend warning. If an exam offers "prolonged," it is the most accurate and precise answer dictated by the COLREGs/Inland Rules.