Question 38 FCP01 - First Class Pilot

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** The situation described is one of two power-driven vessels meeting on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal courses, which falls under Rule 34(a)(i) of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). According to Rule 34(a)(i): * **One short blast** means: "I am altering my course to starboard." * **Two short blasts** means: **"I am altering my course to port."** * **Three short blasts** means: "I am operating astern propulsion." Therefore, a two-blast whistle signal by either vessel signifies that the vessel is actually altering its course to port. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) "I desire to pass starboard to starboard"**: While altering course to port in a head-on situation often results in a starboard-to-starboard passing, the signal itself specifically indicates the **action being taken** (altering course to port), not merely a desire for a particular passing arrangement. Furthermore, signals expressing desire (like those used in restricted visibility or by fishing vessels) are governed by different rules, and in International waters (COLREGs), two short blasts always mean an alteration of course to port in a meeting or crossing situation. * **C) "I desire to pass port-to-port"**: A port-to-port passing is achieved when the vessel alters course to starboard, which is signaled by **one** short blast, not two. * **D) "I intend to alter course to port"**: Although this phrase captures the purpose of the action, COLREGs Rule 34(a) uses the present tense: "I am altering my course to port." The signal is understood to be given at or immediately prior to the execution of the maneuver, signifying the commitment and initiation of the course change, not just a tentative intention.