Question 6 FCP01 - First Class Pilot
INTERNATIONAL ONLY You intend to overtake a vessel in a narrow channel on its port side. The vessel to be overtaken has to take action to permit safe passing. How should you signal your intentions?
The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A ("Sound two prolonged followed by two short blasts") is the correct signal according to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 34(e)(i). This rule specifically addresses signaling intent to overtake a power-driven vessel in a narrow channel or fairway when the vessel being overtaken is required to take action to permit safe passing. * The signal of **two prolonged blasts** followed by **two short blasts** means: "I intend to overtake you on your port side." **Why the other options are incorrect:** **B) Sound two prolonged blasts on the whistle:** This signal, two prolonged blasts, is not a recognized maneuvering signal under COLREGs Rule 34. Prolonged blasts are used for warning signals in restricted visibility (Rule 35) or when approaching a bend (Rule 34(e)). It does not convey the specific intent to overtake on the port side. **C) No signal is necessary:** This is incorrect. When maneuvering to overtake in a narrow channel where the vessel being overtaken must take action (Rule 9(e)(i)), COLREGs mandates the use of specific maneuvering signals (Rule 34(e)) to communicate intent and ensure safety and mutual understanding. **D) Sound two short blasts:** This signal means: "I intend to alter my course to port." While it involves a port alteration, it does not explicitly communicate the intent to overtake and specifically requires a *different* signal when overtaking in a narrow channel under Rule 34(e). (Note: If the intent was to overtake on the starboard side, the signal would be two prolonged blasts followed by one short blast.)
Pass Your Coast Guard Licensing Exams!
Study offline, track your progress, and simulate real exams with the Coast Guard Exams app