Question 37 GLI02 - Mate of Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is C. **Explanation of Option C (Correct Answer):** Under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS Rule 34(a)(i)), maneuvering signals are signals of **execution** (action underway). * 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, two short blasts indicates that the vessel is currently altering its course toward the port side. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **A) The vessel will alter course to port** and **D) The vessel intends to alter course to port:** These options imply *intent* or *future action*. While intent must logically precede the action, the two-short-blast signal under International COLREGS is defined as the vessel communicating the action that is currently being executed ("I am altering..."), not simply the intent to do so. (Note: These signals *are* used for intent under the U.S. Inland Rules, but the question specifies INTERNATIONAL ONLY.) **B) The vessel intends to pass starboard to starboard:** Passing intentions are generally signaled by whistle signals involving one long and one short blast in Restricted Visibility (Rule 35) or via VHF, or determined by the application of steering rules (Rule 14 or 15). Two short blasts is exclusively defined as a course change execution signal.