Question 47 GLI08 - Limited OUPV

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct):** Option A states: "If a passing agreement is reached by radiotelephone whistle signals are optional." This statement is true under the Inland Rules of Navigation (33 CFR Subchapter E). Rule 34(h) of the Inland Rules (Maneuvering and Warning Signals) explicitly addresses the use of radiotelephone for passing agreements: > "When vessels are in sight of one another and a passing agreement has been effected between them by radiotelephone, **whistle signals are optional** but may be sounded to indicate the intention of the vessels as agreed to." Since the vessels are meeting on an inland river and are passing within sight and are only 1/4 mile apart, a radiotelephone agreement makes the traditional maneuvering whistle signals optional. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** **B) The vessels should exchange two blast whistle signals and pass port-to-port.** This is incorrect. A two-blast signal indicates a starboard-to-starboard (passing on the other's starboard side) maneuver under the Inland Rules (Rule 34(a)(i)). If they were passing port-to-port, they would exchange one-blast signals. Furthermore, if they pass 1/4 mile apart, they are already safely clear, and whistle signals (while traditionally required if no radio agreement exists) would depend on the specific agreed-upon maneuver, not necessarily a two-blast signal for a port-to-port pass. **C) The vessels should pass port-to-port and must sound whistle signals only if either vessel changes course.** This is incorrect. Under Inland Rule 34(a)(i), when vessels are meeting or crossing within half a mile of each other, they **must** indicate their intention by whistle signals. The whistle signals are mandatory to propose the maneuver (one blast for port-to-port, two blasts for starboard-to-starboard), not just to signal a course change after the maneuver is agreed upon. (This requirement is waived only if a radio agreement is made, as stated in Option A). **D) Whistle signals must be exchanged in all situations when passing within one half mile.** This is incorrect. While Inland Rule 34(a)(i) requires whistle signals when vessels are within half a mile and are meeting or crossing, this requirement is explicitly negated if a passing agreement is reached by radiotelephone (Rule 34(h)), making the signals optional.