Question 44 MODU01 - Offshore Installation Manager

The Correct Answer is D 1. **Explanation for Option D (Correct):** The signal of three short blasts (short blast defined as about one second in duration) sounded by a power-driven vessel is defined by Rule 34(a) of both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules. This specific maneuvering signal means, "I am operating astern propulsion" (backing engines). Therefore, Vessel "A" is informing the other vessel that it is backing its engines. 2. **Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect):** * **A) Vessel "A" intends to hold course and speed:** This intention is typically implied when a vessel is the stand-on vessel, but there is no specific whistle signal for merely holding course and speed. A single short blast means "I am altering my course to starboard," and two short blasts means "I am altering my course to port." Three short blasts specifically indicates astern propulsion, not holding course and speed. * **B) Vessel "A" is sounding a signal of doubt:** A signal of doubt, or the danger signal, consists of at least five short blasts. Three short blasts is a specific maneuvering signal, not the danger signal. * **C) Vessel "A" proposes to cross ahead of the other vessel:** A proposal to cross ahead (a meaning often associated with overtaking situations under Inland Rules, or a proposal in narrow channels) would generally involve a single short blast (if altering course to starboard) or two short blasts (if altering course to port), or specific passing signals (like one prolonged, one short, one prolonged, one short for overtaking under Inland Rules). Three short blasts exclusively means the vessel is backing its engines.