Question 38 ONC01 - Master/Chief Mate Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is A. A two-blast whistle signal, according to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 34(a)(ii), is defined as: "Two short blasts to mean 'I am altering my course to port'." This signal communicates a current action being taken by the signaling vessel. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **B) "I desire to pass starboard to starboard":** While a two-blast signal results in a starboard-to-starboard passing in a meeting situation (assuming the other vessel maintains course or alters to starboard), the signal itself does not state a *desire* to pass, but rather states the *action* being taken ("I am altering course to port"). The appropriate signal for intent or desire to pass in restricted visibility (Rule 35) or in narrow channels (Rule 34(c)) uses different wording or blast combinations (e.g., in a narrow channel, two long blasts followed by two short blasts signifies intent to overtake on the port side). * **C) "I desire to pass port-to-port":** A port-to-port passing is achieved when one vessel signals "I am altering my course to starboard," which is communicated by **one** short blast, not two. * **D) "I intend to alter course to port":** COLREGs Rule 34(a) uses the present tense: "I **am** altering course to port." Signals under this rule communicate the action currently being executed, not merely an intention or desire for a future action.