Question 37 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is C. ### Explanation for C (Correct Answer) The question specifies "INTERNATIONAL ONLY." In the International Rules (COLREGs), Rule 34(a)(i) governs maneuvering and warning signals. * **One short blast** (approximately one second in duration) means: "I am altering my course to starboard." * **Two short blasts** (approximately one second each, with a short interval) means: **"I am altering my course to port."** * **Three short blasts** means: "I am operating astern propulsion." Therefore, two short blasts definitively indicate the action is currently taking place: "The vessel **is** altering course to port." ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **A) The vessel will alter course to port** This option uses "will," suggesting future intent without immediate action. In the International Rules, the signals described in Rule 34(a) indicate that the maneuver is currently being executed, not just intended for the future. (Note: The **Inland Rules** sometimes treat these signals as intent, but under the specified **International Rules**, they denote execution.) **B) The vessel intends to pass starboard to starboard** While altering course to port is often associated with a starboard-to-starboard passing situation (when two power-driven vessels meet head-on), the signal itself (two short blasts) communicates the specific maneuver being executed (altering course to port), not the desired outcome of the passing arrangement. **D) The vessel intends to alter course to port** Similar to Option A, the use of "intends to" implies future action or intent. Under International Rule 34(a)(i), the two short blasts signal the actual maneuver ("is altering course to port") and not merely the intention to do so.