Question 38 ONC04 - Mate of LT 500-1600 GRT

The Correct Answer is A ### Explanation for Option A (Correct) Under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), Rule 34(a)(i) governs maneuvering signals between power-driven vessels. A signal of two short blasts is the prescribed sound signal meaning: **"I am altering my course to port."** This signal must be made when the maneuver is being executed. ### Explanation for Other Options (Incorrect) **B) "I desire to pass starboard to starboard"** While a vessel altering course to port (two blasts) usually facilitates a starboard-to-starboard passing arrangement in a meeting situation, the internationally recognized meaning of the signal itself is strictly the maneuver being executed ("I am altering my course to port"), not a statement of desire for a passing side. **C) "I desire to pass port-to-port"** A port-to-port passing arrangement requires the vessel to alter course to starboard. This maneuver is signaled by one short blast, not two. **D) "I intend to alter course to port"** Although very similar to A, the wording of COLREG Rule 34(a) for International waters states "I am altering my course..." The signal accompanies the maneuver itself. In contrast, U.S. Inland Rules often use the term "intent" and require assent/agreement before the maneuver is executed. Since the prompt specifies "INTERNATIONAL ONLY," the precise wording "I am altering" (A) is the correct interpretation.