Question 38 ONC06 - Master LT 100 GRT

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), signifies "I am altering my course to port." This signal is used by a power-driven vessel when maneuvering in sight of another power-driven vessel. The use of the present tense ("I am altering course") is crucial under International Rules. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) "I desire to pass starboard to starboard"**: While this maneuver would involve both vessels altering course to port, the signal for the intent or desire to pass starboard to starboard is not the primary definition of the two-short-blast signal under COLREGs Rule 34(a). The signal specifically describes the action being taken by the signaling vessel (altering course to port). * **C) "I desire to pass port-to-port"**: The desired port-to-port passing maneuver is achieved by a vessel signaling with one short blast ("I am altering my course to starboard"). Therefore, two blasts is incorrect for this desire. * **D) "I intend to alter course to port"**: Under the International Rules (COLREGs), whistle signals describe the action being taken ("I **am** altering course"). The use of the word "intend" is characteristic of Inland (U.S.) Rules, not the International Rules requested by the question (COLREGs). Since the question specifies "INTERNATIONAL ONLY," the present tense signal ("I am altering course") is the correct interpretation.