Question 44 OSV02 - Mate - Offshore Supply Vessels

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) Rule 34(a)(iii) and the U.S. Inland Rules, a power-driven vessel operating in sight of another vessel uses specific short blasts to indicate maneuvering intentions. The signal of **three short blasts** means: "My engines are going astern" (backing up). Therefore, Vessel "A" is informing the other vessel that it is backing engines. **Explanation for Incorrect Options:** * **A) Vessel "A" intends to hold course and speed:** This intention is typically implied when a vessel maintains its status as a stand-on vessel (in applicable crossing/meeting situations) or when no maneuvering signal is sounded, but it is **not** communicated by three short blasts. * **B) Vessel "A" is sounding a signal of doubt:** A signal of doubt, or a danger signal, consists of **at least five short and rapid blasts** (COLREGS Rule 34(d)). Three short blasts is a definite maneuvering signal, not a signal of doubt. * **C) Vessel "A" proposes to cross ahead of the other vessel:** In a crossing situation where one vessel is proposing to take action (a give-way vessel proposing to alter course to starboard to pass port-to-port, if that were the case, or generally indicating course alteration), the signals are typically one short blast (I am altering my course to starboard) or two short blasts (I am altering my course to port). Three short blasts specifically indicates backing up, not moving forward to cross ahead.