Question 26 RVR01 - Master of Unlimited Tonnage

The Correct Answer is A. **Explanation of why option A ("You need not sound any whistle signals.") is correct:** The scenario is occurring "INLAND ONLY." The governing regulations for whistle signals related to engine maneuvers (meaning signals indicating intent regarding the movement of your vessel, rather than intent regarding a passing or crossing maneuver) under the U.S. Inland Rules of the Road (33 CFR Subchapter E) are found in Rule 34(a). Rule 34(a) mandates that a vessel "underway and in sight of another vessel" must indicate its intention (such as turning to port, turning to starboard, or putting engines astern) by sounding the appropriate signal *when vessels are meeting, crossing, or overtaking at a distance of less than half a mile.* In this specific question: 1. The distance to the other vessel is **more than 0.5 mile (more than half a mile)**. 2. Inland Rule 34(a) only requires maneuver signals (one, two, or three blasts) when the vessels are within half a mile of each other. 3. Since the vessels are further apart than the regulatory distance for mandatory signaling of intent/maneuver, you are **not required** to sound any whistle signals, even though you are changing your engine speed/direction. **Explanation of why the other options are incorrect:** * **B) You must sound whistle signals only if the vessels are meeting.** – This is incorrect because, while meeting situations typically require signals, the mandatory use of maneuver signals (under Inland Rule 34(a)) is tied to the **distance** (less than 0.5 mile), not just the type of encounter. Since the distance is greater than 0.5 mile, signals are not mandatory even if the vessels are meeting. * **C) You must sound one blast if backing to starboard.** – This is incorrect. A backing maneuver (engines full speed astern) requires three short blasts, not one. Furthermore, this signal would only be mandatory if the vessel were within 0.5 mile of the other vessel (which it is not). One short blast signals intent to pass on the port side or, if turning, turning to starboard. * **D) You must sound three short blasts on the whistle.** – This is incorrect. Three short blasts are the correct signal for "I am operating astern propulsion." However, because the vessels are **more than 0.5 mile away**, this signal is not mandatory under Inland Rules.