Question 44 TV01 - Towing Vessels - Oceans or Near Coastal

The Correct Answer is D **Explanation for Option D (Correct Answer):** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) and the Inland Rules (Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals), a signal of **three short blasts** on the whistle means: "**My engines are going astern**." This signal indicates that the vessel is using its engines to move backward (backing engines), typically to stop or reverse its direction relative to the water. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) Vessel "A" intends to hold course and speed:** A vessel is generally expected to hold course and speed if it is the Stand-on vessel in a crossing situation, but there is no specific whistle signal of three short blasts prescribed to state this intent. Furthermore, maneuvering signals in COLREGs usually indicate a specific action being taken (like turning or backing engines). * **B) Vessel "A" is sounding a signal of doubt:** A signal of doubt or warning (when maneuvering signals are not understood or the danger is imminent) is indicated by **five or more short blasts** (the danger signal), not three short blasts. * **C) Vessel "A" proposes to cross ahead of the other vessel:** In a crossing situation under COLREGs/Inland Rules, one or two short blasts are used to indicate an intention to maneuver (e.g., one short blast means "I intend to alter my course to starboard"). Three short blasts signifies backing engines, which is contrary to proposing to cross ahead at speed.