Question 44 TV02 - Towing Vessels - Great Lakes and Inland

The Correct Answer is D **Why option D ("Vessel "A" is backing engines") is correct:** According to both the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs) Rule 34(a)(iii) (Maneuvering and Warning Signals) and the U.S. Inland Rules equivalent, three short blasts on the whistle means: "My engines are going astern" (or "I am operating astern propulsion"). This signal is used when a vessel is reversing its engine to slow down, stop, or move backward. **Why the other options are incorrect:** * **A) Vessel "A" intends to hold course and speed:** There is no standard whistle signal specifically meaning "I intend to hold course and speed." A vessel that is the Stand-on vessel in a crossing situation (which "A" would be if it were on the other vessel's starboard side) takes no action (or sounds no signal) unless the give-way vessel is not taking proper action. Furthermore, a signal of three short blasts is a maneuvering signal indicating engine movement, specifically astern. * **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 on the whistle (COLREGs Rule 34(d)). Three short blasts is a specific maneuvering signal, not a danger signal. * **C) Vessel "A" proposes to cross ahead of the other vessel:** Under International Rules, a proposal to cross ahead (a meaning of "I intend to overtake on your starboard side" or similar) would involve one short blast (a maneuver to starboard). Under Inland Rules, a maneuver involving crossing ahead often requires a proposal signal of one short blast followed by an agreement signal of one short blast. Three short blasts does not signify an intention to cross ahead.