Question 21 TV03 - Towing Vessels - Western Rivers

The Correct Answer is B **Explanation for Option B (Correct Answer):** This scenario is governed by the Inland Rules of Navigation (specifically Rule 34 - Maneuvering and Warning Signals). The illustration describes a crossing situation where Vessel A is proposing a maneuver by sounding one short blast. * **One short blast** signifies: "I intend to leave you on my port side." * When a vessel (Vessel B) hears a maneuvering signal from another vessel (Vessel A) and agrees to the proposed maneuver, Rule 34(a)(i) requires the agreeing vessel to sound the same signal in response immediately. * Therefore, if Vessel B agrees that Vessel A should pass ahead of B's bow, leaving A on B's port side, Vessel B must acknowledge and agree by sounding **one short blast**. **Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **A) three short blasts:** This signal indicates "I am operating astern propulsion" (backing up). It is used to warn others that the vessel is reversing its engine and is not the correct response for agreeing to a crossing passing proposal. * **C) two short blasts:** This signal indicates: "I intend to leave you on my starboard side." If Vessel B sounded this, it would signify a counter-proposal or disagreement regarding the intended passing side, not agreement with Vessel A's proposal (one short blast). * **D) two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts:** This is the required signal under Inland Rules (Rule 34(e)) for vessels operating around a bend or exiting a berth or slip where the view of the channel is obstructed. It is not the signal used for agreeing to a standard crossing maneuver proposal.