Question 44 UFV02 - Mate - Uninspected Fishing 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) and the Inland Rules, a power-driven vessel using her whistle must sound specific signals to indicate maneuvering actions. A signal of **three short blasts** (• • •) means: **"I am operating astern propulsion"** (I am backing engines). This signal is used when the vessel is moving astern (backward) or intending to back down to stop or change course. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A) Vessel "A" intends to hold course and speed:** There is no standard whistle signal specifically dedicated to stating the intention to hold course and speed. Maintaining course and speed is the duty of the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation (Rule 17), but it is not communicated by three short blasts. (One short blast signifies "I am altering my course to starboard," and two short blasts signify "I am altering my course to port.") * **B) Vessel "A" is sounding a signal of doubt:** A signal of doubt, or the danger signal, consists of **at least five short and rapid blasts** (• • • • •). Three short blasts is a specific maneuvering signal, not the danger signal. * **C) Vessel "A" proposes to cross ahead of the other vessel:** A vessel proposing to alter course to cross ahead would likely sound one short blast ("I am altering my course to starboard") or two short blasts ("I am altering my course to port") depending on the necessary maneuver, but it would not be communicated by three short blasts (which indicates astern propulsion).