Rules of the Road · Maneuvering & Warning Signals
In a narrow channel, the overtaking vessel sounds two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts. What does this signal mean?
- AI intend to pass you on your starboard side
- BI intend to pass you on your port side✓ Correct
- CI am altering course to port
- DI am operating astern propulsion
Explanation
Two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts (Rule 34(c)(ii)) signals the overtaking vessel's intent to pass on the other vessel's port side. Two prolonged + one short = pass on starboard side. This signal is only used where the vessel being overtaken must maneuver to permit safe passing.
Authority: 72 COLREGS Rule 34(c)(ii)
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