Rules of the Road · Maneuvering & Warning Signals

You are the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation. The give-way vessel appears to be taking no action. You sound five or more short blasts. What are you signaling under Rule 34(d)?

Explanation

Five or more short and rapid blasts is the doubt or danger signal of Rule 34(d). As the stand-on vessel, you use this when in doubt that the give-way vessel is taking sufficient action. The signal can be supplemented by at least five flashes. It does not authorize you to take any particular action — it is a warning, not a maneuver signal.

Authority: 72 COLREGS Rule 34(d)

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