Under Inland Navigation Rules, what is the meaning of a one short blast signal used when meeting another vessel?

Under Inland Navigation Rules, what is the meaning of a one short blast signal used when meeting another vessel?

• A. I intend to leave you on my port side.
• B. I intend to pass on your starboard side.
• C. I am warning you to slow down.
• D. I am leaving the area.

Answer: (A)

Under Inland Navigation Rules, vessels use simple sound signals to share passing plans when they meet. A single short blast is the signal that the caller intends to leave the other vessel on its port side. In other words, the signaling vessel plans to pass to the left of the other vessel, so the other pilot knows which side to expect the passing to occur on and can adjust course accordingly. The rule is a handy way to coordinate safely in close quarters. If a different signal were used, such as two short blasts, it would indicate a different passing side.

Under Inland Navigation Rules, vessels use simple sound signals to share passing plans when they meet. A single short blast is the signal that the caller intends to leave the other vessel on its port side. In other words, the signaling vessel plans to pass to the left of the other vessel, so the other pilot knows which side to expect the passing to occur on and can adjust course accordingly. The rule is a handy way to coordinate safely in close quarters. If a different signal were used, such as two short blasts, it would indicate a different passing side.