Which signal pattern indicates a vessel being towed?

Which signal pattern indicates a vessel being towed?

• A. One prolonged followed by two short blasts
• B. One prolonged followed by three short blasts
• C. Two short blasts
• D. Three prolonged blasts

Answer: (B)

In sound signaling, vessels use standardized blast patterns to convey status and actions. A pattern of one prolonged blast followed by three short blasts is the established signal that a vessel is being towed. This combination clearly communicates to others that the vessel is not under its own power and is connected to a towing vessel, so nearby ships know to give extra space and anticipate limited maneuverability. Other patterns exist for different situations, but this particular sequence specifically indicates a tow.

In sound signaling, vessels use standardized blast patterns to convey status and actions. A pattern of one prolonged blast followed by three short blasts is the established signal that a vessel is being towed. This combination clearly communicates to others that the vessel is not under its own power and is connected to a towing vessel, so nearby ships know to give extra space and anticipate limited maneuverability. Other patterns exist for different situations, but this particular sequence specifically indicates a tow.