While underway in fog, you hear a rapid ringing of a bell ahead. This bell indicates a vessel at what status?

While underway in fog, you hear a rapid ringing of a bell ahead. This bell indicates a vessel at what status?

• A. Underway
• B. At anchor
• C. Not under command
• D. Restricted visibility

Answer: (B)

In restricted visibility, ships use distinctive sound signals to indicate their status, and a bell is the signal for an anchored vessel. Hearing a rapid ringing of a bell ahead means there is a vessel anchored in that direction, not moving under way. Treat it as stationary and take early, clear action to avoid it, such as giving it a wide margin or delaying your approach until its position is well clear. Other statuses have different signal patterns, so the bell signal specifically points to an anchored vessel.

In restricted visibility, ships use distinctive sound signals to indicate their status, and a bell is the signal for an anchored vessel. Hearing a rapid ringing of a bell ahead means there is a vessel anchored in that direction, not moving under way. Treat it as stationary and take early, clear action to avoid it, such as giving it a wide margin or delaying your approach until its position is well clear. Other statuses have different signal patterns, so the bell signal specifically points to an anchored vessel.