Question 398 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is D) Sound two prolonged followed by two short blasts. This signal is prescribed by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), Rule 34(c), which states that when a vessel intends to overtake another vessel in a narrow channel, the overtaking vessel shall indicate its intention by sounding the appropriate signal of two prolonged blasts followed by two short blasts. This signal informs the overtaken vessel that you intend to pass on their port side, allowing them to take the necessary action to facilitate a safe passing. The other options are incorrect because A) and B) do not provide the full, prescribed signal, while C) does not require any signal, which would be in violation of the COLREGS.