Question 463 Rules of the Road

The correct answer is C) The vessel is altering course to starboard. According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), Rule 34(a), a single short blast indicates that the vessel is altering its course to starboard. This signal is used to communicate the vessel's intended action to other vessels in the vicinity, allowing them to anticipate the change in course and take appropriate action to avoid a collision. The other options are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the meaning of a single short blast. Option A and B refer to passing maneuvers, which are signaled differently under the COLREGS. Option D suggests the vessel intends to alter course, but the single short blast indicates the action is already being taken, rather than an intention.