Question 27

The Correct Answer is A **Explanation for Option A (Correct Answer):** The situation described occurs in a narrow channel under the COLREGS (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) Rule 9, specifically concerning overtaking. The overtaking vessel has signaled their intention to pass on your starboard side by sounding **one prolonged blast followed by one short blast** (Rule 34(c), Inland Waters variation which is one short blast to pass on starboard side). According to Rule 34(c) (Inland Waters application, specifically referencing the maneuvering and warning signals), when the vessel being overtaken agrees to the maneuver signaled by the overtaking vessel, the overtaken vessel must sound the **agreement signal**. In U.S. Inland waters, the signal of agreement is **one short blast**, regardless of the passing direction requested. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **B) two prolonged followed by two short blasts:** This is the general danger or uncertainty signal (Rule 34(d)) and does not signify agreement to an overtaking maneuver. (Inland version is usually 5 short blasts, but this specific sequence is often associated with R. 34(d) on the international side, or crossing/meeting situations in specific areas, but is not the agreement signal). * **C) two prolonged blasts:** This signal (two prolonged blasts) is internationally designated as a visibility signal for a power-driven vessel making way through the water but not underway (Rule 35), or it is sometimes used as a maneuvering signal for meeting/crossing in different contexts, but it is not the agreement signal for an overtaking situation. * **D) one prolonged, one short, one prolonged, and one short blast in that order:** This signal is designated as the signal for a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver when underway (Rule 35(e)) and is used only in restricted visibility, not as an agreement signal in clear weather overtaking situations.