Question 37

The Correct Answer is C ### Explanation of Correctness (Option C) **C) The vessel is altering course to port** Under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), specifically Rule 34(a)(i), whistle signals indicate an action *currently being taken* when vessels are in sight of one another. * One short blast (•) means: "I am altering my course to starboard." * **Two short blasts (••) mean: "I am altering my course to port."** * Three short blasts (•••) mean: "I am operating astern propulsion." The use of the present progressive tense ("is altering") confirms that the action is presently occurring. *** ### Explanation of Incorrect Options **A) The vessel will alter course to port** This implies a future action. Under International COLREGs, the signal is given *as* the action is executed, not merely as a notice of a future plan. **B) The vessel intends to pass starboard to starboard** While altering course to port *might* be part of a maneuver to pass starboard to starboard, the signal itself defines the action being taken (altering course to port), not the overall agreed-upon passing arrangement. Furthermore, passing arrangements are often signaled differently or are specific to Inland Rules. **D) The vessel intends to alter course to port** This is the most common point of confusion. Under **US Inland Rules**, the signal (two short blasts) is often used as a proposal or statement of *intent* that requires agreement from the other vessel. However, under **International Rules (COLREGs)**, the signal signifies the *execution* of the action ("I am altering course now"). Since the question specifies "INTERNATIONAL ONLY," the intention (D) is incorrect; the action (C) is correct.