🔍 Key Concepts

• Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals in the Navigation Rules • The difference between maneuvering signals (1, 2, 3 blasts) and warning/doubt signals (5 or more short blasts) • When a vessel is unsure of another vessel’s intentions or actions in a meeting, crossing, or overtaking situation

💭 Think About

• Ask yourself: Is this signal used to change who is stand-on or give-way, or is it about communication of uncertainty? • Think about what signals are used for turning (port/starboard) versus signals used when you do NOT understand or do NOT agree with another vessel’s actions. • Consider: Does any sound signal by itself legally force you to slow or stop, or does it mainly convey information that may lead you to take action?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify in Rule 34 that 1, 2, and 3 short blasts are for maneuvering (I am altering course, etc.), and see what 5 or more short blasts are specifically defined as. • Confirm whether the rules ever say that this signal changes responsibilities between vessels (stand-on vs give-way). • Check if the rule text says the signal itself requires slowing/stopping, or if that decision comes under separate rules for safe speed and collision avoidance.