INTERNATIONAL ONLY Two power-driven vessels are crossing within one half mile of each other as shown in illustration D042RR below. Vessel "A" sounds one short blast of the whistle. What does this signal mean?
• Rule 34 – Maneuvering and Warning Signals (International): What does ONE short blast officially mean under the International Rules? • Difference between International and Inland sound signals in crossing situations – are they ‘intentions’ or ‘actions’? • This is a crossing situation (Rule 15), not an overtaking or meeting head‑on situation – how does that affect what the whistle can mean?
• First, decide which vessel is the give-way vessel and which is the stand-on vessel from the diagram. How does that influence who is likely to maneuver? • Ask yourself: Under the International Rules, when Vessel A gives ONE short blast, is it announcing a passing ARRANGEMENT (how we’ll pass each other), or is it announcing a COURSE CHANGE it is actually making? • Look at each answer choice and compare the exact wording to Rule 34 International. Do any of the phrases match the rule’s official wording for one short blast?
• Verify in Rule 34 (International) the exact phrase associated with ONE short blast. • Confirm whether ‘overtaking’ signals (intent to overtake on port or starboard side) use one short blast, two short blasts, or a different pattern under the International Rules. • Make sure the chosen option matches both: (1) a crossing situation, and (2) what the sound means International only, not Inland.
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