What does one short blast indicate?

What does one short blast indicate?

• A. I intend to pass you on my starboard (right) side.
• B. I intend to pass you on my port (left) side.
• C. Engines are in reverse.
• D. I require assistance.

Answer: (B)

One short blast is a direct way to tell the other vessel your plan for passing. It means you intend to pass on their port (left) side. This quick, standardized signal helps both vessels coordinate so there’s enough room to cross paths safely. The other common signals are used for different intentions, such as indicating a change of direction or reversing engines, but a single short blast specifically communicates left-side passing.

One short blast is a direct way to tell the other vessel your plan for passing. It means you intend to pass on their port (left) side. This quick, standardized signal helps both vessels coordinate so there’s enough room to cross paths safely. The other common signals are used for different intentions, such as indicating a change of direction or reversing engines, but a single short blast specifically communicates left-side passing.