SBF Sea · Sound signals · Question 6
What does the sound signal “two short blasts” mean?
- Correct answer: I am altering my course to port.
- I am altering my course to starboard.
- I am operating astern propulsion.
- I am restricted in my ability to manoeuvre.
In short
Two short blasts announce: I am altering my course to port. Power-driven vessels give this signal when they are in sight of one another and actually manoeuvre.
Signal
In detail
Tap a waypoint to dive deeper.
b
Course to starboardThat is one short blast, not two.
c
Astern propulsionThat is announced by three short blasts.
d
Restricted in ability to manoeuvreThat is not a manoeuvring signal. Vessels restricted in their ability to manoeuvre show this with lights and shapes.
A short blast lasts about one second.
▬
Course to starboardOne short blast.
▬ ▬
Course to portTwo short blasts.
▬ ▬ ▬
Astern propulsionThree short blasts.
5+
Warning signalAt least five short, rapid blasts: doubt whether the other vessel is doing enough to avoid a collision.
Power-driven vessels in sight of one another give manoeuvring signals when they actually manoeuvre. In restricted visibility, other sound signals apply.