Observe and identify
Foundation level, about 2 min. International COLREGs / IRPCS.
The situation
A power-driven vessel underway is in sight. She sounds a manoeuvring signal while still carrying forward way.
What can you conclude from the signal in these circumstances?
- She is operating astern propulsion
- She must already be moving backwards
- She is stopped and making no way through the water
Answers and explanations
Lookout: Use the situation as well as the sound. Listen to the full sequence before deciding.
The sound answer
She is operating astern propulsion
Operating astern propulsion. A power-driven vessel underway, in sight of another vessel, announces a manoeuvre authorised or required by the rules. This describes propulsion, even while the vessel retains forward motion.
Why the other options fall short
She must already be moving backwards
Operating astern propulsion. A power-driven vessel underway, in sight of another vessel, announces a manoeuvre authorised or required by the rules. This describes propulsion, even while the vessel retains forward motion.
She is stopped and making no way through the water
Operating astern propulsion. A power-driven vessel underway, in sight of another vessel, announces a manoeuvre authorised or required by the rules. This describes propulsion, even while the vessel retains forward motion.
Rule 34(a) · Three short blasts
Operating astern propulsion. A power-driven vessel underway, in sight of another vessel, announces a manoeuvre authorised or required by the rules. This describes propulsion, even while the vessel retains forward motion.