Inland · Rule 34
Maneuvering and Warning Signals
TL;DR
International: 1 short = 'I am altering course to starboard'; 2 short = port; 3 short = engines astern. Overtaking in a narrow channel: 2 long + 1 short (overtake on stbd) / 2 long + 2 short (port). Doubt: 5+ short.
Why it shows up on the exam
Inland Rule 34 has a critical difference: under Inland, sound signals are signals of INTENT not action — answered by the other vessel agreeing or sounding the doubt signal.
Inland-specific notes
Under Inland, 1 short = 'I intend to leave you on my port side'; 2 short = 'I intend to leave you on my starboard side'. Vessels must reach agreement before manoeuvring.
Authoritative source
International parallel
COLREGs Rule 34 — Maneuvering and Warning Signals →More from Part D — Sound and Light Signals
Related drills
- Practise Rule 32 — Sound Signal Definitions
- Rule 33 — Equipment for Sound Signals
- Practise Rule 35 — Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility
- Rule 36 — Signals to Attract Attention
Drill Inland Rule 34
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