USCG Exam PracticeRule 34 — Maneuvering and Warning Signals
Under the Inland Navigation Rules, when may a vessel that has reached a passing agreement with another vessel by radiotelephone omit the whistle signals prescribed by Rule 34?
- A. Never; whistle signals are always mandatory regardless of prior agreement
- B. Only when both vessels are more than half a mile apart
- ✓ When agreement is reached, the vessel is not obliged to sound the prescribed whistle signals, but may do soCorrect
- D. Only when the vessel is departing a dock or berth
Why C is correct
33 CFR §83.34(h) provides that a vessel reaching agreement via radiotelephone (as prescribed by the Vessel Bridge-to-Bridge Radiotelephone Act) is not obliged to sound the whistle signals of Rule 34, but may do so. If agreement is not reached, whistle signals shall be exchanged in a timely manner and shall prevail.
Cited:33 CFR §83.34(h)