United States Coast Guard Captains License Practice Exam

You are the stand-on vessel in a crossing situation and sound a one-blast signal; the give-way vessel responds with a two-blast signal. What should you do?

1. Maintain course and speed

2. Come around sharply to port

3. Maneuver around the stern of the other vessel

4. Stop and back on your engines if necessary until signals are agreed upon

The correct answer is: Stop and back on your engines if necessary until signals are agreed upon

In a crossing situation where you are the stand-on vessel and you sound a one-blast signal, it indicates your intent to maintain your course and speed. However, if the give-way vessel responds with a two-blast signal, it typically suggests that they are either unsure of how to proceed or are signaling that they intend to take action to avoid a collision. As the stand-on vessel, while you have the right to maintain your course and speed, it's crucial to recognize the give-way vessel's indication of potential difficulty in their maneuvering. Therefore, stopping and backing on your engines, if necessary, allows you to avoid any possible collision and demonstrates your willingness to ensure safety on the water. This approach aligns with the fundamental navigation rule that emphasizes the importance of avoiding collisions whenever possible, regardless of the right-of-way. This response not only keeps safety as the primary concern but also adheres to the principles of good seamanship and the expectations set forth by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). In that framework, when in doubt or when the other vessel signals uncertainty, a prudent maneuver is to stop or take any actions necessary to enhance safety until signals are properly agreed upon.