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Learn the Sea
Sound signals
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· = one short blast (about 1 second). — = one prolonged blast (4–6 seconds). Manoeuvring signals are for vessels in sight of one another; fog signals are made in or near restricted visibility.
Manoeuvring — in sight of one another
| Signal | Meaning |
|---|---|
| · | I am altering course to STARBOARD |
| · · | I am altering course to PORT |
| · · · | I am operating astern propulsion |
| · · · · · | I doubt you are taking enough action / I do not understand you |
| — (at a blind bend) | Warning — approaching a bend where I cannot see you |
Restricted visibility — at intervals of not more than 2 minutes
| Signal | Vessel |
|---|---|
| — | Power-driven vessel, making way |
| — — | Power-driven vessel, under way but stopped |
| — · · | Sailing vessel, fishing, towing, NUC, restricted in ability to manoeuvre, or constrained by draught |
| — · · · | A manned vessel being towed |
| Rapid bell (~every minute) | Vessel at anchor (gong aft as well if over 100 m) |