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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-five-short-blasts-doubt

What do five or more short, rapid blasts on a boat's horn mean?

Doubt about the other boat's intentions or actions.

  1. Doubt about the other boat's intentions ✔
  2. I'm leaving the dock
  3. All clear, go ahead

Why: Inland Rule 34(d) says a vessel that doesn't understand another's intentions, or doubts it's doing enough to avoid collision, must immediately sound at least five short, rapid blasts.

Huh, didn't know that: The five-blast signal may be backed up with at least five short, rapid flashes of light.

The dad joke
How do you stop a fish from smelling? Cut off its nose.
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Sources

  1. 33 CFR 83.34 Maneuvering and warning signals, Inland Rule 34 (eCFR) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-83.34

Test yourself in the game

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