SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-one-short-blast

On inland waters, what does one short blast mean when meeting or crossing another powerboat?

'I intend to leave you on my port side.'

  1. I am backing up
  2. I intend to leave you on my port side ✔
  3. I intend to leave you on my starboard side

Why: Inland Rule 34 says one short blast means 'I intend to leave you on my port side.' The other boat answers with one short blast if it agrees.

Huh, didn't know that: On inland waters these whistle signals announce what you intend to do; on international waters they signal an action being taken.

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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
  2. USCG A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf

Test yourself in the game

Boating & WaterWhen meeting or crossing on inland waters, what do two short blasts mean?Boating & WaterWhat do five or more short, rapid blasts on a boat's horn mean?Boating & WaterNearing a blind bend in a channel, what sound signal should you give?

That's stuff everyone should know.