SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-two-short-blasts

When meeting or crossing on inland waters, what do two short blasts mean?

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

  1. I am in doubt about your intentions
  2. I am operating astern propulsion
  3. I intend to leave you on my starboard side ✔

Why: Under Inland Rule 34, two short blasts mean 'I intend to leave you on my starboard side.' If the other boat agrees, it answers with two short blasts.

Huh, didn't know that: Three short blasts mean 'I am operating astern propulsion,' which tells others the boat is backing.

The dad joke
What do you call a fish that practices medicine? A sturgeon.
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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. 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

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

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