Overtaking, Inland

Agreeing to be overtaken on your starboard side

Reply to one short blast: agreed.

One short blast

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  1. Agreeing to be overtaken on your starboard sideInland

    Reply to one short blast: agreed.

    Inland Rule 34(c)(ii), 33 CFR 83.34(c)(ii)

Who sounds it

Power-driven vessel about to be overtaken, if in agreement.

How it's sounded

Short blast: about 1 second (Rule 32(b)).

A short blast is about 1 second. A prolonged blast is 4 to 6 seconds. Clips use 1 and 5 seconds.

Worth remembering

Inland agreement is a similar signal sent back. If in doubt, sound the danger signal.

The same sound elsewhere

These use the same pattern, so the rules you’re under and the situation decide what it means.

More in overtaking

Study more

See every sound signal, try the free Rules of the Road practice test, or read who gives way, and how Inland differs.

Learn the whole set

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Sources

Helm is an independent study aid, not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Coast Guard or the National Maritime Center. This page is for study, not navigation guidance or legal advice. Check the current rules before you rely on anything here.