Meeting and crossing, Inland

Proposing a starboard-to-starboard pass

I intend to leave you on my starboard side.

Two short blasts

Press play. One signal at a time.

Proposing a starboard-to-starboard passInland
"I intend to leave you on my starboard side."
Inland Rule 34(a)(i), 33 CFR 83.34(a)(i)

Who sounds it

Power-driven vessels in sight of one another, meeting or crossing within half a mile, when maneuvering.

How it's sounded

Short blast: about 1 second (Rule 32(b)). The rule sets no gap between blasts. 1 second is used here so the blasts stay distinct.

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

Worth remembering

Two blasts means starboard to starboard. Nothing has been agreed until the other vessel answers.

The same sound elsewhere

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

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

Helm drills every signal with flashcards and spaced review, on the web and iPhone.

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Sources

Inland Rule 34(a)(i), 33 CFR 83.34(a)(i)

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.