Small vessel rules, Inland

Special anchorage areas

No anchor signal required.

Who sounds it

Vessel under 20 meters, or a barge, canal boat, scow or other nondescript craft of any length, anchored in a Coast Guard designated special anchorage area.

How it's sounded

No signal required.

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

Worth remembering

Inland only. For barges and canal boats, length doesn't matter.

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.

Start free

Sources

Inland Rule 35(l), 33 CFR 83.35(l); 33 CFR 110.1(a)

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.