Meeting and crossing, International

Altering course to starboard

I am altering my course to starboard.

One short blast

Press play. One signal at a time.

  1. Altering course to starboardInternational

    "I am altering my course to starboard."

    Rule 34(a)

Who sounds it

Power-driven vessel underway, in sight of another vessel, when maneuvering.

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

International signals report what you are doing now. No reply is required.

The same sound elsewhere

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

More in meeting and crossing

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.