Overtaking, International
Overtaking on the other vessel's port side
I intend to overtake you on your port side.
Two prolonged blasts, then two short blasts
Who sounds it
Vessel intending to overtake, in sight, in a narrow channel or fairway, when the other vessel must act to permit safe passing (Rule 9(e)(i)).
How it's sounded
Short blast: about 1 second (Rule 32(b)). Prolonged blast: 4 to 6 seconds (Rule 32(c)); 5 seconds is used here. 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 prolonged, then two short means port.
More in overtaking
- Overtaking on the other vessel's starboard sideInternationaltwo prolonged blasts, then one short blast
- Agreeing to be overtakenInternationalone prolonged blast, then one short blast, then one prolonged blast, then one short blast
- Overtaking on the other vessel's starboard sideInlandone short blast
- Overtaking on the other vessel's port sideInlandtwo short blasts
- Agreeing to be overtaken on your starboard sideInlandone short blast
- Agreeing to be overtaken on your port sideInlandtwo short blasts
Study more
See every sound signal, try the free Rules of the Road practice test, or read who gives way, and how Inland differs.
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