Sounds Signals & Fog Signals

SOUND SIGNALS FOR VESSEL IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER

The following sound signals are taken from the IRPCS Rule 34

Sound Signal	Meaning
	I am altering my course to starboard (only used by power vessels)*
	I am altering my course to port (only used by power vessels)*
	I am operating astern propulsion (only used by power vessels). Not necessarily making way astern*
	Your intentions are unclear? (Can be 5 or more short blasts)*
	I intend to overtake you on your starboard side*
	I intend to overtake you on your port side*
	The vessel about to be overtaken indicates her agreement*

SOUND SIGNAL FOR VESSELS NOT IN SIGHT OF ONE ANOTHER

A vessel nearing a bend or an area of a channel or fairway where other vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction. Such signal shall be answered with another prolonged blast by any approaching vessel that may be within hearing around the bend or behind the intervening obstruction.

FOG SIGNALS FOR VESSELS IN OR NEAR AN AREA OF RESTRICTED VISIBILITY

The following fog signals are taken from the IRPCS Rule 35

Sound Signal	Meaning
	Power Vessel making way*
	Power Vessel Stopped*
	A vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, a vessel constrained by her draught, a sailing vessel, a vessel engaged in fishing, a vessel engaged in fishing, when at anchor, a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre when carrying out her work at anchor or a vessel engaged in towing or pushing another vessel*
	The last vessel in a tow (if manned)*
	A vessel at anchor (every minute)*
	Vessel over 100m at anchor, bell is at bow, gong is aft (every minute)* Additional fog signal for anchored vessel*
	A vessel aground* A vessel over 100m aground*
	A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty*

Key

Short Blast

Prolonged Blast

Bell for 5 Seconds

Distinct Bell Stroke

Gong for 5 Seconds

DOUG’S TOP TIPS FOR EXAM CANDIDATES

The observant reader will have noticed that each sound signal has a coloured dot next to it. Either * or *.

RYA/MCA Advanced Powerboat COC and Yachtmaster Coastal Exam candidates should as a minimum know all of the definitions marked with a *, however well prepared candidates will also know those marked red *.

I suggest that a Yachtmaster Offshore candidate should know all of the sound signals. Likewise a Master 200 or OOW3000 (or higher) candidate should know all of the above sound signals.