Common Sound Signals

As a recreational boater or paddleboarder, you should be familiar with the common sound signals. Some signals used by power-driven and sailing vessels are as follows.

Changing Direction

• One short blast tells other boaters, “I intend to pass you on my port (left) side.”
• Two short blasts tell other boaters, “I intend to pass you on my starboard (right) side.”
• Three short blasts tell other boaters, “I am operating astern propulsion.” For some vessels, this tells other boaters, “I am backing up.”

Restricted Visibility

• One prolonged blast at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by power-driven vessels when underway.
• One prolonged blast plus two short blasts at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailing vessels.

Warning

• One prolonged blast is a warning signal (for example, used when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip).
• Five (or more) short, rapid blasts signal danger or signal that you do not understand or that you disagree with the other boater’s intentions.