Simple Simon wrote:
I've questions that will stump the Captains (I hope)

You are sailing in a heavy fog and you hear ahead of you
one prolonged blast followed by one short blast.

If the two blasts are clearly one signal...

What is the vessel ahead of you doing?

Unknown, other than signalling its existence.


What kind of vessel is it?

One of less than 12m in length.


What should you do?

Attempt to determine the direction of the signal. If you are underway, slow
down to the minimum speed which will still allow steerageway and proceed
with caution. Give the signal appropriate to your vessel and its current
status. Listen for a possible second signal from the other vessel, with a
view to determining whether it is stationary or underway, and what course it
might be following. Attempt to hail them with a view to seeking
clarification.



If there is a long delay between the two blasts, such that they appear to be
two signals...

What is the vessel ahead of you doing?

Turning to starboard.


What kind of vessel is it?

Power.


What should you do?

Attempt to determine the direction of the signal. If you are underway, slow
down to the minimum speed which will still allow steerageway and proceed
with caution. Give the signal appropriate to your vessel and its current
status. Listen for a possible second signal from the other vessel, with a
view to determining what course it might be following. Attempt to hail them
with a view to seeking clarification.



--
Wally
www.makearatherlonglinkthattakesyounowhere.com
Things are always clearer in the cold, post-upload light.