By Captain Tony Carli, Zenith Maritime of Boston
The sounds of the sea, we’ve all heard them. A cruise ship’s bell, a ferry boat’s horn while moving away from a dock, a tug’s whistle. These sound signals are the language mariners speak to let each other know their intentions, what they’re up to and where they are going. Navigation Rules Part D is comprised of six rules that apply exclusively to light and sound signals. These rules (32-37) cover every scenario you will encounter that needs a sound signal. They also cover what is an appropriate sound producing device, and what type of vessel needs these devices.
These rules like all navigation rules are extremely important for the mariner to understand, and adhere to. A prudent mariner should never leave the dock without the appropriate sound producing equipment for the vessel they are operating. They will save your life or someone else’s! So next time you’re approaching another vessel and you hear a horn, bell or whistle remember they’re not just saying hi!