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In Engineering / College | 2025-07-08

What should the operator of a stand-on vessel do when encountering a giveaway whistle?

Asked by frankgore439

Answer (1)

When operating a vessel on the water, it's important to follow navigation rules to ensure safety and proper communication between vessels. The subject of your question involves maritime navigation and the appropriate response by the operator of a stand-on vessel.
In maritime navigation, a 'stand-on vessel' maintains its current course and speed. However, the term 'giveaway whistle' isn't standard maritime terminology. Instead, vessels use sound signals to communicate intents, such as changing course or indicating awareness of another vessel.
When a stand-on vessel encounters a crossing situation with a give-way vessel (the vessel required to move out of the way), the stand-on vessel should do the following:

Maintain Course and Speed: The stand-on vessel should generally maintain its course and speed to allow the give-way vessel to navigate around it safely.

Be Vigilant: The operator should remain vigilant and observe the actions of the give-way vessel to ensure it is taking proper action to avoid a collision.

Prepare to Maneuver if Necessary: If it becomes clear that the give-way vessel is not taking appropriate action to avoid a collision, the stand-on vessel must be prepared to take evasive action. Safety is the priority.


Sound signals in maritime navigation, such as one short blast or two short blasts on a whistle, can be used to indicate intentions or to signify acknowledgment of another vessel's presence. If a stand-on vessel receives a sound signal from another vessel, it's important to understand the type of signal and to respond accordingly.
In conclusion, the operator of a stand-on vessel should maintain course and speed in accordance with navigation rules, but always be prepared to act to avoid a collision if necessary. Understanding and responding appropriately to sound signals is a key part of maritime communication and safety.

Answered by danjohnbrain | 2025-07-22