What sound signal is required for vessels making way?

The requirement for vessels making way is to signal their presence and intentions using sound signals. A vessel that is underway and making way through the water should sound one long blast. This signal communicates to other vessels in the vicinity that the vessel is navigating and actively moving.

In the context of maritime communication, a long blast serves as an indication not only of the vessel's status but also helps maintain situational awareness for surrounding vessels, thereby enhancing safety on the water. It is a standardized signal recognized internationally as part of the navigation rules, which helps prevent collisions and misunderstandings among vessels.

Other options provided indicate different scenarios: two short blasts typically denote a vessel operating astern propulsion and three short blasts indicate the vessel's intention to stop or go astern. Two long blasts are often used by vessels that are at anchor to signal their status. Recognizing the correct sound signal for a vessel making way is crucial for all mariners to operate safely and effectively in shared waterways.