What sound signal should a vessel less than 100 meters in length make while at anchor?

A vessel that is less than 100 meters in length, when at anchor, is required to make sound signals to alert nearby vessels of its location. The correct choice specifies that the vessel should ring a bell rapidly for 5 seconds at intervals of every 2 minutes. This requirement is established under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).

The purpose of this sound signal is to ensure safety in navigation, as it helps other vessels to detect the presence of the anchored ship, particularly in conditions where visibility may be reduced, such as fog or darkness. The prescribed signals for vessels at anchor serve as a form of communication with other maritime traffic, indicating that the vessel is stationary and not underway.

The selected answer aligns with the regulations applicable to smaller vessels, while larger vessels have different sound signal requirements. Understanding these requirements is essential for maritime safety and compliance with navigation rules.