What sound signal should a sailing vessel sound when altering course to starboard?

When a sailing vessel alters course to starboard, the appropriate sound signal is one short blast. This signal serves as a means of communicating intentions to other vessels in the vicinity, particularly in situations where visibility may be limited or in confined waters.

The convention of using one short blast to indicate a turn to starboard is established by the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). It promotes safety by ensuring that other vessel operators can anticipate the movements of nearby vessels, thereby reducing the risk of collisions.

In situations outlined in the COLREGs, clear communication through sound signals is critical, and the specific use of one short blast signifies a right turn. This standardization helps maintain order in maritime navigation, as all mariners can understand the intentions of one another based on the established sound signals.