BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 05 - Navigation and Right-of-Way Rules

Using Sound Signals for Navigation

The following sound signals apply to all boat operators in Canada. They must be used in order to ensure that other boat operators know what action you are taking.

1 short blast indicates: I am altering my course to starboard (to the right)

2 short blasts indicate: I am altering my course to port (to the left)

3 short blasts indicate: I am operating my boat in reverse

5 quick blasts indicate: I am unsure of the other boat’s intentions

1 long blast indicates: I am leaving the dock and am a motorized boat of 12 m or longer

Using sound signals during periods of reduced visibility:

Sailboats should sound 1 long blast followed by 2 short blasts
Motorized boats should sound 1 long blast every 2 minutes
Boats at anchor should blast a sound signal rapidly for about 5 seconds every minute