GL: Whistle signals.

[Randy Pickelmann]

If the captain of the tow is saying "pass on my one whistle side", he is
giving confusing and contradictory information.  Remember that these signals
were developed before radio comms were used  The overtaking vessel would
signal his intentions by blowing one whistle and then passing the other vessel
on the overtaking vessel's port side. The overtaken vessel should acknowledge
by repeating the signal.  When two vessels are approaching each other from
ahead, either can signal and the other should reply.  Once again, one whistle
means that I will pass you on MY port side.  When the tow boat captain says
pass me on MY one whistle side,  does he mean that he wants you to overtake
him on HIS port side?  If he says, give me a one whistle pass, he means for
you to pass on YOUR port side.  If he says "give me a pass on MY one whistle
side",  I'd be on the VHF talking port and starboard.
Regards,
Randy Pickelmann
hard aground in Clearwater
MORNING STAR
lying in New Bern
www.morningstar.talkspot.com