In international waters, what does two short blasts signify?

In international waters, the signal of two short blasts is used to indicate that a vessel intends to overtake another vessel on its port side. Sound signaling is an important aspect of navigation, especially in situations where visibility may be limited.

When a vessel gives two short blasts, it communicates its specific intention to the other vessels in the vicinity, making it clear that the overtaking maneuver will occur on the left side (port side). This is crucial for maintaining safety at sea, as it helps ensure that all vessels are aware of each other's intentions, reducing the risk of collision. Understanding the sound signals used in maritime navigation is an essential part of operating a vessel safely in both inland and international waters.