In international waters, what does one short blast indicate?

In international waters, one short blast from a vessel's horn is used to signal the intention to overtake another vessel on its starboard side. This communication is crucial for ensuring safe navigation and minimizing the risk of collision. The use of sound signals helps convey intentions clearly between vessels, especially in situations where visibility may be limited or when vessels are operating in close proximity to one another.

Understanding the meaning of these sound signals is essential for mariners, as it ensures that everyone is aware of each other’s maneuvers, thereby promoting safety on the water. The other options refer to different sound signals that are designated for specific situations: maintaining course, turning to port, or requiring assistance, which are signified by other prescribed sequences of blasts. Thus, recognizing that one short blast specifically indicates the intention to overtake on the starboard side is key to effective maritime communication.