INLAND ONLY Two power-driven vessels are crossing within a half a mile of each other as shown in illustration D042RR below. Vessel "A" sounds one short blast on the whistle. What action should vessel "B" take?

Correct Answer: Option C — sound one short blast and maintain course and speed

Under 33 CFR 83.34(a), in a crossing situation, the vessel sounding one short blast is signaling an intent to pass port-to-port. The other vessel, acknowledging this, must also sound one short blast and maintain course and speed as the stand-on vessel in this specific inland maneuver.