Sound Producing Devices
All sound producing devices & related laws are under 33 CFR 83
Sound Devices Overview
Navigation Rules require sound signals to be made under certain circumstance. Meeting, crossing, and overtaking situations, described in the Navigation Rules beginning with Rule 32, are examples of curcumstances in which sound signals are required. Recreational vessels are also required to use sound signals during periods of reduced visibility and while at anchor.
The following matrix provides the sound producing devices required for vessels:
International Waters
Vessel Length |
Whistle |
Bell |
Gong |
| 12 meters or more (39.4ft.) |
 |
||
| 20 meters or more (65.6ft.) |
|
|
|
| 100 meters or more (328. 1ft.) |
|
|
|
Inland Waters*
Vessel Length |
Whistle |
Bell |
Gong |
| 12 meters or more (39.4ft.) |
|
||
| 20 meters or more (65.6ft.) |
|
|
|
| 100 meters or more (328. 1ft.) |
|
|
|
There have been changes to the Collision Regulations (COLREGS) and a regulatroy change is forthcoming that will align the Inland Navigation Rules with the COLREGS. The Coast Guard is exercising its discretion not to enforce the provisions of the inland rules until the regulatory change is enacted.
Page Updated: August 13, 2011