Ship horns - is there a code that ships use when leaving a port? I think I might have heard 3 long and one short beep. Is that it?

1 long blast is a warning that the ship is about to move from a position and that the captain may be unable to see other boats. This signal is commonly used when leaving port.
3 short blasts mean the ship is backing out of a slip.
5 short blasts signify danger.
1 short blast and 2 short blasts signify intent and acceptance in overtaking (passing) situations....Show more

5 short is VERY loud when you are standing directly under the speaker and some idiot sailboat crosses in front of a US Naval Warship in the Channel....Show more