What is the purpose of a whistle or horn on a boat?

The purpose of a whistle or horn on a boat is to signal other boats and ensure safety. These devices are crucial for communication on the water, particularly in situations where visibility may be limited, such as fog or heavy rain. The use of sound signals helps alert other vessels to your presence, intentions, or maneuvers, thereby preventing potential collisions. This safety feature is part of the navigational rules and regulations designed to promote safe boating practices.

While a whistle or horn might have other uses, such as signaling readiness or creating enjoyable sounds, none of these applications are as vital as their role in enhancing safety on the water. This makes the safety signaling functions of a whistle or horn paramount in boating operations.