The navigation lights required on a vessel are determined by its size, type, and the conditions under which it operates, as outlined in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Vessels are classified into categories such as power-driven, sailing, and fishing vessels, each with specific light configurations. Additionally, the operational context, such as whether the vessel is at anchor or underway, also influences the required lighting. Compliance with these regulations ensures safety and visibility on the water.
All powered vessels, including motorboats and sailboats under power, are required to have navigation lights. Additionally, sailing vessels under sail at night or in low visibility conditions must also display lights, as do larger vessels like cargo ships and tankers. These lights help ensure visibility and safe navigation to prevent collisions on the water. Smaller boats, such as canoes and kayaks, may also be required to have navigation lights if operating after dark or in poor visibility.
All powered vessels, including motorboats and sailboats under power, are required to display navigation lights when operating at night or in low visibility conditions. Additionally, larger non-motorized vessels, such as certain sailboats, may also need to show navigation lights. These lights help indicate a boat's position, heading, and status to ensure safety on the water. It's essential for all boaters to adhere to local regulations regarding navigation lights.
during periods of restricted visibility
all boats operating between sunset and sunrise. - jr
All around white light
A sailboat under sail that is 21 feet in length must display a combination of navigation lights, which typically include a white stern light and a red and green sidelights. The red light should be displayed on the port side (left) and the green light on the starboard side (right). If the sailboat is not under power, it is not required to display a masthead light, but the sidelights and stern light must be visible. These lights ensure visibility to other vessels during nighttime or low visibility conditions.
Power-driven vessels must display specific navigation lights to indicate their presence and movement at night or in low visibility. Typically, they show a red light on the port side (left), a green light on the starboard side (right), and a white stern light at the rear. Additionally, a white masthead light is required, visible from ahead and at a distance. These lights help other vessels identify the type and direction of the power-driven vessel.
They must only carry a working flashlight!
AT NIGHT!30 minutes prior to sundown and thirty minutes after sunup
Navigation lights must be on during periods of restricted visibility.
Any vessel over 7 meters is required to show Navigation lights between sunset to sunrise and in any times of restricted visibility. See Rule 20, Application. For a full list of Navigation Rules, see the link below.
In accordance with rule 28 of the 72 COLREGS a vessel 'constrained by her draft' shall display 3 red lights vertically in addition to other navigation lights. Please see the link provided below.