NAVIGATION LIGHTS
Vessels operating at night are required to display navigation lights between
sunset and sunrise.
Power-driven Vessels
Power-driven vessel is less than 39.4 feet/12 meters in length may display
navigation lights as shown here.
- If your power-driven vessel is less than 23 feet/7 meters in length and
its maximum speed cannot exceed 7 knots, then it may display an all-round
white light, and if practicable, sidelights.
- For power-driven vessels less than 39.4 feet/12 meters in length, the masthead or all-round white light must be at least 1 meter above the sidelights.
- Sidelights may be a combination light, instead of two separate lights.
Figure 1
Sailing Vessels
If your sailing vessel is less than 65.6 feet/20 meters in length, then it
must display navigation lights as shown in Figures 2, 3, or 4.
Figure 2 |
Figure 3 |
Figure 4 |
If your sailboat is less than 23 feet/7 meters in length, it shows the lights
displayed as shown in Figures 2,3, or 4. As an option, your vessel may
carry an electric torch (flashlight) or lightened lantern that can show a white
light in sufficient time to prevent collision. (See Figure 5)
Vessel Under Oars
| If your vessel is under oars, then it should display lights for a sailboat if
practical. As an option, your vessel your vessel may carry a flashlight or
lighted lantern that can show a white light in sufficient time to prevent
collision. |
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Anchored Vessels
 |
All vessels anchored from sunset to sunrise must display anchor
lights. If your vessel is less than 164 feet/50 meters in length, then its
anchor light is an all-round white light visible where it can best be seen from
all directions. Exceptions: If your vessel is less than 23 feet/7
meters in length, it is not required to display an anchor light or shape
unless it is anchored in or near a narrow channel, fairway or anchorage,
or where other vessels normally navigate.
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If your vessel is less than 65.6 feet/20 meters in length, then it is not
required to display an anchor light if it is anchored in Inland Waters in a
special anchorage designated by the Secretary of Homeland Defense.
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