Navigation lights during night sailing

If a helm is likely to be on the water when it gets dark it is important that they understand that navigation lights will be needed in order to show to other water uses their presence and give further insight to what manoeuvres they are performing. A sailing yacht that is making way must show side lights – green to starboard and red to port – and a white stern light. On smaller yachts these can be combined into a single sectored light that is placed usually on top of the mast to ensure early spotting. If a sailing boat is under motor power then a additional masthead white light should be fitted. For very small boats and dinghies although it is preferable to show these lights if these cannot be fitted then a white flashlight is all that is required. When a yacht is at anchor an all-round white light should be left on.