What you should know about navigation lights when boating
Maritime Safety Victoria sheds light on the subject of navigation lightsAs Maritime Safety Victoria (MSV) says in this boating advice article designed to shed light on the subject, vessels must show lights if operating at night or other times of restricted visibility, such as during fog or heavy rain.
All recreational vessels must show an all-round white light while at anchor.
When underway, powered vessels under 12m need to show the all-round white light as well as a port (red) and a starboard (green) side light.
You may need to buy an extender pole to fit the all-round white light so that it is unobstructed and at least 1m above the side lights.
Individual side lights come in two styles; those intended to be mounted on a horizontal surface, and those intended to be mounted on a vertical surface such as the topsides or the side of the cabin.
Be careful not to mount lights on a horizontal surface if they are designed to be mounted on a vertical surface, and vice-versa, because they will shine in the wrong direction.
Plates may need to be fitted so you can mount side lights correctly.
If the design of the vessel allows, a combination port and starboard light unit can be mounted on the centreline of the vessel, in place of two individual side lights.
Pay particular attention to the shielding arrangements to ensure the light only shines in the correct direction and there is no overlap on combination lights.
TIPS ON NAVIGATION LIGHTS
Three top tips to light up your boating life from MSV
>> Ensure your all-round white light has a separate switch to the side lights, so other boaters know if you're underway or at anchor
>> Horizontal side lights must be mounted so the beam shines horizontally towards other boats. MSV often see them mounted flat on the deck, meaning other boats wouldn't see you until they're too close for comfort
>> Don't use a spotlight instead of your all-round white light — a spotlight can be blinding to other boaters!
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