Nautical navigation lights are essential components of maritime safety, helping vessels determine the position, status, and direction of other ships at sea during periods of reduced visibility, such as night or inclement weather. These lights follow internationally standardized color, placement, and characteristics to avoid confusion and ensure a consistent system for mariners worldwide. The regulations for navigation lights are primarily outlined in the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs).
Here are some key aspects of nautical navigation lights:
1. **Colors and Configuration:**
– **Red:** Port (left) side of the vessel
– **Green:** Starboard (right) side of the vessel
– **White:** Stern (rear) of the vessel
– **Masthead Light:** White light on the front of the vessel, above the red and green lights
– **Towing Light:** Yellow towing light above the stern light for a vessel towing astern (behind)
2. **Visibility and Arcs:**
– The visibility of these lights depends on the size of the vessel. Larger vessels generally have lights with a longer range of visibility.
– The arcs of visibility for red and green lights are defined to help other vessels determine the aspect (heading) of the vessel displaying the lights.
3. **Masthead Light:**
– The masthead light is a white light displayed forward and over an arc of the horizon of 225 degrees.
– It must be visible at a distance of at least 2 miles for vessels under 12 meters (39.4 feet) and at least 6 miles for vessels over 50 meters (164 feet).
4. **Sternlight:**
– The sternlight is a white light displayed aft and over an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees.
– It must be visible at the same distances as the masthead light.
5. **Towing Light:**
– The yellow towing light is displayed above the sternlight when a vessel is towing astern.
6. **All-Round Light:**
– Some vessels may display an all-round white light when at anchor.
It’s important for mariners to be familiar with these regulations, as they contribute significantly to preventing collisions at sea. Compliance with COLREGs ensures a standardized system that enhances the safety of navigation for all vessels on the water. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as LED lights, have improved the efficiency and reliability of navigation lights on modern vessels.