Virginia Boat Navigation Light Requirements

During these times no other lights that could be mistaken for lights specified in the rules of the road can be displayed nor any lights that impair the visibility or distinctive character of navigation lights or interfere with the keeping of a proper.

Virginia boat navigation light requirements.

It also got me wondering about the different places i d like to travel this summer and what it would be like to navigate in the dark if i had to. A 360 degree white all around masthead light with two mile visibility normally fulfills this requirement for most pleasure boats but familiarize yourself with and follow the rule. One of the most important safety systems on your boat is your set of navigation lights. Larger boats are required to use lights with a higher visibility range and cannot combine sidelights into a single bi color light.

Several rules and specifications are related to the type size layout arc and distance of visibility of boat navigation lights used by all vessel types which are collectively known as the international regulations for preventing collisions at sea or colregs the navigational lights used are known as colreg lights and shapes. Vessels are required to show the proper navigation lights from sunset to sunrise in all weather conditions good and bad. Navigation lights recreational boats while underway are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility. All boats whether used for commercial purposes or for pleasure boating must comply with the regulations concerning lighting.

The inland rules have specific requirements as to anchor lights. The basic rule is that side lights a. Navigation lights requirements vary depending on the length of the boat. It is crucial the lights on your boat be placed and displayed appropriate to the size and class of your boat.

These lights tell other boat operators what your boat is doing whether it is at anchor under sail or motoring. No other lights shall be exhibited that could impair the visibility of required running lights or impair the visibility of approaching vessels. Navigation lights requirements depend on vessel size. For other configurations and requirements for larger vessels see the uscg s navigation rules.

That rule is quoted below as is the uscg site reference. If the boat is underway or anchored. Navigation lights should be fitted by the manufacturer or an authorised person. The required navigation lights differ depending on the type and size of your vessel.

Smaller boats have a number of options including bracketed or combination suction capped lights. These types of navigation lights are available from marine dealers. Whenever you are operating between sunset and sunrise or in other times of restricted visibility such as in fog or rain you need to display the appropriate navigation lights so that other boats can see you and take the appropriate action to avoid a collision. I was sitting in the garage the other day admiring my boat when i noticed the green navigation light on the side of the hull and it dawned on me that i haven t had the boat out after sunset yet.

The common lighting configurations for recreational vessels are discussed in this course.