Navigation Lights

Navigation Lights Navigation light need to be shown on boats operating between sunset and sunrise and when visibility is restricted. It is essential for you to see other boats and have them see you. Navigation lights indicate the size of the boat, the direction of voyage, or if they are anchored. Remember: Not all navigation hazards have lights indicating their position (especially moored boats, shallow areas, oyster leases, and many navigation markers) It is difficult to judge distance at night Background lighting on the shore can cause confusion All boats (except certain moored boats in approved mooring areas) are required to show some form of lighting A safe speed is a speed at which sufficient action can be taken in time to prevent a collision Keep an extra good lookout

Minimum required lights Boats under way Power Boats Less than 7 metres in length with a maximum speed not exceeding 7 knots - a white light visible all round and, if possble, separate or combined side lights Less than 12 metres in length: separate or combined sidelights, a masthead light and a stern light OR separate or combined side lights, an all round light
Sailing Boats Less than 7 metres in length - the lights required for sailing boats over 7 metres in length. If not, a torch or lantern showing a white light ready to display to avoid a collision. More than 7 metres in length and less than 20 metres in length: Combined lantern at or near the top of the mast that incorporates sidelights and sternlight OR Separate sidelights and sternlight
Tenders (boats operating within two nautical miles from the mother boat) are subject to the same navigation light requirements as any other boat. All boats at anchor must show an all round white light.
Non-powered boats On the Brisbane River, rowing sculls are required to display a flashing all round white light while training or in competition, between sunset and sunrise. Boats at anchor Must show an all-round white light placed where it may best be seen. Anchor lights must always be shown from sunset to sunrise. If you are at anchor or in a busy area, then show additional lights (not navigation lights) to ensure you are seen and keep a good watch. Lights on boats to keep clear of There are many other combinations of lights used on boats. The lights shown relate to the activity it is engaged in (i.e. fishing dredging, not under command). A simple rule of thumb for a small powerboat is to stay clear of any boats exhibiting additional lights. Navigation at night The waterways are not like well defined roads. It is unsafe to navigate a boat with lights illuminating the water directly ahead because it will deprive you and other boat operators of night vision. Spotlights can be used to identify specific hazards, but this should be done only when operating at very slow speed and without affecting other waterway users. The most important rules to remember when driving a boat at night are to slow down and keep a good lookout. The speed of travel should be much les than that travelled by day.