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Sailing at night: tactics and tips

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: December 2, 2021

As an early-to-bed person, I find a night passage offers special and sublime opportunities for stargazing, precious alone time, and quiet contemplation. However, I’ve also found myself wet, cold, and not-so-quietly contemplating the lights of a ship bearing down on us. Does that tanker see us? Fortunately, after 3,000 nautical miles of trial and error while sailing from Canada to Mexico, my partner, Robin, and I have learned a few tricks that make night passages more comfortable and serene.

Feed the crew

Good hot food makes all the difference in keeping energy (and spirits) up on a night passage, especially when very little cooking is involved.

Minimize galley time – It takes three days for most sailors to get their sea legs, so we like to have no- to low-effort meals and snacks planned for those first days at sea. Less time spent in the galley also means we have more time for the boat, rest, and sleeping. To minimize galley time, we prepare all our food for the first 24 hours at sea ahead of time. One of our go-to evening meals is soup, made in advance and kept warm in a thermos on deck. After the first 24 hours, quick-to-make meals (canned soup, beans on toast, curry in a bag) are a good bet.

Splurge on fun treats – We stock a “sin bin” with trail mix, chips, and chocolate and also prepare some of our favorite nibbles (muffins, scones, cinnamon buns). Milk chocolate is good for a jolt of energy, but doesn’t keep us up past our watches.

Stay hydrated

Water is very important for keeping the mind alert on night watch. In fact, dehydration is often mistaken for fatigue.

Keep a water bottle on deck – One of our friends has a rule that anyone who yawns on the boat must take a drink of water. Every member of the crew should keep a water bottle on deck when on watch. As well as making water accessible, this is a good way to monitor intake.

Serve warm drinks – One of our favorite hot drinks is Chai tea, kept in a thermos in the cockpit. We make it by adding an inch of fresh ginger to three cups of water, bringing it to a boil, and then adding cardamom, honey, and black pepper to taste. The spices and honey give us a boost without the diuretic and stimulating effects of caffeine. Cider (the soft kind!), tea, and hot chocolate are great too.

Sleep, glorious sleep

Sleep can feel scarce when sailing overnight, but we take steps to manage it.

Sleep before leaving – First, we make sure we’re well rested before we leave. We never start a passage with a sleep deficit.

A workable watch schedule – Sailors use many different watch schedules and tailor them to the number of crew on board. To find out what works best for us, we started with shorter watches (of perhaps 1 to 2 hours) and increased the length over time. We usually sail with just the two of us (plus autopilot) and find 3-hour watches work well, but on many occasions we’ve gone to shorter watches because one of us was not able to stay alert for the full 3 hours. If you’re hand steering, definitely err on the side of shorter watches. And when you feel like you can’t keep your eyes open, it is always better to wake your partner than risk snoozing at the wheel.

Avoid alcohol and stimulants – One of the principal ways we improve the quantity and quality of our sleep on board is to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulating drugs. The half-life of caffeine is 4 to 6 hours in humans, so the chances are, someone who drinks a cup of tea at the beginning of a 3-hour watch will still be feeling the effects at the end of it. When this happens, it’s then tempting to use alcohol or sleeping pills to get to sleep. Alcohol has been proven to reduce the quality of sleep. The result is waking up feeling more tired and feeling the need for more coffee, and thus the vicious loop repeats.

Try light sleep aids – One sleep aid to consider using is the seasickness medication Gravol. Someone already taking Gravol for seasickness might consider timing the dose at one-half hour before the end of a night watch. This gives the Gravol time to kick in, aiding sleep at just the right time. By the time the off-watch is over, the Gravol has been partially processed and, you hope, the effect is less drowsiness and no seasickness. For those not taking Gravol, a cup of chamomile or valerian tea half an hour before the end of their watch will help sleep come more quickly.

Get comfy – We made sure we had a safe and comfortable sea berth by setting up a snug leecloth on a berth close to the boat’s center of gravity, where the the off-watch sleeper would feel the least motion (see “ Make your own Leecloth ,” January 2017). Earplugs and an eye mask help reduce stimuli to further aid sleep.

Staying awake

Staying awake on night watch can be difficult, but we engage in a number of activities to help us keep our eyes open.

Stay occupied – If we don’t keep ourselves lightly occupied on night watch, we find it difficult to stay awake, so we create watch routines that keep us focused and alert. Filling out our ship’s log is one such task. I’ve learned that one of the most effective things I can do to avoid dropping off is to keep my brain engaged in some light listening (podcasts, music, audiobooks) through a single earbud. This keeps me awake while I scan the horizon and listen for any changes in the boat or environment. If you’re in need of something to listen to, check out the salty audiobooks at Audioseastories.com , GoodOld Boat’s online store.

Keep moving – When I get overly drowsy, I stand up and dance in the cockpit. Though I might look ridiculous, it gets the blood moving and keeps me sharp a bit longer. If dancing is not your thing, stretching or jogging in place also works.

Set alarms – When I find I’m feeling a bit droopy-eyed, I set a wristwatch alarm to go off every 10 minutes, just to catch me in case I do accidentally doze off. Of course, if I do fall asleep, I realize as soon as I wake that my best option is to wake someone else to take the watch.

What to wear

It’s hard for me to appreciate the beautiful starlit sky when I have wet feet. I prefer to stay warm and dry.

Rubber boots and foulies –My favorite piece of gear is a 1980s yellow Mustang survival suit I picked up in a thrift store. While higher-tech options are available, I love my survival suit because it’s like wearing a giant sleeping bag on deck. I have foulies (foul weather gear), too, which are great for more active sailing, but when I’m hunkered down in the cockpit all night, my chief concern is staying warm. The other great thing about the survival suit is that I stay warm even if it gets wet. I once took a wave down the back of my survival suit and, though wet, I was warm again in less than a minute.

Buy some bum padding – Deck cushions can get in the way while sailing, so we usually stow them. I sometimes wear a pair of padded cycling shorts under my foulies to provide some insulation from the hard, cold cockpit seats.

No cotton garments! – Or atleast don’t wear them on chilly nights. When the least bit damp, cotton can get cold and clammy. We choose wool, polyester, and other technical fabrics for layering as they don’t hold moisture against the skin.

Clip in – A tether and harness are musts for enjoyment and comfort while sailing at night. We much prefer the view of the ocean from the boat than the boat from the ocean. Plus, the off-watch rests easier knowing the on-watch is tethered safely to the boat.

Warding off the green

Perhaps the number-one thing we do to ensure our comfort while afloat is avoid getting seasick. Many remedies are available, including Gravol, Dramamine, Transderm-V patch, ginger, and acupressure wrist bands. We try any drug or remedy on dry land before taking it while sailing, just in case we experience a negative side effect. One seasickness medication on the market made my vision blurry. Once you’ve found something that works for you, start taking it at least 12 hours before setting sail so it has time to properly kick in. We are often helped by spending a couple of nights in a slightly rolly anchorage before heading out.

Bits and bytes –  Two pieces of technology are a boon for any sailor venturing out under the cover of darkness.

Autopilot – An autopilot helps minimize crew fatigue. Handsteering becomes far more challenging and tiring at night, when limited visibility can affect orientation. An autopilot allows for longer and more restful watches.

AIS – If you have it, AIS is a terrific additional source of information at night. It’s a great comfort to know the course and speed of the twinkly bright lights bearing down on us in the darkness. We can easily hail the vessel in question, by its name, if that’s listed on the AIS target, or by private hailing its MMSI number using the DSC-enabled VHF. Once in contact, we ask whether they can see our boat and whether they plan to alter course in the near future. We like to set our AIS alarm so we don’t miss any vessels that will approach within 2 nautical miles.

Passage planning

The decisions we make before leaving the dock undoubtedly have the greatest impact on the comfort of our night sail.

Choosing a weather window – Poor weather and sea conditions become considerably less fun in the dark, so we plan around adverse weather. We avoid night passages when the swell period (in seconds) and height (in feet) are close in number. For example, a 7-foot swell with a 12-second period will be a lot more comfortable than a 7-foot swell with a 7-second period.

Sail in your comfort zone – If you’re comfortable sailing in up to 20 knots of wind, limit overnight passages to wind conditions of 15 knots or less. Conditions can feel a lot bigger at night and so we do not push ourselves past our comfort limits, and we sleep better as a result.

Use the full moon – We’re much more comfortable on night passages when the moon is full or nearly full. All that light makes it easier to spot obstacles and we’re psychologically more at ease when we are able to see our surroundings.

Leave and arrive in daylight – The approaches to many ocean ports are littered with crab traps, long-lines,dead-heads, kelp, and other debris. We prefer to heave-to for a couple of hours rather than risk fouling our propeller attempting an entrance in the dead of night.

Passages of manageable length – If you’re new to sailing at night, it’s a good idea to slowly build up to longer and longer sails. As you start planning multi-night voyages, think about the best way to break the passages down. Many solo sailors we know choose to never sail more than one night at a time so they can pull in and have rest days after each night passage. Personally, we like trips that are three days or longer, because we find it takes that long to adjust our sleeping patterns. Experiment with different passage lengths until you find a style that leaves you feeling rested.

Strategies for sailing at night

Whether we feel safe and comfortable at night has a lot to do with how we set our sails. Proper planning makes the difference between restful slumber and a sleepless night for the whole crew.

Prepare before dark – We complete the necessary tasks —like setting the sails and organizing the cockpit — in daylight so the crew on night watch has fewer things to focus on.

Brighten up – To avoid things that go bump in the night, invest in some good lighting. We were sailing down the Mexican coast and noticed a large trawler tailing us. We tried to radio the trawler only to realize that it was our buddy-boater, Jim, who had cunningly invested in high-wattage lights that made his 35-foot sloop appear to be a much larger vessel. We’ve found red lights and headlamps help us to get around the boat without impairing our night vision.

Set sails for comfort – We don’t sleep well with a slamming mainsail on a rolling boat. We play with different sail plans and courses to make our boat as comfortable and quiet as possible. We use a boom preventer , for example, to reduce the motion and noise of the mainsail. When sailing dead downwind makes things very rolly, we’ll head up a bit for a smoother ride. Our VMG (velocity made good) might suffer, but that’s preferable to having a tired crew. When we’re dealing with light and variable wind at night, we find it well worth the extra fuel cost to run the engine, so the person below can get some sleep.

Slow down at night – We usually take in a reef before dark. We might lose some speed, but our boat is a lot more manageable if the wind picks up later — and we don’t have to put in that reef at night.

Schedule maneuvers – When possible, we plan our maneuvers, such as tacking and gybing, so we can do them before it gets dark. We schedule them for watch changes to minimize the number of times we need to wake someone mid-sleep for help on deck.

By adopting these strategies, we’ve begun to really enjoy sailing at night. In fact, we’re finding now that we even prefer it, because it means we don’t lose a day of shore time upon arrival in a new port. With the right preparation, you can make nights at sea not only pleasant, but also special and beautiful times. So make things comfortable for yourself, try some tips to see what works best for you, and then sit back and enjoy the stars.

Originally published in Good Old Boat magazine in March/April 2017. For more great how-tos and DIY subscribe to Good Old Boat magazine using this exclusive Waterborne promo code .

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

Monday 7th of December 2020

try Tradional Medicines Ginger Aid Tea. Make Thermos and keep it handy when some one starts to feel queazy have them sip a cup or two of warm Ginger Aid tea. Helps settle the stomach and keeps you warm a win win.

Sunday 3rd of June 2018

While I also do just about everything mentioned in the article, as a singlehander, there are no crew changes, so making sure hot drinks (I like decaf Irish Breakfast tea with a couple of cinnamon sticks thrown in) and light snacks are within reach of the cockpit are very important. I also added glow in the dark draft strips to my sails and I've added glow in the dark stickers to the stanchion bases. I love night sailing—it's almost a religious experience being out there, sailing in calm seas under a full moon and a sea of stars above. One word of warning though, if you're new to astronomy, don't be surprised if that North Star you've been following turns out to be the 9:40 flight from Chicago...just saying.

Friday 16th of June 2017

Good article.

The very best, THE VERY BEST, anti seasick remedy for me has been Motion Ease, sold at West Marine and Walmart. After many remedies were tried and were unsuccessful, Motion Ease was the first remedy that I found successful. We were in 38+knots of wind between Nassau and Eleuthra and the cook brought sandwich "fixins" into the cockpit. I was already seasick and could only manage a slice of bread and cheese wadded up in my fist. My wife remembered I had bought Motion Ease several years before but I had never tried it. She went below and brought up the tiny bottle. I rubbed one drop behind each ear and within 15 minutes I was eating a Dagwood sandwich! The remedy is applied to the skin area behind each ear and works even if you are already seasick. About $5 at Walmart, maybe more at West Marine.

Friday 30th of June 2017

Thanks for the recommendation Jim! I've never tried Motion Ease but will definitely give it a go now.

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• How to sail at night

Captains are often asked if it's possible to sail at night. In the vast majority of cases, the answer is yes, unless you are just starting out. You just need to know the specifics of night sailing — the rules of boat lighting, beacon signals, have navigation and nautical charts handy, and most importantly, follow basic safety rules on board. So, do you know what night sailing entails?

You can't do it without the correct lights

While on land, lights are primarily there to help us see, at sea it's the other way around. All boats must be properly lit for other vessels to see. And, a boat doesn't work like a car either, where we shine our headlights on the road ahead to see what's in front of us. At sea we rely on navigation, nautical charts, lighthouses and the captain's knowledge.

Basic boat lights include running lights, steaming lights and anchor lights. There are clearly defined and standardized rules for lighting a ship  under sail at night . So the question of how to light a yacht at night has a very simple answer. Running lights, or side lights, show other vessels where your port and starboard sides are, with red indicating port and green starboard, and you must also have a white stern light on.

Lighting the yacht at night is very important because, unlike during the day, the helmsman cannot judge the distance and direction  of other boats by sight. Running lights make the position and direction of the surrounding vessels visible, as well as their approximate distance, and helps to avoid possible collisions. Radar is also highly practical in this respect, as it shows the size and distance of the vessel.

However, when sailing there can be situations where the sails need to be lowered, and with that, the lighting also needs to be changed. If travelling under motor power , a steaming light  (masthead light)  must be turned on , which shines at the same angle as the side lights. When a sailboat is not under sail, it has to abide by the rules set out for power boats by COLREG (The International Rules for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

Lighting regulations when at anchor are again different. When at anchor at sea , only the anchor light should be on . According to the regulations this could be either a 360-degree white light atop the mast, or a light suspended from the boom, above the foredeck or on a furled genoa. If the boat is moored in port, the light is not normally used.

Navigation, GPS and maps

Nowadays, GPS and navigation aids integrated into the boat or that work as mobile apps are commonly used to determine the position of the boat. Modern technology is very accurate and reliable, but it is still worth understanding, reading and checking your position on  paper nautical charts . After all, almost any skipper will tell you that their GPS or navigation system has at some point told them they were on land, even when tens or hundreds of metres from shore.

Thanks to nautical charts, you will not only know of possible danger spots, but also lighthouses , enabling you to easily and accurately determine your position with the help of a compass. Each lighthouse is different, being lit and flashing in a unique way. A nautical chart will tell you how to identify a lighthouse by the number of flashes, their frequency and the colour of the light. To determine your exact position, you’ll then need two lighthouses in sight that serve as reference points for each other.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Lighthouses are not only practical, but they are often buildings with impressive architecture that are well worth stopping off at. Take a look at  15 lighthouses you must visit .

Safety is paramount when sailing at night

Even during the day, there are clear rules regarding the movement of the crew on board. Basically, the crew should not stand unless they are engaged in manoeuvres. In all other cases, they should be sitting on benches, at the side of the boat when heeling, or in the cabin. Apart from the fact that a standing crew member could obstruct the helmsman's view, it also poses a greater risk of falling overboard . If you're interested in getting to know this subject in more detail, check out our article Sailing Etiquette A to Z .

At night, the rules are even stricter to ensure the crew remain as safe as possible and avoid damaging the yacht. If a crew member is on deck at night while sailing, they should wear a lifejacket  and ideally be attached to the boat with a lifebelt or harness.

Except for really experienced seafarers, the rule of thumb is that there should be at least  two people on board when sailing at night. And the captain should schedule shifts so that there are always two  rested crew members on board. After all, you need to be doubly vigilant when sailing at night, and staying awake all night is certainly not conducive to alertness — especially when manoeuvring  or entering port. For the same reasons alcohol is prohibited when night sailing. While during the day, crew members other than the helmsman can toast Neptune or have one glass of wine or beer, drinking alcohol is not permitted during a voyage at night. By all means celebrate a successful journey upon arrival in port at a local tavern, but it definitely pays to keep a clear head at sea.

Specifics of night sailing and boat handling

Steering and controlling the boat  is not particularly different during the day and at night. There are just a few nuances to make sailing that bit smoother. If you're on a vessel you know well, that’s one thing, but if you're on a charter boat , it's worth marking the sheets and other lines so that you know your way around in the dark.

Sailing at night, it is also important to assess  the weather conditions well. What you would normally do during the day can be significantly more challenging at night and requires a more careful assessment of weather conditions and weather patterns. It is always better to choose smaller sails and if you have even the slightest doubt about anything, postpone the trip. 

When  entering a harbour  or sailing close to shore, be doubly cautious. There are several risk factors. During the day, the surrounding boats, the rocks and the potential hazards on the surface and below are visible. At night you have to rely on navigation, charts and lighting. When entering the harbour, charts and GPS can provide you many clues but lights can cause issues. For example, you might get dazzled by the light from the shore, the anchor lights of other boats are easily confused with the lights on land, and, last but not least, you may encounter poorly lit fishing boats. However, if you keep in mind all of these potential risks, you will arrive safely in the harbour.

The magic of night sailing

When compared to sailing during the day, night sailing places more demands on the captain's experience and knowledge of sailing regulations. But it is also a truly romantic experience. Millions of stars glistening in the night sky and the waves sparkling in the moonlight. If you're lucky, sailing out of the mist from land on a clear night with a near full moon, it will seem almost like daylight.

If you're serious about sailing and steering your boat, there are other benefits to night sailing. Navigating at night sharpens the senses and enhances the sailing experience as well as your experience of the sea itself. It truly gives a whole new meaning to sailing. But if all you want is to just enjoy yourself, night sailing is one of the most romantic experiences you can have. Check out our article on how to enjoy romance on board a yacht charter .   

Are you new to the sea? We will recommend experienced captains who will take care of you on the ship. Give us a call.

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq how to manage a night sailing.

Boat Navigation Lights Rules: Illustrated Beginners Guide

When navigating at night, the lights on other boats are your first clue about the moving dangers around you. And your navigation lights are your first line of safety in avoiding collisions in the dark, and they tell others vessels what you are and what you are doing. The rules sound complex, but with a little understanding you can get the basics for any situation.

So what are the basic navigation light rules? For most small vessels, motoring requires red and green (port and starboard) lights, and a white light visible in all directions around the boat. This is almost always a stern light and a masthead light on sailboats. Boats under sail require port and starboard lights, and a white stern light. Sailboats below sixty-five feet may show a tricolor light at the masthead instead of side and stern lights when sailing.

That's it, in a nutshell. There's a little more to it, as the rules change with different sizes and there are some specifics about angles of display for the colors. Identifying other ships at sea requires more study, but the basics are the same. And it's not much trouble to make sure you've always got the proper lights on your vessel.

On this page:

What are the official colregs rules for your sailboat, what about the uscg (united states coast guard) rules, lighting at anchor, identifying the boats around you.

The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea , abbreviated "COLREGS" is very specific about the lights required, their shapes and sizes, and the distance they must be visible. For the smaller boat, the following definitions apply.

• Masthead Light - a white light placed centerline on the boat showing an arc of 225 degrees with 112.5 degrees either side of the front of the vessel.
• Sidelights - A red light on the port side and a green light on the starboard. They must show an arc of 112.5 degrees from centerline of the bow.
• Stern light - A white light on the stern of the boat showing an unbroken arc of 135 degrees from centerline of the vessel.
• All-round light - A light showing in an unbroken arc of 360 degrees.

The good news is you need not measure these angles. Any properly installed USCG or COLREGS approved light which will cover the correct arcs. If you have to replace the original light from your boat, make sure it's with an approved replacement.

Lights When Sailing

The specific rules for a sailboat under sail are in COLREGS Rule 25 and vary slightly with the size of the boat. A sailboat powering is considered a power boat and falls under in Rule 23.

• Under 23 feet (7 meters) - side lights and a stern light, possible. If these lights can not be displayed a light must be kept at hand to help avoid a collision. This can be a bright flashlight.
• Over 23 feet - Side lights visible to one nautical mile and stern light visible for two.
• Vessels under 65 feet may combine both sidelights into a single lantern on the bow.
• May show a tricolor light on the masthead instead of sidelights and a stern light. It's one or the other though, do not show these lights at the same time .
• Masthead light must be visible for three nautical miles, all other lights must have a two nautical mile visibility.
• Side lights must be separated.
• May not show a masthead tricolor light.
• Masthead light must have five nautical mile visibility, all other lights must be visible for two nautical miles.
• Optional masthead lights - any vessel under sail may display a red light over a green light at the masthead with sidelights and stern light. The red over green may NOT be displayed with a masthead tricolor light. It's one set or the other.

Lights When Motoring

For all navigational purposes a sailboat under power is considered a power boat. This includes motor sailing - if the engine is on and providing propulsion you are on a power boat, even if the sails are up . This applies to navigation lighting, sound signals in fog and limited visibility, and rights of way.

Sailboats under 50 meters under power need to show:

• A masthead light
• Stern light

A power-driven vessel under 23 feet (7 meters) that does not exceed seven knots of speed may display an all around white light, though sidelights should be used if available.

The USCG has published its own "Rules of the Road" that are based on the COLREGS. In addition, it has rules for the "Inland Waterways" for rivers, inland lakes and the Great Lakes.

The good news is this has no impact on what you have to do with your own boat.

They mostly relate to lighting changes on towed vessels like barges and tugs. For example, a vessel towing or pushing another vessel in the ocean under COLREGS shows two masthead lights, sidelights and a stern light, whereas in Inland Waterways the towing or pushing vessel displays two yellow towing lights instead of a white stern light.

If you sail on lakes, rivers or the Great Lakes where towed commercial traffic is common you should learn the inland lights, but coastal or ocean sailors will never see these.

When you anchor outside a designated mooring field, you should display an all around white light at the masthead or as high in the boat as practical.

If your boat is large and has a very tall mast, you may wish to display another light closer to the waterline. Boats approaching in the dark may not see a light on a mast sixty or seventy feet in the air when they are close to your boat.

We use a simple garden path light on our stern when we anchor, left in a rod holder or flag socket. It comes on automatically at dusk and is a cheap and easy way to be more visible. There is no specific rule stating you can not display more lights than required, or the nature of any lights beyond the required all around light.

The COLREGS also specify that a round black "daymark" should be displayed in the rigging of any vessel at anchor. Very few small vessels observe this, however it is the correct display for a vessel in an anchorage.

If you tie to a mooring in a marked mooring area you are not required to display anchor lights, but there is no harm in doing so.

The other important reason to know your lights is to figure out what's going on around you at night. The water may be ablaze with white, red, green and other lights at night and they are your first key to avoiding collisions and problems.

All combinations of lights for fishing boats, commercial vessels, and so on are outside this post‘s scope. The odds are small you will encounter a submarine, seaplane or hovercraft at night, but there are regulations regarding specific lighting for each of those vessels!

There are a few fundamentals to help you figure out what that is you see on the horizon, which way it is going, and whether it is a danger to you.

Port Wine is Red

The fundamental rule is that red sidelights will ALWAYS be on the port side of a vessel, and green lights will always be on starboard. However, some vessels can use all around red and green lights for other purposes, though those will be higher than sidelights.

The light‘s on a ship is not important, some large tankers and freighters will have their sidelights far aft and put them on the superstructure for better visibility. It is not safe to assume that sidelights you can see are on the bow of large vessels .

When you can see the color, you know which way the bow is pointing. If it's red, it's pointing more or less to the left and will travel in that direction. A green light shows it is heading more or less to your right.

If you can see the red and green lights at the same time, you are looking directly at the bow of the vessel. When you are far away, this isn‘t as alarming as if you are close crossing. Seeing red and green lights together on a vessel is something you never want to see for long.

Be aware of red and green lights used in combination with other red, green and white lights. These may not be running lights and could have other significance.

Tankers, Freighters and Large Ships

Tankers, freighters and large ships will have side lights, a stern light and a masthead light. In addition, on vessels over 50 meters there will be a second masthead light further aft and higher than the forward light. The masthead light positions are a better tipoff to the bow direction and how far from the bow the sidelights might be. Remember - on a large vessel the sidelights may not be at the bow or even close to it.

USCG Inland Rules allow for a second all-around white light on large vessels on the Great Lakes instead of a second masthead light.

Fishing Boats

Fishing boats engaged in fishing will have more complex light displays. When they aren't fishing, they will show lights like any power vessel, but Rule 26 spells out light combinations that vary by the fishing activity being done. In general:

• Boats which are Trawling but not making headway will display a green all-around light over a white all-around light , and a masthead light aft of these lights. Boats making headway while trawling will show these lights, plus sidelights and a stern light.
• A vessel fishing other than trawling will show a red all-around light over a white all-around light . When making way they will also show sidelights and a stern light.
• If a vessel has gear more than 150 meters away from the boat, it will show a second all around light in the direction of the gear. The best rule is to give fishing boats as wide a berth as you can at night. They're easy to pick out if you check the top light configurations but their course may be difficult to predict.

Towing and Pushing

Towed vessels can be the most dangerous to cross, but they have the most lights to tell you what is happening. Refer to COLREGS or the USCG Rules of the Road Rule 24 for all combinations You can pick a tow/push vessel out with the following lights:

• Two or three masthead lights in a vertical line. Three masthead lights shows a tow over 200 meters. Additional masthead lights may show for larger tow vessels.
• A towing light (yellow light with the same characteristics as a stern light) directly above the stern light.
• The will also have side lights and a stern light.
• The towed vessel will show sidelights and a stern light. Lighting may vary under USCG inland rules, where towing lights may replace stern lights. Learn these differences if this is your regular cruising ground. If you think there is a tow ahead of you, always go well behind the aft most set of lights. Never go between a tow and avoid crossing ahead if possible as it may restrict their maneuverability.

Special Situations

There are several rare situations you may encounter. As a general rule, if there are a lot of lights and you don't understand them look for the sidelights on a moving vessel. If you can find them and figure out the direction it is moving, it makes the vessel easier to avoid. Stay well clear of lights you do not understand if you can avoid them without risk.

Most of these signals are used by larger, commercial vessels and you will not need them.

They use these light combinations with other light combinations. For example a towing vessel may also be restricted in maneuverability, and a vessel constrained by draft will show running lights if moving.

• Not Under Command - two all around red lights in a single line
• Restricted in Ability to Maneuver - red, white then red in a single line
• Constrained by draft - three all around red lights

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• Digital edition

Night sailing tips for first timers

• Toby Heppell
• September 4, 2020

Cruising after dark doesn't need to be stressful. Toby Heppell shares his tops tips for night sailing

Sailing at night can be a magical experience. Credit: Paul Wyeth

Do you find night sailing stressful? It needn’t be if you follow a few basic rules and plan ahead.

Stay on deck while night sailing

As always with pilotage, the right place to be is on deck, not least to avoid uncharted objects such as other craft, mooring buoys and fishing pot markers.

Most pilotage errors occur at night rather than in the day so a thorough pilotage plan is essential.

Even with a navigation station filled with electronic aids it is still possible to become disorientated while trying to reconcile the view on deck with that on the chart.

Where possible, the right place to be is on deck. Credit: Paul Wyeth

You need a pilotage plan.

The most important principle is this: if you know the position of the yacht and you are armed with a chart (electronic or paper) and a compass, you know the range and bearing to the next mark.

This means that when you reach a known position, such as a navigation buoy, you know where to head to find the next one.

Simple, except that a surprising number of navigators waste time scanning the lights ahead with no plan to find the one they want.

Fishing pots

Unpredictable and unlit, these are the biggest danger at night.

Avoiding them is largely a matter of common sense.

Sometimes they are laid in deep water, but mostly they lurk in less than 50m.

Fishing pots, hard enough to spot in the daylight, become all but invisible at night

Avoid shallows if you can, especially near fishing harbours, and inside passages around headlands, even if you are confident of your position thanks to radar and plotter.

Even if you know where you are, there’s still the same risk of the engine stopping with a crunch, or finding yourself moored by the rudder or prop in a strong tide.

Light pollution

Light pollution is a well-known source of navigation stress, particularly when looking to enter an unfamiliar harbour after dark.

If it has been a while since you have done this, it is well worth returning to your own harbour after dark and noting the different complexion the various landmarks take on when not visible to the naked eye.

A large, unlit buoy may be sited just in front of a particularly well-lit hotel rendering it difficult to spot.

Another feature of light pollution (but of sailing at night more generally too) is the reduction in our ability to judge distances.

This is particularly acute when coming into harbour.

A navigation buoy’s light may well get lost in the background of a sea of lights when, during the day it would be clear and obvious the nav buoy was some way offshore.

Night vision

The sensitivity of our eyes increases the longer they are in the dark and it can take many minutes for maximum sensitivity to be acquired, and the improvement is dramatic.

Unfortunately it can be lost in a few seconds of exposure to bright lights.

Eyes have cones that are used for colour vision in daylight, and more sensitive rods that come into their own at night.

The rods are not sensitive to red light and this means that if you switch to red illumination your eyes can continue to adapt while you move around the boat.

The bad news for those of pensionable age is that your eyes will only be about a third as sensitive to low light as in your youth.

Is red light at night always best?

Binoculars will boost illumination by about 50 times and go a long way to redressing the balance.

However, it still pays to have your youngest crew on lookout.

It is worth noting too, that in this high-tech age, our cockpits are often filled with screens all giving off light.

Most of these screens can be dimmed or put into night mode, but sailing in the dark can be such a calm experience that the harsh light of screens can detract.

Keep your electronics on and functioning and use as appropriate.

If they are on and lit up in the cockpit they tend to draw the eye and can have the effect of making you less aware of that which is going on around you.

Poorly lit craft

Inshore, yachts can be hard to spot.

Coming into places like Southampton, Portsmouth or any other significant port with strong background lighting and a tight channel for leisure craft you are likely to be up against a significant confusion of lights.

Yachts are especially awkward if they opt for a tricolour at the masthead instead of proper running lights in close quarters.

You are looking ahead for trouble, not up in the sky!

Tricolours are great on passage though, increasing the likelihood of being spotted and minimising power drain – remember, do not use your tricolour when under power.

Fishing boats’ navigation lights are often made hard to see thanks to a bright deck light to enable the crew to work on deck.

Many larger ships are well lit up at night making them easier to spot. Credit: Colin Work

Watch them closely and expect erratic course changes.

Try to give them plenty of space to stay safe.

Around the UK other than the decklights making it hard to discern their heading from a distance, fishing craft should not cause too much worry.

But, you will want to avoid ending up astern of them in case they are trawling, so do take plenty of time to discern their direction of travel.

In some parts of the world fishing craft of various sizes do sometimes operate without proper lighting, so if you are entering a busy seaport always take it slowly.

Cruise ships and ferries are invariably lit up like Christmas trees.

It can be hard to pick out the red and green amongst the plethora of other lights onboard, so take time to work out what they’re up to and consult AIS if you have it.

Given their size, if you are close to shore even without seeing their nav lights it is usually fairly easy to make a decent guess at their bearing relative to you by glancing at your chart to get a sense of the main nav channels.

Safety on deck while night sailing

For the most part you will have your own rules about when lifejackets go on, whether that be worn the whole time, when the windstrength is above ‘x’ knots etc.

The strong recommendation is to always wear a lifejacket when on deck after nightfall, and this is sensible.

Some choose not to in calm weather and if they are in the cockpit.

As ever, what you decide will be between you and your crew.

Wearing a lifejacket when sailing after dark is advisable

For my part I would strongly recommend a lifejacket at all times after dark.

Clipping on via your harness is also strongly recommended.

If you are sailing a long passage at night then do be aware of your harness clip scraping along the deck if you are moving around – it’s a very irritating noise for those trying to get some kip below.

It’s not always easy to force discipline on yourself, but it really does make sense to call on your crew if you need to go up on deck for any sort of sail adjustment.

Safety is not about buying things.

It is about an attitude of mind.

We must constantly be on the lookout for trouble at night so that we can forestall it, just as we do in the daytime.

If you are setting out on a passage that may well extend into the night, it is worth considering what food you intend to take.

There is a lot to be said for preparing an evening meal before set off.

Something like a pre-made stew can be easily heated and give you a boost to cover the last miles.

It can also help you warm up on deck or make for a hearty meal once you are tied up.

Have snacks and hot drinks easily to hand

Whatever you choose, make plenty of it, that way you have enough to get you through the night, or you can have a bit to keep you going but still have a meal left when you arrive at your destination.

Hot drinks are axiomatic.

Boiling a kettle and having somewhere safe to place a mug while you make an instant coffee has to be easy.

If it isn’t and you are reduced to pre-heating thermos flasks, there is something wrong with your boat or your arrangements.

Keep the drinks coming.

They maintain morale and give people something to do.

Effect on weather

All air usually cools at night, even over the sea.

This will be more obvious when it has been a sunny day not far from land.

The result is that there are fewer gusts and a decrease in the average wind strength as the thermally enhanced breeze disappears.

On a night with low-lying cloud or hill fog, some lighthouses will not be visible.

Note the height of the lantern from the chart and be ready for the occasional disappointment.

Continues below…

Is red light at night best?

Dag Pike considers the age-old adage that using red light preserves your night vision

How to tackle a night passage short-handed

Worried about ‘things that go bump in the night’? Tom Cunliffe says night sailing is easier than you think –…

Night pilotage: How to enter unfamiliar harbours

James Stevens looks at how best to prepare for arriving at an unfamiliar harbour after dark and what to be…

Halos around the moon can be really obvious at night.

A big one is often a sign of an approaching front.

If the wind is light, think about starting the engine and keeping up boat speed.

In conditions when the air is moist, a degree or so of cooling after dark might be just enough to shut down poor-to- moderate visibility into mist or even fog.

Distant lightning is more easily seen at night, so don’t be too alarmed if you see it flashing around the horizon.

Sailing and sail handling while night sailing

Once darkness falls, moving around on deck should be reduced and so it makes sense to have out sails that are well within the conditions at the time.

Many skippers like to shorten sail before dark, regardless of conditions, so as to minimise the chance of having to handle sails at night.

However, you should still be willing and able to change sails, or take in or let out reefs, if necessary, particularly if you are on a long passage.

It is a very good idea to mark your halyards so that you can roughly get them in the right place for reefs etc.

Some skippers like to shorten sails as night falls to minimise the chance of sail handling. Credit: Graham Snook/YM

You should also have a working set of deck lights, so you can illuminate everything when doing big jobs.

If you are not far from your final destination and daylight is disappearing, it might be worth switching the engine on and getting sails down and tidy before the dark really takes hold.

But if you’re confident in your passage plan then this is far, far from crucial.

Reducing sail, however, helps with your own ability to see and be seen.

In busy areas many sailors like to have quite a bit of the headsail rolled away as this improves visibility looking forward – a good idea for busy ports in daylight too.

At the beginning of the night, the skipper should make sure everyone understands what adjustments can be made unsupervised by those on deck and when more crew should be called up to assist.

This may vary, depending on the crew’s experience.

Intuitive sailing

There are additional strips you can get added to sails that glow at night to allow you to properly set them at night, but this is really only necessary for racers and those looking to make very long night passages.

In truth, there is usually enough light to get some decent sense of how your sails are set, and if you have reduced sail before night falls, then the consequences of getting things wrong is just a slowing of pace.

Having a torch handy to check trim and telltales is a real help.

Toby Heppell got his first boat aged four and grew up sailing on the East Coast. He has been a sailing journalist for over 15 years. Credit: Richard Langdon

Though some are tempted to switch on the motor once dark falls, sailing in the dark is a really fun and tranquil experience and can improve your sailing skills during the day.

Without the ability to see gusts approaching on the water, your sail trim is going to be far more reactive than it might otherwise be.

Feel becomes key when sailing at night.

Sailing by feel is something of a specialism for blind sailors.

Lucy Hodges, Blind Sailing World Champion, once offered me this advice: ‘A key area for me when sailing are the hairs on the back of my neck. I always make sure that my neck is exposed. With a bit of practice you may be surprised how quickly you can lean to feel changes in wind pressure and direction.’

The key to sailing by feel, is using all of your senses.

Feeling the roll of a boat is essential, if you feel the boat is starting to heel, and if the hairs on your neck have not changed, the wind might not have altered and you probably want to adjust course slightly.

If the boat begins to heel and the hairs on your neck feel different, the wind may have increased so you might adjust trim.

Of course with visual inputs too, we do not need to sail entirely on feel when night falls, but it does stand as a great example of how different and rewarding sailing at night can be.

It can really help you feel more in tune with your boat.

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Navigation Lights for Sailboats (And How To Read Them)

Last Updated by

Capt Chris German

June 15, 2022

Navigation lights on a sailboat can be confusing. If you understand the reason behind why they are the way they are however, they can make a lot more sense.

At their heart, sailboats are really just a power boat and as such must adhere to all power boat rules such as navigation lights. Other times however, a sailboat is classified in a special category. They have a set of additional lights they CAN show as an option, but are not always required to do so.

That’s about as clear as mud if you ask me and I contend that that is where the confusion about lighting a sailboat begins.

Just because you can show a light to identify yourself in times of low visibility, does not mean you have to and then we add in a little sibling rivalry between power and sail and things get downright adversarial when it comes to navigation and the night.

Table of contents

The USCG says You’re a Power Boat Whether You Like It or Not

Much to the consternation of many a sailor who has earned a commercial license to drive their sailboat, when you received your credential from the USCG it says you are a master of steam and power across the top with no mention of wind as a source of propulsion.

It is not until you read the back pages of your little red book that feels like a passport and looks like a US Sailing credential, that you will see the term “sail auxiliary”. That is because most of the time the U.S. Coast Guard knows that you are primarily reliant on your mechanical power to propel your vessel.

It's a sad thing, but the days of commercially viable sail boats are done and all but the most select few even have sails let alone use them as their primary power source. All sail boats by law are powerboats, but not all powerboats are sailboats.

Navigation Lights for a Power Boat

As a power boat, you are required to show certain lights and have been required to do so before power was even invented. 

In the days of man powered vessels like the viking ships who relied on oars while in close quarters to power their vessels, they needed to show other boats, friend or foe, where they were by showing lanterns in the dark to identify themselves. As you know, it is a time honored rule among all the nations of the world both past and present, that you must avoid a collision at all costs while at sea and even the viking knew that you should not run into things.

By lighting the front and back of your boat, you could warn other boats of your presence as well as identify which way you were heading. As such there is a very specific rule in the Code of Federal Regulations Number 46 (CFR46 by common name) that spells out with detail how many, the color, the luminosity or brightness, the angle of visibility and the location of all of the lights required for navigation on every single boat, seaplane, submarine and other nondescript vessel conceived by man to date that they must show while underway in reduced visibility.

And there is no flexibility in the rules.

As such a power boat, and by extension all sailboats, MUST, without question show one green light on the starboard bow and one red light on the port bow and one all around white light or lights while operating in reduced visibility. These lights should shine at all 360 degrees of visibility with the bow lights shining at an angle of dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam and the stern lights shining 225 degrees dead aft. A forward facing masthead light that is white in color shall shine forward to comply with the directive that all vessels must carry an all around white light. For more read here .

As you can see, there isn’t much wiggle room when it comes to lights that must be shown.

Sailboats get a little flexibility with lights

Sailboats however, are a little different when they are in fact sailboats, which is only when you are entirely reliant on the wind for power and in no way reliant on any mechanical or manual means of propulsion. And for good reason.

Back in the day when men were men and sailboats were wooden, fire was a major concern. Sails were coated with wax and other flammable substances and the wood on boats was saturated with oils and grease. Even the ropes were plant materials saturated with oils to keep them pliable and strong.

Add those highly flammable substances to a parching environment like the sea and you had what was essentially a giant floating tinderbox.

Then tell that giant floating tinderbox that they need to identify themselves to the world at large at night using oil lamps with flames because batteries and lights were not invented yet. It didn't take very long or very many ships burning to the water line for the Governments to say to the sailboats, you get to do things a little different.

As such, sailboats are given special dispensation when it comes to lights aloft. They don't have to show an all around white light in their rigging because no one wanted to set their rig on fire with oil lamps 60 feet up in their rig.

However, when a sailboat takes their sails down such as when they are powered or at anchor, they must resume the display of an all around white light or lights aloft. That became a real challenge with aluminum masts and the disappearance of rat lines on the shrouds because there was no easy way to climb the rig and check the bulbs up the mast on a regular basis. 

Red over Green Sailing Machine

I have no idea where the history of this particular light comes from, but if you ever take a deck exam with the USCG, you better remember this mnemonic. An all around red light over an all around green may be displayed on a vessel during times of reduced visibility to indicate that a vessel is operating under sail power alone. 

I won’t even speculate on how or why they came up with this particular light configuration, but if you want to use these lights as a sailing vessel, you can do so, but that means that you will need three all round lights at the top of your mast, an all around white, an all around red and an all around green, just in that order.

The red over green is to be displayed in addition to the running lights or the red and green bow lights with the 225 degree stern light. As always, when the motor comes on, so does the steaming light or the forward facing white light that is also usually about ¾ of the way up on your mast to complete the requirement of an all around white light that indicates a power vessel.

What is a “steaming light” and why are you mentioning it now?

Most sailboat electrical panels will have a switch that is labelled “steaming light” and it will only come on when your anchor light is off. This is probably the most confusing part of sailboat navigation lights so if you are confused about this, you're in good company as most people are. 

A “steaming” light is named thusly, going back to the days of steam powered sailboats where when they fired up their boilers and doused the sails, they became a power boat once again. There aren’t too many steam powered boats, let alone steam powered sailboats, but the name stuck and it is a vestige of a bygone era.

Either way, when you fire up your motor, you turn on your “steaming light” and that locks out the all around white light which is used for anchoring to minimize the number of switches on your panel and reduce the number of wires in your mast. The fewer wires, the less chance of something not working or becoming disconnected.

The steaming light and the anchor light both go up the mast, but you can’t use an all around white light while using the 225 degree stern light at the deck level because to other boaters you would look like you have two white lights from the stern and that would be confusing.

The anchor light is used exclusively for anchoring while the steaming light is used to indicate you are a power vessel while underway.

As to why I am mentioning it now in the article, is because this would have blown your mind if I started with this subject cause it can be really confusing stuff.

Aspect Recognition with Lights

Remember when I said earlier that lights can help you tell others which way you are heading as well as tell you which way other boats are heading? That is called the aspect of the vessel and the USCG tests you on this for your deck exam as well. 

Knowing that the bow lights go 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on both sides or 112.5 degrees on each side, and the stern light faces 225 degrees aft for a total of 360 degrees of visibility, you can tell a lot about where a boat is heading and who has the right of way.

One thing that's easy to remember is red means stop and if you see a vessel's red light, it means stop as you are the give way vessel and approaching the other vessel from his port side. Conversely it works with green as well as that means you are approaching from the other vessel's starboard side and you are the standon vessel.

If you see a red and green light equally low on the horizon, that means your heading dead on into another vessel's path and conversely if all you see is a white light low on the horizon, it means you are overtaking another vessel power or sail, we don’t care because it is an overtaking situation. However, any time you do see a white light aloft in addition to the red and green bow lights, you know you are encountering a power boat.

Then there are angular approaches as well, where you see white and red or white and green light low on the horizon. You know in that case you are seeing a portion of the bow lights and stern lights from the side approaches of a vessel. Based on which direction those lights are heading, you can deduce which way that boat is going in relation to your boat.

So put it all together and you see a green light and a white light low on the horizon with a red over green light aloft, you know that you are approaching a sailboat that is traveling to your port and that might make you the standon vessel. That is of course, if we didn’t concern ourselves with windward and leeward and port tacks and starboard tacks, but that is a discussion for another article. So stay tuned when we talk about sailing rules and the right of way. But for now, do good, have fun and sail far.

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Capt Chris German is a life long sailor and licensed captain who has taught thousands to sail over the last 20 years. In 2007, he founded a US Sailing-based community sailing school in Bridgeport, CT for inner city youth and families. When Hurricane Sandy forced him to abandon those efforts, he moved to North Carolina where he set out to share this love for broadcasting and sailing with a growing web-based television audience through The Charted Life Television Network.

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7 Tips for Night Sailing

By: Pat Reynolds Cruising Tips , Learn To Sail , Safety

Now that we’re into the summer months, lots of you might want to stretch your skill set and do a bit of night sailing. It’s a bit of a different animal so we’ve cobbled together seven things to keep in mind as you head off into the wild black yonder.

• Dress accordingly It may be obvious for some, but don’t forget the big ball of yellow heat will be replaced by a cold little white ball that will not help the warmth cause at all. Your ability to enjoy the pleasure that a gorgeous night on the water can provide is directly proportionate to you being dressed for the environment. Don layers, with a spray jacket on top and life should be good.
• Carry a decent searchlight Night boating involves becoming accustomed to the available light and acclimating to it. It’s actually one of the cool things to experience during a sail in the dark, so constantly shining a spotlight like you were hand-holding your car’s headlights is not where it’s at. That said, there are instances where having a high-powered light on board can make things considerably safer. Coming into a harbor, verifying a navigational aid or identifying something foreign in the water are all common situations that benefit from a good light.
• Stand a watch Of course someone should always be keeping an astute lookout whenever the boat is underway, but this is hyper-important during the restricted visibility that night sailing involves. If you’re lucky enough to have a bright full moon than things are a bit easier but short of that, it’s dark out there folks! Someone needs to keep a mandated watch. By the way, if that person is you, be prepared to have one of the most quality “alone-times” you’ve ever had. People are known to find the meanings of their lives on night watches. You might well return from your nice sail and promptly quit your job, dump that angry spouse and finally get in shape!
• Don’t push Many old salts attach a different attitude and mentality for night sails. During the day the fun might be to vigilantly trim and adjust, catch lifts, shift weight and monitor that knot-meter for that rewarding uptick – 3/10s of a knot – Yes! “ Herman are you secretly racing that little boy in the sabot? ” “ No, of course not. ” But Herman is racing that little boy in the sabot! Anyway, at night it’s good to downshift and run the boat at a lower percentage. Enjoy the serenity this time of day has to offer and understand that downsizing the operation a little will make for a safer and more fulfilling experience.
• Make sure Waypoints are Clear & Safe Most sailors rely on electronic aids to see them around the waterways and at night they become even more important. They can also, in certain situations, make things less safe. A few years ago, the famous Newport to Ensenada race reported their first deadly accident when a group of sailors ran into a small island off the coast of San Diego. After an investigation, it was determined that the sailors, in all likelihood, didn’t account for the land-mass (island) when they entered in their waypoints. They might have been sleeping or just not paying attention when their cruising boat tragically ran up on the rocks. This would never have happened during the day, but sailing at night brings with it these kinds of considerations.
• Know the Light Patterns Fortunately charts and boats are all set up for sailing at night so it’s absolutely essential that the skipper and at least some of the crew know what the language of lights is saying out there. Boats are equipped with lights situated in such a way that other boats can tell what’s going on and charts are filled with light-related information that will clue mariners in on where they are. It can be confusing to look into a harbor located outside of a city and try to understand what is going on. “ Why is that harbor entrance light switching from green to red like that? Oh, that’s Washington blvd… ” Know what to look for and how the lights behave and the confusion will be greatly reduced.
• Wear a PFD We understand that not everyone wears their pfd for whatever reason – it’s not comfortable, it’s filthy from lying on the floor for the past month, it sucks away at your already limited sex appeal – we get it. We don’t agree with the decision, but okay. For night boating, swallow your reasoning and put that thing on. Things can get slick on the boat at night and God forbid you end up in the drink, that little pea head of yours is very hard to see in the night. If you’re floating around for a while screaming “over here!” things are vastly better. Attach a battery powered personal beacon/light to it while you’re at it. Follow our advice and should you end up overboard you’ll be back in the boat in no time!

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Night sailing – the essential guide for offshore cruisers

• April 19, 2017

Chris Tibbs on how to prepare for and enjoy offshore night watches

With a full moon and following wind, night sailing can be one of the great pleasures to be had when passagemaking; but on a dark night in a gale it can be very stressful and leave you longing for dawn.

Whether you are crossing the Channel or crossing an ocean, sailing in the dark is something that everyone experiences at some stage in their sailing career and with some simple preparations you can make it easier and safer.

Have you ever been asked by a non-sailor: “What do you do out on the ocean at night?” It often comes as a surprise to find that sailing has always been a 24-hour pastime.

Traditionally, passages were made at night and planned so that landfall was at dawn to assist with identifying the lights and confirming the yacht’s position. Then the skipper could enter port safely during daylight.

With GPS we now rather underestimate the usefulness of lights for position fixing and, as more yachts are fitted with AIS, crossing shipping lanes has become less difficult now that you are not solely reliant on identifying each ship’s navigation lights.

Of course, not all vessels have AIS!

How to prepare for long passages

Generally night sailing falls into one of two categories: the first is a one-off night sail, such as the start of a summer cruise to get the boat to your cruising ground, or perhaps a RORC or JOG cross-Channel race. The second is a long passage where there will be a number of days between the start and finish with consecutive night sails.

For me there should be little difference when setting up the boat although there will be a difference in watchkeeping.

Whether cruising or racing, the crew spending consecutive nights at sea requires a more rigid watch system – covering the full 24 hours – than the one-night crew. But the principles of watch-keeping do also apply to single nights at sea.

One of my pet hates used to be the Friday night cross-Channel races. Crews would arrive all enthusiastic after a hard week at work, but by 0200 tiredness had set in and we would see ourselves slowly working our way to the back of the fleet with only one or two awake enough to be competitive.

Most boats are logical in their layout and it is always a pleasure when a new but experienced crew comes on board as they will rarely need telling twice which rope is which.

Yes it is good to label clutches but soon after joining everyone should know by feel and position which rope is which.

Close your eyes and feel – size becomes very apparent and the covers will feel different. Hold the spinnaker halyard in one hand and the topping lift in the other; feel the different sizes and textures.

It is always good to keep the same ropes in the same position so at night in the dark, when the label is obscured anyway, it is easy to pick up the right one.

Humans are not particularly good at seeing at night and it takes a long time to get full night vision.

The eyes are incredible complex and there are three phases in adapting to the dark.

Initially our pupils dilate to allow as much light in as possible; this may take from a few seconds to a minute to happen.

The next phase takes place in the cone cells of the eye. In the absence of light we get chemical changes in the cell and it can take ten minutes for the cone cells to adapt to the dark.

Lastly we have rod cells which are responsible for black and white vision and these contain rhodopsin which is reactivated in the absence of light. This will take several hours to fully adapt to the dark.

Although we are all different, as a rough guide it takes about ten minutes to get most of our night vision, which gets slowly better over the following few hours. This can be put back to zero very quickly by the use of bright lights.

How to use lights on board at night

All crew members should have a flashlight and it’s worth keeping a powerful spotlight on deck for rig checks and emergencies.

When sail trimming try and use as weak a flashlight as possible and also warn the helmsman and lookouts before using it.

We have had great success in painting the lenses of flashlights with red nail varnish: the red light is much kinder on the eyes and nail varnish is more readily available than red flashlights.

Red lights are also crucial below. Some yachts will have split lights with red to be used at night. In the past, I have used stick-on red film from a photographic shop.

Generally we cover half of the lights red when cruising, but for long offshore passages we will cover all the lights with red film to avoid the wrong switch being used.

It would be nice to have two complete circuits to turn off the white lights completely, however ten minutes with a pair of scissors and all lights are covered.

Head torches leave both hands free, but I actually hate them on deck when sailing. If spoken to it is the natural reaction to turn and look at the person speaking, instantly ruining their night vision. Some head torches will have red bulbs but any bulb shining straight into your eye is damaging for your night vision.

Use light sparingly as the less you use, the less you tend to need. With the latest instruments and multifunction displays you can control the brightness of the image: keeping it to a minimum helps night vision and also consumes less power.

I am told that in training, some Mini Transat and Figaro sailors will practice sailing blindfold.

Night sailing tips for cruisers

I have been involved with the ARC for many years and it seems that most crews will routinely drop spinnakers and reduce sail for the night. All very prudent but nights are long in the tropics – approaching 12 hours of darkness.

I am not one for fixed rules, so I would rather see a boat set up for simple sail handling and allow conditions to dictate the sail plan. This also depends on the number of crew on board and the watch-keeping regime.

It makes sense to mark halyards and control ropes. I like to sew in a whipping of a contrasting colour onto the line marking the correct position just out of the clutch. This can be felt as well as seen and is particularly useful when reefing.

I also like to mark halyards at the maximum hoist to avoid anyone getting too enthusiastic and winding the splice or knot into the sheave. This is something racing boats have done for years and for cruisers would be useful for both day and night sailing.

Luminous draft stripes can be added to sails to help with sail shape and small amounts of reflective tape can also be stuck around the boat to help see and identify equipment.

On my boat the wheel is marked with a turk’s head knot to feel the centre point, to which we have also added some reflective tape to make it visible in low light.

If you make sail changing and trimming simple you can usually do it with just the ambient light and a small flashlight. The decklight knocks out any visibility forward. A tricolour light should light up the windex and if conditions are marginal, a steaming light can be used to check spinnaker trim, although any lights forward spoil night vision and, of course, a steaming light indicates to others that you are motoring not sailing.

When planning a voyage, make life easier and safer by maximising your moonlight hours: sailing under a full moon and clear sky is as easy as sailing during the day.

Crew preparation

Sailing is no fun when tired and hungry. There seems to be a tendency on cruising yachts to run short-handed with single-person watches. Of course, single-handed sailors circle the globe in ever faster yachts, but the average cruising yacht is not really very well set up for single-handed sailing.

Hot drinks and snacks at night are essential.

The typical cruising yacht has a number of roles to perform, so the ideal deck layout in terms of sailing efficiency will be compromised by the requirements of the cabin space below.

This tends to encourage slow sailing: if it is hard to single-handedly reduce sail, it makes sense to automatically reef at night so you do not have to call anyone to help.

Two or three hours is long enough to be up on your own and with shorter watch times, there is the opportunity to change sail during a change of watch when there are two people on deck.

When my wife and I are double-handed passagemaking, we stick to three-hour watches, as this is as long as I can keep concentration. But it is tiring. For ocean crossings we tend to have an extra person to help.

Night raids and the importance of the midnight snack

When racing you have to push 24 hours a day to be competitive, although you can be a bit more conservative at night to help preserve the boat and crew.

When I skippered Concert in the BT Global Challenge, we would occasionally do a ‘night raid’. This involved handing out a few extra treats for dinner then, putting the best drivers on the helm, we would really push through the hours of darkness. This usually paid off with a few miles gained.

I would be happy to cross an ocean on freeze-dried food but I think I am in a minority! Food and drink is important for fuel and also for enjoyment.

Food at night is particularly important for energy and well-being. Sealed personal drink flasks stay hot for a couple of hours, the biggest danger being burning your mouth in the first hour. Snacks are also good on night watches: our bodies are used to sleeping at night and a snack helps to keep us going.

One trick that I like is a Cup-a-Soup in a wide-mouthed flask with a few teaspoons of couscous added. Put the lid on and leave it five minutes and you have a tasty and filling savoury snack!

How to be a watchkeeper

Watchkeepers should not take the responsibility lightly. You need an experienced watchkeeper crossing the Channel due to the level of shipping and navigation required on the passage. Further offshore a less experienced watchkeeper has more time to call the skipper.

Why longer passages are easier

Everyone on board has to get enough sleep. It may be possible, physically, to go 24 hours without sleep, but decision-making suffers and it is easy to make mistakes.

I prefer, if possible, to have at least two people on a watch, this avoids having to call extra crew for small sail changes or manoeuvres. It does also mean that when you are off watch, your sleep is not disturbed. With two on watch, three or four-hour watches pass quickly, split between steering, lookout, and navigation.

Racing is a bit different as there is generally a bigger crew. I am not a fan of everyone on the rail all night, and rotating the crew so everyone gets some sleep is important.

For longer races like the Fastnet I would have a rigid watch system so everyone gets some good sleep. If anything goes wrong then it always seems to happen at about 0400 when people are at their lowest ebb.

I would also get into the watch system early, probably before Portland, to get into a rhythm. Our bodies are very complex and need time to adjust; a short passage of two or three nights can be more tiring than a transatlantic.

Personally I find it takes about three days to get settled. I then get one really good deep sleep and I am fine for the rest of the voyage. I tend to find short passages – anything less than three days – more tiring, which is why I prefer a bigger crew for sailing a few hundred miles than I do for sailing longer passages.

7 Top tips for Safety at  night

• Prepare your boat: mark all halyards and brief crew on cockpit layout • Be patient with night vision: it takes three hours to fully adapt and moments to ruin • Red lights: either use red see-through film, red light bulbs or even nail polish • Get into watches early on the voyage: the body needs time to adjust to a new rhythm • Good food is especially important at night when the body is conditioned to be sleeping • Think safety and preparation: don’t run a one-person watch if the boat’s not easy to sail solo • Avoid getting overtired: concentration and decision making is essential at sea

Chris Tibbs is a meteorologist and weather router, professional sailor and navigator, as well as an ARC safety inspector. He is currently doing a circumnavigation with his wife, Helen, on their own boat, Taistealai.

The Night Vision Techniques

Explore the techniques and tools for safely sailing under the stars with our comprehensive guide to night sailing, from preserving your night vision to navigating in the dark and following proper etiquette.

The Night Vision Techniques: A Comprehensive Guide to Night Sailing

Sailing under the stars can be a magical experience, but it also presents unique challenges and requires a different set of skills than daytime sailing. In this article, we’ll explore the essential techniques for maintaining your night vision, as well as tips for navigating and staying safe during your nocturnal adventures on the open sea.

Table of Contents

Understanding night vision, preserving your night vision, navigating at night, safety tips for night sailing, night sailing etiquette.

Before we dive into the techniques for maintaining your night vision, it’s important to understand how our eyes work in low-light conditions. Our eyes have two types of photoreceptor cells: rods and cones. Cones are responsible for color vision and function best in bright light, while rods are more sensitive to light and are responsible for our ability to see in low-light conditions.

In darkness, our eyes undergo a process called dark adaptation, which allows the rods to become more sensitive to light. This process can take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the individual and the level of darkness. Once our eyes have fully adapted, we can see much better in the dark, but it’s important to note that our night vision is still limited compared to our daytime vision.

Now that we understand the basics of night vision, let’s explore some techniques for preserving it while sailing at night:

1. Limit Exposure to Bright Light

The most important factor in maintaining your night vision is to limit your exposure to bright light. This includes both natural sources, such as the moon and stars, and artificial sources, such as cabin lights and electronic devices. To minimize exposure to bright light:

• Keep cabin lights dimmed or turned off when not in use.
• Use red or amber lights instead of white lights, as these colors are less disruptive to night vision.
• Avoid looking directly at bright light sources, such as the moon or other boats’ lights.
• Limit the use of electronic devices with bright screens, or adjust the brightness settings to minimize glare.

2. Allow Time for Dark Adaptation

As mentioned earlier, it takes time for our eyes to fully adapt to darkness. Before setting sail at night, spend some time in a dimly lit environment to allow your eyes to adjust. If you need to transition from a brightly lit area to a dark one, close your eyes for a few minutes to help speed up the adaptation process.

3. Use Peripheral Vision

Our peripheral vision is more sensitive to light than our central vision, making it more effective for detecting objects in low-light conditions. When scanning the horizon or searching for objects in the water, try looking slightly to the side of the object rather than directly at it. This will allow you to use your peripheral vision and increase your chances of spotting the object.

4. Keep One Eye Covered

If you need to briefly expose yourself to bright light, such as when checking a chart or using a flashlight, try covering one eye to preserve its night vision. This technique, known as the “pirate’s patch,” can help minimize the impact of bright light on your overall night vision.

Navigating at night presents its own set of challenges, but with the right techniques and tools, you can safely and confidently sail under the stars. Here are some tips for night navigation:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Night Sky

Learning to recognize constellations and other celestial landmarks can be a valuable skill for night navigation. Familiarize yourself with the night sky and practice identifying key constellations, such as the North Star (Polaris), which can help you determine your latitude and direction.

2. Use Electronic Navigation Tools

While celestial navigation is a valuable skill, modern electronic navigation tools, such as GPS and chartplotters, can provide more accurate and reliable information. Make sure your navigation equipment is in good working order and that you’re familiar with its operation before setting sail at night.

3. Keep a Close Eye on the Weather

Weather conditions can change rapidly at sea, and poor visibility due to fog, rain, or clouds can make night navigation even more challenging. Keep a close eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

4. Maintain a Proper Lookout

Maintaining a proper lookout is essential for safe night sailing. In addition to scanning the horizon for other vessels and obstacles, pay close attention to the water’s surface for signs of changes in depth or the presence of debris. Remember to use your peripheral vision and avoid staring directly at bright light sources.

In addition to the navigation tips above, there are several safety precautions you should take when sailing at night:

1. Ensure Your Boat is Properly Lit

Make sure your boat’s navigation lights are functioning properly and are visible from all angles. This will help other vessels see you and avoid collisions.

2. Wear Reflective Clothing and Gear

Wearing reflective clothing and gear, such as life jackets and harnesses, can help make you more visible to other boaters and increase your safety on the water.

3. Keep a Sharp Ear

In addition to maintaining a proper lookout, use your sense of hearing to detect potential hazards. Listen for the sound of waves breaking on nearby shores, the hum of approaching engines, or the calls of other sailors.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Before setting sail at night, make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit on board, including flares, a VHF radio, and a flashlight with spare batteries. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and be prepared to act quickly in case of an emergency.

Finally, it’s important to be considerate of other sailors and follow proper etiquette when sailing at night:

• Keep noise levels to a minimum, as sound travels farther over water at night.
• Be mindful of your boat’s lights and avoid shining them directly at other vessels.
• Give other boats plenty of space and avoid crowding popular anchorages or mooring areas.

Night sailing can be a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it requires a different set of skills and precautions than daytime sailing. By understanding the principles of night vision, practicing proper navigation techniques, and following safety guidelines, you can confidently set sail under the stars and enjoy the unique beauty and freedom of the open sea at night.

How Should a Sailboat Be Lit At Night? (Expert Advice You Need To Know)

Are you a sailboat enthusiast looking for ways to ensure your vessel is properly lit at night? Our expert advice will provide you with the information you need to know.

From US Coast Guard regulations and lights for longer vessels, to testing lights and the advantages of searchlights, we will cover all the details necessary for proper illumination.

Well even give you some tips and recommend the best accessories to help you navigate the night.

Lets get started on how to light your sailboat at night!

Table of Contents

Short Answer

At night, a sailboat should be lit according to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.

This includes displaying a white light at the masthead, a white light on the port side, and a red light on the starboard side.

Additionally, a stern light should be visible from the rear of the boat, and a deck light should be used to show the length of the boat.

Finally, a 360 degree all-round light should be used to show the boat has a length of less than 50 meters.

US Coast Guard Regulations for Sailboat Lighting

When it comes to sailing at night, it is essential to have proper lighting on board your vessel.

According to the US Coast Guard, all sailboats should be equipped with at least one all-round white light that is visible at a distance of two miles.

This light should be at the highest point on the boat and should be able to be seen from all directions.

Additionally, if a sailboat is longer than 39.4 feet, it should also be equipped with a masthead light, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight.

These lights should all be visible from a distance of two miles and should be arranged in a specific order in order to clearly identify the direction of the vessel.

All of the lights should be kept in good condition and should be tested regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly.

It is also recommended that any sailboats that are out after dark should also be equipped with a searchlight.

This will help other vessels identify the boat’s position and its direction of movement, ensuring the safety of all sailors.

It is important to remember that the lights should be clearly visible and should not be obscured by any other objects or sails.

Additionally, if you are sailing in an area with other boats, you should be aware of their lights as well.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your sailboat is properly lit and can be seen from a distance.

Necessary Lights for Longer Vessels

When sailing at night, it is essential for all vessels to be properly lit.

This is especially important for sailboats, which can be difficult to spot due to their low profile and lack of power.

The United States Coast Guard recommends that sailboats be equipped with certain lights to ensure that they can be seen from a distance of two miles.

For vessels that are longer than 39.4 feet, they should be outfitted with a masthead light, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight.

These lights should all be visible from a distance of two miles, and should be arranged in a specific order so that they can clearly identify the direction of the vessel.

It is important to remember that these lights should be in good condition and should be tested regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Additionally, it is also recommended that long sailboats that are out after dark should also be equipped with a searchlight.

This will help other vessels identify the boats position and its direction of movement.

A searchlight can be particularly useful in areas with a lot of traffic, as it ensures that other vessels are aware of the sailboats location.

Proper lighting is essential for a safe and enjoyable sailing experience at night.

By following the recommendations of the United States Coast Guard, sailboats can ensure that they are properly lit to ensure that they are visible from a distance of two miles.

Furthermore, the addition of a searchlight can also help other vessels identify the boats position and its direction of movement, making it easier for them to navigate around the sailboat.

Testing Lights Regularly

When it comes to sailing at night, it is important to ensure that your boat is properly lit.

This means not only having the correct lights, but also testing those lights regularly to make sure they are functioning properly.

According to the United States Coast Guard, any sailboat out after dark should be equipped with all-round white lights, masthead lights, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight, all of which should be visible from a distance of two miles.

Furthermore, these lights should be arranged in a specific order to clearly identify the direction of the vessel.

Testing your lights regularly is the best way to ensure that they will work when you need them to.

This means checking for any cracks or damage that may have developed over time.

Additionally, it is important to make sure that the lights are still functioning properly, as the bulbs can burn out over time, leaving you without the necessary illumination at night.

It is also recommended that any sailboats that are out after dark should be equipped with a searchlight.

This is especially important when navigating in unfamiliar waters, as it can help prevent collisions with other vessels.

By testing your boats lights regularly, you can be sure that they will be working properly when you need them.

This will help ensure that you are visible to other vessels, and that you can clearly identify the direction of your boat.

Additionally, having a searchlight onboard can give you an extra layer of protection while sailing in unfamiliar waters.

Searchlights For Extra Visibility

When sailing at night, it is important to ensure that your boat is properly lit for other vessels to identify your position and direction.

One of the most important pieces of equipment for night sailing is a searchlight.

It is recommended by the United States Coast Guard that boats sailing after dark should have a searchlight in order to make themselves more visible.

A searchlight is a powerful light that can be aimed in a particular direction to indicate the position and direction of the boat.

The light is made up of a powerful lamp, a reflector, and an aiming mechanism which allows for the light to be focused and directed.

Searchlights can be powered by either electric or battery power and can be mounted on the mast or stern of the boat.

The searchlight should be powerful enough to be seen from a distance of at least two miles, just like the other required lights.

It is important to make sure that the searchlight is in good working condition and is tested regularly, as it is the most important light for identifying the boats position and direction in the dark.

The searchlight also serves as an extra level of safety for the boat and its crew, as it can be used to identify other vessels in the vicinity and to determine their direction of movement.

In conclusion, a searchlight is an essential piece of equipment for any boat sailing after dark.

It is important to make sure that the searchlight is in good working condition and has been tested regularly.

With a searchlight, other vessels will be able to easily identify the position and direction of the boat, providing an extra layer of safety and helping to ensure safe night sailing.

Advantages of Searchlights

Searchlights offer a number of advantages to sailboats that are out after dark.

They can help other vessels identify the boats position and its direction of movement, making it easier to avoid collisions.

Additionally, they provide a convenient way to scan for other vessels, buoys, and other obstacles in the water.

Searchlights also offer greater visibility in foggy or low-light conditions, helping the boats crew to maintain better situational awareness.

Finally, they can also be used to signal to other boats, as many searchlights come with a variety of colors and patterns, allowing for more effective communication.

All in all, searchlights can make sailing at night easier, safer, and more enjoyable.

Tips For Proper Illumination

When it comes to properly lighting up your sailboat for night sailing, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.

First, always be sure to equip your boat with the required lighting.

The United States Coast Guard requires that sailboats be equipped with at least one all-round white light that is visible from two miles away.

Additionally, vessels longer than 39.4 feet must also be equipped with a masthead light, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight.

All of these lights should be visible from two miles away and should be arranged in the proper order to clearly identify the direction of the vessel.

Second, be sure to regularly test and maintain your lights to ensure they are in working condition.

The lights should be tested at least once a month and any faulty or damaged lights should be replaced immediately.

Additionally, it is a good idea to clean and polish the lenses of the lights every few months to ensure they are not obstructed by dirt or dust.

Finally, if you are out sailing after dark, be sure to also equip your boat with a searchlight.

This will help other vessels identify your boats position and its direction of movement.

It is also a good idea to carry a few spare bulbs for your lights in the event of a malfunction.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your sailboat is properly lit for night sailing.

Be sure to always adhere to the regulations set forth by the United States Coast Guard and always practice safe sailing.

Recommended Accessories

When it comes to sailing at night, it is important to make sure your boat is properly lit.

According to the United States Coast Guard, sailboats should be equipped with at least one all-round white light, which should be visible from a distance of at least two miles.

Additionally, any vessel longer than 39.4 feet should also be equipped with a masthead light, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight.

These lights should all be visible from a distance of two miles, and should be arranged in a specific order to clearly identify the direction of the vessel.

All of these lights should be kept in good condition, and should be tested regularly to ensure that they are functioning properly.

This will help other vessels identify the boat’s position and its direction of movement.

In addition to these necessary lights, there are a few other accessories that can make sailing at night safer and more enjoyable.

A deck light is a great accessory to have on board as it will help light up the deck and make it easier to see any potential obstacles.

Additionally, it can be used to help locate items that may have been misplaced.

A strobe light is another great accessory for night sailing, as it can be used to signal for help in an emergency.

It is also wise to have a set of navigation lights, which will make it easier to identify your boat as you sail in the dark.

Finally, having a handheld flashlight or headlamp on board can be invaluable in case of an emergency.

By making sure your boat is properly lit and equipped with the necessary accessories, you can ensure that your night sailing experience is safe and enjoyable.

With the right precautions and preparation, you can make sure that you and your crew are well-prepared for any potential hazards that may arise while sailing in the dark.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, sailboats should be properly lit at night to ensure the safety of the vessel and those on board.

The United States Coast Guard has specific regulations for sailboat lighting that should be followed.

Additionally, any vessels longer than 39.4 feet should be equipped with a masthead light, red/green sidelights, and a sternlight.

It is important to regularly test these lights to make sure they are functioning properly.

Searchlights are also recommended for sailboats that are out after dark, as they can help other vessels identify the boat’s position and direction of movement.

By following these tips, you can make sure your sailboat is properly lit at night and ensure a safe journey.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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15 Tips for Boating at Night [for Safety & Navigation]

As a new boat owner, one of the activities you may be most excited about is your opportunity to experience boating at night. This activity is rarely enjoyed by those who do not own their own boat, since most rentals often do not allow operation after dark. To enjoy it safely, however, you will need to know how to properly and lawfully operate your vessel at night.

1. Trust Your Navigation Tools

You are (at least, you should be) using relatively accurate digital navigation tools, such as GPS, chart plotters, depth sounders, and more. They should be able to help you measure and navigate effectively while nighttime boating, and you should always consider them with the appropriate weight. 

If you are night boating and your instruments indicate you are misdirected, and your eyes tell you something else, you should always second guess your eyes. The water and the dark water in particular can play many different tricks on your eyes, so don’t be afraid to lean on your tools. 

Beginners boating at night can easily be involved in a collision or other nighttime boating incident if they are not careful. Many beginners make the mistake of thinking they know better than their digital navigation aids, and this can end up being the reason they mistake a bell buoy for a lighthouse, and possibly put themselves and their vessel in danger.

2. Slow Down

While there are no speed limits on the water, there is an operating standard set by the USCG that the maximum speed is the top speed at which you can still safely operate your vessel. One of the most valuable nighttime boating tips is to slow down or control your overall speed. 

Boat speed at night is a crucial part of nighttime boating safety. Since boats do not operate within specific predetermined paths of travel, like cars on roads, there is a constant chance that you may encounter another vessel traveling in any conceivable direction. If this meeting happens at higher speeds, it could be disastrous, since nighttime navigation is much more complicated.

You should also keep your boat speed capped to a relatively modest speed at night since your night vision can be affected by any other strong light on the water or in your cabin. This can disorient or even blind you for a time, and if you are traveling at too high of a rate of speed it could mean a collision or be run aground.

3. Use Spotlights and Searchlights Appropriately

Another of the best tips for nighttime boating for beginners is that spotlights and searchlights should not be used as frequently as you may think. It is a surprisingly common mistake for new boaters to immediately shine powerful lights on other vessels they encounter at night. This is not only unnecessary, but it can create incredibly dangerous situations. 

Boats aren’t equipped with the same type of navigational lights as cars. They don’t have headlights because the reflective nature of water makes them relatively ineffective, and when they sweep across another boater, they can hamper the operator’s night vision for several minutes. This can render them unable to avoid collisions and more.

While your navigation boating lights should be on at all times when required, they should also be the only lights that are in operation during that time aside from lights on your dash or in your wheelhouse. There are additional docking lights that may be used, but they should only be used when docking, and only when in close proximity to the dock.

4. Get a Night Vision Device

One of the obvious and most challenging things about boating at night is the inability to rely on visual identification of vessels, areas, and more. When boating at night, your vision becomes accustomed to operating in low-light conditions and you will see your night vision become more useful. 

The problem is, any time you look at something that causes your pupils to constrict, even the smallest LED or digital display, your night vision can be hampered for several minutes. This can be fatal in a situation where you need to be able to rely on your vision, like an emergency or in close proximity to land or another vessel.

Getting a reliable light amplification monocular can be an absolute game-changer for those who struggle with regaining their night vision even after only small exposures to dim light. These devices will gather in light from ambient lights at night, or use other types of light amplification technology to give you a black & white, or black & green night vision image. 

5. Learn the Navigation Lights

US Coast Guard sets requirements for the navigation lights on boats that are required when operating at night. Not only do these lights help identify other vessels on the water, but understanding what the light requirements are can also help the operator to know what kind of vessel it is, what it may be doing, as well as a rough direction of travel.

Knowing what vessels are out there, what direction they’re heading, and what activity they may be engaged in can help keep you, your passengers, and even your entire vessel safe from potentially catastrophic harm. 

For example, if you see two boats that look like they are sufficiently ar apart for you to pass between can be perfectly safe unless they have three white masthead lights in a vertical line. In this case, passing between them could be deadly, since the boat in front is towing the one in the rear. Understanding how the navigation lights are used to signify what size vessel and what it’s doing is one of the most valuable tips for boating at night.

6. Learn the Navigation Sounds

In addition to setting the regulations and standards for the requirements of boat lights at night, the US Coast Guard has also standardized the issuance and acknowledgment of navigation audio signals . These sound signals consist of either whistle or horn blasts, in varied durations and combinations, being used to communicate the intent of one captain to another.

For example, in a pitch-black navigation or shipping channel, one boat is closing the distance to another boat traveling in the same direction. To indicate their intent to overtake the slower vessel, the faster vessel sounds two long blasts and two short blasts on their horn, indicating that they will overtake the slower vessel on the slower vessel’s port side. If the slower vessel agrees, they sound the same signal.

7. Post a Non-Captain Lookout

This is crucial for any boat carrying more than just its operator. During the day, the captain or operator of the vessel has sufficient light and environmental safety to be able to manage both the safe operation and monitoring of the ship, as well as the required safety lookout duties. The high visibility distance allows the opportunity to look away periodically in order to multitask further.

While boating at night, the operator should be sure that a full-time dedicated lookout is posted to assist with safe nighttime navigation. This will reduce the risk of the captain missing something or neglecting the readings on the gauges or chart plotter. The captain is simply not capable of being a lookout with the appropriate dedication.

This also will allow the captain to take immediate action the very moment that a problem is voiced to them. If they are busy trying to be a lookout as well as captain at night, there is a good chance they will not be standing at the wheel at the time.

8. Turn Down the Ambient Light

Your night vision is going to be absolutely vital to your night boating success and ongoing safety. You gain better night vision after going for a period of time with no illumination strong enough to force the constriction of the pupils. They dilate wide in the dark in order to take in as much light as possible, and if there is too much ambient light, it can sabotage your night vision significantly.

Make sure you dim all ambient lights, screens, indicators, and so on. Even your VHF radio, if it has a backlight function, should be turned nearly all the way down, so that if a random signal comes in, it doesn’t light up your whole cabin and ruin your night vision for the next 5 minutes. Bring a towel to drape over electronics and lights that you do need periodically, and some electrical tape for lights you absolutely do not need and cannot turn off.

9. Prepare the Safety Gear

Just like with any other maritime outing, you will need to make sure you have all of the legally required safety equipment , as well as additional items that may be useful during nighttime emergencies. The requirements are determined by the length of your vessel, and apply to things like PFDs, extinguishers, and so on.

There will be a required number of personal floatation devices, which can be lifejackets or even floating seat cushions. You will be required to have a minimum number of fire extinguishers unless your vessel is relatively small and has a fixed suppression system. There are also requirements for the number and type of emergency signaling devices that you must have on board.

The most important types of these will be the nighttime SOS signaling light, and the night-use flares or pyrotechnic devices. These are incredibly important as they are going to be the most visible signaling devices at night, and will have the greatest range.

10. Listen to Your Surroundings

If you are a beginner boating at night one of the most useful things you can do now and again is to shut everything down, and listen. Sound carries surprisingly well on the open water, especially at night when the water tends to be much calmer, and whistles, horns, and engines can often be heard for a large distance around. You may be amazed at how much you can suddenly hear when your eyes aren’t being overstimulated.

Many newer boaters may not be entirely comfortable taking their own vessel out for night boating right away, which is understandable as it can feel a little daunting.

If you fall into this category, see if one of your boating friends or members of your boating club would be willing to take you out for a night trip or two before you build the confidence to take your own boat out. This can help you to develop your listening skills before you have to put them to the test.

11. Take Extra Caution Around Boat Docks

Judging distances while boating at night is one of the most challenging things about nighttime operation overall. You might see a light on the water that looks like it’s miles away, but you close the distance quickly and see that it’s only a small cruiser. Or sometimes you see a light that looks like it is too close for comfort, only to find out when you reach them on VHF that they are nearly 2 miles away.

This effect carries over into the docking process as well. Tying up to a dock can be difficult enough for newer boaters during the daylight hours, and those difficulties get a force multiplier at night. Overhead lights making sharp, stark shadows. Low light levels in general presenting a challenge for your eyes that have been soaking up the night for hours. Be incredibly careful when docking at night, and be sure to use only the smallest nudges to the throttle.

12. Pack Warm Clothing

Boating at night is so incredibly different from daytime boating, that many people do not even think about the temperature change. Even if it was in the 90s during the day while you were on the deck setting hooks or soaking up some rays, when the sun goes down it can get chilly fast. 

Be sure you have brought along sufficient clothing to adjust to the lower temps at night. It is not uncommon for the air temperature to drop 20-40 degrees once the sun isn’t beating down on you. 

13. Prepare the Nighttime Boating Gear

In addition to lights on boats, there are several pieces of safety gear that you should keep on hand when boating at night.

Make sure you have:

• GPS/chartplotter
• Sound-signaling device (easily accessible)
• Signal lights and whistles tied to each life jacket
• Communication devices

Even though you may not be able to get service when you’re out on the water, it’s important to keep your cell phone on you at all times. If there is an emergency or you need to contact anyone when you have signal again 

A spotlight, flares, and glowsticks can all be helpful as well. If you end up using your spotlight, be careful so that you don’t blind other boaters.

Also, it is crucial that you have appropriately size life jackets for each passenger on your boat.

14. Avoid Stargazing if Possible

Being out on the open water at night, especially with a clear sky, is a unique experience, but one of the most important night boating tips is to avoid stargazing while your boat is moving.

Not only can this be disorienting, but it can also lead to vertigo and seasickness.

If you want to map the stars or stargaze, that’s perfectly fine, just be sure to do it when the boat is still to avoid dizziness, disorientation, and sickness.

Looking up at the stars can be a truly beautiful experience, but it is best done while the boat is anchored so you can really enjoy the view.

With the lack of light pollution out on the water, you can see the stars much more clearly, so stargazing is tempting.

If you do catch yourself glancing at the stars on a clear night, make sure you only look for a few seconds at a time while the vessel is in motion to avoid any discomfort.

15. Always Stay Alert

Keeping an eye out on your surroundings during the day is easy, as long as the weather is fairly clear. At night, however, it is a different story.

When you’re out on the water at night, you need to ensure you’re maintaining speeds that are safe for the conditions because challenges can pop up with minimal warning.

Rough water and the wake from other boats are some of the surface hazards, but there’s also the risk of hitting rocks and other obstacles below the surface. Ideally, you would have a lookout person onboard with you to help keep an eye on things.

While underwater hazards should be monitored, it’s more important to pay attention to the surface. Scan ahead of you for other watercraft, including canoes and kayaks. Many people enjoy nighttime water sports with no light, so it’s crucial to keep your eyes peeled for other boats on the water.

Is it safe to boat at night?

There are dangers that are present when boating at night, but as long as you are careful and have safety equipment, things should go smoothly.

What do you need for night boating?

Before you head out on your boat after dark, make sure you have all of the necessary safety equipment, as well as a boat spotlight.

Can you be on a boat after dark?

Boating at night is an activity that many people love. You can be on a boat after dark, you just need to follow night boating safety rules.

Can you put headlights on a boat?

While boat headlights may seem like a good idea, but they are not allowed. You can have a light for docking at night, but not boating.

What do 3 short blasts of a boat horn mean?

3 short blasts of a horn mean the boat is backing up. The 3 blasts are sounded when a dock is being departed in reverse.

How do you pass a boat at night?

If two boats are in a head-on meeting, both red and green lights will be visible. Boats should always pass each other on the port side.

Why do boats use red lights at night?

There are several colored lights boats display at night. Red lights are used to indicate a vessel’s port side, letting other boats know what is ahead.

What light must be shown when a powerboat is operating at night?

At night, all powerboats have to display their red and green navigation lights and either an all-around light or both a masthead and a sternlight.

What you must do when anchoring at night?

When you anchor at night, it is crucial that you display your all-around light to indicate to other boats where you are positioned.

What lights do you need to boat at night?

At night, boats must display their navigation lights. This includes their red and green side navigation as well as their masthead light.

How fast can you drive a boat at night?

The laws vary from state to state, but at night you can go between 15 mph and 30 mph, depending on where you are.

Robert Owens is the Chief of Content of Quicknav. Robert has been boating for over ten years and loves to share his experience on the water. His first boat was a dirt-cheap moderately beat up 2003 Bayliner 175, where he learned a tremendous amount about trailering, launching, docking, operating, and maintaining. He currently owns a Cruiser Yacht and is eyeing a sailboat.

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Sailing At Night: How To Prepare For Night Sailing

by Alfredo from Samboat | Jun 30, 2020

When it comes to renting a boat and going on a sailing holiday, night sailing attracts many sailors. Indeed, there is nothing more mysterious than hearing one’s ship sailing in total darkness. Offshore racing skippers are usually spend nights at sea to win their regattas. However, in the case of pleasure sailing you will also have to sleep on a boat. If you have to reach a specific destination by a certain date, this can be a good solution to enjoy your daytime stopovers.

But be careful, sailing at night requires a certain amount of preparation. Indeed, it can be more complex because of the lack of visibility, which hinders the perception of obstacles and the evaluation of distances.

Preparing for night sailing

As with any departure, it is essential to prepare for the trip by looking at the weather and the itinerary ahead. Take the time to take a look at your boat, check the weather forecast and note the tide times. It is essential to think about your sailing itinerary before the start. Even if you are using a GPS, it is useful to identify the various danger zones on your route and the lights assigned to them.

Night navigation requires more preparation of the boat in order to simplify manoeuvring in the dark. You must prepare the boat for night sailing. You have to clear the deck of all unnecessary ropes and prepare the sail for any possible manoeuvres. If you wish to sleep on a sailboat, remember to adapt the sail area, it is not recommended to sail under a spinnaker at night when cruising.

Before using your boat at night, you should check that your traffic lights are in perfect working condition, it will allow other boats to spot you at night. In addition to your boat’s lighting, you must provide a flashlight and headlamps for your crew members.

The sailor in the dark

Sailing at night is a very intense experience for any sailor, as he has to be especially careful. All the senses are awake and decision making is less obvious than during the day.

On the one hand, visibility is significantly lower when sailing at night. Even if the sailor’s eye gets used to the dark, the adaptation time is about 20 minutes. Any change in light if you return to the cabin regularly, for example, will hinder the adaptation process. It is therefore advisable to reduce the number of trips back and forth in the boat as much as possible.

As far as the equipment is concerned, always bring warm clothing, as the nights can be very cold. For your comfort and consistency, it is essential to maintain good body heat. Sleeping at sea for the first time is an intense experience that must be carried out in the best comfort.

It is also important to respect sleeping times, as staying awake at all times can be more dangerous. Usually the most difficult period of sailing is between 2 and 5 am. One of the best tips for staying awake is to take small portions of food with you and to keep yourself hydrated constantly.

The organization of the night crew

When sailing at night, crew members take turns at the helm to alternate between rest and navigation. You must define roles between the different crew members, for the sailing shifts and the tasks of each one.

Shift refers to a period of time during which a crew member is on duty or at rest. It is a particular rhythm that all crew members must adapt. You must define the duration of the shift in advance for each crew member. The shift may be carried out alone or with other crew members by using bearing systems. When working a shift alone, the maximum length is 3 hours at night.

At night, on a boat all the manoeuvres become more complex and the sailor will be more quickly destabilized. If the skipper has to go out on the deck of the boat, it is essential that he secures himself to prevent any risk of man overboard. In addition to his compulsory lifejacket, the skipper must always be equipped with a harness.

A major risk when spending the night at sea is that a member of the crew may fall into the water. Therefore it’s essential to respect the basic rule that every crew member who is not in the cabin must wear a lifejacket. Also, to have a watertight torch attached to the jacket so if he falls into the water can be spotted . If you don’t respect this procedure, it’s very difficult to find a man in the water, the chances are less than 1%.

Another risk of night navigation is not to see an obstacle blocking the boat’s path. To do this, you must know the meaning of the danger lights but also the meaning of the lights of other boats to avoid any crash. Knowing the lights and markings is essential because at night at sea they are the only markings.

Making a night stopover on a boat is a unique experience that is achievable as long as you take all precautions before and during sailing. The crew will organize themselves to perform night shifts. Firstly, you will plan your itinerary according to the danger zones. Then, during your navigation you will have to trust your GPS map as well as the lights that will appear in front of you.

With all of these information, organizing a perfect sailing trip won’t be difficult for you!

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Navigation Lights at Night

by Harbor Sailboats | Dec 4, 2020 | Blog | 1 comment

Great article! Boat lights are the means of communication between sailing vessels. These lights are also a tool to let my presence known even from a distance.

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How To Boat At Night Safely

Boating at night can be enjoyable and relaxing to do. However, it is very important that boaters are safe and take care when boating after dark.

Boaters should know the navigation rules and boat safety requirements when boating at night.

To boat at night safely:

• Abide by night boating rules set out by the U.S. Coast Guard
• Ensure the boat equipment is working
• Understand & abide by the right of way rules when boating at night
• Adhere to boat safety rules
• Bring an extra passenger for lookout duties

Following these steps will ensure that boaters are in the best and most prepared position when going on a boat trip at night.

1. Abide By The Night Boating Rules Set Out By The U.S. Coast Guard

The first step to boating at night safely is to abide by the night boating rules set out by the U.S. Coast Guard or an equivalent official body in your country.

From the U.S. Coast Guard federal requirements for recreational boaters, the U.S. coast guard night boating rules are:

• All vessels under 164ft. in length must have a 360° shine all-around white anchor light that can be seen from all directions. This white anchor light should be placed at the top of a mast on a sailboat or on the roof of a power boat and it must be clearly visible with no obstruction to its visibility
• All vessels under 164ft. in length must have a portside red light and a starboard green light with a shine from dead ahead to 112.5° aft on either side. They must have a white stern light that shines aft and 67.5° forward. The red, white and green lights must be clearly visible with no obstruction to their visibility
• Visual distress signals must be carried onboard all vessels regardless of size at night including 3 U.S. coastguard approved pyrotechnic devices e.g. red flares, orange smoke signals or parachute flares and 1 U.S. coast guard approved non-pyrotechnic device e.g. high-intensity electric distress flashlight
• All recreational vessels must carry one wearable U.S. coast guard approved life jacket for each person on board. Any boat 16 feet or longer must also carry one throwable U.S. coast guard approved flotation device
• Hand-portable, U.S. Coast Guard-approved B-I or B-II classified fire extinguishers are required with a mounting bracket onboard boats. For boats less than 26 feet, one B-I fire extinguisher is required onboard, two B-I fire extinguishers or one B-II fire extinguisher are required onboard boats between 26 ft. and less than 40ft. and three B-I fire extinguishers are required on boats between 40 feet and 60ft.

Ensuring a boat complies with these rules means a boater is safely abiding by the U.S. coast guard rules for night boating and can safely and legally boat at night.

To meet the U.S. coast guard rules for night boating, ensure your boat has the correct lights, the right visual distress signal devices, fire extinguishers, and the required amount of personal flotation devices.

2. Ensure The Boating Equipment Is Working Properly

The second step to boating at night safely is to ensure all the boating equipment is working correctly.

To ensure the boating equipment is working when boating at night:

• Check the life jackets and personal flotation devices are working, fit perfectly on every person's body, and that there is no damage to them
• Ensure the red, white and green navigation lights on the boat are in full working order, are shining bright and there are no obstructions blocking the lights from view. If the lights are not working, replace the bulbs and fix all the lights before setting out on the water
• Ensure the deck and dock lights on the boat are working properly and they provide the correct amount of visibility in the dark
• Check the boat's fire extinguishers are all working and are mounted in an easily accessible area on the boat
• Assess the boat's navigational instruments like GPS, radars & chart plotters to ensure they are in full working order. Ensure the display brightness of these navigational instruments are perfect for boaters to clearly see and view in the dark and make sure they are providing the correct location readings so you can trust them when out boating at night
• Ensure the boat's engine starts and runs without any issues. Start the engine in the dock and let it sit idle for 2-3 minutes to see if there are any warning lights or engine misfire issues
• Check that all the boat's interior lights are working and replace the bulbs of any interior lights that are not working

Ensuring the boating equipment is in full working order should be done before going on a boating trip. It should not be done while out on the water after the boat has left the marina or harbor.

3. Understand & Abide By The Right Of Way Rules When Boating At Night

The third step to boating at night safely is to understand and abide by the right-of-way rules when boating at night.

These right-of-way rules explain how to safely pass a boat at night.

Below are different scenarios a boater will encounter when boating at night and what to do in these scenarios.

A Boater Sees A Boat Ahead With Green And White Lights

When boating at night, if you see another boat in front of you with a green and white light, it means the boat is crossing your path from the port side i.e. the boat is crossing your path from left to right.

In the scenario of seeing a boat with green and white lights ahead, you can maintain your course as this other vessel has to stop and give you the right of way.

However, still remain cautious in case the other vessel may not have seen you.

Put simply, if a boat is approaching your path from the left (port side), you have the right of way and the other vessel has to give way to you.

A Boater Sees A Boat Ahead With Red And White Lights

When boating at night, if you see another boat in front of you with a red and white light, it means the boat is crossing your path from the starboard side i.e. the boat is crossing your path from right to left.

In the scenario of seeing a boat with red and white lights ahead, you must slow down and stop to give the right of way to the other vessel. Remain slowed down or stopped until the other vessel passes your path and the path is now clear.

Put simply, if a boat is approaching your path from the right (the starboard side), this boat has the right of way and you must give way to them.

A Boater Sees A Boat Ahead With A Single White Light

When boating at night, if you see another boat in front of you with a single white light, it means the boat is at anchor or moving away from you in the same direction.

In the scenario of seeing a boat with a single white light ahead, you must slow down to avoid a collision or prepare to overtake the vessel on either side of the boat.

4. Adhere To Boat Safety Rules

The fourth step to boating at night safely is to adhere to common boat safety rules.

Boat safety rules to follow when boating at night includes:

• Wear a life jacket : As per U.S. coast guard rules, every person onboard a boat must wear a U.S. coast guard approved life jacket. Ensure every person is wearing a life jacket when boating at night
• Have fully functional fire extinguishers onboard : Make sure the fire extinguishers are operational and easily accessible in the event of a fire onboard at night
• Reduce boat speed at night : When boating at night, reduce your speed as the visibility is reduced at night. It can be hard to see debris or other boats at night so reducing the speed can help with this. It's recommended to travel slower than any boat speed limits
• Reduce the noise onboard : When boating at night, keep noise to a minimum. Keeping noise to a minimum ensures you can hear other boats approaching that you may not have seen. Playing music through speakers is not advised at night and keeping the rpm of the engine down to approximately 2,000 rpm or lower will help reduce the noise
• Don't use dock lights when out on the water : Dock lights should only be used when docking a boat in the harbor or marina and they should not be used when out boating at night. Using dock lights when out on the water at night can cause temporary blindness for other boaters and it is not recommended
• Bring waterproof jackets onboard at night : Sometimes the temperature can get very cold at night. To help with this, a boater should bring a waterproof jacket to keep them warm and dry when boating at night
• Follow the boat's navigational instruments at night : Follow the navigational instruments when boating at night. A navigational instrument will help inform you of other boater's locations and potential dangers on the water

Following and adhering to these marine safety rules will help boaters to safely navigate the waters when boating at night.

5. Bring An Extra Passenger For Lookout Duties

The fifth step to boating at night safely is to bring an extra passenger on the night boat trip for lookout duties.

An extra passenger onboard at night will help keep a lookout for other boats that a captain/skipper may not be able to see.

An extra passenger can keep a 360° lookout while a boat captain is focusing on navigational instruments.

Ideally, bring an adult over 18 years with good eyesight onboard for the lookout duties.

Boating A Night Safety Checklist

Before boating at night, a boater should follow a night boating safety checklist to ensure a safe boat trip at night.

Below is a boating at night safety checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Boating At Night

Below are commonly asked questions about boating at night.

What Color Are The Lights Of A Boat At Night?

The colors of the lights on a boat at night are red, green and white.

What Boat Lights Do You Need On A Boat At Night?

There are four lights needed on a boat when boating at night which are a red light on the port side of the vessel, a green light on the starboard side of the vessel, a white light at the stern of the boat, and a 360° visible white light on the highest point of a mast or roof of a boat.

How Do You Improve Your Safety When Boating At Night?

To improve your safety when boating at night, ensure all fire extinguishers and flares are operational, all the boat lights are in full working order, the life jackets are worn and tied correctly on your body, the navigation instruments are working and visible in the dark and the VHF radio is working properly.

What Are The Benefits Of Boating At Night?

The benefits of boating at night are fewer boats are on the water which means less crowded boating trips and the temperature at night tends to be much cooler which makes it more comfortable for boating in areas where the climate is hot.

What Are The Risks Of Boating At Night?

The risks of boating at night are poor visibility causing a boat collision and increased fatigue of the captain causing a lack of concentration when boating at night.

Is It Legal To Boat At Night?

Yes, it is legal to boat at night from sunset to sunrise provided the boater follows the rules and regulations set out by the U.S. Coast Guard or their own equivalent government body.

Is It Hard To Boat At Night?

No, boating at night is relatively straightforward once a boater gets some night boating experience. With more night boat trips, the boater gets more confident and it starts to become routine.

Is It Safe To Boat At Night?

Yes, it is safe to boat at night provided the boater follows the correct night boating safety procedures and ensures the weather conditions are good for nighttime boating.

If these safety procedures are followed and the weather is good, then it is safe.

When Is It Best Time To Boat At Night?

The best time to boat at night is when the weather conditions are good with clear skies and calm seas.

When Is It To Worst Time To Boat At Night?

The worst time to boat at night is when the weather is extremely foggy, there is a large amount of rain or it is very windy.

During poor weather conditions, boating at night should be avoided.

Do You Need Night Vision When Boating At Night?

No, night vision systems are not a legal requirement when boating at night. However, a night vision system can help improve a boater's visibility when night boating and many boaters find them useful to improve visibility.

What Is The Speed Limit When Boating At Night?

The speed limit when boating at night will depend on the specific states and their own marine speed limit laws.

Typically, nighttime boat speed limits range from 5 knots to 10 knots but this can vary depending on the state and the location.

Where Are The Boat Navigation Lights Located On A Boat When Boating At Night?

When boating at night, the boat navigation lights are located:

• Red light : The red light is located on the port side of the boat
• Green light : The green light is located on the starboard side of the boat
• White light : The white light is located on the top of a mast on a sailboat or on the rooftop of a power boat

What Are Boat Dock Lights?

Boat dock lights, also referred to as boat headlights, are lights on a boat that are turned on when a boat is docking in a marina or harbor. They are not used when a boat is moving on the water at night as they can temporarily blind other boaters and instead they are only turned on when a boat is mooring. The boat dock lights are located on the bow of a recreational boat.

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• A Guide to Boating at Night

Boating at night is an exciting experience. Whether you’re night fishing, spending time with loved ones or returning home from a day trip, exploring the water at night can be a whole new experience.

Before embarking on your journey, it’s crucial to research best practices for boating at night. The lack of light makes it more difficult to see and respond to challenges. Following safety tips and night boating laws can prepare you for a successful nighttime experience.

Laws to Follow for Boating at Night

Before embarking on a nighttime boating journey, you must understand the rules and laws for night boating. These laws help boaters remain safe and protect boats from collisions or other accidents. Check specific laws for boating at night in your local area or state to ensure you follow the right ones.

In general, here are some essential night boating rules:

• Navigation lights: You must use the proper lights to signal your location to other boats while in darkness. Navigation lights vary by boat, but most contain a red and green light near the bow, a white light by the mast and a stern light at the back. These lights indicate the approximate dimensions of your boat. You should keep these lights visible and brightly lit at all times.
• Sound requirements: Your boat must have specific sound tools to alert other boats of your intentions. Sound equipment depends on your boat’s dimensions. Boats less than 39.4 feet in length must have a sound-producing device , like a bell or whistle. If your boat exceeds this length, you need a whistle and a bell on board. In addition, you must be able to hear the whistle for half a mile .
• Speed limits: Depending on your location, the area might have specific speed limits for boats. You must follow these rules at night just as you do during the day. Many boaters move slower than the speed limit for optimal safety.
• Safety equipment: Many federal and state laws require boating vessels to carry specific safety equipment types. For instance, all recreational vehicles must contain one life jacket for every person on board. Research your state’s required safety equipment before setting out on the water. These rules apply to night boaters, too, so it’s important to ensure you have the proper equipment before it grows dark.

Night Boating Safety Tips

In addition to following night boating rules, you should use the correct safety procedures at night. Here are a few safety tips for night boating:

• Move slowly: You should move your boat at a slower speed than normal. The low visibility makes it harder to see defining features, so it’s essential to slow down. Reducing your boat’s speed makes it easier to adapt to sudden changes or redirect your position.
• Research sound and light signals: Because it’s more difficult to see other boats at night, it’s vital to use sound and light signals. Study and practice these signals beforehand for maximum safety. For example, you should  understand maneuvering sound signals  before setting sail after dark.
• Use spotlights sparingly: Avoid using spotlights while out on the water. These lights send a glare onto the water, affecting other drivers’ visibility.
• Turn off ambient lights: Another best strategy for boating at night is to dim all ambient lights on your boat. Only light your navigation lights while you’re on the water. Other lights like cabin lights, mobile devices and courtesy lights can detract from your night vision and distract other boaters.
• Avoid distractions: Stay focused on steering your boat and avoid distractions. For example, stargazing might sound like an excellent idea, but it could cause seasickness or motion sickness while the boat moves. As the driver of the boat, you must stay focused when navigating to ensure your and your passengers’ safety.

Following the proper safety guidelines makes night boating a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Night Boating Packing List

Another important aspect of night boating is preparing your boat with essential items, including:

• Safety gear: As mentioned, it’s crucial to pack safety equipment for your nighttime excursion. Bring life jackets, floatation devices, fire extinguishers, sound signaling devices, radios or cell phones, flashlights, medical kits, or other safety tools.
• Warm layers: Temperatures can change drastically at night when the sun sets. Pack extra clothing to maintain warmth throughout your journey. Longer layers are also more effective at keeping bugs away. In addition, you might need a change of clothes if you’re caught in the rain. You could pack extra jackets, long-sleeve shirts, pants or hats. Bring enough clothing for all boat passengers.
• Food and water: Food and water are essential for any boating trip. This supply can prevent hunger and dehydration if an accident or other mishap occurs. It’s best to pack non-perishable foods like jerky, trail mix or cereal. You might also want to pack snacks for the nighttime journey and leave the other supplies as emergency food. Either way, make sure you bring enough for all passengers.
• Sleeping supplies: If you plan to sail all night long, sleeping gear can make the experience more comfortable. You could bring sleeping bags, pillows, blankets and other sleeping equipment for an overnight trip.
• Bug spray: Bugs can be just as annoying at night. Bug spray repels oncoming bugs and makes your journey more enjoyable. By packing extra bug spray, you can ensure they stay away throughout the night.
• Towels: Towels are always useful for boating trips. They can help you stay dry and comfortable during the journey.
• Navigational devices: Remember your GPS device, chart plotter, compass or radar. These tools can describe your exact location even when it’s completely dark, making them essential safety features. If any devices are battery-operated, pack extra batteries just in case.

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Boat Lights At Night (The Rules For Safety)

Boat navigation lights at night are used for safety. They are designed so they can be seen easily. Boat lights vary according to boat type and size, boat use, navigation area, and geographic location. Boaters should learn boat light meanings and keep up-to-date on boat light requirements.

Boat navigation lights indicate a boat’s heading (Aspect) and what it’s doing. The boat’s red and green lights show the boat’s port and starboard sides. Let’s explain boat light type, actions, and requirements in detail.

Types of Boat Lights

Boating safety starts with proper boat navigation lights. If you are a boater, it’s important to understand the 4 types of common navigational lights on your vessel so that you can be seen by other boats in the water and avoid accidents or running aground.

Boat navigation lights are split into four groups. There are Sidelights, Stern light, Masthead light, and All-Round light.

Sidelights show Red or Green to other vessels approaching from the side or head-on, while stern light only points out white light when you’re coming up behind someone else’s boat.

Masthead light should be mounted high on a vessel’s aft-most part of the structure that extends above deck level. The masthead light is a requirement on all power-driven vessels. It shines forward and to both sides and the color of this light is white.

The boat’s all-around white light is on the mast, stern, or somewhere else on the boat. This light can act as an anchor light when a boat is anchored.

Boat Navigation Light Color

• Masthead light color – White
• Port sidelight color – Red
• Starboard sidelight color – Green
• Stern light color – White
• All-Round light color – white

Boat Light Visibility Range (Minimum)

• Side lights; Boat < 12m (39.4 feet) – At least 1 NM
• Masthead light; Boat < 12m (39.4 feet) – At least 2 NM
• Stern light; Boat < 12m (39.4 feet) – At least 2 NM
• All-Round light; Boat < 12m (39.4 feet) – At least 2 NM
• Boat < 20m (65.7 feet) – Masthead light at least 3 NM; Other light at least 2 Nm
• Boat > 20m (65.7 feet) – Masthead light at least 5 NM; Other light at least 2 Nm

Boat Navigation Lights Indicate W hich Side ?

Your boat’s navigation lights will basically tell you what side of the vessel is a port and which side is starboard. The red light indicates a vessel’s port (left) side; the green indicates a vessel’s starboard (right) side. Stern light is seen only from behind or nearly behind the vessel. Masthead Light shines forward and to both sides.

What Are Boat Lights Used For ?

Boat lights are typically used to guide boaters at night, but they can also be used for a number of other purposes. They can help you and other boaters determine which is the give-way vessel when encountering each other on the water during periods of restricted visibility such as fog or rain. So never forget boat lights at night — boat lights make you and others visible at night on the water. They are used only for boat safety purposes.

Boat Lights and The Law

To navigate safely in the water, vessels are required to show proper navigation lights. There’s no need to worry about boat lights being an inconvenience because they must be displayed from sunset to sunrise and during periods of limited visibility.

You must turn on boat lights when underway between sunset and sunrise, as well as during any period of restricted visibility such as fog, rain, or heavy snowfall. And when it is deemed necessary by any boat skipper, boat lights must be turned on during the day.

Why Do Boats Have Blue Lights?

The reason boats have blue lights is to signify that they are law enforcement vessels. They may display a flashing blue light when engaged in direct law enforcement or safety activities, so as not to interfere with the visibility of their navigation lights.

What Does a Single White Light on a Boat Tell You?

When you see a single white light on the horizon, it may mean that you are overtaking another vessel. In order to avoid collisions and other mishaps, give way to either side of the boat. Also, one single white light could mean that the other boat is at anchor.

What Does a Red Flashing Light Mean on a Boat?

A red flashing light means that it’s a WIG boat.

What Size Boat Requires a Stern Light?

If your boat is 39.4 feet or longer, make sure to get a separate masthead light and stern light. However, If you’re on a power-driven boat less than 39.4 feet in length, then the masthead and stern light may be combined into a single all-round (360 degrees) white light. 

Where to Put Navigation Lights on a Boat?

• Masthead – over the centerline of a boat (seen ahead from 225 degrees)
• Stern – near the stern, lowest height on a boat (seen 135 degrees from behind)
• Side – port/left side and starboard/right side (112.5 degrees sides arc)
• All-round – over the centerline of a boat (360 degrees arc)

Safety Tips When Using Boat Lights

– Must be turned on when underway between sunset and sunrise

– Should be turned on when in poor visibility

– Must be turned on when deemed necessary

– Must be mounted in such a way that boat lights are not obscured by any other obstructions

– Used for boat safety only

– Can never be used as floodlights

– Must be mounted in such a way that the other boat operator can see them clearly

– Should be properly illuminated at all times

– Must be mounted securely

– Must never be covered by boat covers or other obstructions

– Should be turned off when a boat is at anchor (Turn on anchor light)

Boat lights are more than just a way to see where you’re going at night. They can be used to communicate with other boats, and they can help you avoid collisions.

Boat lights are essential for safe night boating. They help other boats and vessels see your boat, and they also help you see where you’re going. There are different types of boat lights available, and it’s important to choose the right ones for your vessel.

What Are the Most Popular Boat Lights?

Here’s a look at some of the most popular boat lights and what they offer.

LED Boat Lights: LED boat lights are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and long lifespan. They’re also much brighter than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them ideal for night boating. Many LED boat lights come in waterproof versions, so you don’t have to worry about them getting wet if you encounter rough waters.

Solar Boat Lights: Solar boat lights are a great eco-friendly option since they’re powered by the sun. They typically have built-in batteries that store solar energy during the day so that the light can shine at night.

Battery-Powered Boat Lights: Battery-powered boat lights are another popular option, especially for smaller boats. These lights typically use either disposable or rechargeable batteries, depending on your preference. Some battery-powered models even come with solar charging capabilities, so you can keep them charged even when there’s no sun available.

What Lights Should Be on When Boating at Night?

There are many different types of lights (including navigational lights) that are required or recommended to be used when boating at night. The type of vessel, the size of the vessel, and the area in which the vessel is operating will all play a great role in what specific lights need to be used. In general, however, there are a few basic rules that apply to all kind of vessels.

All these requirements exist so that other boats can easily identify your vessel and know its intentions (whether it is stopped, coming towards them, or moving away). By following these simple guidelines you can help keep everyone safe on the waterway.

Which Side of a Boat Has a Red Light at Night?

The side of a boat with a red navigation light at night is the port side. The port side is the left side of the boat when you are facing forward.

When Boating at Night What Does a Single Green Light Mean?

When you see a single green light, be sure that you are approaching a sailing vessel. In this case, you have to take action and you must give way. Remember, A sailing boat is always the stand-on mode except when it is going to overtake you.

What Lights are Required on a Boat at Night in Florida?

In Florida, boaters are required to display a white light visible in all directions from sunset to sunrise. Boats must have a white light visible from 360 degrees whenever they are safely moored or anchored away from jetty.

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DeSantis details alarming find aboard Haitian migrant boat seized off Florida coast

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Friday that state law enforcement had intercepted a vessel coming to the Florida coast carrying dozens of Haitian migrants, as well as firearms, drugs and night vision gear.

"Our Florida Fish and Wildlife offices interdicted a vessel that had 25 illegal immigrants, potential illegal immigrants from Haiti in their boat. In their vessel they had firearms, they had drugs, they had night vision gear and were boating very recklessly, which would potentially endanger other folks," DeSantis said, adding that the interdiction had occurred "recently" in the last few weeks.

"That vessel was interdicted near the Sebastian Inlet and those illegal aliens were turned over to the Coast Guard for deportation," he said.

DESANTIS SENDS SOLDIERS, AIRCRAFT TO ‘PROTECT’ FLORIDA FROM ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS BOATS AMID HAITI UNREST

DeSantis made the announcement at a press conference in which he also signed three pieces of legislation to deter illegal immigration into the Sunshine State.

The Republican governor had earlier this week announced an increase of personnel and aircraft to the Florida coast in light of unrest in Haiti and the potential for an increase in migration via the sea from the conflict-hit country.

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The Caribbean nation has seen a significant escalation in violence as gangs have overrun the capital, burning police stations and attacking the main airport. Gangs have also raided some of the largest prisons, releasing thousands of inmates. 

DHS WARNS HAITIAN ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS ARRIVING BY BOAT FACE ‘IMMEDIATE REPATRIATION’ 

The deployment in Florida includes 48 additional National Guardsmen with four additional helicopters, 39 officers from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, 30 additional Florida Highway Patrol officers with aircraft and drones, and 23 additional officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission with eight additional seacraft, according to DeSantis' office.

He stressed on Friday that this had been going on for a while, and this was an increase in enforcement and not a new operation. He said that from Jan 2023 last week, officials had assisted the Coast Guard with the interdiction of 670 vessels carrying over 13,500 illegal immigrants.

"The message is the last thing you should want to do is get on a boat and think you're going to come through from any of these islands to get to the state of Florida," DeSantis said. "The most likely scenario is you'll be stopped, and you will be returned to your country of origin."

HAITIAN PRIME MINISTER ARIEL HENRY TO RESIGN AMID LOW-SCALE CIVIL WAR, BOWING TO INTERNATIONAL PRESSURE 

"It's a hazardous journey, it’s not worth doing, and we have the resources to continue to keep the people of Florida safe."

On Tuesday, Rebecca Zimmerman, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs, told lawmakers that the Pentagon is "alert" to the possibility of a mass migration event, but it has also not yet seen large numbers.

"I think you’re right that the driving conditions in Haiti could very well press more people," she told Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla. "We recently approved some additional assistance we could provide to the Coast Guard."

The Department of Homeland Security has also said it is monitoring the situation, but has stressed that migration flows in the Caribbean remain "low." It also warned that those crossing face being turned back to their country of origin.

"U.S. policy is to return noncitizens who do not have a fear of persecution or torture or a legal basis to enter the United States. Those interdicted at sea are subject to immediate repatriation pursuant to our longstanding policy and procedures. The United States returns or repatriates migrants interdicted at sea to The Bahamas, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti," a spokesperson said.

On Friday, DeSantis also signed three pieces of legislation related to immigration. One increased the maximum sentence for people driving without a license. Another enhances penalties for crimes committed by illegal immigrants who return to the country after deportation, while the third bill states that no jurisdiction can recognize IDs that are distributed by other states to illegal immigrants. 

Original article source: DeSantis details alarming find aboard Haitian migrant boat seized off Florida coast

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‘you guys have to do something about it’: jacksonville beach residents sound off after gun violence disrupts holiday, 3 unrelated shootings on st. patrick’s day prompt lockdown of busy downtown bar district.

Brianna Andrews , Reporter, weekend anchor

Ariel Schiller , Reporter , Jacksonville

JACKSONVILLE BEACH, Fla. – Tuesday afternoon, Jacksonville Beach Police Department released the name of the man killed in one of three shootings Sunday night.

Officials said at 8:31 p.m. on Sunday, 21-year-old James Jones III was fatally shot by an unknown suspect near Beach Boulevard and 1st Street.

The Jacksonville Beach City Council heard from more than a dozen residents Monday night who all expressed concerns about public safety after three separate shootings Sunday night prompted a lockdown of the downtown bar district.

The three shootings reported within 40 minutes disrupted a busy St. Patrick’s Day holiday that coincided with Spring Break and the end of The Players Championship in nearby Ponte Vedra Beach.

MORE: Complete coverage of Jacksonville Beach St. Patrick’s Day shootings

A 21-year-old man was killed in one of the shootings, and three people were hurt in another, including two of the shooters, police said.

The first shooting happened at 7:50 pm south of the Jacksonville Beach Pier, the second one was about 20 minutes later, a half block north on 3rd Avenue, and the third shooting was at 8:31 p.m. in the parking lot of a restaurant at the corner of 1st Street North and Beach Boulevard.

“In 26 years, the last five have been crazy in Jacksonville Beach. You guys have to do something about it. Back-to-back weekends, it’s the same issue back-to-back,” Jacksonville Beach resident Rico Nieves told the City Council.

Jacksonville Beach police said the incidents started Sunday with a planned gathering of 250-400 people in their late teens and early 20s under the pier. Jacksonville Beach Police Chief Gene Paul Smith said officers broke up the crowd because they started fighting. The first shooting happened as the crowd separated when two young men wounded each other and also hit an out-of-town bystander.

“Anybody that crosses that ditch (Intracoastal Waterway) needs to have respect for not only our businesses but our beach, our pier and our law enforcement,” Jacksonville Beach resident Jennifer Cruz said. “I want people when they come to Jacksonville Beach and they think they want to act crazy, and fight and whatever BS that they do--– they need to be respectful, and I think fearful is a healthy emotion.”

Police have not made any arrests and are looking for more than one suspected shooter , in addition to the two shooters who were wounded.

“This is not the kind of attention we want for Jax Beach, I think we can all agree on that,” Mayor Christine Hoffman said.

The City Council adjusted its agenda Monday night to talk about what happened and Hoffman shared during her opening remarks that she heard from the White House, fellow mayors and even national news outlets about the shooting. Hoffman told News4JAX earlier that the quick response of both the first responders and local businesses should reassure any visitors about the safety of Jacksonville Beach.

“I witnessed firsthand the heroism and bravery that these officers showed right as this went on. They rendered aid to the victims -- all while trying to tame the crowd around them as they were antagonizing them,” Jacksonville Beach City Councilman Fernando Meza said. “It takes bravery and it takes guts. So anyone who wants to talk negative about them, come deal with me.”

Meza said emotions have been running hot throughout the community since Sunday night.

“I’ve been feeling so many types of emotions since last night: anger, disappointment, sad, disgust, heartbroken,” Meza said. “What happened last night should have never happened, but it did. Right now at this moment, with our current youth, the future does not look promising. "

During the discussion of the shooting, many council members and the city attorney talked about potential solutions to violence in the community and the legalities surrounding ordinances and moratoriums on special event permits. They also discussed finding a way to give the police department more resources in the short term.

Council members also mentioned reaching out to Councilman Rory Diamond, who represents the beaches for the city of Jacksonville, to see what help he can provide. They also mentioned reaching out to state representatives.

Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.

About the Authors:

Brianna andrews.

This native of the Big Apple joined the News4Jax team in July 2021.

Ariel Schiller

Ariel Schiller joined the News4Jax team as an evening reporter in September of 2023. She comes to Jacksonville from Tallahassee where she worked at ABC27 as a Weekend Anchor/Reporter for 10 months.

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1 dead, 1 in hospital after boat capsizes in Hoover Reservoir

by WSYX Staff

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — One man is dead and another is in the hospital after a boat capsized in Hoover Reservoir.

Genoa Township Fire Chief Joe Ponzi told ABC 6 that the two people were reported missing just before 8 p.m. on Sunday after their boat capsized in the Hoover Reservoir

The two men were reportedly out fishing when their boat capsized, and they both 'may have had lifejackets on.'

Authorities rescued both men later on Sunday night, and both were taken to St. Ann's Hospital.

On Monday morning, officials confirmed to ABC 6 that one of the men has died.

Jason Milliken is the central district captain for parks and watercraft. He’s urging anyone looking to get into the water is to make a plan.

“What boat ramp you’re going to be located at, who’s going to be on board with you, yourself and somebody else, emergency contact information, where you’re going to be put in and put out adjust to plan for the family if something does happen, we have somewhere to go leave it at the house," he said.

Captain Milliken says there’s one item everyone on a boat should wear.

“Lifejackets are huge, I can’t emphasize that enough," he said. "They save lives so whether it’s 90 degrees out or about 25 like today. Have a life jacket and wear it on days like this."

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is investigating.

FWC officers stop vessel with multiple illegal Haitian immigrants, guns, drugs and night vision equipment near Sebastian Inlet

On Feb. 29, at approximately 7:30 p.m., two Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers conducting nighttime water-based patrol near Sebastian Inlet stopped a 42-foot vessel returning from offshore. Immediately upon stopping the vessel, the officers knew they had intercepted a human smuggling operation. The operator of the vessel was armed and onboard; lying prone on the deck of the boat, they discovered 25 individuals, including five unaccompanied children, illegally entering the country.

In addition to the individuals onboard, officers discovered firearms, night vision gear and drugs. The vessel operator and a passenger, both U.S. citizens, were turned over to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office and the case was referred to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and the BCSO for further investigation.

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It will go from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

One dead, one hospitalized after boat capsizes on Hoover Reservoir Sunday night

One man died and another was hospitalized after their boat capsized Sunday night on Hoover Reservoir .

The men were out fishing around 8 p.m. Sunday on the reservoir when the boat capsized, according to Genoa Township officials.

More: Mandatory life vests in Ohio? Lawmaker eyes boat safety rules after Hoover Reservoir tragedy

Fire crews managed to pull both men from the water. Both were taken to Mount Carmel St. Ann's hospital. One of the men was in critical condition and the other's condition was described as "fair," officials said.

The man who had been in critical condition died from his injuries. His name has not yet been released.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is investigating the incident.

What is Hoover Reservoir?

Hoover Reservoir, located off of Sunbury Road near Westerville, encompasses more than 4,000 acres, including a lake that is frequently used for boating and fishing.

The park also includes options for picnics, bird watching, a disc golf course and hiking. The parks spans both Delaware and Franklin counties.

Hoover Reservoir was initially built as a water supply facility in 1955 by the city of Columbus.

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