Rules of the Road · Power-Driven Vessels
You observe a vessel at night showing two white masthead lights (forward lower), green and red sidelights, and a white sternlight. What type of vessel is it?
- AA sailing vessel with auxiliary engine
- BA vessel towing with a tow more than 200 meters
- CA power-driven vessel 50 meters or more underway✓ Correct
- DA pilot vessel on station
Explanation
Two white masthead lights with the forward one lower, combined with sidelights and sternlight, is the standard light configuration for a power-driven vessel 50 meters or more in length underway. The staggered masthead lights are the key identifier.
Authority: 72 COLREGS Rule 23(a)
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