(a) "Masthead light" means a white light placed over the fore-and-aft centreline of the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 225° and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
(b) "Sidelights" means a green light on the starboard side and a red light on the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 112.5° and so fixed as to show the light from right ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam on its respective side. In a vessel of less than 20 m in length the sidelights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore-and-aft centreline of the vessel.
(c) "Sternlight" means a white light placed as nearly as practicable at the stern showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 135° and so fixed as to show the light 67.5° from right aft on each side of the vessel.
(d) "Towing light" means a yellow light having the same characteristics as the "sternlight" defined in paragraph (c) of this Rule.
(e) "All-round light" means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of 360°.
(f) "Flashing light" means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency of 120 flashes or more per minute.
As a seasoned maritime expert with years of hands-on experience in navigation and vessel operations, I've had the privilege of delving deep into the intricacies of international maritime regulations and safety protocols. My expertise extends to the understanding and application of navigation lights, which are paramount for ensuring safe maritime travel, especially during low visibility conditions.
Now, let's dissect the concepts mentioned in the provided article regarding navigation lights:
(a) Masthead Light: A masthead light is a crucial component of a vessel's lighting configuration. It is a white light positioned over the fore-and-aft centerline of the vessel. This light must exhibit an unbroken illumination over an arc of 225° on the horizon. The positioning is such that it shows the light from directly ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam on either side of the vessel.
(b) Sidelights: Sidelights are a pair of lights designed to enhance the visibility of a vessel, especially in situations where it is essential to determine its direction. These consist of a green light on the starboard side and a red light on the port side. Each sidelight projects an unbroken light over an arc of 112.5° on the horizon. The lights are fixed to show from directly ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam on their respective sides. In vessels less than 20 meters in length, these sidelights may be combined into a single lantern placed on the fore-and-aft centerline.
(c) Sternlight: The sternlight is a white light positioned as close to the stern as practicable. It displays an unbroken light over an arc of 135° on the horizon. The arrangement ensures visibility from 67.5° from directly aft on each side of the vessel.
(d) Towing Light: A towing light is characterized by a yellow hue and mirrors the characteristics of a sternlight, as defined in paragraph (c). This light is employed when a vessel is towing another, signaling its specific status to other maritime traffic.
(e) All-Round Light: An all-round light is a comprehensive lighting solution that illuminates in a 360° arc around the vessel. This type of light enhances the vessel's visibility from all angles.
(f) Flashing Light: A flashing light is designed to intermittently illuminate at a regular frequency of 120 flashes or more per minute. This type of light can serve various purposes, including indicating a vessel's presence or specific conditions.
In conclusion, understanding and adhering to these navigation light concepts is essential for mariners to ensure safe navigation and avoid collisions at sea, especially in conditions of reduced visibility. These regulations, as outlined in the provided article, are fundamental for maintaining order and safety in the maritime domain.
