It's the Law: Required Equipment
Navigation Lights

The required navigation lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise and in periods of restricted visibility such as fog or heavy rain. For requirements for larger vessels, see the U.S. Coast Guard’s Navigation Rules.

Power-Driven Vessels When Underway

If less than 65.6 feet (20 meters) long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in illustration 1. Remember, power-driven vessels include sailboats operating under power. The required lights are:

• Red and green sidelights visible from at least two miles away (or if less than 39.4 feet long, at least one mile away).
• An all-round white light or both a masthead light and a sternlight visible from at least two miles away on a dark, clear night. The all-round white light (or the masthead light) must be at least 3.3 feet (1 meter) higher than the sidelights.

1. Power-Driven Vessels Less Than 65.6 Ft.
The masthead light and sternlight may be combined as an all-round white light on vessels less than 39.4 feet.

Unpowered Vessels When Underway

Unpowered vessels are sailboats or vessels that are paddled, poled, or rowed.

• If less than 65.6 feet (20 meters) long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in illustration 2. The required lights are:
  • Red and green sidelights visible from at least two miles away (or if less than 39.4 feet long, at least one mile away).
  • A sternlight visible from at least two miles away.
• If less than 23.0 feet (7 meters) long, these vessels:
  • If practical, must exhibit the same lights as required for unpowered vessels listed above.
  • If not practical, must have on hand at least one lantern or flashlight shining a white light as shown in illustration 3.

2. Unpowered Vessels Less Than 65.6 Feet
An alternative to the sidelights and sternlight is a combination red, green, and white light, which must be exhibited near the top of the mast.

3. Unpowered Vessels Less Than 23.0 Feet
	Vessel operators should never leave shore without a flashlight. Even if you plan to return before dark, unforeseen developments might delay your return past nightfall.

All Vessels When Not Underway

All vessels are required to display a white light visible in all directions whenever they are moored or anchored outside of a designated mooring area between sunset and sunrise.