Key Takeaways
- Choose lights by boat length, mounting position, and visibility range (nm).
- Match color/arc: red (port), green (starboard), white (masthead/stern/anchor).
- Display lights sunset–sunrise and in restricted visibility.
- Small powerboats (<12 m / 39.4 ft) may use a single all-round white plus sidelights (or a single all-round light when appropriate).
Why Navigation Lights Matter
Reliable nav lights improve situational awareness, reduce collision risk, and help other boats correctly interpret your aspect and heading arcs. Fisheries Supply carries a wide selection of LED navigation lights, masthead lights, and running lights for boats of all sizes.
Core Light Types (for Typical Applications)
- Bow (Combination) Lights: Forward-facing sidelights showing red to port and green to starboard within the prescribed arcs to indicate presence and course.
- Stern Lights: White light shown aft to make the boat visible from behind within the specified arc/visibility.
- Masthead (Steaming) Lights: White light placed above the fore-and-aft centerline of a power-driven boat; required arcs and height relationships vary by boat size.
- Anchor Lights: All-round white light placed at the highest practicable point to indicate a boat at anchor.
How to Select the Right Lights
- Confirm boat Category & Length:
- <12 m (39.4 ft): streamlined options (e.g., all-round white + sidelights).
- 12–20 m and above: separate masthead and stern lights, plus sidelights; larger boats require greater visibility range (up to 3 nm for some lights).
- Match Arc, Color, and Visibility: Ensure each fixture meets the correct arc of visibility, color chromaticity, and nominal range as defined in international and inland rules and related annexes.
- Choose Marine-Grade LEDs: LED fixtures offer low draw and high durability. Avoid decorative LEDs that could be mistaken for required lights.
- Plan Mounting & Wiring: Mount lights unobstructed and at required vertical separation; follow recognized marine electrical practices and applicable standards for installation.
Visibility & Operating Basics
- Display required lights from sunset to sunrise and during restricted visibility (fog, heavy rain, etc.).
- Lights and shapes must comply with technical details in relevant annexes; positioning and intensity matter.
- Inland and international rules are harmonized with minor differences; always check your local authority.
For a deeper primer on layouts and examples, see the BoatUS study guide.
Shop Navigation Lights
Browse our full range of bow, stern, masthead, side, and anchor lights—plus mounting hardware and wiring accessories.
For a practical overview of common configurations, read our Boat Navigation Lights Rules and Safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are navigation lights required?
Between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility (e.g., fog), regardless of time of day.
Are inland and offshore (international) rules identical?
They are closely aligned, but inland waters may include additional local provisions—verify with your local maritime authority.
Can small boats use an all-round white light?
Yes. boats under 12 m (39.4 ft) may use a single all-round white light in specific configurations, often alongside sidelights.
Do decorative LEDs affect compliance?
Yes. Decorative or non-compliant lighting can impair or be mistaken for required lights and lead to violations—use marine-approved fixtures only.
