7+ Boat Sternlight Color Facts: What Color Is It?

what color is a boat's sternlight

7+ Boat Sternlight Color Facts: What Color Is It?

The required color for a vessel’s rearmost navigation light is white. This light, positioned to show continuously over an arc of 135 degrees and visible from directly astern to 67.5 degrees on either side, serves a critical function in maritime safety.

A white sternlight indicates the direction a vessel is moving when observed by another vessel at night. This is crucial for collision avoidance, as it allows other operators to understand the bearing of the observed vessel, facilitating proper course adjustments. Historically, the consistent implementation of this standard has significantly contributed to safer navigation practices.

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