> Speaking of running lights, I am curious about two things: masthead
> running
> lights and 'steaming' lights while sailing.


If by 'steaming light' you mean the forward facing 225 degree white light
(called a masthead light in the COLREGs) typically mounted part way up the
mast, you would only have it on when you are either motoring or
motor-sailing - not while sailing only.

If by 'masthead running light' you mean the red/green/white tricolor mounte=
d
at the top of the mast, you would only have it on when you are sailing
withour any motor assistance.



> Would you say that the masthead running lights are better (safer) than
> deck
> level? On inland waterways, I wonder if the half-drunk powerboaters would
> get seriously confused at running lights 40 ft. off the water. When we ha=
d
> our mast refurbed, they installed a masthead aquasignal. Nice light, but =
I
> don't see myself using the running light portion. At least not unless I'm
> offshore.


I'd agree that you'd likely be best off using the deck level lights while
traveling in inshore areas with a lot of small boat traffic. If, while
sailing with no motor, you want to be seen from greater distance, conserve
power or are concerned with saving your night vision the mast top mounted
tri-color might be the best bet.




> As for sailing, I have not seen any mention as to what lights to have
> (besides running lights) while under sail. Is that all we need to have?


Probably none unless you fit into some special lighting category due to
towing, or trawling or such. I believe you are prohibited from displaying
other lights as they may confuse other vessels - not sure how the cruise
ships get away with it other than money talks. I'd doubt anybody would
complain up to the point that assignment of responsibility for some legal
hassle occurred.

--
Mark Bergin



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Received on Wed Jan 11 14:28:48 2006