Navigation lights

[Mat-C]

My understanding is that for vessels <12m one needs port & stbd navigation lights plus (at a minimum) an all-round white masthead light. Also that there should be a minimum 1 metre vertical separation between the sidelights and the masthead light.
How then do 3-in-1 combination lights comply?

[Willallison]

Mat,
I think you're slightly confusing the rules for sail and powered vessels, but to clarify... from Hella's tri-colour installation manual:

According to international maritime regulations, a Tri-Colour lamp ;
May only be carried by a sailing vessel of less than 20 meters (65 ft.) in length.
Must be carried at or near the top of the mast where it can best be seen.
Must not be displayed when the vessel is under power, or when under sail and power.
( Under these conditions the configurations for power driven vessels apply. )
Must be switched so one switch, or position of a switch, shall display the complete Port, Starboard and Stern
navigation light configuration as required for the vessel when underway.
Another switch, or switch position, shall display the all Round White / Anchor lamp only.

[gonzo]

Tri-lights don't display a 360 white but the stern white light. The 360 is for anchoring.

[Mat-C]

Thanks Will, Gonzo.
Didn't realise the separate parts of the light are individually switched, but that has it explained...

[murdomack]

Originally Posted by Mat-C

Thanks Will, Gonzo.
Didn't realise the separate parts of the light are individually switched, but that has it explained...

I think you have mis-read the regulations. It says one switch for the tri-colour and a separate switch, or a different switch position, for the anchor light. These are two separate light units.

Your anchor light can double as an all round white if you are under power, but you also need separate port and starboard lights in this condition. So you need four lights in total.

[murdomack]

Here's a website that may be of interest to everybody,

http://www.boatus.org/onlinecourse/r...ect/info2c.htm

[welder/fitter]

Much appreciation for all who responded to this. As I prep my boat for sea, I'm pulling the mast & was going to put a masthead tri-colour on. Shamefully, my ColRegs knowledge is a bit rusty. You've not only answered an issue for me but have pushed me to re-read my ColRegs!
Mike