On a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more, where should sidelights be positioned?

For a power-driven vessel of 20 meters or more in length, the sidelights must be positioned correctly to ensure effective visibility and recognition by other vessels. The correct placement of sidelights is essential for maritime safety, as they indicate the sides of your vessel to others.

Sidelights should be positioned such that they are visible to other vessels approaching from the side or front, but they need to be located at a height and distance that does not interfere with the visibility of the forward masthead lights. By placing the sidelights not in front of the forward masthead lights, the sidelights avoid obstruction and clearly designate the port (red) and starboard (green) sides of the vessel. This arrangement is crucial, especially when vessels are navigating in proximity, as it helps in determining the relative headings and courses of each vessel.

In sum, the requirement that sidelights should not be in front of the forward masthead lights ensures that all navigational lights serve their proper function without causing confusion about the vessel’s orientation or direction of travel.