When towing, how many masthead lights must a 50-meter power-driven vessel exhibit if the tow does not exceed 200 meters?

A power-driven vessel that is towing must exhibit specific lights to ensure safe navigation and enhance visibility for other vessels. According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), when a power-driven vessel of 50 meters in length is towing, it is required to display a certain number of masthead lights based on the length of the tow.

For towing situations where the length does not exceed 200 meters, a vessel of this size must show two white masthead lights vertically in line with each other. This configuration informs other vessels of the vessel's towing operation and alerts them to the presence of the tow, which can affect maneuverability and navigation.

The requirement for two masthead lights is crucial as it provides a clear indication to other mariners that the towing vessel is not just a single unit but is connected to another object, which they need to consider when determining their own navigation and any necessary actions to avoid collisions.

In this context, the number of lights helps establish the towing arrangement clearly, ensuring that all vessels understand the presence of a tow, thus maintaining a safe and navigable waterway.