Where should sidelights be placed on a vessel of 20 meters?

Sidelights should be positioned not more than three-quarters of the height of the fore masthead light on a vessel measuring 20 meters. This placement ensures that the lights provide effective visibility and adherence to the COLREGs (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) protocols.

The purpose of sidelights is to indicate the starboard and port sides of the vessel to other mariners. Their installation height relative to the fore masthead light is crucial because it helps maintain a clear and distinguishable light configuration that enhances safety in navigation. By positioning the sidelights in this manner, they are adequately visible from a distance and serve their intended function of indicating the direction the vessel is heading.

The other options suggest either improper locations or heights that don't align with the guidelines set forth in the COLREGs. For instance, placing the sidelights directly at the bow of the vessel might not provide the necessary visibility, especially in low-light conditions. Similarly, positioning them higher than the fore masthead light could disrupt the light hierarchy and confuse other vessels regarding the vessel’s orientation and movements. Lastly, while height above the water is an important factor for navigation visibility, simply stating a minimum height above the water does not provide the necessary context for proper placement in