Where should the forward masthead light be placed on a power-driven vessel?

The forward masthead light on a power-driven vessel is required to be located at a position that ensures its visibility is optimized for navigation safety. Placing the light not more than one-quarter of the length from the stem ensures that it is adequately forward, providing an appropriate range of visibility for other vessels and aiding in identifying the type of vessel and its direction of travel.

This positioning is critical because it allows for proper identification of the vessel's heading. When the masthead light is set at this specific location, it aids other vessels in recognizing that it is a power-driven craft underway, thus enhancing safety by reducing the risk of collisions. The regulations dictate that this light should be high enough to be seen from a distance, and being set forward ensures it is consistent with the way vessels are typically navigated.

Positions like one-third of the length from the stern or at the stern do not adequately fulfill the requirement for visibility from the forward direction, while suggesting equal to the vessel’s length would place the light in a position that might obscure its recognition since it would be too far along the boat's length.