How can you tell if a vessel is approaching you at night?

Identifying an approaching vessel at night primarily relies on the navigation lights that boats are required to display. Each type of vessel has specific lighting configurations that help ensure safety on the water.

For example, power-driven vessels typically show a white masthead light, red and green sidelights indicating port and starboard, and a white sternlight. Sailboats also exhibit similar lights but might have an additional anchor light when they are anchored. By observing these lights, you can determine the size, type, and direction of a vessel, which is crucial for maintaining a safe distance and avoiding collisions.

The navigation lights are designed not only to help you see other vessels but also to communicate their status (underway, at anchor, or in motion). This visual cue is the most reliable method at night, as other options like size and shape, engine sounds, or wake patterns may not provide clear or accurate information in low visibility conditions.