Regulations for Boat Navigation Lights

In a post earlier this week someone questioned the lighting requirements for paddling at night. Here's an excerpt from the CA Boating Safety Class (CA Dept. of Boating and Waterways) booklet. Note that the regs apply during fog and rain as well (Oops! I didn't know that!).

Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Navigation Lights

Vessel operators must make sure that their vessels are equipped with the proper navigation lights and use the lights during these conditions:
-When away from the dock between sunset and sunrise
-During periods of restricted visibility such as fog or heavy rain
 
The different types of navigation lights are described in “Night Navigation” in Chapter 3. No other lights that may be mistaken for required navigation lights may be exhibited. Note: blue flashing lights are restricted to use by law enforcement vessels only.

Unpowered Vessels When Underway
Unpowered vessels are sailing vessels or those that are paddled, poled or rowed.

If less than 20 meters (65.6 ft.) long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in Figure 2:
-Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least two miles, or if less than 12 meters (39.4 ft.) long, at least one mile, on a dark clear night.
-A sternlight visible from a distance of at least two miles.
An alternative to the sidelights and sternlight is a combination red, green and white light, which must be exhibited near the top of the mast.

If less than 7 meters (23.0 ft.) long, these vessels should:
-If practical, exhibit the same lights as required for unpowered vessels less than 20 meters (65.6 ft.) in length.
-If not practical, have on hand at least one lantern or flashlight shining a white light as shown in Figure 3.

To prevent a collision, vessel operators should never leave shore without a flashlight. Even if you plan to return before dark, unforeseen developments might delay your return past nightfall.

I find a nice strong headlamp (not the weak LED type) works pretty well for this.  Paddling and holding a flashlight can be pretty difficult.

Thanks, Janice.

Thanks, J.

My favorite flashlights are those Army surplus 2-D ones with the 90 degree angle.  Cheap, water proof, extra bulb stash, and they have different colered lenses built in.

Thanks for posting this, Janice.  I was feeling like a major offender 'til I got to the flashlight section.     I probably couldn't get away with doing my nutty nighttime nautical notions if I were nearer the city...