Navigation lights tell other boats what you are, which way you are heading and whether you are under way or at anchor. Getting them right is a legal requirement and, more importantly, it keeps you from being run down at night. The rules come from the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), which apply to UK waters. This guide gives the basics for small boats. Always check the full rules for your boat's size and type.
When do you need them?
Navigation lights must be shown from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility such as fog or heavy rain, even in daytime. If you might be out at dusk, check your lights work before you leave.
The basic lights
- Sidelights: red on the port (left) side and green on the starboard (right) side, each shining forward and out to the side.
- Sternlight: a white light shining backwards over the stern.
- Masthead light: a white light shining forward, higher than the sidelights, shown by power-driven vessels.
- All-round white light: visible from every direction. Used as an anchor light and, on some small powerboats, in place of the masthead and stern lights.
What a small boat typically shows
- Power-driven, under 12 metres: sidelights plus either a masthead light and sternlight, or a single all-round white light.
- Power-driven, under 7 metres with a top speed of 7 knots or less: may show just an all-round white light, with sidelights if practicable.
- Sailing under sail alone: sidelights and a sternlight, but no masthead light. Under 20 metres these can be combined in a single tricolour at the top of the mast. Once the engine is running, you are a power-driven vessel and show power-driven lights.
- Rowing boats and small dinghies: may show sailing lights, or at least have a white torch or lantern ready to show in time to prevent a collision.
At anchor
A boat at anchor shows an all-round white light where it can best be seen. A folding LED anchor light on a stainless base is an easy way to add one to a small boat. Very small boats anchored well away from channels and anchorages may be exempt, but it is good practice to show one anyway.
Before you go out at night
- Switch every light on and walk around the boat to check each one works and points the right way.
- Check fuses, switches and connections. Salt water is hard on electrics, so clean and protect connectors.
- Carry a powerful torch and spare fuses or bulbs.
- Make sure nothing on deck (covers, fenders, bimini) blocks any light.
Why LED?
LED navigation lights use a fraction of the power of filament bulbs, which matters on a small battery, and they cope with vibration far better. Look for lights with a good waterproof rating (IP66 or higher) and a stated visibility range suited to your boat's length.
Products in this guide
- LED Stern Navigation Light: IP66, 12V, side-mount sternlight for boats up to 12 metres.
- Boat Anchor Light: IP66, 12V LED all-round light with a foldable stainless base.
- Blade Fuse Box Holder: keeps lighting circuits protected and tidy.
Browse all boat lights, or ask us if you are not sure what your boat needs. For the full rules, see the COLREGs or the RYA's guidance on lights and shapes.