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Understanding Some Underwater Boat Lights

By Annabelle Newton


Navigation lights have made their way into the marine sector as aids to better management of collision risks on water. With an ability to be clearly observed from far out at sea, captains are able to confirm the size and direction of travel of a distant vessel. In addition to the conventional red, green and white lights, underwater boat lights are also making their presence felt.

Crowded waters call for a more recognizable form of communication, usually a flashing beacon. The level of light intensity must be so designed to pierce the darkness even on a foggy night at sea. International marine laws recognize the mounting of red and green lights on the right and left sides respectively as a standard requirement. These are used by captains of sea faring vessels to tell who has the right of way where paths cross.

The starboard side is generally the right side of a boat from an observer standing on board facing the bow. Also known as the senior side, this section of the quarter deck is largely for the occupation of the captain. It has become common for captains to hoist flags or pennants on the starboard yard as a trademark.

Due to the widely accepted practice of mooring the boats on the left side, it later came to be referred to as the port. By this approach, there was less likelihood of damaging oars, conventionally fitted on the right side. Quite regularly, the sea routes of vessels of varying design and size will intersect and caution must be exercised to avoid accidents.

Thus a small boat may be positioned such that its captain sees the green light of a large cargo liner. According to some well thought out rules, the former may be required to give way owing to the possibility of a constraining draft that limits the ship to its current line of motion. Moreover, large vessels may be restricted in ability to rapidly change their path on water.

Sailing ships have slower response to input at the steering mechanisms and may thus be granted the right of way against a powered vessel. An experienced skipper knows that a green light means proceed with caution and should not always be interpreted as a go a head. For this reason, it is mandatory for captains to be well versed with rules applicable throughout the voyage.

It must be appreciated that risks exist whenever a boat is afloat on a voyage. Without proper control of developing situations, a hazard will progress to danger and peril. The range of possible accidents is topped by a mishap that suddenly leaves all on board in water. The first lessons to all potential crew members should tell them what to expect when sudden immersion in water occurs.

It is legally acknowledged that the captain bears overall responsibility for the persons and goods aboard his craft. He should conduct a routine check in person to ensure all the required gear is included. He also has to organize for a thorough check up of all systems from motors to underwater boat lights. A skipper should be in a position to present the inspection report created before embarking on a voyage.




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