To thwart collisions among ocean faring vessels, the mounting of strategically located navigation lights as a warning. By a mere glance at the lights on an approaching craft, a sailor will be able to tell the type and line of motion of the oncoming vessel. In some states the conventional red, green and white lights are used in conjunction with underwater boat lights.
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.
Also known as the starboard, the right side is recognized as the area from where the captain runs his vessel. It contains a vantage point, steering mechanisms and communication equipment for the ship while at sea. The starboard yard will feature communication antennae and a flag or pennants as some form of identification.
The left side is designated the name port probably due to the fact that sailors usually moor ships on this side. This habit was adopted to avoid crushing the propulsion mechanism which was conventionally located on the right hand side on boats of earlier times. Vessels of varying propulsion mechanisms and size are likely to be plying a sea route at the same time.
In some instances, the captain may infer that he has the right of way if he can see the green light on another ship. However, it could be possible that one vessel is caught in a draft that hinders maneuverability. Heavily laden vessels will also be very hard to steer in response to an emergency that warrants change of course.
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.
All skippers understand that boating involves an element of risk at all times. This risk could potentially develop into danger or real peril if not properly managed. One of the worst accidents is a progression of events that unexpectedly leaves the crew in the water. Basic training should be given to all crew so that they fully understand bodily response to sudden immersion to increase their chances of survival.
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.
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.
Also known as the starboard, the right side is recognized as the area from where the captain runs his vessel. It contains a vantage point, steering mechanisms and communication equipment for the ship while at sea. The starboard yard will feature communication antennae and a flag or pennants as some form of identification.
The left side is designated the name port probably due to the fact that sailors usually moor ships on this side. This habit was adopted to avoid crushing the propulsion mechanism which was conventionally located on the right hand side on boats of earlier times. Vessels of varying propulsion mechanisms and size are likely to be plying a sea route at the same time.
In some instances, the captain may infer that he has the right of way if he can see the green light on another ship. However, it could be possible that one vessel is caught in a draft that hinders maneuverability. Heavily laden vessels will also be very hard to steer in response to an emergency that warrants change of course.
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.
All skippers understand that boating involves an element of risk at all times. This risk could potentially develop into danger or real peril if not properly managed. One of the worst accidents is a progression of events that unexpectedly leaves the crew in the water. Basic training should be given to all crew so that they fully understand bodily response to sudden immersion to increase their chances of survival.
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.