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Part CIntermediate
Rule 29: Pilot vessels
Pilot vessels use a distinctive white-over-red identity, with extra lights according to underway/anchor status.
Detailed Explanation
(a) Pilot vessel on duty exhibits: (i) two all-round vertical lights, white over red; (ii) when underway, add sidelights and sternlight; (iii) when at anchor, add anchor light(s)/shape from Rule 30.
(b) Pilot vessel not on duty shows lights/shapes of a similar vessel of same length.
Key Points
- Pilot on duty: white over red all-round at masthead
- Underway: add sidelights + sternlight
- At anchor: add anchor light(s) instead
Examples
- You see white-over-red all-round lights on a vessel near the harbour entrance — this is a pilot vessel on pilotage duty per Rule 29(a). She also shows sidelights and sternlight as she is underway.
- A pilot cutter at anchor near the boarding ground shows white-over-red all-round lights plus the prescribed anchor light. Rule 29(a) requires the pilot identity lights regardless of anchor status.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing pilot vessel lights (white over red) with fishing vessel lights (red over white) by reversing the order.
- Displaying pilot lights when the vessel is transiting but not actively engaged in pilotage duty.
- Forgetting to switch from pilot lights to standard navigation lights when pilotage service is suspended.