An evening return across Pittwater
You are returning to a Pittwater ramp after sunset in a 5.5-metre runabout capable of 25 knots. You are travelling slowly. Ahead is a single white light whose movement you cannot yet judge. Later you anchor in a suitable sheltered spot.
Before you read the solution: what would you do?
True or false?
Decide each statement before you see the answer.
Navigation lights let me drive a PWC after sunset.
With sails up, I keep the sailing-only lights while motoring.
A white light always means an anchored boat.
Look at the pattern, then keep watching.
One short starboard, two short port, three short engines astern.
Three short blasts mean the boat is already moving backwards.
Use lights for what the vessel is doing now.
Under 12 metres: sidelights, plus either masthead and stern lights or an all-round white light.
Special lights tell you there is more to the situation.
Red is always on my left when another boat comes towards me.
My 6-metre runabout only needs a white light if I keep below 7 knots.