Decide and practise · Lights and sound signals · NSW boat licence

Work through a night trip in a 6-metre powerboat capable of 20 knots. Choose the lights, then interpret what you see and hear.

Step by step

You slow to 5 knots. Which lighting arrangement remains appropriate underway?
Only a torch because the boat is under 7 metresSidelights plus an all-round white lightOnly an all-round white light because you are below 7 knots
Show the solution
The small, slow-boat alternative depends on maximum speed. This boat can exceed 7 knots, so it needs the normal powered-vessel arrangement (p. 119).
What is the minimum vertical separation between the sidelights and your all-round white light?
Your answerm
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The masthead or all-round white light must be at least 1 metre above the sidelights (p. 119).
Another vessel crosses ahead showing a red sidelight. Which direction is it travelling?
Directly away from youFrom your right to your leftFrom your left to your right
Show the solution
You see its port side: the handbook's crossing pattern is from your starboard side towards your port side (p. 124).
In sight of another vessel, you operate your engine astern to slow down. What sound describes that action?
One long blastThree short blastsTwo short blasts
Show the solution
Three short blasts mean operating engines astern, including slowing or stopping. They do not prove the hull is already moving backwards (p. 127).

Now on your own

Now you skipper a 9-metre yacht back into Port Hacking after sunset. Work through these new situations without hints.

Exercise: Prepare, recognise, signal