Question

For a vessel less than 20 meters in length, what is the range of visibility for a masthead light?

a) 5 miles
b) 3 miles
c) 2 miles
d) 1 mile

Answer 1

The visibility range for a masthead light on a vessel less than 20 meters in length is 2 miles according to the COLREGs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The range of visibility for a masthead light on a vessel less than 20 meters in length is 2 miles according to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). Therefore, the correct answer is c) 2 miles. The masthead light is a white light positioned over the fore and aft centerline of the vessel showing uninterrupted from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on either side of the vessel. This means that the light should be visible in a sector of 225 degrees across the bow. The purpose of the masthead light is to provide a means for vessels to ascertain the approximate bearing of other vessels and their relative heading to avoid collisions.