Pearson Yachts Forum

General Category - Pearson Owners and Enthusiasts => Cruising => Topic started by: Coppifan on August 10, 2011, 08:16:58 AM

Title: Lights for inflatable
Post by: Coppifan on August 10, 2011, 08:16:58 AM

Just bought a new inflatable to use with my 2 1/2 hp outboard. What navigation light(s) will I need?

Title: Re: Lights for inflatable
Post by: Oasis on August 10, 2011, 03:09:36 PM

I had  discussion about that topic with a boating safety instructor last year. 
He said that both bow and stern lights are absolutely required. 

How does one attach bow lights?  I have yet to find any that attach to an inflatable.
We always use a suction cup stern light  - mounted on top of the outboard. 
There is one busy anchorage where I will have my son hold a clamp on red/green bow light.

Given all that, I hardly ever see anyone using lights on their inflatables other than a flashlight.

Mike
Oasis  #2

Title: Re: Lights for inflatable
Post by: Captain Bri on August 10, 2011, 10:33:51 PM

Essentially you are OK with an all-around white light.

This is covered under USCG Rule 23 Power-Driven vessels underway:
A power-driven vessel of less than 7 meters in length whose maximum speed does not exceed 7 knots may in lieu of the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule exhibit an all-round white light and shall, if practicable, also exhibit sidelights.

Ref: http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=Rule23