When towing astern, what light must a power-driven vessel exhibit?

When towing astern, what light must a power-driven vessel exhibit?

• A. A towing light in a vertical line above the stern light
• B. A white all-round light
• C. Red over white lights
• D. A stern light only

Answer: (A)

When a power-driven vessel is towing something astern, it must show two white lights in a vertical line: the stern light at the bottom and a towing light above it. This extra light clearly signals to other vessels that you are towing and helps indicate that a tow is in place behind you. The two white lights in line are distinct from the standard navigation lights and the top light specifically identifies the towing situation. A single white all-round light wouldn’t convey that you’re towing, and a red-over-white arrangement doesn’t represent the towing setup. Showing only the stern light omits the required signal that a tow is in progress.

When a power-driven vessel is towing something astern, it must show two white lights in a vertical line: the stern light at the bottom and a towing light above it. This extra light clearly signals to other vessels that you are towing and helps indicate that a tow is in place behind you. The two white lights in line are distinct from the standard navigation lights and the top light specifically identifies the towing situation.

A single white all-round light wouldn’t convey that you’re towing, and a red-over-white arrangement doesn’t represent the towing setup. Showing only the stern light omits the required signal that a tow is in progress.