NAV Lights - masthead or deck level ?

[lw395]

Surely ensigns and stern lights are mutually exclusive after sunset?

A lot of people leave an ensign flying overnight, which is fine, if it 's well clear of the lights.
Can be a useful wind indicator down wind.
I once came up behind a yacht with the stupid flag wrapped around the sternlight, first thing we saw was the blinding glare of the chart plotter when the fat man noved from behind it.

 

[awol]

A lot of people leave an ensign flying overnight, which is fine, if it 's well clear of the lights.
Can be a useful wind indicator down wind.
I once came up behind a yacht with the stupid flag wrapped around the sternlight, first thing we saw was the blinding glare of the chart plotter when the fat man noved from behind it.

A lot of people have IQs below 100 and little imagination. But is it an excuse for stupidity (and/or obesity)?

 

[prv]

+1 Protocol requires the ensign to be struck at sunset doesn't it?

Only in harbour; I've always understood it as correct to leave it flying when under way. Not that I mind what anyone else does.

Pete

 

[rogerthebodger]

Only in harbour
Pete

Does that also apply if you are moored in a countries harbour other than the ship's registration.

 

[RichardS]

Only in harbour; I've always understood it as correct to leave it flying when under way. Not that I mind what anyone else does.

Pete

Good grief. My ensign is tied onto the topping lift with a couple of cable ties so the only time that comes down is when I leave the boat and head for home. :ambivalence:

Richard

 

[Dockhead]

The masthead tricolour does have other advantages than low power.
It's above the waves.
It's not obscured by sails. Or silly ensigns on sticks!
It's pretty safe from damage up there.
It's not lighting up anything of your own boat, ruining your night vision.
You can be seen moving through an anchorage or mooring area.

And the big plus point, it lights up the windex.

Indeed!

The deck level lights can just kill your night vision.

HOWEVER, I have had more than one situation where other vessels could not see my tricolour.

 

[CPD]

Decision made :

- No tricolour at masthead. I have never used one in 15 years and cant think when I would.
- Deck level LED nav lights with spares (independent battery powered to cope with main 12v failure)
- Mast head anchor light.
- Additional anchor light hung in forestay rigging

Thanks for the thoughts everyone.