Using the following tables you can clarify the type(s) of navigation lights that are applicable to your vessel type and size.
Please refer to the tables below to see what the definition of the IMO COLREGS 1972 is with regard to the relation between the requested visibility per type of navigation light and the length and type of boat or vessel where applied.
Example:
According to IMO COLREGS 1972, Aqua Signal series 34, 40, 41, 43 and 44 can be used on boats < 50m with only one exception, which is the masthead light since this one has to have 5 nm visibility instead of 3m (therefore the Aqua Signal Series 55 would be used on the Masthead in this case).
For regulations in various countries (if the craft will travel into international waters) please refer to the detailed approval list in this catalogue.
Please also cross-check your vessel type against our Navigation Lights User Guide to ensure you cover all of your navigation modes (e.g. a yacht must display a different navigation light array depending on whether it is sailing or under power
If you have any questions, feel free to contact your closest office to assist you.
Required visibility in nautical miles (nm)
| Type of navigation light | Light beam | Angle | Type of boat | Boats < 12m | Boats < 20m | Boats < 50m | Boats > 50m |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starboard |  |
112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Port |  |
112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Stern |  |
135° | Sailing & Motor boats | 2 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Masthead |  |
225° | Motor boats | 2 nm | 3 nm | 5 nm | 6 nm |
| All-round |  |
360° | Sailing & Motor boats | 2 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Bi-colour |  |
2 x 112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | ||
| Tri-colour |  |
2 x 112.5°+ 135° | Sailing boats | 1-2 nm | 2 nm |
Visibility of Aqua Signal navigation lights in nautical miles (nm)
| Type of navigation light | Light beam | Angle | Type of boat | Series 20, 25 | Series 34, 40, 41, 42, 43, 50 | Series 55 | Series 70, 70M, 70D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starboard | |
112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Port | |
112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Stern | |
135° | Sailing & Motor boats | 2 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Masthead | |
225° | Motor boats | 2 nm | 3 nm | 5 nm | 6 nm |
| All-round | |
360° | Sailing & Motor boats | 2 nm | 2 nm | 2 nm | 3 nm |
| Bi-colour | |
2 x 112.5° | Sailing & Motor boats | 1 nm | 2 nm | ||
| Tri-colour | |
2 x 112.5°+ 135° | Sailing boats | 1-2 nm | 2 nm |