Connecticut Safe Boating Practice Test

If you see only a green light while approaching a sailing vessel at night, what should you do?

1. Stand on

2. Give way

3. Overtake

4. Signal the other vessel

The correct answer is: Give way

When you see only a green light while approaching a sailing vessel at night, it indicates that you are approaching its starboard side. According to the navigation rules, when two vessels are approaching each other, the one that sees the green light has the right of way. Therefore, if you are the vessel seeing the green light, the proper action is to give way. This means slowing down or altering your course significantly to avoid a collision. It's important to understand the significance of navigation lights: the green light indicates the starboard (right) side of the sailing vessel, while the red light indicates the port (left) side. The role of each vessel is dictated not just by these lights, but by the aforementioned rules established to promote safety and prevent accidents on the water. Recognizing these signals is vital for safe navigation, especially at night when visibility is limited. Thus, giving way when you see only a green light ensures that you comply with maritime navigation laws and maintain safe distances, keeping both your vessel and that of the sailing vessel secure.