Here is another FB post response I made in the hopes to properly educate my fellow boaters. The original post focused on a particular and frequent boater who apparently has extremely bright and powerful deck lights on his pontoon; and when on way, likes to have his lights illuminated blinding other vessel operators.
Rules of the Road, published by United States Coast Guard governs all vessel lighting.
Any extra vessel lighting; meaning, not having to do with navigation, characterization or lookout must not impair the visibility or distinct character of the lights specified in the Rule 20 (navigation, vessel characterization, or proper lookout (when necessary). Meaning, if light bars or additional vessel lighting impedes identifying red/green/mast from a minimum a mile away; then the lighting would be in violation of rule 20.
However, those vessels that have these types of extra lighting could cite the need for proper lookout Rule 5 and “could” be permitted and not be in violation of Rule 20. Just depends on the exact circumstances.
Boating at night can be challenging; and the last thing you need is an approaching vessel lit up like a night construction site. If you do not have an immediate need to illuminate your vessel's path or have a legitimate lookout need; you should only have your navigation, characterization lights on. Not only does this not impede other boater's vision; but allows other boaters to properly identify your vessel's characteristics and whether your on way or anchored.
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