Which lights must a powered vessel display at night?

A powered vessel must display specific navigation lights at night to ensure it is visible to other vessels and to indicate its position and activity on the water. The correct answer indicates that a powered vessel should show a white masthead light, red and green sidelights, and a white stern light.

The white masthead light is located at the highest point of the vessel and is visible from all directions, signaling the presence of the vessel. The red and green sidelights are positioned on the port (left) and starboard (right) sides, respectively. These lights inform other vessels about the direction in which the powered vessel is heading; for example, a visible red light indicates that the vessel is facing the observer from the starboard side. Finally, the white stern light is located at the rear of the vessel, providing further visibility from behind.

The combination of these lights is essential for promoting safety and preventing collisions in the dark. Each light serves a specific role that is governed by maritime navigation rules designed to aid in safe navigation during night hours.

In contrast, options with only sidelights, various flashing lights, or only a stern light do not meet the comprehensive lighting requirements established for powered vessels to operate safely at night. Thus, option B accurately reflects the