A vessel is overtaking another vessel at night. The overtaking vessel can see which light of the vessel being overtaken?

• A. Only the sternlight
• B. The forward masthead light
• C. The green sidelight
• D. All navigation lights

Answer: (A)

When a vessel is overtaking another at night, the key idea is the direction of navigation lights. Lights are arranged in arcs: the red port sidelight and the green starboard sidelight and the white masthead lights illuminate mainly the forward direction, while the white stern light is aimed toward the rear.

From the perspective of the overtaking vessel, you’re approaching from behind. The forward-facing lights (the forward masthead light and the sidelights) are oriented toward the front and are typically not visible from astern because the hull blocks the view. The light that can be seen from behind is the white stern light, which is positioned to be visible to vessels following behind.

Thus, the overtaking vessel can see only the stern light of the vessel being overtaken. The other lights are not visible from that position.