Understanding Navigation Lights for Towed Barges

When it comes to safe navigation at night, especially with a barge being towed astern, knowing the proper lights to display is a non-negotiable. So, what’s the deal? A barge under tow must exhibit both sidelights and a sternlight to comply with established navigation rules. These lights aren't just random adornments; they play a crucial role in maritime safety.

Now, let’s break it down a bit. Sidelights include the red light on the port side (that's your left when facing the bow of the vessel) and the green light on the starboard side (the right side). Together, they signal the position and heading of the barge. But wait, there’s more! The sternlight, a bright white light located at the rear, is equally important. This little guy lets oncoming vessels know that there’s a tow behind and helps to avoid confusion with other vessels that might be out there alone.

Imagine being out on the water at night, with only the sounds of the waves and the gentle sway of your boat. Suddenly, a barge appears, but wait—without the right lights, how could you possibly know its direction or intentions? Yikes! It’s absolutely vital that a towed barge displays the correct lights. If it were to show only its sidelights or just a solitary all-round white light, it could leave other mariners scratching their heads, creating a recipe for disaster.

The rule of thumb here? Always ensure that your barge is sporting its sidelights along with that crucial sternlight when being towed at night. This combination is key to helping other vessels identify not only the barge but its specific relationship to the towing vessel, significantly enhancing safety for everyone on the open waters.

In summary, having the right lighting setup isn’t just about following the rules; it’s about promoting safe navigation practices that protect both you and your fellow seafarers. Make sure to brush up on these details before you hit the waves—after all, knowledge is the best life raft you can have!