A starboard light is a green navigation light located on the right (starboard) side of a vessel . This light is mandatory for vessels sailing at night or in poor visibility and helps identify a vessel's direction and position to avoid collisions.
1. Characteristics of a starboard light
✅ Green light → Indicates the right side (starboard) of a vessel .
✅ Shines in an arc of 112.5° → Visible from straight ahead to slightly to the right (starboard) .
✅ Mandatory for night sailing or poor visibility → In accordance with International Maritime Regulations (COLREGS) .
✅ Works in conjunction with the port light (red) and the stern light (white) → Determines a vessel’s orientation.
✅ Visibility minimum 2 nautical miles → Depending on the size of the vessel.
2. Function of a starboard light
📌 Helps other vessels determine their direction of travel → A green light means you can see the right side of a vessel.
📌 Part of the navigation lighting system → Together with the port light (red) and the stern light (white), it indicates the position and heading of a vessel.
📌 Prevents collisions → Essential for applying the right-of-way rules on the water .
3. When is a starboard light required?
According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), the following vessels are required to display a starboard light:
| Ship length | Obligation |
|---|---|
| < 7 meters (23 ft) | May be replaced by an all-round white light . |
| 7 - 20 meters (23 - 65 ft) | Starboard light + Port light + Stern light mandatory . |
| > 20 meters (65+ ft) | Starboard light + Port light + Stern light + Mast light mandatory . |
| Sailboats under sail | Port and starboard lights are mandatory (or a three-colour masthead light). |
⛵ Sailing vessels may carry a three-coloured light on the mast instead of separate sidelights.
4. Difference between a starboard light and other navigation lights
| Light type | Goal | Colour | Corner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starboard Light | Indicates the right side of the ship | Green | 112.5° |
| Port Light | Indicates the left side of the ship | Red | 112.5° |
| Stern Light | Shows the rear of the ship | White | 135° |
| Masthead Light | Shows the direction of travel (motorboats) | White | 225° |
| Anchor light | Shows an anchored ship | White | 360° around |
💡 Tip: When you see a green starboard light, you know you're approaching the right side of another vessel. If you see a red port light, you're looking at the left side of the vessel.
5. Types of starboard lights
🔹 LED starboard lights → Energy efficient, long life.
🔹 12V / 24V boat lights → For motorboats and yachts.
🔹 Portable Navigation Lights → For small boats and kayaks.
🔹 Combination lights → Integrated with port light for small vessels.
💡 In short:
The starboard light is a green navigation light that marks the right side of a vessel . It shines in an arc of 112.5° and is mandatory for vessels sailing at night or in poor visibility . Along with the port light (red) and the stern light (white), it ensures safety and visibility on the water .