BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

Module 05 - Navigation and Right-of-Way Rules

What Does a White Light Indicate?

If you see a white light at night, you’re approaching one of the following boat types:

A boat from behind
A non-powered boat
An anchored boat at night

It’s important to remember that in ALL of these scenarios you are the give-way vessel and do NOT have the right of way. You must steer well clear by altering your course and passing at a safe distance on the starboard (right) or port (left) side. Always pass at a safe distance, and ensure that you won’t swamp the other boat with your wake.

Remember: Anchored boats should never display their green and red sidelights as these lights will indicate to other boaters that your boat is underway.