Night cruise and lighting question

[Dukeboiler]

Team - I have a new g23 and am curious what lights I can have on while cruising at night. I am in Tennessee and checked the TWRA boating regulations and it only gives mention to the normal white/red/green lights required.

I know this will vary state to state - but generally are the underwater lights, courtesy lights, overhead lights etc all primarily for when you are stopped at night? I think I remember hearing you can't have excessive lighting on when underway so other boaters don't get confused.

Certainly looking to avoid unwanted attention on an after dinner cruise ..any guidance?


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[barefootinjimmy]

Check the state regulations, but Navigational lights(red/green bow light & white stern light/anchor light) are required while moving. While anchored only the anchor light is required. I do not believe there are any laws/regulations that prohibit the use of any other lights.

[bharris6]

I got pulled over last year for cruising at night with my docking lights on. The DNR said under water lights would be fine but the docking lights can blind boaters and confuse them coming toward you.

[ski4evr]

try asking them a direct question on FBook

[MLA]

"it only gives mention to the normal white/red/green lights required."

Bingo! They typically do not tell you what is illegal, you have to read between the lines.

[nyryan2001]

While underway, LINC at 10%, Nav and anchor lights on.... Rear underwater LEDs on... Curtesy lights off....They are too bright and reduce your night vision while driving.

[kopp210]

Coast guard pulled me over to tell me to turn off my docking lights. They said anchor and nav only. This was on ohio river. Of coarse they sniffed around and shined their light in my eyes a bunch too. The real reason for the stop....


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[xlair]

I never understood why people drive at night with docking lights on. All they do is attract bugs and light up the 50 feet in front of you which isn't all that useful unless you are 'docking'. Pontoons are the primary culprit of doing this around me.