NavList:

Yes, Frank, how annoying it is for coastal dwellers to have their sea view marred by the blaze of lights from anchored vessels. But it is not inconsideration by the vessel’s master – she is conforming to Rule 30 (b) of the IRPCS. This states “A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 metres and more in length shall, also use the available working or equivalent lights to illuminate her decks.”

However, when underway on the high seas, a different rule seems to be disregarded by most powered vessels, and especially by cruise liners. Displaying an array of other lights, for deck illumination, decoration and even huge entertainment screens masks the visibility of the mandatory lights fitted for safe navigation. Rule 20(b) states “The Rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to sunrise and during such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot be mistaken for the lights specified in these Rules or do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper look-out.”

The deck officers themselves also cannot effectively conform to Rule 5 that requires them to “maintain a proper look-out by sight” when their night vision is impeded by the self-created light pollution.

Obviously, a crew member working on deck must have light – but that does not mean that every light on board must be left on at all times. Also, passengers on cruise liners want to see the celestial stars, not the Hollywood ones!

Bill Ritchie