33 CFR 83.22 – Visibility of lights (Rule 22)
The lights prescribed in these Rules (Subpart C) shall have an intensity as specified in Annex I to these Rules (33 CFR part 84), so as to be visible at the following minimum ranges:
(a) In a vessel of 50 meters or more in length:
(i) A masthead light, 6 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 3 miles;
(iii) A sternlight, 3 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 3 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 3 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(b) In a vessel of 12 meters or more in length but less than 50 meters in length:
(i) A masthead light, 5 miles; except that where the length of the vessel is less than 20 meters, 3 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 2 miles;
(iii) A sternlight, 2 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 2 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 2 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(c) In a vessel of less than 12 meters in length:
(i) A masthead light, 2 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 1 mile;
(iii) A sternlight, 2 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 2 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow all-round light, 2 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(d) In an inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or objects being towed:
(i) A white all-round light, 3 miles.
(ii) [Reserved]