I've often seen "solid" red all-around lights
used by larger yachts with very tall masts while
at anchor in the BVI. Are you sure you have seen
flashing red down there or could they have been
solid red?

It is a smart idea to display a light on a tall
mast. Any helicopter would appreciate it also.
However, flashing red could be mistaken for a
buoy possibly. I would vote for flashing amber.

The rules need to allow some flexibility for yacht
owners to display strobes. Strobes use very little
power, are brighter than solid lights, and catch
the eye quickly.

I've been thinking about using Morse code to display
my Ham call sign as a signal at the top of my mast.
For example, using intevals longer than typically
found on Aids to Navigation--say every 30-60 seconds
when near shore, and perhaps more frequently offshore.

A strobe makes sense while sailing on the ocean
too, since it could not be an "Aid to Navigation" if
spotted in mid-ocean. This would make vessels easier
to spot and help prevent collisions. I've seen enough
close passings to rate collisions my number one fear
on the ocean.

One other thing to consider, is whether a strobe might
hinder night vision. Certainly, for solo sailors a strobe
could be turned on when below decks. I wonder what effect
a strobe at the top of a mast would have on a sailor in
a cockpit. Perhaps the right sort of shielding could
mast the light from direct vision on deck.

Bart Senior

(SAIL LOCO) wrote

A vessel with a really high mast. Flashing red light is to ward off aircraft.
You see mega yachts with flashing red strobes in the BVIs all the time. Next
question.
S/V Express 30 "Ringmaster"
Trains are a winter sport