Navigation Lights - More Advanced: Fishing, Restricted in manoeuvrability, - Not very common right around Campbell River, but you could see them on a trip to Vancouver or North of the Narrows.
Caution:
- The following information has been simplified so we can give you a basic introduction using (mostly) non-technical language. Review the actual Regulations for in-depth information (we have noted the rule number, in square brackets, where practical). The Regulations can be found on our links page.
- A lot of effort has been made to ensure the information is correct, but errors may occur (If you find one please leave a message for our Webmaster).
- This information is intended for boaters on the BC Coast; it does not address modifications for vessels operating in the Great Lakes Basin.
Fishing vessel less than 50m (other than Trawling)
[Rule 26 c]
- In this case the vessel is making way, as it is showing sidelights and sternlight
- Even at anchor, if the vessel is fishing it will show the red over white or the day signal
- If there is outlying gear extending more than 150m horizontally from the vessel, the vessel shall show an all round white light or a cone apex upward in the direction of the gear [Rule 26 c (ii)]
- If fishing in close proximity seiners may exhibit additional lights as described in Annex II
- Common during salmon season, north of Seymour Narrows through Johnstone Strait to North End of Vancouver Island. Also during herring season.
Trawling vessel less than 50m
[Rule 26 b]
- If fishing in close proximity, trawlers will show additional signals as described in Annex II
- Trawling is not very common in the inside passage, but does occur.
Restricted in ability to manoeuvrer
[Rule 27]
- A vessel that, because of the nature of their work (buoy tending, underwater work, etc) cannot keep out of the way of another vessel is considered to be restricted in its ability to manoeuvre [Rule 3 g].
- The lights may not be in the location shown, but must be where they can best be seen.
- In this example the vessel is making way, if at anchor the restricted signal and anchor signal would be displayed instead of the masthead, sidelights and sternlight.
Air cushion vessel
[Rule 23 b]
- The yellow star shape represents a flashing yellow light, which an air cushion vessel displays when it is riding on its air cushion. The position of the light may be different from shown, but placed where it can be seen all round.
- The Canadian Coast Guard operates hovercraft out of Sea Island, Richmond, and they respond to rescue calls all over the lower Strait of Georgia.
- They may also display a flashing blue light, while on rescue operations.
Pilot Vessel
[Rule 29]
- This pilot vessel is underway, as it is showing sidelights and sternlight. If anchored, it would show the white over red and anchor lights.
- You may see a pilot boat at Nanaimo, Vancouver or Victoria.