Here are 5 of the best night sailing tips for safe and effective coastal cruising:

Captain Paul Sullivan

⸻ 🌔 1. Use Red Lights Only • Preserve your night vision by avoiding white lights. • Equip headlamps or flashlights with red LEDs. • Dim your electronics and set apps (like Navionics) to night mode. ⸻ 🧭 2. Rely on Compass & Charts & Landmarks • Coastal lights can help but beware, shore features can be deceptive at night. • Double-check your position with GPS, paper charts, and dead reckoning. • Plot fixes frequently—every 15–30 minutes in tighter areas. ⸻ 🚨 3. Know the Lights on Aids & Vessels • Review the light characteristics (e.g., Fl G 4s = flashing green every 4 sec). • Learn to recognize vessel navigation lights (red/green/white) to determine heading and right-of-way. • Use a binoculars with compass for spotting and confirming bearings. ⸻ 🪢 4. Keep the Deck Organized & Secured • Tidy lines, stow loose gear, and double-check harnesses jack lines and tethers. • Reduce tripping hazards—what’s annoying by day is dangerous by night. • Wear a PFD and tether when moving outside the cockpit. ⸻ 🔊 5. Communicate Clearly & Keep Watch • Establish clear watch rotations and communication protocols. • Keep a sharp lookout—lights, traffic, and radar targets can be missed easily. • Use VHF when in doubt—especially in busy harbors.