If you see a red, a green, and a white light on another boat, what does this tell you?

When you observe a red, a green, and a white light on another boat, this configuration indicates that a boat is approaching you head-on. The red and green lights represent the port (left) and starboard (right) sides, respectively, while the white light is typically a stern light visible from behind. In a head-on situation at night, a vessel will display all three lights, allowing you to determine its direction of travel.

Recognizing this combination is essential for safe navigation, especially in low visibility conditions. It helps boaters understand the location and movement of other vessels, enabling them to make appropriate decisions to avoid collisions. This understanding is crucial for boating safety and is an important aspect of navigation regulations and requirements.