What color of light is typically found on the port side of a vessel?

The color of light typically found on the port side of a vessel is red. This is an essential aspect of navigational lighting and is crucial for identifying the direction a boat is facing, particularly at night or in low visibility conditions. The red light on the port side is part of a standardized system used internationally to indicate the relative positions of vessels to one another.

According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), boats must display a red light on the port side and a green light on the starboard side. This color coding helps mariners understand the orientation of other vessels. When navigating, if you see a red light, you know the other vessel is on your left side, and you must adjust your course accordingly. This system enhances safety by preventing collisions and facilitating better communication between vessels at sea.