What is the significance of having both red and green lights on a boat?

The presence of both red and green lights on a boat serves a crucial purpose in marine navigation, specifically to indicate the port (left) and starboard (right) sides of the vessel. The red light is positioned on the port side and the green light on the starboard side. This color coding allows other boaters to easily discern the orientation of a vessel when viewed from a distance, particularly at night or in low visibility conditions. This system plays a vital role in preventing collisions by enabling vessels to determine each other's direction of travel.

The red and green lights contribute to the overall framework of navigational safety established by maritime regulations, also known as the "Rules of the Road," which dictate how vessels must communicate their position and movement to each other. Understanding this system is essential for anyone operating a boat, as it enhances safety and helps maintain order on the water.