USCG Launch Tender Practice Exam

Seeing a green light while operating a vessel typically indicates that you are approaching a vessel that is either under sail or a sailing vessel that is showing its starboard side. In navigation, a green light signifies the starboard side of a vessel, suggesting that you are on a collision course or too close to another vessel's path.

When you see a green light, the correct response is to "stand on," which means to maintain your course and speed. This is consistent with the "Rules of the Road" under the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs). According to these rules, if you are the give-way vessel and you see the green light, you should maintain your course, as the other vessel is expected to take action to avoid a collision.

Maintaining your course in this situation is essential for ensuring safe navigation and preventing confusion among vessels. It allows both you and the other vessel to assess the situation without sudden changes that could lead to unpredictable maneuvers.