What is the primary function of navigation lights on a boat?

The primary function of navigation lights on a boat is to signal other vessels at night. These lights are essential for safe navigation, especially in low visibility conditions, such as nighttime or fog. By displaying specific colors and configurations, navigation lights communicate important information about the boat's status, such as its size, type, and direction of travel. This helps to prevent collisions and ensures that other mariners can see and identify the boat's position and movement on the water.

While enhancing visibility in fog, marking the boat's position, and indicating whether the vessel is moving are important considerations in overall boating safety, the main purpose of navigation lights is to signify a vessel's presence and intent to other boats operating in the area.