The J/109 Class Association Forum

Has anyone given thought / heard a complaint about 109 nav lights not being visible when flying spinnaker? Apparently, there is a rule that requires our nav lights are visible, and failing that being possible from the bow, we should have masthead nav lights.

I haven't heard about that but generally I use a masthead tricolor light off shore as it is easier to see. When near shore the deck lights are actually easier to see. Whenever I've done night sailing I've observed boats with spinnakers having a "glow" from the nav lights.

Dan, you are correct. US Sailing Safety Equipment Requirement 3.3.1 says nav lights can not be obstructed. We ended up adding a tricolor to our masthead this past year.