T&T: Anchor Light

[Rudy and Jill Sechez]

Hi Pascal-

In responce to the need for an anchor light in Boot Key harbor, which by the way, is in international waters.

The requirement for an anchor light stems from the fact that to be a "designated anchorage" (inland or international waters), thus relieved of the need to exhibit an anchor light, or ball (during the day) for that matter, the anchorage must be designated that by the secretary of the department that the Coast Guard in under (now-a-days it is the department of Home Land Security).

As Boot Key harbor has not recieved that designation, anchor lights/balls are still a requirement.

The problem that arises, other than having the various enforcement agencies enforce this requirement, is legal. If someone runs into a boat at anchor, which is not displaying the appropriate light/ball, the anchored boat is at fault. To me, this is enough of a reason to be displaying the necessary light/ball.

The Coastal Pilots, as mentioned in a previous post, lists the anchorages that are approved.

Hope this helps,

Rudy and Jill Sechez
Briney Bug, Port St Joe, FL