What type of vessel is required to display lights in addition to normal navigation lights when towing?

When a vessel is towing, it is required to display additional lights to signal its operation and alert other vessels of its presence and activity. Specifically, the towing vessel must show the standard navigation lights and an additional light, which is typically a white towing light located above the regular lights. This alert informs other mariners that the vessel may have limited maneuverability and that it is engaged in towing operations.

This requirement is essential for marine safety, as it helps to prevent collisions by ensuring that nearby vessels are aware of the towing situation. The additional lighting distinguishes the towing vessel from other types of vessels, making it clear that it is operating differently than vessels that are simply at anchor or underway without any special conditions.

Vessels engaged in fishing, vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver, and vessels not under command have specific lighting requirements as well, but they do not require the display of additional towing lights since those categories involve different operational statuses. This reinforces the importance of the towing vessel's responsibilities when it comes to visibility on the water.