: I thought that was right, but when you run a tricolor masthead, then it's
: lower? I guess you would still need the lower running light, and the white
: steaming light would be between the two.
Don, I am not familiar with what you are calling a steaming light. A power vessel displays side lights, a masthead light , and stern light. If it's over 50m then two masthead lights. Annex 1 of the Rules explains the proper location of these. I'll let you visit this.
: So if I understand this now, a kayak is only required to run a all-around
: white light, and/or carry a handheld and use it to prevent collision.
No Don, you cannot run an all round white light all the time. This would be appropriate only as an option for power vessels less than 7m travelling less than 7 knots in International Rules. This is not us. You are REQUIRED to carry a white light or torch which can be illuminated to avoid a collision. This is per Rule 25 for oared craft.
Folks I know this gets confusing, and the instinct to want to be more visible is understandable. I'm in no way telling people what to do, rather relaying info on the Rules. The problem with not complying is that others cannot tell what you are, or in the case of strobes, whether you have an emergency. I would be NEGLIGENT as a licensed captain of my vessel if I ignored a distress signal. My advice is be smart, stay near shore, carry the emergency stuff, and if you must make crossings do so cautiously using good judgement. Perhaps we're making this too hard eh? Just be smart and a good mariner.
But
: if we wanted, we could run something like a tricolor and then it would be
: illegal to run a white light forward, except the same handheld to prevent
: collision.
YES.
: And who need the rules when we have you to explain it for us 
Don, While I have a keen interest in these things and am willing to answer questions, I'd prefer folks get a copy of the Rules, as it is impossible for me to provide the context that the manual can. I'd prefer a direct e-mail with questions, as I fear I may be misunderstood on this page, and I don't need that headache. Safe Paddling.. MH
