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Night Sailing: How to Navigate When the River Goes Dark | Class 22 | Sailing with the Cap

19 May 2026 · 7 min · 18 views · Delta del Paraná

What this video covers

Night navigation on the Río de la Plata requires specific adjustments to maintain safety when visual references disappear. Human eyes require 20 minutes to fully adapt to darkness, a process easily reversed by any white light source, including mobile phones or bright GPS screens.2:34 To preserve night vision, keep cabin lights off and set instrument displays to red or orange at minimum intensity.2:54 When underway, maintain a moderate displacement speed to avoid collisions with floating debris.3:31 Use the moon’s reflection on trees to identify the river channel, or align the bow with a star to maintain a steady heading without relying on the compass light.3:11 If using a handheld spotlight, aim it 45 degrees toward the water to gauge distance from the shore, never toward the bow.4:27 All vessels must display mandatory navigation lights, while small boats under 7 meters must keep a white light ready to signal their presence.4:57 Secure all deck lines and require crew to use safety harnesses if moving on deck at night.6:19

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