It is more difficult to judge speeds and distances than during a clear day so you must take every precaution. Vessels under way must show the proper lights from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility. You must also be able to tell from the lights of other vessels what they are, what they are doing and their direction of travel, so you can take the right timely action to avoid collision.

You must familiarise yourself with navigation hazards, lit and unlit, fixed or whose position may occasionally change.

Know where they are, from unlit buoys to rocks and shoals, and keep their position in relation to your vessel constantly in mind. Spotlights and lightbars may be used, but take care not to dazzle other people on the water, or yourself.

Only specified navigation lights should be shown at night. Any other lights onboard must not interfere with the range and arc of visibility of navigation lights or the ability of others to maintain a proper lookout

Always travel at a reduced speed to increase your safety margin. Keep a careful lookout around you for hazards and other vessels and, for extra reassurance, travel in company with another vessel or vessels where possible.

A proper lookout is important when the background of bright lights on shore tends to obscure the lights of other vessels, buoys and marks. This is especially true in waters close to populated areas, such as the shore of Port Phillip where even larger ships can be hard to see.