What is the minimum equipment a 16-foot canoe must have after dark?

A 16-foot canoe is required to have specific equipment for safe navigation in low visibility conditions, such as after dark. The minimum requirement is to carry a lantern or a flashlight. This is essential for ensuring that the canoe is visible to other boat operators, as well as helping the canoeist to see obstacles in the water.

Having a light source like a lantern or flashlight not only enhances the safety of the occupants by allowing them to navigate more effectively, but it also fulfills legal requirements for visibility on waterways. These lights help prevent collisions, signaling the presence of the canoe to larger vessels that may not easily spot smaller craft in the dark.

While other options such as a whistle or horn, flares or strobe lights, and stand-up lights or beacons can be beneficial for specific situations or types of vessels, they do not represent the minimum equipment requirement for a canoe navigating after dark. These other options may be more appropriate for larger boats or specific emergencies rather than the basic visibility requirement for a canoe.