White and red lights can mean a whole host of things on vessels, which is dependent on the configuration of which you are seeing them. In thee MOST basic way to answer this with out knowing what you are seeing, I am going to assume you are seeing a port side-Red (left) running light and a white mast head light. Again if it was red over white or white over red it would mean entirely different things.
Red on the left or Port-side (I LEFT the RED PORT wine at home.) and Green on the right or Starboard side are basic navigation running lights.
Red above White = Fisherman's Delight: The two lights near the middle of the boat and up high indicate a fishing boat at work. They are the "stand-on".
White above Red = Pilot Ahead: The two lights near the middle of the boat and high up indicate a pilot boat at work: They are the "stand-on" vessel.
When boating at night, a single white light on a vessel tells you that it is anchored.
When boating at night a red and white light on a vessel tells you that you must give way to the other vessel.
You are boating at night you see a single white light directly ahead, you should give way by going around the other vessel.
You are the stand-on vessel but should take precautions in case the other operator doesn't see you.
When boating at night, a single white light tells you that it is either a light house or an anchored boat.
If you are boating at night, and you see a single white light on another boat this light tells you that you are overtaking another vessel or it is anchored. It is mandatory for all engine powered boats and shines forward. If there is no light it indicates a sailboat under sail.
If you are boating at night, and you see a single white light on another boat this light tells you that you are overtaking another vessel or it is anchored. It is mandatory for all engine powered boats and shines forward. If there is no light it indicates a sailboat under sail.
You are looking at the Starboard (right) side of the boat. If you can't see the white stern light then that boat is pointed toward you.
During nighttime transit another boat's lights show: Green - the right, or starboard side, of that vessel; Red - the left, or port side, of that vessel; White - the rear of that vessel. The vessel is heading directly toward you
Small boat light.
If you see a white light directly ahead of you while boating at night, you should alter your course to avoid a collision. Maintain a safe speed and be prepared to take evasive action if needed. White lights typically indicate a vessel's presence or movement; it's crucial to stay alert and navigate defensively in such situations.
fishing at night