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Shine Bright on the Water With the Best Boat Lights

Navigating the waters at night or in low visibility conditions requires reliable and effective lighting, making the choice of boat lights crucial for safety and performance. As we sail into the furture, advancements in marine lighting technology have brought an array of options to the market, each promising enhanced brightness, energy efficiency, and durability. Whether you're a seasoned sailor, a weekend angler, or a leisure boater, our comprehensive guide will illuminate the best boat lights of 2024. After doing some research, the  Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights emerged as the standout choice,  with their superior brightness, energy efficiency, and easy installation. Of course, there are several more options to choose from, so keep reading to learn more details. 

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall: Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights Shop Now ➔
• Best Brightness: EXZEIT Waterproof LED Boat Lights Shop Now ➔
• Most Durable: Cutequeen LED Boat Lights Shop Now ➔
• Most Versatile: Seapon Pontoon Boat Light Shop Now ➔
• 1 Boat Lights: The Ultimate Buyer's Guide 
• 2 Durability and Weather Resistance
• 3 Energy Efficiency
• 4 Ease of Installation
• 5 Visibility Range
• 6 Type of Lights
• 7 Compliance with Regulations

How do I maintain my boat lights?

Are all boat lights waterproof, how do i install my boat lights, what's the lifespan of a boat light, how energy efficient are boat lights, what should i do if my lights aren't working, can these lights be used for other purposes other than boating, related content, the best boat lights, best overall.

Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights

The Shangyuan Marine Boat Light offers an exciting blend of practicality and versatility. The package arms you with six 3.8-inch white LED lights, energized by a DC 12V system and illuminating at a powerful 120 lumens. These lights don’t just sit pretty; they shine brilliantly with a size of 75 x 20 x 5 millimeters and extend with the base to 95 x 20 x 10 millimeters.

What sets these lights apart is their extensive range of applications. They adapt smoothly to function as courtesy lights, step lights, decorative lights, night lights, or a boat center console light. Installation is a breeze thanks to the two-wire connection and the handy screw set and foam tape bases included in the package. And we love that despite their high performance, these lights use energy conservatively, resulting in low temperature and power consumption for a long-lasting life. 

• Available in several colors
• Easy to install
• Durable and waterproof
• May not hold up well over time

Best Brightness

EXZEIT Waterproof LED Boat Lights

EXZEIT’s Waterproof LED boat Lights efficiently flood your surroundings with powerful illumination, encompassing a 120° range and ensuring absolute clarity during any night-time activities, particularly fishing or night rides. These lights champion water resistance, diligently preventing leaks and assuring replacement at no extra cost if a rare leakage does occur. We like that the lights embody versatility with their universal fitting effortlessly accommodating various vehicles such as fishing boats, trucks, tractors, SUVs, ATVs, UTVs, golf carts, motorcycles, and other heavy machinery.

Constructed from durable aluminum with a stainless steel mounting bracket, this light set bravely resists the harsh elements of different environments, eliminating the frustration of rust. Despite their robustness, the light pods maintain a compact size of 6.3 inches, making them a practical addition to your vehicle. 

• High brightness and coverage
• Low power consumption.
• Easy installation
• Not very water resistant

Most Durable

Cutequeen LED Boat Lights

This Cutequeen LED Boat Light set illuminates any outdoor setting with its high-intensity LEDs. Operating with an input of 10v-30v DC, it radiates a potent 1800 lumens, giving off a spot beam of 30º. Encased in a 6.5 x 4-inch heavy-duty fixture, it boasts an impressive working life of 50,000 hours. With a color temperature ranging from 6000K to 6500K, it promises to deliver bright, cool light, perfect for any off-road, marine, or construction lighting needs.

This LED spotlight goes beyond just delivering high-quality lighting; it also ensures durability and reliability. We were impressed to discover that the toughened glass lens is encased in a die-cast aluminum housing, and held together with a stainless steel mounting bracket, it resists the harshest of weather conditions. Its prowess is backed by FCC, CE, RoHs, and IP67 certificates, proving its excellence in safety and environmental standards. This pack includes four 36W LED light bars and mounting brackets, ensuring you have everything you need to brighten up your space. 

• Super bright light output
• Durable and well-constructed
• Not bright enough for some users

Most Versatile

Seapon Pontoon Boat Light

The Seaponer Pontoon Boat Light is a versatile marine accessory that transforms the look of your boat and enhances the safety and convenience of your nighttime boating activities. The package equips you with a 16.4-foot long strip light in a vivid blue color and 10 strip clips and screws for an easy and secure installation. The light strip has an impressive waterproof rating of IP65, ensuring it withstands the harsh marine environment without compromising its performance.

This marine LED light strip illuminates your boat in dynamic ways. It’s perfect for casting a gentle glow under the gunwale, lighting up the deck for fishing at night, accentuating your boat’s interior, or serving as a courtesy light. Whether you own a pontoon boat, duck boat, bass boat, kayak, jon boat, sailboat, or fishing boat, this light is adaptable to your needs. It’s also perfect for boat parties or trailers. And we like that you can customize your lighting as per your needs – the light strip can be safely cut at every three LEDs (approximately every 2 inches). 

• 50,000-hour lifespan
• Simple installation 
• Easy to cut and bend 
• Adhesive quality isn’t very good

Boat Lights: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide 

Cruising in your boat at night can be a magical experience, but it’s also crucial to be equipped with the proper boat lights for safety and visibility. Not only do they help you navigate waterways, but they also ensure other boaters can see you, reducing the risk of collisions. Here’s a buying guide to help you find the right boat lights to help you shine bright on the water.

Brightness and Beam Angle

When choosing boat lights, start by assessing their brightness and beam angle. This reflects how much light is emitted and the width of the light spread, respectively. Look for options that illuminate your boat brightly, but also offer a wide beam angle. This gives you a larger field of vision in the dark, helping you notice any potential hazards and navigate waters more safely.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Boat lights are exposed to harsh marine conditions, so they need to be durable and weather-resistant. Search for lights that boast resistance to impact, vibration, and severe weather conditions. They should also be waterproof enough to withstand splashes and even submersion. Lights that can brave the elements will ensure reliable illumination, regardless of the weather.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is another crucial factor to consider while buying boat lights. LED lights are a popular choice due to their high energy efficiency, long lifespan, and minimal heat production. They might cost more upfront, but they can pay off in the long run by reducing power consumption and requiring fewer replacements.

Ease of Installation

Boat lights should be easy to install to save you time and effort. Look for lights that come with clear instructions and necessary hardware. Some might even offer plug-and-play installation, eliminating the need for wiring. Also, consider the location and design of your boat to ensure the lights can be installed without any hindrances.

Visibility Range

Boat lights should offer a substantial visibility range to ensure safe navigation. This entails both how far your light reaches and how visible your boat is to others. Front lights or searchlights should have a long throw, while side lights and rear lights should be visible from a good distance. Check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the lights meet your visibility needs.

Type of Lights

Boat lights are not one-size-fits-all. Different types serve different purposes. Navigation lights are essential for indicating your position and direction to other vessels. Deck lights illuminate the boat’s interior, making it safer and easier to move around. Underwater lights can attract fish, enhance your boat’s aesthetic appeal, or help divers locate your boat. Determine your needs to choose the right type of light.

Compliance with Regulations

Finally, ensure your boat lights comply with regulations set by the U.S. Coast Guard or your local maritime authority. These rules dictate the color, position, range, and intensity of lights for different types of vessels. Compliance not only ensures safety but also helps you avoid fines or penalties.

People Also Asked

To maintain your boat lights, clean them regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent to remove any salt or mineral deposits. Check the wiring and bulbs periodically for any signs of wear or damage as well. And try to replace the bulbs as soon as they start dimming or flickering.

Yes, most boat lights are designed to be waterproof to withstand the marine environment. But, it's always a good idea to check the product specifications to be sure.

Installing boat lights varies depending on the type of light. Some lights may be easy to install with minimal tools, while others may require professional installation. This is why you should refer to the manufacturer's instruction manual for specific installation guidelines.

The lifespan of boat lights can vary greatly depending on the type of light, the quality, and how well they're maintained. But generally, LED boat lights are known for their longevity and can last for many years with proper care.

Boat lights, especially those that use LED technology, are designed to be energy efficient to minimize battery drain. However, the exact energy efficiency can vary based on the model and the make of the light.

If your lights aren't working, first check the wiring and the connections. If everything seems fine, the bulb might need replacing. If this doesn't solve the problem, it's recommended to involve a professional.

While boat lights are specifically designed for marine use, some people use them for other outdoor activities such as camping or hiking. But, keep in mind that they may not perform as well or last as long as they would when used for their intended purpose.

Article Contributors

Sail magazine review team.

SAIL Magazine Review Team reports on best-selling products in sailing and boating. SAIL Magazine is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Artificial Intelligence (large language models) may have been used in the research and creation of the content.

To ensure questions about product testing or a specific article are addressed, please contact [email protected]

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Practical Sailor Tracks Down the Best LED Tri-color Light

Testers take a look at six bulbs and lanterns from the marine led navigation light market..

When it comes to navigation lights aboard sailboats, brighter is definitely better. And our latest tests of LED nav lights proved that more light can be made with less energy. In fact, we found that replacing a conventional incandescent bulb with a light-emitting diode (LED) of similar luminosity can result in up to a 90-percent savings in energy consumed over a given period of time.

Practical Sailor’ s previous evaluations of navigation lights (September 2005 and Jan. 15, 2002) were tests of tri-color

Photos by Ralph Naranjo

masthead lights, sidelights, sternlights, and all-around white lights.

For this review, we narrowed the test field and focused solely on LED tri-color navigation lights (sidelights and a stern light combined in a single fixture) because of the under-sail connotation. They are most often used when the engine is off and the alternator(s) is providing no energy boost to the battery bank. This is when miserly current consumption is most appreciated.

LED lights come in all sizes and shapes, and it has been their monumental improvement in efficiency that has made the technology so appealing to energy-constrained sailors.

In the past, the most popular means of meeting the U.S. Coast Guard’s navigation light requirements for boats under 65 feet (see “Nav Light Requirements,” below) was to use an Aqua Signal Series 40 tri-color lamp housing with its long-filament incandescent bulb. Its 25-watt energy appetite not only puts a significant load on the house battery bank, but it requires a heavier-gauge wire be run up the spar in order to avoid an energy-robbing voltage drop. Swapping out the incandescent bulb for an LED drops power consumption significantly and yields just as bright of a light. During a 10-hour night sail, this results in reducing current consumption from about 20 amp-hours down to a scan’t 2 amp-hours. This savings adds up, and the extra cost of the LED bulb or light will pay for itself in longevity and energy savings.

LED Evolution

Since the late 1960s, LEDs have followed a trend that amounts to almost a doubling of light output every 36 months. (If Wall Street had done the same, a $100 investment made in 1969 would today be worth over $500,000.)

Skipping all the esoteric physics and getting down to basics leaves us with one important concept to grasp: By passing a current through certain semiconductors (materials with only a few electron holes), the electron flow instigates photon release—or more simply put, light energy is emitted. Modern LEDs comprise an anode (+) and cathode (-) that meet in a tiny cup-like reflector that contains an “n” and a “p” layer of semiconductor material.

In order to achieve white or colored light, phosphor coatings are used. Another significant breakthrough was the prism-like lens and epoxy-sealed cavity that bundles up many of these semiconductors. The resulting “bulb” reflects and refracts the light energy produced, delivering a color-controlled beam. The plasma-like brilliance of a single-source light creates lens and reflector challenges that each light manufacturer has to deal

with. Some makers shape a single beam with lens elements while others use an array of multiple smaller LEDs.

What We Tested

Each of the six LED tri-color masthead lights we tested for this report took a different approach to implementing the LED technology. The test field included three LED lanterns and three LED bulbs.

From Orca Green Marine (OGM), maker of the top choice among tri-colors in the 2005 Practical Sailor test, we reviewed the latest USCG 2-nautical-mile approved tri-color. The other tested lanterns were self-contained tri-color/anchor light combos from Signal Mate and Lopolight.

Among the bulbs we tested was the Lunasea, a sealed, waterproof LED lamp comprising four green, six red, and six white LEDs. From the LED Shop in Queensland, Australia, we tested the Bay15D white LED bulb with 15 diodes. The supplier recommends its use as a low-consumption (2 watts vs. 25 watts) replacement bulb for the Aqua Signal 40 incandescent. The second sealed bulb we tested was from Dr. LED, and it is third-party certified to U.S. Coast Guard standards.

LED LANTERNS

Boat owners who don’t already have a masthead tri-color light, or who plan to replace an old one—hardware and all—would do well to consider an LED lantern.

Orca Green Marine

OGM Inc.’s USCG-approved (third-party tested) tri-color/anchor light (LXTA-12v) squeezes an amazing amount of light from a minimal amount of current (0.3 amps @ 12 volts-DC).

The well-sealed, nicely machined housing and large lenses keep the LEDs in direct line of sight, regardless of heel or the viewer’s proximity. Hard, anodized endcaps and Lexan outer lens elements form a tough, water-tight seal. Its internal

electronic components are potted in a dielectric sealant, and the lantern comes with a well-sealed pigtail connector.

The manufacturer claims a 50,000-hour full brightness LED life and offers a two-year warranty on the $340 lantern.

Testers’ main concern that arose during testing was that the OGM lantern produced the most RFI of all the gear we tested. Moving the handheld VHF radio to within 14 inches of the light obliterated radio reception.

Bottom line: The OGM lantern is the least expensive in its category, and it proved to be a well-made light. However, its RFI test results held it back.

This expensive, well-designed, and carefully manufactured LED tri-color/anchor light offers a multiple diode approach to illuminating each sector of coverage. The lamp’s geometry focuses individual LEDs in narrower beams and uses 36 to cover each colored zone and 44 in the white zone. In addition to adding redundancy with circuitry that allows individual diodes to fail without taking out the entire cluster, the design eliminated the hotspot inherent in tri-color lights that use single-point light sources for each sector.

This light offers a green that’s really green (see “Shades of Green,” page 14), a dead-ahead aspect with minimal overlap, and a crisp transition to the red zone. The Lopolight also sports a rugged, well-sealed housing that’s fully submersible.

Its current consumption is a tiny bit more than the most energy efficient in this group, but the value of having the light continue to work even if one or more diodes give up the ghost is a big plus.

At $689, the Lopolight was the most expensive product of all those we tested, but it also had the least RFI. It comes with a five-year warranty.

Bottom line: If quality construction and superior performance are your priorities—and cost isn’t a concern—the Lopolight will fit the bill. It gets the nod as Practical Sailor’s Best Choice.

Signal Mate

Signal Mate products are designed and manufactured by Maryland-based Kimberlite Assemblers Inc. The company sent us a pre-production version of its 2-nautical-mile tri-color lantern for testing.

The searing bright lantern scored high marks for energy efficiency. Its 0.3 amp draw at 12 volts DC compared to some of the more expensive lanterns.

The Signal Mate incorporates a finned alloy base that functions

as a heat sink and houses the driver and diodes within a polycarbonate cylindrical tube. Its endcaps and electronics are sealed and bedded in Dow Tough Gel.

Its cylindrical shape makes it well suited for masthead mounting. The light output did not appear hampered at all by the unit’s comparably small lenses, even at varying angles of heel.

The design, with a single light source per sector, created a white hotspot, but from 50 to 100 yards away, it was undetectable. Hotspots, a bright white spot that occurs when a single-point white light source illuminates a colored faceted lens, are common to this design.

Just before going to press with this review, Signal Mate sent us its new production version of this lamp. Like the pre-production unit, the LED circuitry is enclosed in a polycarbonate cylinder, but it now incorporates O-ring seals and 3M 5200 adhesive to better cope with thermal expansion and contraction. Heat dissipation and RFI suppression have been improved, and the overall fit and finish have been raised a notch. The light is certified to USCG and American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC)-16 standards.

Bottom line: The $359 Signal Mate tri-color is a cost-effective option with a good five-year warranty, and the new version boasts some necessary improvements.

The new breed of LED bulbs can add efficiency to those old Aqua Signal, Hella, and Perko incandescent nav lights that have been serving boats for decades. These plug-and-play conversions from incandescent to much more efficient LED technology are capturing market share, and the degree of this success has inspired Aqua Signal to come out with its own single-diode LED light and a new line of LED products. For those with older lamps such as the venerable Aqua Signal 40 tri-color, the following three bulb options represent good examples of what’s available in the realm of LED conversions.

The Dr. LED Polar Star 40 replacement bulb for the Aqua Signal 40 lantern comes with an interesting note. According to the Seattle firm, “a white LED should not be used behind colored lenses.” And to that end, its LED replacement bulb has three distinct color-enhanced sectors indigenous to the bulb itself. These are not stand-alone red, green, and white sectors, but instead are color-enhancing segments that ensure that red is red and green is a bright and deep shade of green. This reduced the bulb’s hotspot.

The bulb is designed in the U.S., made in China, and meets the 2-nautical-mile visibility, chromaticity, and other demands of the ABYC/USCG standards. It was the lowest current-consuming light in our test (0.1 amps), and though not the

brightest, it was visible and color recognizable at the 2-mile range.

Bottom line: Middle of the pack price-wise, this $50 current miser gets a Practical Sailor Budget Buy among LED bulbs for conversions.

Lunasea Lights

This well-sealed, wedge shaped, waterproof bulb uses separate LEDs for each color zone. The red sector held six LEDs, and the green four. Light-meter readings indicated that the red sector was a bit brighter than the green sector during tests. At distances beyond 100 yards, the discrepancy was not noticeable visually. Both segments could be seen at the 2-nautical-mile range.

This bulb seemed to only need a clear housing because of the excellent chromaticity match, but without being placed in a tri-lens housing, it had a rather large overlap of red and green. We noted that the red and green (bow-on aspect) covered an arc of more than 20 degrees. But by placing the tri-color lens over the bulb, the overlap was brought into an acceptable 10-degree range, creating a bright, very distinguishable tri-color light.

The Lunasea bulb was the only one in its group with the ability to keep shining even if one of the multiple diodes failed.

Bottom line: One of the brightest LEDs tested, the Lunasea light gets the Practical Sailor Recommended pick among bulbs for its top performance and lifetime warranty, the only test product to offer one.

Distributed by the Australia-based LED Shop, the white BAY-15D bulb we tested was a cluster of 15 diodes in pentagonal array of three vertical diodes per segment. This bright-white light makes a superb anchor light, and the LED Shop also recommends it as a replacement bulb for the Aqua Signal Series 40 tri-color light.

In our testing, it provided a bright red and green sector, but its colors were not as saturated as the color-specific bulbs by Dr. LED and Lunasea.

Testers’ biggest concern was the fact the bulb isn’t properly sealed. This does afford better heat dissipation, a key factor in LED longevity, but we prefer sealed bulbs.

However, the BAY-15D’s $27 price tag, its brightness and

minimal RFI make it a bargain as an anchor light bulb.

Bottom line: Although inexpensive and a good performer, the BAY-15D was held back by its lack of a good seal.

• Nav Light Requirements
• How We Tested
• Practical Sailor Value Guide: Led Tri-Color Masthead Lights
• Shades of Green
• View PDF Format

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Which version of the OGM was tested for this review?

It would be helpful if you added the part numbers of the specific product that you’re testing. For example, when I went to the Lopolight website, I couldn’t find the product you tested. I’m a little disappointed that you didn’t test any trilights with the strobe or flash function. Perhaps I’ll keep my 20-year old Hella.

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Best Handheld Spotlights For Sailing

Handheld spotlights are an essential tool for low-light sailing. Waterproof spotlights work for repair, rescue, navigation, and rigging in poor conditions.

In this article, we’ll cover seven of the best handheld spotlights for sailing. We’ll also go over what to look for when purchasing a spotlight, battery types, light measurement units, and the benefits of having one aboard.

The best handheld spotlights for sailing are bright, durable, and feature multiple light modes. These spotlights also have a long battery life, and they’re completely waterproof. For navigation, marine spotlights should produce at least 1,000 lumens of light and have a beam distance of 350 yards or more.

We sourced technical data from top spotlight manufacturers such as Goodsmann and Browning. We also took into consideration the experience of expert sailors who navigate with these products on a regular basis.

Table of contents

What Is a Handheld Sailing Spotlight?

Fundamentally, a handheld sailing spotlight is just a glorified flashlight. What differentiates it is its shape, how you hold it, and how you control the light.

Handheld marine spotlights have a pistol-style grip and buttons where the trigger would be. This is because it's very easy to aim and control a configuration like this. Also, the precise pointability of handheld spotlights gives them an advantage over traditional flashlights.

Another area where they differentiate is brightness. For reference, a standard Maglite flashlight produces about 14 lumens of light, which is enough for indoor and limited outdoor use. A standard handheld marine spotlight produces 1,500 lumens or more, which can illuminate an entire building.

Handheld Marine Spotlight Uses

What are handheld marine spotlights used for, and how can they benefit sailors? A handheld marine spotlight is one of the single most useful tools a sailor can have. These lights are useful for navigation, making repairs, rescuing people, and even communication.

Rescue and Repair

High-power marine spotlights make it possible to Pinpoint the location of tangled rigging high up on the mast or to spot the reflective strip of a life jacket in a violent sea. You can use them to scan the water for obstacles such as driftwood or rocks, and the strobe function can alert rescuers to your exact location.

Communication and Distress Signals

Spotlights are also used as signaling devices. Everybody knows the morse code signal for "SOS," and experienced sailors can communicate proficiently with other vessels using lights. Most marine spotlights have a momentary switch function, allowing you to essentially tap-out morse code signals to other vessels.

What Makes a Great Handheld Sailing Spotlight?

Sailing spotlights (in general, "marine spotlights") are not the same as traditional handheld utility spotlights. Rather, marine spotlights must stand up to harsh conditions such as extreme heat, extreme cold, and water.

The best marine spotlights are durable, shock-resistant, and completely waterproof. Water resistance is a key feature of the best sailing spotlights. These marine lights must be completely sealed around the lens, battery compartment, and buttons to qualify as waterproof.

Waterproofing is especially important for bluewater sailing, as saltwater is notoriously corrosive to the electrical contacts in the spotlight. Some marine spotlights feature red lens filters, which help your eyes stay adjusted during the night.

Marine spotlights should be constructed of durable material that's also somewhat pliable. Rubber compounds, for example, are often found on marine spotlights, as it's drop-resistant and provides a level of shock absorption for the sensitive components inside.

Lumens vs. Beam Intensity

Lumens and beam intensity are similar but often confused, so it's important to know the difference when choosing a marine spotlight.

A lumen is a unit of measurement for light. It quantifies how much (or the total quantity of) visible light comes from a particular source. It's essentially just a way to measure brightness.

Beam intensity is measured by a unit called a "candela." For reference, a typical flame candle emits about one candela (1cu), and a typical marine spotlight emits about 2,000 or more candelas (2000cu).

Beam Distance

Beam distance is another factor to consider when choosing a marine spotlight. Most sailors find a beam distance of between 350 and 500 yards acceptable, and anything above 500 yards is excellent.

For reference, a typical Maglite flashlight has a beam distance of about 100 yards. Keep in mind that beam distance is usually measured with the lens focused for range, so you may not always be able to achieve such long beam ranges.

Rechargeable vs. Disposable Batteries

Battery type is an important factor to consider. Today, most marine spotlights use high-powered rechargeable batteries, but some models still take disposable batteries. Today, most handheld marine spotlights use lithium-ion or lithium polymer cells.

The primary advantage to a spotlight with disposable batteries is that when they run out of juice, you can just toss and replace them.

Rechargeable batteries store much more power, and they often work longer between charges. However, batteries take a long time to charge, and you may need to run a generator to keep your spotlight topped off.

The happy medium between rechargeable and disposable batteries is the replaceable rechargeable battery. These batteries are removable, so you can keep one on the charger at all times, and you'll always have a fresh replacement ready to go.

Rechargeable Battery Hazards

Always purchase name-brand batteries for your handheld spotlight, and always charge them on a controlled charger.

Many cheap batteries have quality-control Problems, and lithium batteries can explode and cause fires if punctured or overcharged. Charge controllers regulate the speed and intensity of charging, and (unlike cheap chargers) they stop charging when the battery is full.

Best Handheld Marine Spotlights

We used a combination of experience and technical data to find some of the best handheld marine spotlights available today. These spotlights can help you make the most of nighttime sailing, and they can even save your life in dangerous situations. Here are seven of our top picks.

1. Goodsmann Rechargeable Marine Spotlight

Goodsmann is a trustworthy and well-known manufacturer of marine spotlights, and their standard model is an excellent choice  for sailboat owners.

Goodsmann uses proprietary IP67 materials on this marine spotlight. It's designed to float in water, making it easy to retrieve if it falls overboard, and it's completely waterproof, which is a must for sailing spotlights.

This Goodsmann spotlight features three lighting modes. There's an ultra-bright mode, a soft-light mode, and a flashing emergency mode.

The Goodsmann spotlight features a respectable 2000mAh rechargeable battery that charges from a USB port. Most users of this spotlight are satisfied with its battery life, though the battery is not removable.

This spotlight falls into the 'light duty' category, as it's reliable and functional yet not quite robust enough for real bluewater sailing. That said, it's waterproof and shock-resistant, making it an excellent option for coastal and inland cruising.

Goodsmann reports that its spotlight produces 3,000 lumens of light in a relatively wide beam. This is perfect for general use but can become blinding in fog or heavy spray. This model uses LED bulb technology.

2. ZOHI LED Rechargeable Marine Spotlight

Here's another great entry-level marine spotlight that's great for light and medium-duty roles. The ZOHI LED handheld spotlight is a 1,500-lumen waterproof torch  with a rechargeable battery and a USB port for charging a cell phone.

This marine spotlight is positively buoyant and waterproof down to one meter. That means it's great for use in rain and spray, but it's not waterproof enough to be used as a dive spotlight.

ZOHI states that this model has an effective range of about 500 yards, which is sufficient for most sailing activities. The battery life is exceptional, as it features two internal 2,200mAh batteries. You can charge this spotlight from a 12v DC outlet or from a standard 120v wall outlet using the included adapter.

This spotlight features five modes. The solid-beam functions in a high, medium, or low mode, and a strobe mode is also available. This light also features an SOS mode for emergencies.

The bean is controlled by a trigger. The trigger itself is large and tactile, making it easy to use with gloves or cold hands. It also features a trigger-locking mechanism, which allows you to store the light safely without draining the battery accidentally.

The case of the ZOHI marine spotlight is made of a. durable plastic, which resists shock and holds up well to foul weather conditions. The inside of the light body is mostly hollow, which is necessary to make the spotlight float.

3. YIERBLUE Rechargeable Marine Spotlight

This YIERBLUE ultra-bright utility spotlight  has an extra-long battery life for when it really counts. The YIERBLUE spotlight isn't completely waterproof, but it's perfect for use on the dock or when making repairs at anchor.

The most useful feature of this spotlight is its long battery life. It comes from the factory with an enormous 10,000mAh battery, which is more than twice the industry standard. With a battery that size, you can use this spotlight continuously for up to twenty hours.

In addition to long battery life, the YIERBLUE spotlight is also exceptionally bright. This spotlight uses CREE LED lights to Produce about 6,000 lumens of useful light. It can illuminate over 2,600 feet, which is roughly 870 yards.

Like most utility spotlights, this model features three lighting modes. The settings include a high mode, a low mode, and a flashing setting for distress calls. It also has a red and blue setting, which is relatively uncommon.

This spotlight is made of a combination of aluminum and A3S plastic. The aluminum adds a comfortable amount of weight to the light, and ABS plastic Provides an acceptable level of impact resistance.

There is an additional light strip on the side of the housing that can be used as a lantern down below in the cabin or up on deck in dryer conditions. The YIERBLUE handheld spotlight isn't a purpose-built marine spotlight, but it still makes the list because of its many other applications.

It's the perfect long-lasting light for down below, making repairs, and navigating in calmer conditions. Ii-or the price, it's difficult to find a more useful water-resistant (but not waterproof) handheld spotlight for sailing.

4. EMMMSUN Rechargeable Marine Spotlight

EMMMSUN makes an excellent entry-level marine spotlight  that meets nearly all the qualifications for sailing. This yellow marine spotlight is waterproof, floatable, and powerful enough for use in navigation.

This handheld marine spotlight emits a maximum of 1500 lumens of light, which is sufficient for most sailing tasks. Unlike most marine spotlights, this EMMMSUN model includes a removable red lens filter, which can be used as a distress signal in an emergency.

Like the previous spotlight, this EMMMSUN unit features an excellent battery life. The manufacturer states that it includes three 18650 rechargeable batteries for a total capacity of 10,000mAh. That gives it a battery life of eight hours. This unit also charges relatively fast, as a complete recharge can be achieved in about four hours.

Like many other affordable marine spotlights, the EMMMSUN also features a USB port, which converts it into a mobile power bank for charging phones, cameras, and handheld GPS units. Some may view this feature as a bit of a gimmick, but sailors often find it useful in real-world situations. For example, you can use it to preserve your phone battery while playing music and repairing your boat.

This marine spotlight features a high mode with a range of 530 yards, a low mode with a range of 400 yards, and a high flashing mode with a range of 530 yards. On the low mode, the manufacturer claims a battery life of up to twenty hours.

A spotlight like this may not be the best primary light for a transatlantic crossing. That said, it's a perfect backup, and it's perfectly adequate for coastal cruising, inland cruising, and short offshore excursions.

5. West Marine Mini LED Marine Spotlight

You can always count on West Marine to fill a sailing market niche. This West Marine-brand miniature spotlight  may be small, but it's robust enough for serious sailing.

As far as light production is concerned, this relatively weak 250-lumen handheld spotlight doesn't quite stack up to the other models on this list. But if you already have a preferred light, this model would make an excellent backup.

This miniature spotlight uses disposable alkaline batteries, which are easily replaceable, making it ideal for emergency use. Additionally, the low-voltage catteries used by this light are safer than lithium-ion batteries.

This miniature spotlight is durable and waterproof enough for offshore use. As a standalone light, it's not quite bright enough to be used as a primary spotlight. However, it makes an excellent pair with ultrabright spotlights like the less robust YIERBLUE 6,000-lumen water-resistant handheld spotlight. Also, spotlights can malfunction, so it's always smart to have a less complex backup around.

This spotlight uses three standard C batteries and has a maximum range of 984 feet, which is just over 320 yards. Overall, the simplicity of this design makes it an excellent addition to any sailboat tool or emergency bag. And with up to eight hours of run time, it won't break the bank with battery replacements.

This 1,400-lumen marine spotlight has a beam distance of 725 yards, which is quite good. Most nighttime navigation can be done in a small boat within this distance, and it's plenty far for use in rescue and repair.

6. Browning High Noon 40 Marine Spotlight

Browning is a well-known producer of hunting and outdoor supplies, and they also produce a respectable 1,400-lumen marine handheld spotlight . This lightweight and waterproof spotlight is an ideal choice for offshore and coastal sailing.

This handheld spotlight is waterproof and rated to about one meter, meaning it's good for storm conditions but not suited for diving. However, water resistance shouldn't ever be a problem because this spotlight floats. And at just about one pound in weight, it's light enough to tie to your lifejacket or keep in an emergency kit.

The case of the Browning spotlight is designed to float in water, and it's made of impact-resistant ABS plastic. This spotlight looks and feels quite similar to many other high-quality marine spotlights on the market today.

This spotlight uses rechargeable batteries, but there's also a model available that uses disposable C batteries. The model with disposable batteries weighs in at around 3 pounds loaded and has a remarkable 72-hour battery life when set to low power. On high power mode, this flashlight battery lasts a still impressive nine hours.

7. Princeton Tec Sector 7 Dive Light

The final spotlight on our list isn't technically a sailing spotlight, but its characteristics make it ideal for bluewater voyages. The Princeton Tec Sector 7 is a handheld diving spotlight  that's completely waterproof. Dive spotlights are specifically designed to be used underwater. As a result, they are almost entirely impervious to the harsh conditions of open ocean sailing.

The Princeton Tec Sector 7 spotlight runs off of 8 C batteries, which can either be disposable or rechargeable. This light can operate for four hours at 700 lumens or thirty hours total. The initial four-hour burn time is "regulated," meaning the light is guaranteed not to lose brightness during that time.

This dive light uses a trigger activation system with two stages. The first stage is a spring-loaded momentary switch for flashing or signaling, and the second stage is a constant connection. It also includes a trigger locking mechanism that prevents accidental battery drainage.

This spotlight is multi-purpose, durable, and robust. Unlike the other sailing spotlights on our list, this model can be used to scrape the bottom or repair underwater damage in a pinch. It'll also work well under the harshest weather conditions, and it's subdued beam works better in foggy conditions.

Unlike brighter lights, it won't blind the user when it's misty outside. The primary disadvantage of this light is its reduced range and brightness. This model has only a fraction of the lumens that many other LED marine spotlights have, and that's partially because it's designed to be used underwater. That said, 700 lumens is plenty for most low-light sailing tasks.

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Daniel Wade

I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Best Boat LED Lights Reviews: We Choose The Best Options for You

Technological advances have had significant impacts on boating. Believe it or not, one of the advances that have had a profound impact on boating is LED lights.

LED lights are longer lasting, use significantly less energy, and have significantly less drain on the boat batteries than incandescent lights. They’re also a wide variety of types – anchor, deck, docking, search, and underwater, for example – and come in an assortment of colors. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder why so many boaters are nixing traditional incandescent lights and are illuminating their vessels with LED lamps.

If you’re looking to add LED lights to your boat, you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find a selection and reviews of some of the best options that are currently available on the market, as well as a detailed buyer’s guide that highlights key factors that should be taken into consideration when you’re shopping for LED boat lights – and more! So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best LED boat lights.

Our Top Picks

• The Best Overall LED Boat Light – Shangyuan Pontoon Boat Docking Light
• The Best Premium LED Boat Light – Wave One Marine Dual Color LED Marine Spreader Light Boat Deck Flood Beam
• The Best Budget LED Boat Light – Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights, Utility LED Interior Lights for Boat Deck Courtesy Transom Cockpit Light 12V Waterproof Marine Lights

LED Boat Light Reviews

Best overall led boat light- shangyuan pontoon boat docking light.

This LED boat light from Shangyuan is simplistic in design, is easy to use, and is highly functional, durable, versatile, and reliable. It comes with two marine LED lights that offer 18 watts of working voltage each, with 10-35V DC and can fit 12V or 24V.

The versatile design means these LED lights can be used in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes; as a T-top light deck, a docking light, a stern light, a navigation light, and trailer lights, too.

• Package Include: 2pcs Marine led lights. LED Power: 18W. Working voltage: 10-35V DC (Fit 12V or 24V)
• Application: Fit for Spreader Light T-top Light Deck Light Docking Lights Stern Light Anchor Light Navigation Light Trailer Lights . Common use for Yacht Kayak Bass Boat Fishing Pontoon Boat Sailboat.
• Sealed housing: IP67 Water and Dust Proof housing. Housing: Heavy-duty die cast aluminum housing.
• Power Coat: Scratch resistant power coat finish. Advanced Heat Sink: Designed to keep the LEDS cool for longer life.
• Easy to install and remove.

This LED boat light is very durable and can take on harsh conditions with ease. The sealed housing is IP67 water and dustproof and is made of heavy-duty die cast aluminum. It’s been treated with a power coated finish, too, which makes the housing scratch-resistant. With advanced heat sink, the LED lamps remain cool, extending their lifespan.

What We Liked

• Package comes with 2 marine LED lights
• 18 watt working voltage: 10-35V DC (Fit 12V or 24V)
• Versatile design; can be used in a variety of applications and for a variety of reasons
• IP67 water- and dustproof sealed housing
• Heavy-duty diet cast aluminum construction
• Power coated finish is scratch-proof and increases durability
• Advanced heat sink, so the LEDs remain cool, extending their life-expectancy
• Easy to install
• Affordably priced

Best Premium LED Boat Light- Wave One Marine Dual Color LED Marine Spreader Light

Designed, made, and tested in the USA, the Wave One Marine Dual Color LED Marine Spreader Light is our pick for the best premium LED boat light. This dual color marine spreader light boasts features that other LED boat lights don’t; for example, it features an extra bright 1,000+ lumen output, premium-quality paint, and an internal driver that switches colors, making it a top-quality upgrade for any type of vessel.

Of course, it’s completely waterproof, too. What really sets the Wave One Marine LED light apart from others is an internal driver. Other LED boat lights are equipped with either external drivers or three wires, which necessitates a three-way switch and extra wiring, but that isn’t the case with this LED boat light.

• USA BASED, DESIGNED & TESTED: Sold Individually (One Light Per Order) : Our dual color marine spreader light has features that others don't. This waterproof deck light features an extra bright 1000+ lumen output, high quality paint and an internal driver for switching colors, it's a premium upgrade to any boat, yacht, sailboat, or pontoon.
• INTERNAL DRIVER (EASY TO UPGRADE): Others lights use external drivers or three wires creating a need for a three way switch and additional wiring. Not Ours. Easily upgrade to our dual color tech using your existing + / - wire and original switch. Simply "flick" your switch on-off-on to switch colors. Multiple lights can be joined together to match. Popular accent color options include red for preserving night vision or blue for a cool modern effect great for entertaining at the dock.
• IP68 WATERPROOF: Our marine led light is specially sealed to resist water intrusion into the lens or wire housing. Many customers use these lights on their tower, t top, and on their pontoon. Our deck light is great for night fishing or as well as evening pleasure boating. They can also be used as docking lights. Our marine flood light design was made to last in tough saltwater conditions and has been tested submersed to achieve an IP68 waterproof rating.
• EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY: We are a USA based (Florida) family owned business that designs high quality saltwater marine grade boating products. We provide expert level tech support. We design and install these products everyday here in Florida. All our products feature an industry leading no hassle warranty with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.

Instead, you can upgrade to their dual color tech with your existing +/- wire and original switch. To switch the colors, all you need to do is flip the switch on-off-on. Several lights can be joined together to match, too. Some popular accent color options include red for night vision preservation and blue, which creates a cool modern effect that’s great for dock entertainment.

This LED boat light is IP68 waterproof. It’s specially sealed to resist water intrusion in the lens and wire housing, and it can withstand harsh saltwater exposure, too. All components are made of top-quality material, too, for long-lasting, reliable durability.

A lot of boaters use these lights on a tower, a T-top, and on their pontoons. The Wave One Marine LED boat light is super-versatile, too. It works great for night fishing, pleasure boating, and/or docking. The lights are backed by a hassle-free warranty and a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

• Features an extra-bright 1000+ lumen output
• Top-quality paint
• Internal drive for switching light colors
• Multiple lights can be joined together to match
• IP68 waterproof and specially sealed to prevent water intrusion in the lens and wire housing
• Can withstand saltwater conditions
• Highly versatile; can be used with all types of boats, in all types of positions, and for all kinds of reasons
• Made in the USA
• Backed by a hassle-free warranty and a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee
• Easy to install and operate

Best Budget LED Boat Light- Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights, Utility LED Interior Lights for Boat Deck

If you’re looking to illuminate your boat deck or cockpit with a durable and reliable LED boat light, yet you don’t want to spend a lot of money, then this option from Shangyuan is a great choice.

The package comes with 10 3.8 inch blue boat lights with a DC 12V voltage and a 120 lumens flux. The size of the lights measure 75 mm by 20 mm by 5 mm (or 2.95 inches by 0.8 inches by 0.2 inches).

• Please buy with confidence, we offer "ONE YEAR" warranty on item(s) damaged during delivery or have a confirmed manufacturer defect.
• Package included: 10pcs 3.8" Blue boat led lights, Voltage: DC 12V, Flux: 120Lumens, Light Size: 75mm x 20mm x 5mm (2.95'' x 0.8'' x 0.2''); Light Size with Black Base: 95mm x 20mm x 10mm (3.8'' x 0.8'' x 0.4'')
• Application: Fit for Courtesy Lights, Step Light, Decorate Light, Night light, Boat Center Console Light, Golf Cart Light. Common use for Marine Fishing Pontoon Boat Sailboat Kayak.
• COOL GIFT: Great Gifts for Father, Dad, Husband, Boyfriend, Children. Funny Giftsf for Captain, Sailor, Fishermen, Fishing Enthusiast, Kayakers, Water Sports Lovers. Cool Gift for Any Gift Giving Occasion, Father'S Day, Christmas Day, Halloween, Anniversary Day, Thanksgiving Day, Wedding Day, Valentine'S Day And Birthday.
• Easy to Insall - 2 Wires Connection: Black is Negative and White is Positive. FREE screw set & Foam tape bases are included. Energy-saving, low temperature, low power consumption, long-lasting life.

While they don’t cast large amounts of light, these LED boat lights are a great choice if you’re looking for courtesy lights. It can be used to illuminate your boat deck, to light up the steps on your vessel, or just to set the mood and add some fun to your nighttime sailing.

The lights are thoughtfully designed to be easily installed, thanks to the 2 wire connections. It comes with a complimentary screw set and foam tape bases, too, and the bases are covered with foam tape, which helps to prevent damage to your vessel.

The low temperature and low power consumption of these bulbs ensures they’re long-lasting. The Shangyuan LED boat lights are available in several different colors, too; including blue, green, and white. All options are durably constructed, easy to install, and pare reliable sources of light for nighttime sailing.

• Comes with 10 3.8 inch blue boat LED lights
• LED lights measure 3.8 inches
• 12V DC voltate
• 75 mm by 20 mm by 5 mm dimensions
• Versatile design; can be used in a variety of applications

Seaponer Pontoon Boat Light

If you’re looking for basic, yet reliable LED lights for your boat that are more decorative than functional, the Seaponer Pontoon Boat Light is a great choice. It’s a 1 piece marine boat light strip that measures 16.4 feet or 5 meters.

This marine light strip is versatile; it can be installed under gunwale, on the boat deck, in the cockpit, along the stairs, in the center console, and more. Further adding to the versatility is the fact that it can be used on a variety of boats, including pontoons, duck boats, kayaks, job boats, sailboats, fishing boats, and even on trailers. Installation is a breeze!

• Package Includes: 1pcs 5m(16.4ft) Marine LED Strip Lights Blue + 10pcs led strip clips and screws.
• Application: Ideal for under gunwale light, boat deck light, fishing night light, cockpit light, accent light, center console light, courtesy light, interior lights. Common use for pontoon boat, duck boat, bass boat, kayak, jon boat, sailboat, fishing boat, trailer, party.
• Stable Installation: Comes with self-adhesive sticky backing and 10pcs led strip clips and screws.
• Can be cut every 3 LEDs (approximately every 2") along the cutting marks, without damaging the rest strips.
• Waterproof IP65, Long life span 50,000 hours, Working Voltage: 12V DC, Energy saving and environmentally friendly.

The light strip is backed with a self-adhesive sticky strip, and it comes complete with 10 strip clips and screws. Simply remove the protective covering from the self-adhesive backing, apply it to the preferred location on your boat, and then use the clips and screws to secure the light strip in place.

The strip can be cut every three LEDs, or about every 2 inches, too! Just stick to the pre-marked cutting marks to avoid damaging the strip. With an IP65 waterproof rating, you can have peace of mind knowing that the LED lights will be able to withstand moisture with ease. The working voltage of these lights is 12V DC, and the life-expectancy is 50,000 hours.

• Simple design
• Light strip measures 16.4 feet or 5 m
• Lights are blue in color
• Versatile; can be applied to a variety of vessels and in a variety of locations
• Self-adhesive sticky backing and LED strip clips and screws allows for stable installation
• Strip can be cut every 3 LEDs or about every 2 inches
• IP65 waterproof rating
• 12 V DC working voltage
• 50,000 hour lifespan

Sebnux LED Boat Navigation Light Red and Green LED Marine Navigation Light

Up next on our list of the best LED boat lights is this option from Sebnux. Featuring a copper-plated zinc housing, these navigation lights are corrosion resistant and UV resistant, making them exceptionally durable.

Advanced LED light technology allows for high and reliable visibility, while also ensuring excellent heat dispersion; yet the heat dispersion is excellent and thanks to their low-carbon, they’re very environmentally-friendly. The visual range meets the USCG 3NM requirement, so they are highly visible in very dark conditions, thus ensuring your safety.

• Excellent corrosion resistance: Copper plated zinc housing enhances boat navigation light corrosion and UV-resistant performance.
• Not other LED: Application of leading LED technology makes boat light has high visibility, excellent heat dispersion but low-carbon and environmentally-friendly
• 3NM visual range: Meets USCG 3NM requirement can avoid boat accident under dark environment
• Marine rate waterproof: IP67 waterproof rate design avoid short circuit damage from moisture
• Durable connection cable: Marine grad cable with durable cover can protect electric wire and avoid cable damage

Thanks to the IP67 marine waterproof rating, you can rest easy knowing that your LED boat lights will be able to withstand harsh conditions and won’t short circuit when they’re exposed to moisture.

Outfitted with marine-grade cable and a durable cover, you can have confidence knowing that the electrical wires and cables will be well-protected. The LED lights are green and red in color, making them highly visible, yet not over-baring.

• Copper-plated zinc housing makes these LED lights corrosion and UV-resistant
• Advanced LED technology provides exceptional visibility
• Excellent heat dispersion
• Meets the USCG 3NM visual range requirement for reliable visibility
• IP67 marine waterproof rating for moisture damage and short circuit prevention
• Marine grade cable and durable cover prevents cable damage

Vbokor LED Strip Lights Boat Lights

With the Vbokor LED Strip Lights, you can add functional light and fun to your nighttime boating! These LED strip lights are multi-colored and battery-operated. With the push of a button, you can select a literal rainbow of colors.

There are 8 lighting modes, too, such as jump, fade, flash, and of course, solid. These LED strip lights can be used in a wide array of applications, including as a gunwale light, a boat deck light, a fishing night light, a cockpit light, an accent light, and more!

• Multi Color and DIY : Boat Led lights colorful and durable, the brightness of the Boat pontoon lights strip can be adjusted and offer millions different colors and 8 lighting modes (jump, fade, flash etc) by 44keys remote
• Wide Application : The boat led strip kit is perfect for under gunwale light, boat deck light, fishing night light, cockpit light, accent light, center console light, courtesy light, interior lights. Common use for pontoon boat, duck boat, bass boat, kayak, Jon boat, sailboat, fishing boat, trailer, car, RV, truck
• Easy Installation : Complete pontoon led light strip kit Including 2 rolls of 16.4ft led light strips, 44keys remote Control, sensor box, instruction manual, the marine boat led lights have a strong backing adhesive, you can install it on any dry and clean places, We now include extra mounting brackets/fixing clips, you don't worry about the strip falling down, flexible to install anywhere you want, It can be cut between every 3 leds
• IP65 Waterproof boat Lights: Boat Lights with IP65 waterproof marine grade, LEDs are covered silicone for protection, outdoor boat led light strips can be installed outdoors and withstand splashes, rainfall,.Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, Note: the control box not waterproof
• Safety Boat led rope lights : 12V low voltage led boat lights, high brightness and high quality led beads, children and the elderly can use it, ultra long led rope lights are covered your boats.

They can also be used on pretty much any type of boat, including pontoons, ducks, bass, kayaks, Jon, sailboats, fishing boats – and can even be used in non-boating applications, such as on your car, RV, truck, or even in your home.

This strip of LED lights measures 16.4 feet long, and with a strong self-adhesive backing and mounting brackets/fixing clips, they’re easy to install, too. If you’d like, you can cut the strip every three LEDs, which further adds to the versatility.

Waterproof design ensures they remain protected and with low voltage, there’s no need to worry about overheating. No flicker, no radiation, and low carbon mean that they’re safe for you and the environment. You can add a qualified FPC circuit board and more LEDs and heat dissipation, which further adds to their durability.

• Light strip measures 16.5 feet
• Low voltage multi-colored LED lights
• 8 different lighting modes, such as fade, flash, jump, and solid
• Easy remote control operation
• Strong self-adhesive backing
• The strip can be cut every three LEDs
• Waterproof construction
• Versatile design

HUSUKI GT1 Boat RGB LED Light Underwater Marine Color Light Kit

If you’re looking for a primo, top-of-the-line LED light set for your boat, the HUSUKU GT1 Boat RGB LED Light Underwater Marine Color Light Kit is a great choice. Constructed of top-grade marine martials, including double-layer waterproof technology, a high-strength PC shell, tinned copper wire, and an anti-corrosion SUS316 protective cover for the 5050 LEDs, these boat lights are very thoughtfully designed and made.

They feature a personalized wiring port and a patented chip, too! A single remote control operates the two lights that come with this set.  The remote control boasts a variety of features, including multiple dynamic and static modes, a color touch ring, changing speeds, and brightness adjustability, as well as a power-off memory.

• 【TOP MARINE MATERIALS】5050LEDs√ Patented Chip√ IP68 Double-layer Waterproof Technology√ Anti-corrosion SUS316 Cover√ High-strength PC Shell√ Tinned Copper Wire √ Personalized Wiring Port√
• 【ONE REMOTE CONTROL ALL】Wireless Grouping and Control√ Multiple Dynamic & Static Mode√ Color Touch Ring√ Changing Speed & Brightness Adjustable√ Stepless Adjustment√ Power Off Memory√ Copyable Control Code√ Ergonomic Shape√ Convenient Controller Base√ Color Controllable√
• 【PATENT OF AUTO-SYNC-LIGHT】Each light can receive and transmit signals within 33ft, and will automatically synchronize with other lights. This means you only need to power up, and each light can increase your control distance by 33ft. So the control distance can theoretically be extended indefinitely.
• 【SUPER EASY INSTALLATION】There are only two lines (positive & negative ) for each Light, they don't need any hub. Power on each group of lights and pair them with the remote control respectively. Then just install it like a monochromatic light, you can control all the lights in groups, it's really easy and charming.
• 【PACKAGE INCLUDE】2x RGB Light, 2x Buffer Rubber Washer, 1x Remote Control, Matching Screws & Stickers.

The patented auto-sync light technology allows each light to receive and transmit signals within a 33 foot range and will sync with other lights automatically. As such, all you need to do is power up and each light will be able to increase your control distance by as much as 33 feet, which means the control distance could potentially be extended indefinitely.

Because there are only two positive and negative lines for each light, no hub is needed, which allows for easy installation, Just power on each set of lights and pair them up with the remote control, install it like a monochromatic light and you can control all of the lights in groups. These LED boat lights are backed by a 3 year quality warranty and a 1 month satisfaction guarantee.

• Made of top-grade marine materials
• Features patented chip technology
• IP68 double-layer waterproof technology
• Corrosion-resistant SUS316 cover
• Tinned copper wire
• Remote control operated
• Multiple dynamic and static modes
• Multi-colored lights
• Patented auto-sync design allows the control distance to be extended indefinitely
• Easy installation
• Backed by a 1 month satisfaction guarantee and a 3 year warranty

Other Best Selling Options

• 【NO DRILLING INSTALL】 The strong Double-sided adhesive on the back of the strip lights and flexible body design enables you to mount it in any where you want, perfect to install it on the rub rail, above rail and below the rail.
• 【BRIGHTER AND SAFER THAN ORIGINAL NAVIGATION LIGHTS】 Compared to original nav lights, our new strip lights are at least 4 times brighter which will make boating or kayaking safer.
• 【APPLICATION】 With 18Pcs Germany 5050 led chips, these lights can produce a very visible light of 5 miles, perfect to use for Boat navigation lights, boat bow lights, boat runing lights, boating lights and so on.
• 【GREA FOR NIGHT FISHING】 These lights can make your boat meet legal requirements, what's more, these lights are so bright that they can even lights up the water, bring you a good vision and attract the fish.
• 【HELP DOCKING EASIER】 These lights are super bright that can light up the dock, make docking easier

• Industry Leading Optical Design:Advanced COB light design has stable electrical property, quickly cooling function, brightness and lower energy consumption.
• Highly visibility: All-around 3NM reliable 5000K white illumination ensures boat is highly visible on dark night to avoid marine accident.
• Harsh IP67 Waterproof Design: Build-in silicone sealed waterproof ring insulates damage from moisture and extend working time of light bulb.
• Marine Grade Material: Anti UV PE66 base and high corrosion prevention stainless steel tube can extend boat stern light service lifetime.
• Fold-Down Design: 180° adjustable mounted base can satisfy any usage scenario.

• GIFT IDEA FOR MEN OR WOMEN: These boat navigation lights are designed to enhance safety for boat owners and make the boat look nicer at night. Therefore, they will be great gifts for the boat owners who have everything.
• SO MUCH BRIGHTER THAN FACTORY NAVIGATION LIGHTS: Compare twith the original marine navigation lights, the brightness is enhanced at least tree times, significantly increasing the safety factor of your navigation.
• APPILICATION: Best idea for boat lights, navigation lights, boat bow lights, red and green bow lights, boating lights on Pontoon Boat, Bass Boat, Jon Boat, Dinghy, Kayak and so on.
• SIGNIFICANT UPGRADE FOR YOUR BOAT: In contrast to the mundane design of the original factory navigation lights, this new navigation lights no only boosts safety but also renders your boat more beautiful and alluring
• EASY TO INSTALL: The 3M strong Double-sided adhesive on the back of the strip light enables you to put it in any where you want. We advise that if you want keep it on place in a long time, please use the marine grade silicone adhesive to fix it.

LED Boat Light Buyer’s Guide

Now that you’ve read through our list of the best LED boat lights that are currently on the market, you’re probably wondering which option to choose. In order to select the right LED boat light for your specific vessel and your particular needs, there are several factors that you are going to want to take into consideration. By doing so, you should be able to narrow down the options and choose the best LED light for your vessel.

Type of Boat Light

Firstly, you’re going to want to determine what type of boat light you need. There are several different types of LED boat lights; some have specific uses, while others have versatile designs, meaning they can be used in a variety of ways. With that said, here are some of the different types of LED boat lights.

• Navigation. As the name suggest, this type of LED boat light is designed to assist with nighttime navigation. In other words, they help to illuminate the way so that you can see where you’re going and know the precise position of your vessel so that you can arrive at your destination safely.
• Anchor lights. These lights illuminate the exact location of a boat when it is docked. In some locations, anchor lights are required by law.
• Deck lights. These lights are intended for the deck of a boat, and some can even be used in the cabin. They can be positioned underneath the roof or on the exterior sides of a vessel.
• Spreader lights. These LED boat lights can be useful in a variety of applications; servicing and maintenance, nighttime fishing, and docking, for example.
• Docking. These lights would be used when departing from or sailing close to a dock. Typically, they emit extra-bright light, allowing boaters to see docks and potential obstacles with ease.
• Underwater. These lights are often used for nighttime fishing, as they can attract certain types of creatures. They can also be used to create a cool glow when boating in the dark.
• Search lights. While you’re on the water or on the deck, search LED lights will help you find your things with ease.

In order to determine which type of LED boat lights will best suit your needs, think about what you intend on using the lights for; in other words, what you want to illuminate.

Light Quality

Once you’ve decided what kind of LED boat light to use, the next factor you’ll want to consider is the quality of the light. The term “lumen” indicates the amount of light that an LED lamp produces. There are several different brands LED boat lights, so there are several different light qualities. Some offer clear white lighting while others are relatively dim.

Another important factor that you should consider when you’re shopping for an LED boat light is the quality of the construction. You want a reliable light source, and the durability of a light’s construction will have a direct impact on its reliability. Look for models that are constructed of high-grade, waterproof, corrosion-resistant materials that can withstand constant exposure to moisture, saltwater, and other harsh conditions. Anodized aluminum is an example of a high-quality material for an LED boat lamp.

Voltage Compatibility

The voltage of a boat can range from 6 to 30 volts, and on most boats, the electrical systems range from about 12 volts to 24 volts, and 12 volt LED lights usually correspond to this type of electrical system. With that said, however, you should still take the time to find out what type of voltage you’ll need to correspond with your boat.

Color Temperature

Color temperature refers to amount of heat an LED light emits, and it is measured in Kelvin. The color temperature for LED boat lights varies widely; natural daylight, cool lamps, and warm color temperatures, which usually appear yellow in color, for example.

The temperature of natural daylight LED lights is usually 5,600 kelvin, while the temperature of cooler lights is usually lower, and the temperature of warmer lights is higher. The color temperature you choose really depends on your specific preferences, such as how you intend on using the lights and what type of ambiance you want to create.

Electro-Magnetic Interference

Electro-magnetic interference refers to the performance of an LED light, and it’s important to check the performance to determine what kind of applications it can be used in, and to ensure your safety. Ideally, an LED boat light should be suitable for both personal and industrial use, and it should work without suffering interruptions by radio and other electronic devices.

Energy Consumption

One of the main reasons why boaters opt for LED lights is because of the low amounts of energy they consume. The amount of energy an LED light consumes will impact its cost-effectiveness. You can determine energy efficiency by assessing the lumen per watt. Lights that have a higher lumen per watt consume less energy.

The legal requirements for boat lights vary from location to location. While some locations may have minimal or no requirements, others may have stringent requirements. Adhering to the laws is important so that you can avoid unnecessary trouble and costly tickets. Find out what the restrictions and requirements for LED lighting in your area are before you set out to purchase an LED light for your boat.

It’s also very important to consider the cost of the LED boat light. As you can see from our list, the price tags vary widely, and you want to make sure that you choose an option that you can comfortably afford. There are several factors that will impact the cost of an LED boat light; the intended application, the size, the materials, and the voltage, for example. Generally speaking, the more powerful, the larger, and the higher the quality of the material and construction, the higher the price tag will be.

When calculating costs, you should also factor the energy consumption and the impact the light will have on your energy bills.

Care and Maintenance

This is a factor that many boaters often overlook when they’re shopping for LED lights for their vessels. It’s pretty likely that you’re going to want the maintenance to be as minimal as possible. The easier the lights are to maintain, the better, as owning and caring for a boat is already a big job and adding complex LED lamp care onto the list of things you need to attend to probably isn’t ideal.

Installation

Last but certainly not least, when you’re shopping for LED boat lights, installation is a key factor that you’re going to want to consider. It goes without saying that the easier the lights are to install, the better. The best LED boat lights come complete with the equipment that’s needed to install them, and that equipment will be easy to install, and will keep the lights securely in place.

Boat LED Lights FAQs

If this is the first time you’re shopping for LED boat lights, there’s no doubt that you have some questions. In order to simplify the process of shopping for and selecting the best LED boat lights, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions that mariners have about LED boat lights, and we’ve provided answers for each of these questions.

Q: What are the benefits of LED boat lights?

A: LED boat lights offer several benefits over traditional incandescent lights. Some of the most notable benefits include the following:

• Improved safety. LED boat lights don’t burn as hotly as incandescent lights, which means that there is much less risk of overheating when used over a prolonged period of time.
• Energy efficiency. LED boat lights consume much less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs; therefore, therefore, they’re much more economical.
• Versatility . LED boat lights can be quite versatile, as certain types of lights can be used in a variety of applications.
• Long-lasting. Typically, LED lights last a lot longer than more traditional bulbs, which means you won’t have to worry about the lights burning out as frequently or changing the bulbs as often.
• Color options. LED lights are available in a wide array of colors. There’s the standard white or golden, but LED lights can also glow in a virtual rainbow of colors, from red to blue and everything in between. The various color options adds fun and interest to your nighttime boating adventures.

Q: Are there any downsides?

A: Just like anything, while LED boat lights do offer numerous benefits, there are some downsides, too. Examples of some of the downsides that you should be aware of include the following:

• Voltage sensitivity. LED lights require a regulated current supply combined with a voltage that is above the threshold and has a current that is lower than the ideal grade.
• Not winter-friendly. If you intend on boating during the winter, LED lights aren’t ideal, as the amount of light they discharge can be obscured by snow since they do not discharge a lot of heat.
• Higher initial cost. The initial cost of LED boat lights does tend to be higher than the cost of traditional lights; however, in the long run, the expense balances out, as they cost less to run.

Boats require different types of lighting for different purposes, such as navigation, docking, and general illumination. You definitely want to make sure that you choose the best option to suit your specific needs, and the LED boat lamps featured on our list are some of the highest quality currently on the market. Whether you intend on purchasing lights on our list or you would like to do your own research, consider the factors that were highlighted in our buyer’s guide to assist you with selecting the best boat lights for your unique needs.

Our top picks again …

John is an experienced journalist and veteran boater. He heads up the content team at BoatingBeast and aims to share his many years experience of the marine world with our readers.

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Marine Expert

8 Best Underwater Boat Lights – (Reviews & Guide 2022) 

If you like being on the water at night, you need to equip your boat with the best underwater boat lights . Whether you often find yourself on the boat late at night, or you’re a night angler, this device can provide increased visibility, keep you safe from various obstacles that may come your way, and, why not admit it, make your boat look cool!

If you want to know what is trending in this product category, we suggest you take a look at the underwater boat light reviews . Moreover, we have gathered a lot of relevant information about submerged light so that you won’t have to do a lot more research. Since we have done the hard part for you, you should be able to find a lighting system that suits your needs and preferences.

See The Quick Comparison Chart

What Exactly Are Underwater Boat Lights?

If you are new to boating, perhaps you do not know exactly what to think when you hear about underwater boat lights. These lights are placed on the outside of your boat, under the waterline. Most boat owners mount them on the transom.

These items are meant to illuminate the water underneath your vessel making your life so much easier. Moreover, you can choose pretty much any color you like for the light. This way, you will be able to see everything around you and be safer than without them.

Benefits Of Underwater Boat Lights

1. Increased Visibility and Safety

As the name suggests, if they are lights, they are meant to illuminate. This results in better visibility both for you and for others. You will be safe from any danger that may come your way, and you will be able to avoid it in time.

Also, if you decide to take a swim, the underwater lights will help you see the area you are diving into much better. Moreover, since you are so illuminated, there is no chance for other vessels not to see you whether they need to avoid you or find you, in case of an emergency.

2. Excellent Fishing Experience

If you are an angler, having underwater lights makes fishing a more comfortable experience. Some fishing enthusiasts even state that fish are attracted to lights . Therefore, your catch might be much more prosperous compared to daylight fishing.

3. Your Own Boat Aura

This may not be the most important benefit, but your boat will have its own aura. How cool is that? If you like spending time at night on the open water, you will surely appreciate being surrounded by beautiful color lights.

You will be able to create a more relaxing ambient environment and simply chill, mesmerized by the wonderful surroundings.

4. Peace of Mind

No matter how often you have been out on the water at night, this is a stressful situation. Not being able to properly see what is ahead, and the constant worrying about hitting something can cause a lot of frustration.

However, if you equip your boat with underwater lights, all your worries will disappear, and you will be able to fully enjoy your boating experience. Sailing or fishing on your boat is supposed to be relaxing activities where you can eliminate all the stress and recharge your own batteries. You do not need any more frustration!

5. Cost Efficiency

You should also know that high-end underwater boat lights are investments worthy of every cent. Besides the fact that they can serve you for a really long period, you can even save money because some models are energy-efficient, especially LEDs.

6. Versatility

When it comes to any product category, it is always good to know that you have options. For example, you can get small-sized LED lights that can be installed pretty much anywhere, in any type of design, and still deliver really bright lighting.

Types Of Underwater Boat Lights

1. Incandescent Light Bulbs

The intensity of the light you will get is determined by the wattage of the incandescent light bulbs . Equally-heated filaments produce light. If you want the brightness to be higher, you have to increase the wattage.

For this reason, incandescent light bulbs are considered as being part of a generation of wastage of energy and heat. Another reason why energy is lost is the equal creation of light around the lamp. This type of underwater light is cheap and will offer a wonderful warm glow.

However, you need to know that incandescent light bulbs are known for early damage, and they are not really durable. The reason for this is the filament that burns out quite fast and you end up having to replace the bulb.

2. LED Underwater Lights

As previously mentioned, this type of underwater light is more popular with boat owners because they offer a lot more benefits. First of all, they produce a low quantity of heat. For this reason, LEDs burn cooler compared to incandescent bulbs.

Moreover, this type of light has up to 100,000 working hours. Incandescent lights have only around 1,000. LEDs do not have filaments, so this is another reason why they are so durable. They are not as fragile as their counterparts, and they are energy-efficient, which is probably the biggest advantage.

However, there is one disadvantage here, because LEDs are more expensive. Still, they do not emit toxic chemicals such as mercury. Therefore, they are environmentally friendly as well.

Fishing With Underwater Boat Lights

Using green light is especially useful where water clarity is poor because it makes it appear cleaner and reflects less. You should also know that colors penetrate the water at different lengths. For example, red light cannot be seen past five meters, orange ten, and yellow 20. Green can be seen at lengths of up to 30 meters.

That is why green and white lights are more recommended for fishing at night. Submerged lights can only be used during nighttime, and they cannot compete with sunlight to attract zooplankton. Another thing you should know is that the boat should stay very still because the fish could not gather around the light if the vessel was moving.

For this, you can use two anchors. This way, your boat will not pivot. If you want to have successful fishing experience, it is recommended to use two colored lights. One more important thing you should keep in mind is that the water around your boat needs to be deep enough to hold fish.

Best Underwater Boat Lights Comparison Chart

Best Underwater Boat Lights Reviews

1. husuku soop3 super bright waterproof led underwater light.

Thanks to the wonderful colors offered by these LEDs, this system is not only suitable for creating a wonderful ambient mood, but for attracting fish as well. Anglers will appreciate this quality. The construction of this unit includes PC plastic and rubber as well as SUS316 stainless steel. The product also comes with a cable of 4.2 feet in length.

The lighting system comes with two 42 LED blue trailer lights with the LED beam angle of 120 degrees. The 1,500 lumens are enough for a smaller boat. In terms of installation, you should know that this is not the easiest system to mount. However, if you are not sure about it, you can ask a professional to come and help you.

• The product offers great quality for an affordable price
• It has a waterproof IP rating of 68
• This lighting system is covered by a three-year warranty
• These LEDs require more space on your boat and more sealant than many other models

2. Shoreline Marine Color LED Utility Strip

Since it is intended to be used for boats as well, the product is completely waterproof. Moreover, the strips have a sturdy construction that can withstand the harsh marine conditions. Even though they produce quite a bright light, these LEDs are not as powerful as other products in this line.

Also, they are not enough for larger boats that require more power and light. Overall, you will be pleased with the performance offered by these lighting strips, especially if you are using them on a small boat.

• This option is extremely flexible in terms of mounting options
• The price of this product is quite affordable
• This lighting system is well-made and can easily be used in various types of vehicles
• The plastic shell of the strips is rather fragile and should be handled with care.

3. Lumitec SeaBlaze3 LED Underwater Boat Light, Surface Mount, Non-Dimmable

The Lumitec SeaBlaze3 LED Underwater Boat Light, Surface Mount, Non-Dimmable does not require any external controllers. Moreover, the installation process is quite simple, which means that even you could install it.

The system is transom-mountable and it only requires a 1/2-inch through-hull hole. You should know that this model does not have a strobe or a crossfade mode. Still, you have the option to change the modes and colors with a toggle of a switch.

This is quite convenient as well. This particular model is not suitable for larger vessels that require more powerful lighting, but it is an excellent choice for smaller boats. The product offers white light, but you can also select green, blue, and dual, white/blue colors.

• The product offers versatility and lighting customization that is easy to control
• Its housing offers great protection for the lights
• This model is robust and very reliable
• The lighting system is not as durable as others in the same price range

4. Tidal Wake IP68 Underwater LED Light Underwater Lighting

A great advantage offered by this system is that the installation process is very easy since you are not required to drill any holes in your vessel. For this reason, you can also easily remove the LEDs. You will get a waterproof quick-connect plug and a storage bag.

The LED lights are made of durable stainless steel. With 1800, this system is an excellent choice for small boats. However, if you have a larger vessel, you will probably not be satisfied with the brightness.

• This unit is IP rated at 68 for water resistance
• The system is capable of providing around 50,000 hours of life
• It is an affordable option that will not damage your budget
• The pigtail coming out of the unit is not as long as you might like.

5. TH Marine LED-51868-DP Underwater Light Green

Since this model offers up to 100,000 hours of light, it is more durable than other products in this line. The installation process is not the easiest. You need to be very careful about how you screw the light. If it’s too tight, the glass may break.

The LEDs provide a wonderful green light. With this lighting system, you will get a stainless steel installation hardware as well. Even though these LEDs do not offer a very bright light, they will do the job and assist you if you are fishing or cruising at night.

• This model requires a surface mount and small holes for wiring
• It is an excellent option for small boats
• The unit is designed to be used above and below the waterline
• Plastic is also included in the design of these LEDs, which is not very durable

6. Partsam 6″ Clear/Blue Underwater Led Boat Light

Since it requires surface mounting, the installation process is extremely easy. Moreover, this model has a low amperage draw which means that it does not consume a lot of energy and will not drain your battery. Furthermore, this option is excellent for lighting as well as decoration both interiors and exteriors of boats, RVs, and many other types of vehicles.

This particular model offers clear blue color, but other lengths and colors are also available. The pack contains four strips of six inches in length. However, this is not a great option for larger vessels that require more brightness and power.

• This system is extremely versatile and can be used for various applications
• It is a very affordable lighting option for your boat
• You get to choose between several color options
• If you want blinding brightness, this model is not the most suitable choice

7. Jiawill 60W CREE LED Surface Mount Underwater Boat Lights

First of all, the system has a very sturdy construction that includes a 316 marine-grade stainless steel housing and shatterproof polycarbonate lens. Moreover, it features over-temperature protection which makes this system very durable.

Despite all these features, the LEDs have a very low profile design at only 17 mm. What is more, the stainless steel fascia provides a wonderful and attractive finish while the light performs great with a wide range of colors you can select from.

Even though this is not the cheapest option, the system is certainly worth the money. You will probably also appreciate the fact that you get various mounting options and you are not stuck to a certain position.

• The product comes with all the hardware needed for various installations
• This model is shock and vibration-resistant as well
• The system does not consume a lot of energy from your battery
• It is a bit more pricey than other similar products

8. Pactrade Marine Bright S.S.316 Underwater Light

Moreover, it generates a low-heat light. All of these features ensure that the lighting system can withstand the difficult marine conditions, and use little power at the same time. The installation process is pretty straightforward. These lights only require a small hole to be drilled. However, if you are not skillful in this sense, you may need a little help to mount the units.

Even if they do not provide very bright light, these LED lights are great for night fishing. Moreover, they definitely improve night water activities such as swimming, docking, or loading.

• This is a budget-friendly and excellent choice for small vessels
• The LEDs provide around 50,000 working hours
• The light can be dimmed which is a great option to have
• This lighting system is not suitable if you are looking for a very bright and powerful light

Underwater Boat Lights Buying Guide

Having the best marine stereo can certainly improve your boating experience but it is not mandatory like the best infant life jacket for your child. Underwater boat lights are not compulsory either, but they are a good investment in terms of safety and great boating experience at night. Let us see what things you should keep in mind when looking for products in this line.

Since we have already discussed what types of underwater boat lights are available, we are not going to get into more detail here. Still, based on your needs and budget, you should consider what type of lights you are going to be looking for.

Before you start your submerged light hunt, you need to know exactly what you are going to be using this product for. Is it for increased visibility at night? Are you an angler, planning to fish at nighttime?

Your investment should be in accordance with your needs so that you can enjoy it. Once you know exactly what you need, you will be able to make a smart purchase that will improve your experience.

3. Installation Process

In other words, some models are easier to install than others. Therefore, you should read the manufacturer’s guidelines and decide if it’s the installation process is for you or not. You should know that there are also types of submerged lights that can be mounted on the drain plug and do not require any kind of drilling.

The installing position is another thing you ought to keep in mind. You should search for lights that are flexible and provide various mounting locations. The transom, the drain plug, and the trim tab are areas that are easiest to work with.

If you are not sure about how to proceed or if you have no relevant skills, you should definitely call a professional to have your underwater lights installed.

4. Housing Materials

Since we are talking about lights that are constantly underwater, superior housing is required for yours. The best choices are aluminum bronze and injection-molded transparent polymer. The second option is a great choice for underwater lights, as the material is extremely durable and reliable.

Moreover, this material does not corrode and there won’t be any metal in contact with water. On the other hand, aluminum bronze is one of the most robust metals that are used underwater. It has remarkable resistance to corrosion caused by saltwater. Furthermore, it has unique thermal characteristics as well which will keel the light fresh.

5. Energy-efficient

Even if your lights should offer decent illumination, you should make sure that they do not consume too much of your battery. LED lights are usually more cost-efficient in this sense. However, it is always a good idea to have a backup plan and make sure your boat is equipped with a good marine battery charger , just in case.

6. Brightness

When looking for this type of product, knowing about and understanding the difference between watts and lumens is important. This is because the level of brightness delivered by LEDs is expressed by lumens.

As a general rule, the larger the number of lumens, the higher the illumination. When it comes to submerged boat lights, you should go for at least 600 lumens .

7. The Width of the Beam

This feature is connected to the view of the light angle. Therefore, less than 90 degrees is considered to be narrow, and over 90 degrees is wide.

For your underwater boat lights, you should look for models with full bead width, but do not forget about the quality.

Depending on what you prefer and why you want to use submerged lights, you should know that you can get an illumination system with just one color or with multiple colors.

Therefore, if this aspect is important to you, look for a product that has exactly the colors you want. The market has a lot to offer, and you will surely be able to find something that suits your needs exactly.

9. Durability and Suitable Features

As the name suggests, submerged light is going to be underwater frequently. Therefore, you should look for durable products. It goes without saying that your underwater boat lights need to be waterproof and corrosion-resistant. They also need to be robust as well as resistant to shocks. In other words, they need to be made specifically for the marine environment.

How To Install Underwater Boat Lights?

The first step of the installation process is deciding where you want to mount the lights. As a general line, it is recommended to be at least six inches below the waterline. Moreover, submerged lights need to be placed on clean, unobstructed, flat surfaces.

Once you find the perfect spot, you will need to cut the templates that come with the lights and then tape them to the hull. Make sure you follow the instructions on the templates. You will need to drill holes into the hull, but make sure there is nothing behind these areas. After you finish, clean these areas with a clean towel.

Through the center hole, you will need to run the wires, and then a bead of sealant around the perimeter of the fixture. Next, from the inside of the boat, you will need to pull the cables carefully and position the fixture on the outside.

Use the screws that come with the fixture, and mount it to the hull. When you get to this point, you should refer to the wiring diagrams in order to wire the lighting system correctly. Also, make sure that the exposed wires are covered with electrical tape in order to prevent corrosion.

Of course, depending on the type of lighting system you select, the installation process may differ. Regardless of the type and model, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and call for professional help if you need it.

How To Maintain Underwater Boat Lights?

Moreover, it is recommended to use an orbital sander to remove the paint from the areas where the units are mounted. Furthermore, if you remove your vessel from the water, you should also clean the lights using mild detergent, clean, freshwater, and a soft towel. It is important not to use any hard detergent or bristle brushes.

Another thing you should keep in mind is that submerged lights work by being kept cool underwater. Therefore, never run these lights out of the water, or you might get them permanently damaged. If you have to do this for some reason, make sure you never exceed two minutes.

FAQ About Underwater Boat Lights

1. what color underwater is the best.

There is no “best color” for underwater boat lights. It depends on what your needs and preferences are. Each color’s penetration capability depends on wavelength. A short-wavelength offers a deeper color penetration. Blue light has the shortest wavelength which means that it penetrates deeper.

At the same time, red light has the longest wavelength so it gets absorbed at shallow depths. If you only want to make your boat look cool, you can go for whichever color or color combination you like. If you want to fish at night, you should go for green and white. That is why it is important to know what you need the light for before getting the units.

2. Where Should Underwater Boat Lights Be Installed?

When it comes to the areas where the underwater lights should be mounted in, usually the drain plug, the transom, and the trim tab are preferred by most boat owners. Also, if you are a skillful person, the installation process is not very hard.

You need to consider that for most units, you will have to drill holes for the screws and wiring. Also, you will have to hook up the wires to the power source. Therefore, if you have any doubt, you should not hesitate to call a professional. It is better to spend a few extra bucks for his or her services than to cause much more expensive damage to your boat.

3. How Can I Change the Color if I Am Using a Multicolor Lighting System?

This depends on the product itself. Some models offer the possibility to preset the cross fade at certain intervals. You may also be able to turn the lights off and on using the switch that came with the system to change the color.

However, your product may have other options. Therefore, the right answer lays in the manufacturer’s instructions manual which you should read before you even mount the system on your boat.

4. Can I Use My Underwater Boat Lights Out of the Water?

Even if these lights work out of the water, you should not use them for any other than the intended purpose. Submerged lights are designed in a way that the water allows them to cool down.

If you use them outside their intended environment, there is nothing to cool them down, so the heat will damage them. If you need to check the system out of the water, make sure you never keep the lights on for more than two minutes.

5. What Colors Are Fish Attracted to?

Green and white lights are commonly used to attract fish not only to boats but to docks and piers as well. The reason for this is the two colors’ brightness that can attract fish from greater distances. Blue has a shorter wavelength but it is used mostly for ambient and aesthetic lighting, mostly around resort and restaurant areas.

Even though they are not mandatory, the best underwater boat lights should not be missing from your vessel, especially if you are often on the open water at night. They represent an extra safety feature both for you and for other boaters around you, and they also look great. In case you are an angler, then these units are a must, especially if you like fishing at night.

If you read our underwater boat light reviews , you will be able to see what some of the most popular models are with boat owners. We have even prepared a lot of information about this line of products for you to make an idea about why they are important and what features you should be looking for. We are sure that once you install the lighting system on your boat, you will be sorry for not using one sooner.

Bonus guide: submersible trailer lights reviews

About Peter Richardson

Peter Richardson decided that he needs to balance out the sedentary lifestyle of a software developer by getting out there more. He found passion in none other than – boats. This website represents everything he learned along the way. Finding the right equipment for your boat is no easy task, and that is what Peter’s articles aim to help you with.

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The Best LED Boat Lights for 2024

Over the years, LED lighting has become the lighting of choice for residential houses as well as commercial establishments. Boat owners have also not been left behind as they opt to install boat LED lights rather than traditional incandescent lights. This is probably because LED lights produce high-quality lighting and are designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Hence, it is not surprising to find a plethora of boat LED lights models in the market. However, this makes it difficult to decide which one is the most suitable product as is the case with finding the best aluminum boat cleaner. Luckily, we have created an extensive review of some of the best LED boat lights in the market to help you choose one that is best suited for your boat lighting needs.

Let’s get started.

1. Shangyuan Marine Led Strip Lights

2. obcursco led boat bow navigation light kits, 3. partsam anchor transom mount navigation lights, 4. lumitec seablaze3 led underwater boat lights, 5. auzkin led light bar submersible driving lights, 6. shangyuan boat navigation lights, 7. yitamotor led boat light bars, 8. boaton marine boat led navigation lights, 9. obcursco led boat navigation lights, 10. interwebz boat bow navigation led lights, 11. seapon pontoon led boat lights, 12. obcursco led boat interior lights, 13. th marine led-51830-dp dome lights, 14. linkstyle marine led boat navigation lights, led boat lights buying guide, boat led light faqs, best led boat light reviews.

If you’re like me who’s fascinated by marine LED strip lights, then don’t forget to include this product in your list when scouting for the best boat LED lights. Something that stands out to me about this product is its wide application. The lights come in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose a color that will best suit your personality.

Just like most top-notch products in the market, the Shangyuan Marine LED utility strip lights can be used for open water applications such as courtesy lights, cockpit lights, bow lights, navigation lights, boat center console light, and stern light. Its uses don’t stop there though, as it can still be used to decorate and light up a golf cart.

LED lights are usually known for their relatively long lifetime, and the Shangyuan strip lights are no exception. With this LED product, you can expect a lifetime of up to 50,000 hours. It also has a flux of 120 lumens and compatibility with 12V-DC.

As for energy consumption, you can rest easy knowing that the lights consume low power and are significantly energy-efficient. They also provide lasting illumination without overheating.

What I like most about these strips lights is their ease of installation. They come with two wires connection and free foam tape bases and screw sets which made the installation process a breeze for me. As for the wires, the black one is negative and the other one positive.

However, if you are looking for very bright light, I wouldn’t recommend this product. The lights are not very bright and may not meet some lighting needs. Nonetheless, this is a good choice for those who want lighting that is easy on the eyes. Another downside is that it is not waterproof-rated.

• Wide application
• Nice lighting
• Quick and easy installation
• Low power consumption
• Easy on the eyes
• Numerous colors offered
• Not very bright
• Not waterproof-rated
• Doesn’t include a switch

Overall, this lighting fixture is good for both land and sea applications, offering the best value for money.

If you are on the market for extremely bright and easy-to-install boat LED lights, then I would highly recommend that you get yourself this boat bow navigation light kit from Obcursco.

This lighting product features a 1-mile bright 18 5050 LED strip that’s known to offer maximum visibility for boat navigation. The super bright lights are available in red and green colors. These navigation lights are versatile with different applications such as water lights, land lights, or running lights.

What stands out most for me is the fact that these LED strips are IP67 waterproof. This means that you can use them underwater and still expect exceptional performance. This is an extremely important feature for boaters whose water vessels get submerged in seawater.

Besides, the construction of the lights is corrosion-resistant as they are rated ABS quality. They are built with durability in mind and are tightly sealed to prevent any water leakage. For this reason, you can be at ease knowing that they are safe to use and will last you for an extended period of time.

When purchasing boat LED lights, one factor to keep in mind is the ease of installation. Of course, you don’t want a product that has complicated wiring and takes hours to install. Luckily, the Obcursco navigation light comes with ultra double-sided 3M adhesive tapes for quick setup of the lights.

It also has self-installation features as you simply need to clean the target area and peel the taps before sticking them. Plus, most reviewers note that the adhesive works well even after exposure to direct sunlight. However, I noticed that the 3m double-sided adhesive was not strong enough in some instances and could be better.

• Highly bright colors
• Ease of installation
• 100% waterproof
• Versatile application
• Durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions
• Great value for money
• The adhesive is not strong enough for some users
• Installation instructions omitted

There is no better way to light up your boat on land and water than with this Obcursco 12 inch LED boat lights. These lights generate attractive red and green lights that are easy to install and can withstand harsh marine weather conditions.

Another excellent boat lighting featured in our review is the Partsam 4Pcs 3-inch light with a round chrome lens. It is a brilliant choice if you are looking for a lighting solution for your interior compartment or cabin or as a courtesy light for the cockpit. In fact, I deem Partsam lighting as the best when it comes to marine LED cabin lights.

This kit contains 4 pieces of boat LED stern lights with high power to meet all your marine requirements. Not only does the blue soft light provide great ambiance, but it also helps ensure that you don’t stumble over things in your boat.

What I like about this product is that it is designed with LED technology and features a chrome bezel construction. Although it is constructed from this durable material, you will be surprised how lightweight this light kit is.

In addition, the body and lens are crafted from a clear high-grade plastic material. Another remarkable spec is the IP67 waterproof design that renders this product impermeable even if it is submerged in water.

Unlike most products in the market, I had an easy time installing these marine navigation lights, thanks to the mounting screws included. Therefore, anyone can install the lighting fixture with ease without hiring the services of a professional installer.

However, what I dislike about these lights is that they don’t flush mount to the wall. In order to solve this problem, the boater will need to drill a pilot hole for the screw and then make a sinkhole for the unit.

• Multipurpose for boat cabin lights and courtesy lighting
• Super bright yet soft led glow
• Waterproof rated IP67
• Compatible with 12 volt DC power
• Durable and sturdy construction
• Lightweight design
• Lights aren’t dimmable
• Doesn’t mount flush to the wall

These navigation lights have the right amount of lighting that is neither too bright nor too dim. If you are looking to enhance the interior of your boat, make this your top choice.

This is another LED boat light that I find quite remarkable owing to the fact that it comes in numerous colors such as white, green, blue, and white/blue. This has made it possible for me to choose a color that best fits my personality and makes my fishing expeditions exceptional.

With up to 1,700 lumens, there is no doubt that this underwater boat light is one of the brightest models in the market. The Lumitec SeaBlaze 3 generates 1729 lumens and is compatible with 12volt DC to 24 volt DC. Due to its powerful beam, I would highly recommend this product to boaters who plan to go on a late-night fishing trip or low-light navigation.

Besides, the brightness level is adjustable, something that is unusual in most boat LED lights in the market. It can be programmed to select different modes like cross-fade and change the color thanks to Lumitec’s Timed Toggle Protocol (TTP).

With the straightforward on/off toggles, controlling the light features is pretty simple and you won’t require any externals. As if that’s not enough, the powerful lighting is consistent and not prone to fading.

The other reason why I would recommend this product is because it has been saltwater durability tested. What this means is that it has gone through salt spray testing of the highest standard. In addition, the housing has been constructed from marine-grade anodized aluminum which makes it durable and lightweight.

What I don’t like is that these lights are more expensive than other models. Nevertheless, they offer the best quality and will give you value for your money.

• Available in numerous colors
• Excellent resistance to saltwater
• Adjustable brightness level
• Housing is made from resistant aluminum
• Saltwater durability-tested
• Bright enough
• Made in the USA
• On the expensive side
• May flicker when used in water

With a variety of colors to offer, there is no doubt that the Lumitec Lighting SeaBlaze 3 LED lights are nice for aesthetics. Overall, they are very bright in water which makes them excellent for underwater use.

As the name suggests, this LED light bar is engineered with a unique waterproof design that enables it to withstand harsh environments and be used underwater. It has an impressive waterproof rate of IP68 and also features the ability to be shockproof, dust-proof, and anti-corrosion.

If longevity matters to you, then you will be pleased to know that the AUZKIN LED light has a lifespan of approximately 50,000 hours with a luminous flux of 12,000 LM. As for the light transmission, this type of lighting can transmit light at a rate of 97%. It is compatible with all 12V/24V vehicles including boats, SUVs, trucks, trailers, sand bars, and many more.

Other than fishing and kayaking, the 7-inch LED light bar can come in handy to do other lighting applications such as home lighting, architectural, camping, mining, and others. With such versatility, you can be assured to get the most value for your money.

As for the construction, the unit features black die-cast aluminum housing. A feature that stood out most for me was the adjustable bracket that was included in the kit. The bracket allowed me to mount the LED bars anywhere I wanted on my boat as well as adjust them up to 45 degrees with ease. Besides, the 30 degrees spot beam and 170 degrees flood beam helps enhance the overall field of vision and improve light distribution.

Efficient heat dissipation is yet another distinctive feature that I loved. These LED lights are designed with a large heat-dissipation area and 10 pieces of cooling fan that enable them to cool down quickly. This ensures maximum efficiency and prolongs the life of the lights. However, one thing that confuses me is that it doesn’t come with a wiring harness.

• IP68 waterproof design
• Submersible
• Adjustable mounting bracket included
• Up to 50,000 hours lifespan
• Nice and bright
• Maximum efficiency
• 12V/24V compatibility
• Numerous lighting applications
• Easy to install
• Solid construction
• Doesn’t include wiring harness and fuse

Mount these LED bar lights on your boat to boost visibility in low visibility environments. Not only are these lights super bright, but they are also versatile and can be used in numerous applications.

The other Shangyuan products in our review are these 2 best marine LED strip lights. Unlike the standard navigation lights that come in a pole style, these lights come as two marine slim strips light: a 3.8” red LED strip and a 3.8” green LED strip. The red and green lights are not only effective but also very stylish, thereby adding to the aesthetics of your boat.

When looking for navigation lights for my marine vessel, one of the features I put into consideration is the lifespan. This is because a longer lifespan means that the lights consume less power and there won’t be any need to replace them any sooner. This is no exception for Shangyuan boat navigation lights which have a lifespan of over 50,000 hours. Plus, they have low temperatures and energy-saving features to minimize high energy bills.

In addition, the product has a flux of 120 lumens and a voltage of 12V DC. This makes it ideal to use on kayaks, small boats, pontoon boats, and sailboats. You can use the lights in either of these vessels as a bow light, portlight, navigation light, or starboard light.

If you hate spending hours installing your newly acquired navigation lights, then you should settle for these lights. This is because it requires two wire connections where the black wire is negative and the other wire is positive. Better yet, the kit includes free foam tape bases and screw set for a hassle-free installation.

When it comes to construction, the lights are designed with PC lens and ABS housing. Along with being waterproof, the PC lens is also shockproof, and dustproof.

What I didn’t like is that they didn’t come with a power source which means that you have to provide yours separately. Also, there were no instructions provided for installation and use of the lights.

• Extremely bright lights
• Modern and stylish design
• Excellent quality
• Energy-saving and low temperature
• Long lifespan
• Wide range of applications
• Doesn’t include a power switch
• Instructions omitted

Overall, this type of lighting fixture is a great value for money as it offers numerous applications. Aside from being energy-efficient, it also has a long lifespan and long-lasting illumination.

Are you in the market for multipurpose LED lights that can be used both indoors and outdoors without compromising performance? The YITAMOTOR LED lightbar might just be what you need. This 6-inch light bar features high-intensity LEDs that give a total power of 18 watts.

With this power, you can be assured great visibility as you roam the waters at night. The high-quality LED chips, wide irradiation range, and flood reflector cups all work together to offer excellent visual effects for safety driving. Plus, the LED lights are waterproof, quake-proof, dust-proof, and anti-explosion.

Not only is it great for boats, but it can also be used for lighting a number of jeeps, trailers, cars, motorcycles, pickups, trucks, 4*4, ATVs, SUVs, and golf carts. Furthermore, it is designed to meet your outdoor lighting needs such as backyard lighting, garden lighting, backup light, construction lighting, reverse lights, and off-road lighting.

Worrying about performance in harsh environments? Worry, not! These bright LED boat lights feature a die-cast aluminum housing that makes them exceedingly sturdy and durable to withstand harsh environments. In addition, they feature an upgraded PC lens surface that has a remarkably high light transmission.

Something else that stands out is the efficient heat dissipation of these lights. This is made possible by the 1070 aluminum alloy casing that offers a large heat dissipation area and ensures the appropriate heat sink sealability. Besides, the sharp aluminum fan design ensures maximum and more effective heat dissipation for LED efficiency and a lifespan of above 50,000 hours.

Ease of installation is made possible by the adjustable mounting accessories provided. Therefore, anyone including amateurs can install the LED light bars without requiring an expert. However, I was disappointed by the fact that the bolts were too short for various applications.

• Bright LED lights
• Multipurpose
• Installation is quite easy
• Quality construction
• Weather-sealed
• Bolts are too short for some applications

There are a lot of things to love about the YITAMOTOR LED light bar. In general, these lights have durable and waterproof construction, long lifetime, and low energy consumption. They offer great value for money with their multiple uses.

Next on this list is the Boaton marine boat LED navigation lights that come in a range of light colors like blue, green, red, and white. Therefore, look no further if what you want is red, white, blue, or green LED lights for boats.

These lights are best suited for boat navigation lights, boat interior lights, boat stern lights, and courtesy lights. Moreover, you can use this product for LED marine deck lights for different types of boats.

The lights use 18 pieces of Germany 5050 LED chips that make it possible for the lights to offer visibility of up to 4 miles. I can vouch for the lighting performance of these navigation lights for a pontoon boat, kayak, jon boat, yacht, and many others. The product is also a brilliant choice for bass boat LED deck lights.

With regard to the material, I like that these LED navigation lights from Boaton are made of ABS material sealed in silicone for excellent durability. I must admit that the sturdy construction makes the lights withstand harsh environments, saving you money in the long run.

In addition, the product features a waterproof rating of IP67. Therefore, if you are worried about bad weather conditions like a heavy downpour, you can be guaranteed that the lights will remain dry. Besides that, they are also resistant to seawater splash and washing.

I had no difficulty installing these high-quality LED lights on my boat as they feature double-sided adhesive on the back. To install, you simply need to clean the surface, peel, and place them on the target area. Another thing is that the lights are designed with a flexible body that allows you to mount it anywhere you like including on irregular surfaces.

So whether you intend to mount on above the rail, on the rub rail, or below the rail, the entire process is a breeze. Installing them on the rub rail is highly recommended as it helps hide the lights and protect them from damage.

The service life is decent, giving you up to 10,000 hours. Plus, you don’t have to worry about high energy bills as they are energy-saving and consume very low power. On the downside, one reviewer noted that the adhesive is on the weaker side and may not last for very long.

• 4 miles visibility distance
• Energy-efficient
• Flexible body for versatile installation
• Super bright and work effectively
• Quick and stable installation
• Sleek and beautiful
• The adhesive may not be strong enough

Navigate safely with these bright LED lights that are visible from a faraway distance so you can be seen by the Coast Guard and oncoming vessels. They are bright, effective, and pretty easy to install anywhere you want.

If you are more about aesthetics, I would highly recommend these Obcursco LED boat navigation lights. Unlike traditional boat lights, these lights offer a perfect combination of value and bright performance without compromising style.

The lights have a similar design to LED bulbs that come in red and green colors. One reason why I would highly recommend this product is because of its high-quality and durable construction. They have great durability thanks to their ABS material with proper sealing to avoid liquid intrusion. It is no doubt that it’s overall built portrays durability.

In addition, they feature a 100% waterproof design that resists water intrusion during your boating expedition. This also means that it can withstand harsh weather conditions like sea salt water submersion.

What I like most is that this kit has many uses and can be used for stern lighting, bow lighting, as well as running lights. It fits very well when used on boats, pontoon, touring cars, speed boats, fishing boats, and others. Most users love their small yet unique appearance that will make your boat stand out while ensuring that you navigate and dock safely.

Of course, just like the other Obcursco model, installing these boat navigation lights is clear-cut. Since the package comes with rubber mounting gaskets, all you need is a wire to install the lights.

However, if you are a boat owner who lacks basic electrical knowledge or this is your first time installing LED boat lights, then you are likely to have a difficult time. This is because the package doesn’t include any instructions. Also, the backside of the lights does not have any mounting holes or hardware, and it can be daunting to drill the holes to match those on your boat.

The other downside is that they don’t come with bulbs. This means that you will have to remove the entire fixture should the lights fail.

• Unique appearance
• Weatherproof
• Easy and flexible installation
• Super bright
• Long-lasting life
• Lacks a mounting hole
• A bit flimsy
• Does not include bulbs

Although these LED boat lights don’t come with instructions, they are still pretty nice little lights that can achieve much for your lighting needs.

The Interwebz boat bow marine LED lighting kit has caught my attention because of its sleek and stylish design. The lighting kit features both red and green LED strips that are IP68 waterproof rated with silicone encased construction. This means that the lighting can be completely immersed in water without having its operation affected.

A unique spec of these navigation LED lights is that they come with a black background that complements the rub rails and exteriors of most boats. This is a great alternative to the usual white LED strip background found in most lighting kits. With the black background, both the red and green led strip will be hardly noticeable. This makes it an excellent alternative for ski boats and bass boats.

With regards to installation, I love that these lights have a sturdy double-sided 3m adhesive tape that holds them in place. Moreover, they come equipped with extra-long 6-inch black wire leads unlike the usual 2 or 4-inch leads found in other products. These extra-long black leads have stickers labeling the positive lead for convenient installation. The leads are compatible with 12V power wires or even the 12V battery of jon boats.

A downside of this product is that it lacks durability and prone to cracking. Hence, when handling, it is advisable not to flex them too much.

• Offers superb brightness
• Waterproof IP68 rated
• Includes extra long black leads
• Extremely strong 3M adhesive
• Quick and fast to install
• The LED strip is poorly constructed and prone to cracking

If you love an appealing low profile look, you will most definitely appreciate the black background on these LEDs. Being a great alternative to the typical pole style navigation light, this unique LED boat lighting kit will make your boating experience safe and exceptional.

Do you need to install super bright yet appealing LED strip lights to make your boating experience safe and memorable? If so, then I would recommend the Seapon Pontoon boat light that comes with one piece of 5m blue marine LED strip lights as well as 10 pieces of LED strip clips and crews.

I was impressed by the smooth strips and the even spread of light. As a result, I didn’t have to deal with the issue of uneven luminous as is the case with models that have uneven light spread. What’s more, the strips have cutting marks that allow you to cut the LED without damaging the whole strip.

The flexible ribbon is another distinct feature that I love. This product has a unique flexible ribbon feature that makes it possible to curve the LED strip around curves. Their view angle is 120 degrees to 140 degrees.

One reason why I would recommend this product is because of its many applications. Apart from lighting and decorating your pontoon boat, you can also use this light for a sailboat, jon boat, duck boat, fishing boat, bass boat, kayak, and trailer.

Among its uses include LED deck lights for boats, accent lighting, courtesy lighting, gunwale lighting, center console lighting, cockpit lighting, interior boat lighting, and fishing night lighting. Besides, this light have an appealing look and can be used to decorate parties. As for compatibility, this lighting works well on 12 Volts DC.

The expected lifespan of Seapon Pontoon boat light is 50,000 hours. It is also energy-saving and environment-friendly. With the 10 pieces of LED strip clips, screws, and self-adhesive backing, installation has never been easier.

• Even light spread
• LED strip clips, screws, and adhesive included
• Can be used on numerous applications
• Flexible ribbon
• Compatible with 12V DC
• Ideal for different types of boats
• Quick installation
• Long life span
• Not completely water-resistant

Overall, this boat light has an impressive lighting performance for boats and creates an ambiance for parties and other lighting needs. It is highly recommended if you are on the lookout for a multi-functional marine lighting fixture.

The Obcursco boat LED lights are designed for those who are looking to replace or upgrade their interior boat lighting fixture. These boat LED lights are among the best interior boat lights in the market, thanks to their bright design. Each light is designed with Obcursco innovation LED technology and contains 6 pieces of LED bulbs.

Due to their bright design, these lights are ideal for a plethora of uses including night light, cockpit light, step light, decorate light, boat center console light, transom light, golf cart light, courtesy light, and many more.

One of its unique features is the reliable and high-quality electroplating surface found in the lights. Due to the electroplating surface, the UV resistance of this lighting kit is enhanced, thus helping to prolong its life. Other notable features include IP67 waterproof rating, 95% lumen maintenance percentage, and 12V DC compatibility.

As for the setup, you won’t need to take hours in order to get your lights up and running. The installation is quite simple and fast as you simply need to locate the mounting hole and screw the mounting screws after. Hence, you can say goodbye to the tedious and long installation processes that are found in other models.

However, the lights seem to be constructed from cheap plastic which may not withstand the test of time.

• Wide range of application
• High-quality electroplating surface for UV resistance
• Bright LED design
• Waterproof-rated
• Compatible with 12V DC power
• Prolonged lifespan
• Constructed from cheap plastic

The Obcursco stern lights are designed to provide boaters with the best interior lighting. They can provide an adequate source of lighting for your oat interior as well as other lighting applications.

This is a compact model that comes with a surface mount dome light with switch. This product is available in two models: switchable 9 white/6 red LEDs which are great for night vision and 15 white LEDs.

It is designed with an on/off rocker switch that is placed on the bezel for easy use. The switcher gives the white light one way and the red light the other way. I like the white bright light as well the red light as they’re perfect for night watches.

I love that the light has clear PC Lens patterns that are uniquely designed to ensure proper distribution of the illumination. As a result, the illumination will be distributed to a wide beam angle of not less than 120 degrees. The surface mount ensures quick installation with fasteners that are hidden.

I would suggest that you get this product if you want boat lights for marine interior lighting. They are designed for interior applications in boats and RVS. When it comes to compatibility, the dome light works well with a 12-volt power source with low power superflux LEDs.

A problem that most marine lights face is the issue of fading and corrosion. However, with these, this won’t be a problem anymore. This is because the white housing is UV stable and can resist color fading. To top it all off, the circuit board is sealed in epoxy which comes in handy when resisting water, vibration, and corrosion.

Believe it or not, this product has an extremely long lifespan of up to 100,000 hours. This is unlike the usual 50,000 hours that is seen is most boat LED lights in the market. Therefore, you will rest easy knowing that it can save a lot of time without making any replacement anytime soon.

Although the installation is advertised as being straightforward, some customers note that they had difficulty mounting the light.

• Includes a surface mounting
• Extremely long lifespan
• 12V compatibility
• Suitable for interior use
• Corrosion, water, and vibration-resistant
• Resistant to color fading
• Clear PC Len for wide beam angle
• Difficulty in mounting the light

Despite the mounting issue, this product is a perfect replacement for marine LED interior lights. It comes with a wide range of unique specs that make it a great value for your money.

If you’re a boater who prefers bow boat navigation lights, then this product is for you. I couldn’t end my list of the best boat LED lights without mentioning these 12V marine LED boat navigation lights that come with two colors: green and red light. The green light is used for the starboard side while the red light is for the port side.

They are best suited for use in front of a pontoon boat, fishing boat, yacht, speed boat, touring car, and skeeters.

If you are to inquire about its waterproof ability, I think that this LED boat bow light is what you need to sail in harsh weather conditions. It has been rated IP65 waterproof which means that it offers reliable protection when sailing in a heavy downpour.

Moreover, these navigation lights are crafted with durability and corrosion resistance in mind in order to meet the requirements for marine navigation lights. They feature a grade stainless steel cover as well as durable ABS plastic housing. Although the construction is durable and sturdy, you will be surprised to find out how lightweight it is.

Like other reliable boat navigation lights, this product is easy to install and adjust. You just need to install it with three screws. The other feature I love about this product is the wide radiation angle of up to 225 degrees. Plus, this can be adjusted by reducing the blind area, especially if you are sailing the boat at night.

On the downside, the light is not well-constructed and feels cheap. A lot of users complain that it is a bit smaller in size than expected.

• Features two colors in one light
• Clear and bright
• Portable size
• Corrosion and waterproof resistance
• Wide radiation angle
• Longer lifetime
• Includes 3 screws for uncomplicated installation
• Durable stainless steel and BS construction
• Comes in a small size than expected
• Not well-constructed

Although the overall size of this light is small, there is no denying that it gets the job done. Use it for effective and safe boat lighting while enjoying low power consumption.

Who are LED Boat Lights For?

Boat LED lights have a wide range of applications including lighting the interior and exterior parts of the boat. Therefore, they are a great choice for boat owners who want to light up different parts of their boats like the cockpit. Aside from that, it’s also ideal for underwater and docking use . Besides, the market is flooded with some of the top LED boat deck lights to make your sailing easy and safe.

Features to Consider When Buying LED Boat Lights

Before you head out shopping for LED lights for your boat, there are several things that you need to consider. They include:

1. Quality of Light

This is an important consideration for anyone looking for LED lights for their boat. Basically, the quality of light is the amount of light produced by LED lights which are referred to as lumens. The quality of light may differ with brands of LED lights as some may produce very bright light at any angle while others give clear white lighting.

2. Durability

When it comes to LED lights for boats, it is important to think about their durability and quality. You want to ensure that the product is top-notch and designed with durability in mind to resist the unpredictable and harsh marine environment.

Unlike regular water, marine water is known to contain high levels of salts which are more likely to cause corrosion. Therefore, products that are constructed with anodized aluminum housing will be protected from corrosion and serve you for a long time.

3. Voltage Compatibility

Although the voltage system of marine boats ranges from 6 to 30 volts, most boats have an electrical system that ranges from 12 volts to 24 volts. Nonetheless, 12 volts LED lights are the most common electrical system for all boats. For this reason, I highly recommended looking for boat LED lighting that is compatible with your marine vessel.

4. LED Light Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI)

You also want to factor in the Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI) performance of the LED lights you are considering so you can be at peace that your safety is guaranteed. When choosing from different manufacturers, make sure that you inquire about the LED light EMI and its performance for different applications like personal and industrial use.

Any high-quality LED light for boats should be able to operate without causing any electromagnetic interference on other electronic devices such as audio equipment and radios.

5. Color Temperature

The color temperature of a bulb refers to the characteristic of light it produces which is measured in Kelvin. LED lights color temperature varies from natural daylight, warm (yellower), and cooler (bluer) lights. Natural daylight has a color temperature of 5,600K with cooler lights having a higher number and warmer lights having a lower number than this.

When buying a LED light, you should choose the color temperature based on your personal needs and the ambiance you intend to create.

6. Power Savings

When one thinks of LEDs, the only thing that comes to mind is power savings, and this is no different when it comes to LED boat lights. Nonetheless, you still need to ensure to consider the lumens per watt of the bulb. LED lights with higher lumens per watt are more cost-effective and consume less energy than their counterparts.

7. Consider Legal Requirements

Believe it or not, there are legal requirements that you ought to abide by depending on your location. Knowing these requirements and restrictions will enable you to know which specific navigation lights to use during sunrise and sunset.

Of course, when choosing LED navigation boat lights, it is a good idea to factor in the cost. The prices of LED lights vary greatly on the construction materials, features, and overall quality. Make your selection based on your budgetary needs and the special features that you want to be integrated into your lights. Although LED lights can be expensive initially, they offer great savings in the long run in terms of lower energy bills and replacement costs.

Advantages and Disadvantages of LED Boat Lights

Just like other products , led boat lights have their own advantages and disadvantages as we will see below:

Advantages:

• Energy Efficient: This is probably one of the main reasons boat owners opt for LED boat lights. Unlike traditional light, LED lights consume less power, enabling you to save more money.
• Safe: It has been proven that LED lights don’t overheat and burn when used for longer periods as opposed to incandescent bulbs.
• Wide Application: Most LED boat lights can be used to provide effective lighting both in the land and sea. Therefore, you will not only use them for your boat lighting but for other applications as well.
• Longer Service Life: This is another benefit of these lights with a good number of models promising a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours.
• Dimming: Currently, LEDs can be dimmed in order to lower the light output as well as the color temperature.
• Multiple Colors: With the advancement in technology, it is possible to find boat LED lights illuminating in different colors like white, green, red, and blue.

Disadvantages:

• High Initial Cost: Compared to traditional lights, installing LED boat lights can be expensive at first. However, they are normally cost-effective in the long run.
• Voltage Sensitivity: LEDs require a current regulated supply with voltage that is above the threshold and with a current that is below the rating.
• Not Ideal for Winter Conditions: This is because they don’t emit too much heat. As a result, they can cause snow obscuring during winter seasons, resulting in accidents.

Care and Maintenance

One way to ensure the longevity of your LED boat lights is through proper care and maintenance. To do this, simply do regular cleaning of the interior and exterior parts. Also, ensure that you do thorough testing if the boat lights have a faulty or worn wire. In the case of wear and tear, be sure to replace the boat lights.

How to Install LED Boat Lights?

Installing boat LED lights is pretty easy and straightforward. There are three ways to do this :

• The first method is mounting the light on the exterior of the boat via a wire and then running it through the hull.
• The second method is directly connecting the boat lights using a drain plug. To do this, simply thread the boat LED lights through the hole then connect it to the battery.
• Alternatively, you can drill a hole in order to install the wire. Then run the wire through the hole and connect it to the light and the battery.

Will 24 volt LED Lights Work on 12 volt?

No, I wouldn’t recommend this as this will only provide low output lights. This is because connecting the LED lights to half the voltage can reduce the electrical pressure and draw half the current. The best way is to match the LED lights to the supply voltage.

What is the Best LED Light Color for Fishing?

When it comes to fishing, green and white lights are most recommended. This is because they tend to attract most baitfish, especially when used at night. It is also best to use these two colors on the exterior of your boat rather than on the interior as they are likely to attract bugs inside the boat.

When you have the best boat LED lights, you can be assured that your boating expedition at night will be exceptional. I hope that this extensive review comes in handy if you were in the market for the best LED lights for your boat.

Just ensure that you compare the features of each model and choose one that meets your specific lighting needs. In addition, I suggest that you use the best aluminum boat cleaner to keep your boat in top shape.

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11 Best Underwater Boat Lights for 2024

Tidal Wake Plug n' Play Underwater Boat Light

TH Marine High Intensity LED Underwater Boat Light

Lumitec SeaBlaze X 2 Underwater Boat Light

Underwater boat lights have been gaining in popularity in recent years. And for good reason. LED technology has made them affordable and brighter than ever. They’re also easier to install than you might think on something like a pontoon boat . And they do have practical benefits when it comes to fishing, not to mention safety. If you’ve decided now’s the time for some underwater boat lights, check out the best on the market.

If you’re not 100% sure if underwater boat lights are for you, look here. The Tidal Wake Plug n Play doesn’t require a heavy installation at all. Your hull will suffer no holes whatsoever and that’s pretty cool. Instead, this very cool design makes use of a hole you already have. All you need to do is remove a drain plug from your boat. Then you screw the tidal wake light into its place. So you get a replacement drain plug and you have no worries about leaks. But you also have an underwater light as well. That’s pretty cool.

Tidal Wake offers their light in four different colors. White light is good for attracting fish and being noticed easily. Green light can also attract fish and offers a cool effect. Red light is very intense and is definitely a stylistic choice. Blue light looks relaxing and in the right kind of water makes a very cool effect. Be aware of blue lights, though. In recent years, law enforcement has banned blue lights on boats in some areas. They can be mistaken for law enforcement boats. Check local regulations before boating to be sure.

The LEDs in the light produce a whopping 1800 lumens. They also have 50,000 hours of life in them. That means you won’t need to be replacing your light any time soon. The light fits in a standard ½ inch plug. You can hard wire the light once it’s installed. Or you can plug it into an accessory outlet. Whatever works best for your setup.

Because it’s designed to fit in an already existing hole, installation is very fast. You literally just screw it into the drain plug hole and you’re done. Surface mounted units install quickly in around 20 minutes or so. You can have this up in running in under five minutes. We recommend using a bit of plumber’s tape on the threads as you install, however. That will ensure a perfectly waterproof seal. You don’t want to take a chance that you have even a small leak.

The light itself offers a wide 160 degree beam. That’s more than enough for attracting fish and keeping things illuminated. The company has a three year warranty as well. They even offer a handy storage bag for when you want to take it out and put it away.

• Buy on Amazon   →
• Buy on Walmart   →

Getting a good quality underwater boat light shouldn’t break the bank. You’ll see some lights can cost hundreds of dollars per light. On a big enough boat, you can invest thousands by the time you’re done. But if you’re new to underwater boat lights, that’s a big commitment.

For many boaters, there’s still a stigma around boat lights. For years, they’ve been considered kind of useless. Or just something that rich boaters used to show off. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can enjoy the benefits of underwater boat lights without going broke. That’s where TH Marine comes into play. Their high intensity LED lights work great and are affordable.

This light offers just six LEDS but remarkable brightness. You’re also looking at 100,000 hours of life, which makes the low cost even more remarkable. You’re saving a lot of money by giving this light a try.

The company doesn’t list the lumens on these, so it’s hard to gauge exact brightness. Based on our observations, they’re not on par with some of the big boys like Lumitec. But they still offer a decent brightness. Again, we’re talking about some very affordable lights. Not 6000 lumens by any means, but they can get the job done. TH Marine sells similar lights on their website that are 180 lumens.

These are surface mounted, which means you just need holes for the wiring and screws. Make sure everything is well sealed after installation. Be careful when you are installing them, though. The housing may crack if you over tighten your screws. If that happens, they’re not going to work at all once you get them in the water. Should that ever happen? No. But these are cheap lights and it’s a risk. As long as you’re careful, it shouldn’t be an issue, though.

If you want the best of the best, we recommend going with Lumitec. They make what we think are the best marine lights on the market. They aren’t cheap by any means, but there is a reason for that. These lights look great and perform well. They’re also made from top quality materials.

The housing is naval grade bronze. You’ll notice as we go through our reviews here that almost no one else uses that. That’s because it really is premium stuff. It’s top quality, and it also looks the best. The glass over the lights is heat tempered as well. Make sure you use freshwater and soap to keep it clean. Don’t scrub it with anything abrasive. It should stay looking good for quite a long time.

The SeaBlaze X2 is not joking around. These lights really do blaze. You’re looking at over 6000 lumens for the white lights. That’s going to light the sea up like you have the sun installed on your hull. There’s an internally synchronized cross-fade mode. That’s a cross fade from white to blue if you want to try that. It makes for a cool effect.

Installation is simple with a standard 3 screw mount set up. These are surface mounted lights, so you just need those screw holes and one for the wire.

One of the big selling points for Lumitec is one you can’t see at first. The company has some of the best technical support in the business. Maybe the best. If you have any issues with placement, quality or installation, give them a call. They’ll answer every question you have right away. They’ll also walk you through anything you need help with. That’s something that most companies can’t hope to compete with.

When it comes to top quality across the board, Lumitec is what you want. You’ll pay more, but you’ll find it’s worth it in the long run. If you have a larger boat and can afford it, look into getting these lights. Their reliability is top-notch. The quality in the workmanship is plain to see. And they’re an American company offering the best in customer service. When it comes to premium underwater boat lighting, this is the best.

Husuku Soop3 Underwater Boat Light

Husuku is a company based in China, but the products they make have really stood the test. They offer diversity and good quality for the money. Sometimes when you put money into a product that seems cheaper than similar brands, you get what you pay for. But Husuku’s quality does stand the test in many cases. The company has been around since 2004. Ithas focused specifically on lighting for boats since their inception.

One of the big ways Husuku stands out from the crowd is in sheer variety. Tired of just white, blue or green lights? Husuku adds pink, purple, yellow, and red to the mix.

The SOOP3 underwater boat lights bring a lot to the table. With 60 LEDs in the unit, they produce 2000 lumens. The beam angle is 120 degrees, which is pretty wide. That makes them ideal for almost any application. Fish will be drawn in for sure. But you’ll also have increased safety and visibility. If anyone’s looking for your boat in the dark, they’ll find it.

The unit is sealed with a thick rubber gasket. Metal components are made with 316 stainless steel. That means high resistance to corrosion. The two screw design makes them quick and easy to mount. The company also offers a three-year guarantee. If you have any issues in that time, contact them for a replacement.

With the variety of colors, these lights already offer more than most competitors. Factor in that easy install and the price and you have a solid choice for any boat. The biggest flaw we saw right off the bat with these is that there are no instructions. Now, technically, that’s not a big deal. They’re lights, and they’re pretty self explanatory. But if you’re new to marine lighting and installation, that can be frustrating.

If you need to brighten up a pontoon boat or fishing boat , give them a try.

$59.99 Amazon  →

Jiawill Drain Plug Underwater Boat Light

Jiawill has produced a really high quality light here. This is another drain plug model like the Tidal Wake we recommended earlier. These lights are arguably the easiest to install of all boat lights. That’s because they really are a plug and play sort of technology. Just pop out your drain plug and pop this back in its place. It will maintain a seal like a drain plug should. The added bonus is a very cool light.

The construction of the Jiawill light is top shelf stuff. It’s been freeze tested to endure the harshest conditions. It’s also tested against the corrosive abilities of salt spray. The 316L marine grade stainless steel is tough as nails. Tougher, actually. It’s corrosion and shock resistant. It can handle pretty much whatever gets thrown at it. The company is so confident in their design they have a three year warranty to back it up.

It features an internal driver to boost the power. There’s also overheat protection so you don’t need to worry about it causing problems that way either. And that means you’re free to test it out of the water without fear of heat damage.

The light produced is not the brightest you’re going to find, so keep that in mind. The company doesn’t list the lumens, which we found odd. Instead, they just advertise 27 watts based on 9 LED bulbs, but that doesn’t mean much. Wattage is not a measure of brightness. That said, this is not super bright, but it does a decent job. It really depends on what sort of application you have in mind. This will certainly attract fish and offer a cool glow. But if you want something more dramatic, it may not be the best fit for you.

The power cable included is 1.5 meters long, or about four and a half feet. The lifespan of the bulbs is about 50,000 hours. For the price, and how easy it is to use, this is a great option.

$54.66 Amazon  →

Husuku Mini LED Underwater Boat Light

Husuku is back again with a slightly smaller version of their boat light. This mini LED unit is just 3.7 inches long. They offer a 120 degree angle for the light beam. 27 LED bulbs produce an impressive 1200 lumens. They’re sold in pairs so you can place them evenly around the boat for maximum lighting effect. Also, you have the option of white, green or blue lights. Make sure you check regulations before going with the blue, just in case.

Husuku uses 316 stainless steel. There are typically two kinds of steel out in the world and the other kind is 304. 316 stainless is made with chromium and nickel to make it more resistant to corrosion. While 304 stainless is good, 316 stainless steel is much better.

The lights are waterproof to 20 meters. They’re also sporting a 5000 hour lifespan. That’s not as long as some, but it’s far better than older style light bulbs.

The company offers a 1 month guarantee so you can return them for any reason in that time for a refund or an exchange. If there’s an issue with quality, you have a full three year warranty for an exchange after that.

Installation is very simple. These surface mounted lights really only take minutes to get in place once you’re ready. Drill the appropriate holes for screws and wiring and you’re good. Seal it properly and secure it in place and you’re done.

The housing is well sealed and impact resistant. Clean them with some freshwater and soap to keep off any algae or other mess. Just make sure you use a soft cloth. If you scratch the case, then you may lose brightness as a result.

This is a great choice for your jon boat or other fishing boat.

$36.99 Amazon  →

Lumitec SeaBlaze Mini Underwater Boat Light

Lumitec is synonymous with quality. When you want the best in boat lightning, you go here. Lumitec actually makes the lights for a number of other marine companies. The Lumitec SeaBlaze mini offers the same quality as the X2 but smaller.

Now, keep in mind, it says mini, but this is still a premium light. The price definitely reflects that as well. You can certainly find cheaper lights. But the quality and reliability is what you’re paying for here as well. But, if it helps alleviate the stress of the higher price tag, know that you’re getting two lights in a pack.

The SeaBlaze Mini comes in either blue or white LED lights. The white has a higher lumen output at 890. The housing is marine grade aluminum. It’s been anodized to withstand the harsh saltwater of the ocean for as long as possible. Be careful if you attach it with steel screws, though. That sets up an electrolytic reaction between the different metals.

Installation is pretty easy with these. You’ll need a ½ inch hole for the wiring, and then your screw mounting holes. Make sure you seal everything well. You should be able to hit the water pretty quickly after installation.

You can adapt this to either inboard or outboard motor layouts. Just a pair will suffice for a smaller boat, but larger boats over 16 feet could handle four or five.

Lumitec is an American company so if you want to support local, they’re a great business. They also have responsive customer service to go with quality workmanship.

Basiker Surface Mount Underwater Boat Lights

With a rainbow of colors available, Basiker lights are a cool and fun choice. Plus, they’re sold in a two pack to maximize their use. And the benefits don’t stop there.

The lights have an extremely wide 180 degree beam. If you want to attract fish or have a cool-looking party boat, this is ideal. The 84 LED bulbs give out 3000 lumens of brightness. That’s incredibly bright and will light up even the murkiest water. You can always set your lights up to dim them as well if you find the 3000 lumens to be too intense. Not every day has to be lit up like the 4th of July, after all.

Installation is a breeze for these lights. They’re surface mounted, so you just need to drill a hole for the wiring. Make sure it’s well sealed and you’re good to hit the water.

Inside the waterproof housing there’s a heat sink for safety. The metal parts are 316 stainless steel. That can stand up to saltwater better than most. The back is sealed with waterproof glue and rubber to ensure water is not getting into the housing.

The company offers a full refund for any quality issues in the first month. After that, you have three years of coverage for quality issues. They guarantee it will not leak or cause burns for life.

If the lights don’t seem as bright as you want, make sure to adjust the angle. Remember, you get two in a pack as well, so place them evenly. Or, if you like, keep one in the water and one out to add lighting to your deck. They work in and out of the water.

For the price, the versatility and power of these lights can’t be beat.

 Amazon  →

Five Oceans Underwater LED Boat Lights

Five Oceans has been around for decades now. They’re known for top quality products and good customer service. You can expect no less from their LED underwater lights as well.

With 645 lumens of brightness, these are greater around small to midsize boats. They feature 9 LED blue light bulbs at a 120 degree output angle. The bulbs have a 50,000 hour lifespan. The stainless steel housing resists corrosion and shock damage.

One thing to keep in mind is that mounting hardware is not included with this light. You’re going to need three stainless steel screws per light to attach them. Make sure you get stainless steel! If you choose another metal, you’ll have some issues with electrolysis and corrosion.

The housing is compact at only 3 ¾ inches across. It stands out from your boat just 11/16 of an inch. That makes it barely noticeable on the surface of your hull.

Installation is quick and simple once you have your screws. A hole for the wires and some screw holes and you’re good to go. There’s a driver included to boost the voltage. It’s external and is housed in a plastic case. You’ll want to make sure it’s secured somewhere, just to be safe.

Overall, Five Oceans has made a powerful light at a reasonable price.

• $268.00 Walmart   →

West Marine Bay Blaze Underwater Boat Light

West Marine’s Bay Blaze is a powerful little light. It’s surface mounted so you don’t need to drill a ton of holes. All you really need to worry about is running that wire. That requires just a ¼ inch hole. But once you have it installed, it does a great job.

The lights come with a three year limited warranty. You can also extend that for another two years if you want. West Marine has great customer service and they stand behind their products. Just remember, the warranty covers materials and workmanship. This light will suffer some corrosion in the water and they won’t cover that. It happens to every light.

That aside, the light housing is made to last. It’s anodized aluminum, so it will stand up to some harsh conditions. It’s also only three inches in diameter, so it’s not a massive thing sticking out of your hull looking ugly.

The three tiny LED bulbs are super powerful. You can get it in blue or white light. The white lights produce about 890 lumens in a very compact space.

The glass in the housing is scratch resistant and easy to clean It also only extends a tiny amount off of your hull. Just ⅝ of an inch. That’s barely noticeable at all.

We’d caution you about the screws that are included for mounting. They’re just small #10 stainless steel mounting screws. They don’t seem to be manufactured to the level of the light itself, though. You may want to swap them for more durable marine screws. These ones seem to strip easily.

 West Marine  →

Husuku 90 LED Surface Mount Underwater Boat Light

If you want to light up the ocean, then this is your underwater boat light. Husuku went all out with this model. Featuring 90 LED lights in the housing, this is blindingly bright. It puts out an astonishing 3600 lumens. It puts the light out at a wide 120 degree angle for large coverage. If you’re looking to get the fish or keep people on board illuminated, here you go. And if those lights seem too bright, don’t worry. They’re dimmable as well.

The housing is designed to handle temperatures from -50 Celsius up to 90 degrees. If the ocean ever hits either one of those extremes, you have bigger problems than your lights. It’s also rated for about 50,000 hours of use. So expect this powerful light to last a long time. All that at 10~36 V.

The housing is just under 7 inches in length and about 3 inches in width. Installed under your boat’s transom, it’s out of the way but incredibly functional. Because it’s a surface mount you won’t be drilling a ton of holes, either.

The brightness and the cost work together to make this a great choice.

Choosing the Best Underwater Boat Lights

Some newcomers to boating question the need for underwater boat lights at all. After all, it’s under the boat. What could be the benefit? Well, there are a few actually. It all depends on what you want to get out of boating, though. Someone having a party on a yacht has different expectations than a kayaker. Not all boating is done for the same reasons.

Underwater boat lights offer boaters a few benefits:

Fishing: Lights are a great way to attract fight. If you’re fishing in murky waters or at night, lights will help pull them in to you. In turn, you’ll also see them better. It’s a win win for fishermen at sea.

White LED lights and green LED lights have a short wavelength. These make them easier to see in the water. They attract fish to the boat and allow you to see them more easily. As an added benefit, white LED light won’t attract insects. Because it produces little heat and emits the wrong wavelength, bugs will avoid it. That’s great for not just fishing but boat parties.

Gatherings: Parties are another great reason to use boat lights. Under the water along the sides of your boat can set up a very cool and casual atmosphere. If you like to entertain on your boat, they’re a great choice.

Safety: They also offer additional safety for when people are on the boat at night. They keep everything visible. If someone goes overboard, they make it that much easier for them to see you and for you to see them.

Visibility: Lastly, underwater boat lights are easy for everyone to see. That means other boaters as well. If you’re moored somewhere at night, you’ll be visible to others more easily than if you just had lights on the deck.

All that said, there’s more to underwater boat lights than just buying a few bulbs. Let’s check out what you need to know to get the most from your underwater boat lights.

The Installation Process

As you can imagine, installing an underwater boat light isn’t a 60 second job. This is much different than putting a new lightbulb in your reading lamp. There are actually a couple of different ways to install underwater boat lights. These all depend on how you want to use the lights, time, money, and so on.

Wireless: Wireless underwater boat lights are the easiest to install. No holes need to be drilled for these. You actually just attach them to the outside of the hull. These can be attached with marine glue or tape. Because LED lights are so small, you can find these in tiny patches or strips that are unobtrusive. They tend to be hard to notice and won’t interfere with how your boat runs or looks.

A problem with these wireless lights is that they run on battery power. That means they won’t ever be as bright as the wired kind. They can still get bright, of course. But wired often look brighter.

Another potential problem is installation. The tape or glue used to hold these in place could come off. That could result in you losing the light.

Finally, because these run on external battery packs, power could fail. The battery could die on you and if you don’t have a replacement, that’s lights out.

Wired: These are a much more permanent type of lighting. You’ll likely be drilling holes in the hull to install this kind of light. That is, unless you have lights set up already. These connect directly to your boat’s battery. If your boat has power, your lights have power. LED lights draw very little power, so these tend to not be a big drain. Plus you can rig solar power to aid in running them.

Getting Underwater Lights Installed

Installing lights in your hull can be precarious. Naturally, no one wants to poke holes in their boat. But it can be done safely and efficiently if you follow the directions. Unfortunately, we can’t walk you through it here because there are too many factors to consider. Your lights should have an installation kit that explains it all. That said, we can walk you through some general steps.

You need to know if you have a solid fiberglass hull or a cored hull. A cored hull boat takes a little more work for the install. That’s because you need to seal the core so no water gets in. Even a tiny leak can build up over time.

Installing lights in coring means you need to seal that coring. Your best bet is to drill a hole in the hull as normal for the light installation. The size depends on what light you have, of course. Then, take out about an inch extra of the coring material. You can use a screwdriver or other tool to dig it out in a ring around the drilled hole.

Once you have the coring material out, clean it well. Use a vacuum to get all the little pieces out. Wipe it down to get it as clean and dry as possible. Then you need to mix up some sealing compound. You’ll want to use the same epoxy you’d use to seal the lights normally. Mix it with some colloidal silica. You want this to be a thick paste when it’s done. Think peanut butter. Pack it into the hole you carved in the coring material until it’s full. The whole circle needs to be filled right to the edge. Once it’s packed in as much as it can be, let it cure for a day.

Once the hole is cured, you can trim it if necessary. After that, you’re good to install the light as normal. That patch in the core should keep it water tight no matter what from now on.

Surface Mounted Lights

These work a little differently than the kind we just described. You don’t need to bore a large hole in your hull to install these. But you still do need to drill holes. In this case, you’ll need holes for the screws that are going to attach the light fixture. Additionally, you’ll need a small hole to allow the wires to pass through. It’s less intrusive than the flush mount kind of lights. But you still need to make sure it’s sealed very well.

Underwater Boat Light for a Drain Plug

This is another kind of light you may want to try. These lights technically don’t require installation. Which is to say you’re not drilling anything to install them. Instead, you’re replacing your drain plug with this new light fixture. It’s still a drain plug, only now it has an LED light in it. You can install a light like this in a matter of minutes. Basically, it’s the same as removing a drain plug and putting a new one in. The only major difference is the power line here. The plug light comes with a line to connect to a power source. Just make sure you have it installed correctly. And, of course, make sure it’s the right size. Nothing’s worse than buying a fixture like this and discovering your drain plug light is the wrong size.

Materials for Underwater LED Lights

Typically, you’re going to be dealing with marine grade plastics here. You need your underwater boat lights to be able to withstand the environment, of course. When it comes to housings and fittings, metal needs to be corrosion resistant.

Marine grade bronze alloy is also popular. This is able to stand up to harsh conditions at sea well. It’s more expensive than plastic but is tougher and looks better.

Stainless steel or other treated metal that can resist rust is key. Be mindful of this if you are a saltwater boater. Obviously, salt water is much harsher on metal than freshwater.

Aluminum stands up to corrosion well, but it’s not as strong as steel. If you need to screw in different parts of the fixture, the metal is more likely to strip or wear out if it’s aluminum. Keep that in mind and be careful.

You also want to make sure you’re getting something that is easy to clean. Or it’s resistant to algae. If a light gets covered in algae, it’s not much use any more.

Corrosion Problems with Underwater Boat Lights

If you boat in saltwater, this is for you. Electrochemical corrosion is out to get pretty much all underwater boat lights. No matter the brand of lights you buy, this is going to happen. You can get corrosion resistant lights, but never corrosion proof. Part of the problem here is in how they are made. If the screws are stainless steel but the fixture is an alloy, you’re in trouble. Saltwater will allow these metals to react and there will be a transfer of electrons. That’s electrolysis , and it happens to every kind of metal in salt water.

Microscopic amounts of one kind of metal will be stripped away and deposited on the other kind of metal. You can’t avoid it unless you use composite materials and not metal.

Knowing this, you can be prepared for what is going to happen to your lights. They will look awesome when you buy them brand new. But, over time, the housing is going to get ugly. If you know that it’s going to happen, it’s less of a problem. Mostly, it’s no big deal at all. If the boat’s in the water, you won’t even see it. But when you have the boat on the trailer, it can be cause for alarm. You might think you got ripped off if you bought pricey, corrosion resistant lights. You get the boat on dry land and they look awful. That’s just chemistry, unfortunately. Every company that sells underwater boat lights mentions this in the warranty info. In fact, installing your lights probably voided your warranty. Feel free to check the wording, but that’s standard. The warranty ensures they get to you in one, functional piece. Once they go in the water, it’s all over.

Preventing corrosion can be time consuming and mostly fruitless. You can slow it down, of course. But not stop it. You probably have anodes on your boat hull. This is to stop electrolysis from damaging your prop and other parts too badly. But this is a stop gap measure. And your lights are too small to have anodes installed.

There are some ways to slow corrosion down, of course. You can use anti-corrosion coatings every time you remove the boat from the water. You can keep them clean as well. Also, things like nylon washers will slow the spread. But don’t concern yourself too badly. It’s going to happen to you just like it happens to everyone else.

Beam width affects how the light is seen. It’s the angle that the light comes out of the fixture and into the water. You can typically get a beam width between 90 degrees and 120 degrees. A narrow beam will travel further and look brighter. But a wider beam will do a better job of attracting fish. Wider is better for larger boats as well.

Beam Brightness

Light bulb brightness is measured in lumens. Some people think the wattage of a bulb is how you tell the brightness. A 100 watt bulb is brighter than a 60 watt. But the wattage is energy consumed. It relates to brightness, but it is not the way to quantify brightness. Plus, when it comes to LED lights, watts is not an efficient way to quantify brightness at all.

Many underwater boat lights produce around 5,000 lumens or more. To put that in some perspective, a 100 watt incandescent light bulb in your house may have 1600 lumens. Navigation lights on a boat should be at least 600 lumens.

Lower lumens are ideal for atmosphere. If you want to have a relaxed and chill evening on the boat, lower lumens are ideal. Higher lumens allow for better visibility and intensity.

Light Colors

We mentioned earlier the benefits of white lights. These can attract fish but not insects. They’re highly visible and bright. Green light is often more visible underwater and provides a cool looking glow. Both of these light colors illuminate small particles or bait in the water. This in turn will attract fish to come and feed. Those small fish will then potentially attract larger fish.

Red lights are an option some boaters choose to go with. This doesn’t have a ton of benefits in the practical sense. That said, they’re extremely noticeable and can look very cool. Also, depending on your motor set up, you can create a bit of a fire wave effect with red lights. Again, not practical at all, but visually stunning.

Blue light is considered calming. It also seems to travel better underwater. But there’s something you need to be aware of.

Nearly every brand of underwater boat lighting offers a blue light option. For many years, blue light has been a popular choice. The glow accents the water and makes it have a relaxing and cool appeal. But it may not be legal.

You’ll need to check regulations in your area to be sure. In some jurisdictions, blue marine lights are not allowed. The reason is that blue lights have typically been used by law enforcement vessels. There’s a potential for confusion if other boats see blue lights coming. Or, if there’s an emergency, they go towards a blue light thinking it’s a law enforcement boat.

In some cases, a blue light is OK if the boat is docked or moored. But if you are underway, you could be subject to a fine. Check the laws where you intend to go boating to know for sure.

Underwater Lights of the Past vs LED

Back in the day, incandescent lights were used in boats. Underwater lighting technology has improved and LED lights are now the standard. If you pick up an older boat, it may still have incandescent bulbs in it. They’re less energy efficient than an LED bulb in pretty much every way. An incandescent bulb offers less brightness overall. They use more energy which is going to drain your battery faster. And, pound for pound, LED is a much better value. An LED bulb can literally last for tens of thousands of hours. Incandescent bulbs typically last 750 hours to a max of 2000 hours. If your LED lasts for 50,000 hours, you can see why it’s a better choice.

LED lights are also very diverse. You can get them in a range of colors. Many high end units allow you to switch through a rainbow of colors. It doesn’t affect how they work, but it’s a cool feature.

HiD lights are also common. HiD stands for high-intensity discharge. Think of these a bit like a souped up version of a traditional household light bulb. Similar, but not the same. HiD lights are very bright and they produce heat. That heat is not necessarily a bad thing, especially underwater. Because the lights get warm, algae won’t grow on them. That means they require less cleaning than an LED fixture would. LEDs are almost completely without heat. The light will promote algae growth as a result.

Underwater Boat Light Care and Maintenance

If you want underwater boat lights to last, then you need to keep them well maintained. We covered a bit about the issues with corrosion and electrolysis already. This is going to happen no matter what, so remember that.

Corrosion X is a chemical compound you can apply to the housing. When you take the boat out and get it on your trailer , you can clean them with freshwater and apply a coat. Follow the directions and you’ll enjoy a longer lifespan.

The corrosion many of these lights endure is a long process. The physical effects are noticeable long before the light is likely to break down. But it does annoy some boaters because they can end up looking pretty ugly.

Make sure you give the light housing a good wash when you can. This will help inhibit not just corrosion but algae and barnacle growth. Your lights won’t do much good if they’re crusted over with sea life.

Freshwater and a mild soap are all that you need. Don’t use anything abrasive to scrub the light. That can make the surface fuzzy and limit the ability to project light.

Make sure your wiring is neat and tidy. This goes for all electronics on a boat. Bundle the wires, keep them straight and flat as much as possible. Keep them out of the way as well.

If you want reliable lights, invest in quality brands. West Marine, Tidal Wake, Lumitec. Sea Blaze and Husuku are some reliable brands. No name lights may be cheaper, but sometimes you get what you pay for. Watch out for unreliable brands that don’t have any guarantees. Pay attention to the underwater boat lights reviews.

The Bottom Line

Some boaters consider underwater boat lights pointless. They don’t make your boat function any better and, if anything, they just use up power. But the fact is they can be a benefit. They can improve safety and fishing. They also just look really cool. And don’t let anyone tell you that it’s not worth investing in something just because it looks cool.

Just remember to use your boat lights according to the directions. Make sure they are properly installed and well maintained. That way, you can enjoy what they offer for many seasons to come. As always, stay safe and have fun.

My grandfather first took me fishing when I was too young to actually hold up a rod on my own. As an avid camper, hiker, and nature enthusiast I'm always looking for a new adventure.

Categories : Boats

Robert Hogward on January 6, 2022

Thanks for sharing! When I am in search of the right boat light, these reviews are what I need. It would be great to know I have suitable marine lights to secure my family and other people.

Dalton Bourne on March 30, 2022

We ordered LED lights from EXZEIT for our boat. It made us very pleased and surprised. They are a lot brighter than I expected and light up the whole boat with only one and a large amount of water to help steer the boat at night. It took less than 5 minutes to pick up and, I must say, these are the best lights of their kind I’ve ever seen. I’m also quite impressed by its durable aluminum housing, as it remains tough in harsh weather and no rusting can occur. It can withstand snow, hail, and rain.

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8 Best Boat Spotlights (Hand-Held & Mounted) in 2022

Have you ever tried sailing at night? The experience is so intimate and is significantly different from sailing during the day. If you ever plan to take at least one more sea-based trip in the dark, then we highly recommend that you get one of the best boat spotlights available.

However, with how saturated the spotlight market is nowadays, how exactly do you know which ones are considered good and which ones should be avoided at all costs? Well, luckily for you, we have created a comprehensive guide to walk you through the necessary steps and thinking processes to secure the spotlight that is the most ideal for your situation.

What is a Boat Spotlight and How Does it Work?

A boat spotlight (alternatively known as a marine spotlight or a spotlight for boat operators), is a navigational tool that releases a beam of light via a halogen bulb, or LED lights that can be as bright as 6000 lumens or as dim as 1000 lumens.

Back in the day, a spotlight for boating was typically big, bulky, and extremely hard to operate or maneuver. These days, innovations and upgrades in spotlight technology have provided us with better and brighter options, such as:

• Remote control spotlight for boat operators
• Rechargeable spotlight devices
• Hand held spotlight devices
• Completely waterproof spotlights for boats
• Replaceable and rechargeable battery packs for spotlights (typically lithium-ion batteries)
• Hands-free spotlight
• Low mode and high mode spotlights (two brightness configurations)
• Night vision spotlights

Benefits of Having a Boat Spotlight (Marine Spotlight)

There are several notable functions or benefits when it comes to utilizing marine spotlights, most especially in the dark, namely:

Identify Objects in the Vicinity

Sometimes, an object can unintentionally go overboard. A spotlight can definitely help you shine a light in the right places in order to find whatever you are looking for.

Finding Important Landmarks

Natural light is not present all the time, which is why it is very important to bring your own form of light to find landmarks such as buoys, small landmasses, or light houses to find your destination or route.

Boating and Fishing

Operating at night without light during fishing can be a pain. A powerful enough spotlight can help determine the ideal or prime locations to camp in to engage in some late-night (or early morning) fishing expeditions.

Alerting Others of Your Presence

At night, especially in areas with severe light pollution, there is no natural light to alert or notify others of your presence. Having a good LED spotlight can help others know that you are in the area so that sea traffic can be managed efficiently and effectively.

Finding Other Boats in the Area

Conversely, it is also important to be able to identify traveling boats in your area in the absence of natural light. Take advantage of the light provided by your spotlight to tag or spot nearby boats to avoid any untoward accidents or collisions .

Safety Signal or Aid

In times of emergency or distress, a boat spotlight can alert authorities to your exact location after radioing them. A powerful spotlight with high light levels is the most ideal device in this situation in the absence of any form of natural light.

Warning Mechanism

In some cases, the light coming from a spotlight can be used to warn others of perilous circumstances at sea. The light could be used to signal dangerous waters, suspicious weather patterns, or other dangers that other operators might not be aware of right off the bat.

The 8 Best Boat Spotlights to Get

There are several great products in the market right now for your boat. To help guide you in choosing the right spotlight, take a look at our top recommendations below:

1. Buysight Rechargeable Spotlight

The Buysight Rechargeable Spotlight is an action-packed portable spotlight that shines a powerful light using 10000 lumens Cree LED beams.

The design switch and aluminum alloy shell provides it with the needed bulk and comfortable grip for better operation and maneuverability.

When it comes to the best handheld products in the market today, this product is definitely a solid consideration.

2. Bigsun Rechargeable Spotlight

Another great entry for the best handheld spotlight is the Bigsun Rechargeable fitted with a 25-watt Cree LED light.

With 3 unique brightness settings, this device can last anywhere from 12 hours to 24 hours.

If you are in need of a light powerhouse that is not too difficult to operate, then definitely check out this product.

3. Goodsmann Submersible Marine Spotlight

If you are in the market for something that is absolutely light and portable, then look no further, the Goodsmann Submersible is the 12V DC Halogen spotlight that is ideal for your needs.

Primarily designed for outdoor use, this product is designed with high-grade ABS plastic. It comes with an 8-foot coiled cord to provide maximum light output in an efficient manner.

If you are looking for an item that does not need large storage space and gets the job done, then this is the product you should go with.

4. Brinkmann Q-Beam Spotlight

If a halogen bulb does not suit your needs, then check out arguably one of the greatest 12-volt LED spotlights for boats, the Brinkmann Q-Beam.

Fitted with a durable tempered glass lens and a heavy gauge 8-foot coiled cord, the Brinkmann Q-Beam is definitely for budget-conscious boat operators. A great choice particularly for those who operate smaller-sized vessels.

5. Marinco 5" Stainless Steel Spotlight with Remote Control

Do you prefer a mounted product that can be operated via remote control? If so, the Marinco 5" should be one of the frontrunners in your shortlist of spotlight candidates.

The remote control operation is done via toggles and joysticks and has a pretty intuitive learning curve.

The stainless steel base and light casing allows for water-resistant and durable use so there should be no worries in braving poor weather and water conditions.

6. Glandu Heavy Duty Super Bright Searchlight

If you are in need of a product that offers everything, from its completely waterproof rating to multiple light settings or light modes, and energy-efficient LED beads to cap it all off, the Glandu Heavy Duty is something worth keeping in mind.

With main light and side light LED configurations, get to experience a variety of different boat light settings from the LED strips found inside.

Not only is this device designed for waterproof fishing trips, but it is also created for hiking, navigation, general exploration, and even hunting at night. A very versatile all-rounder!

7. Jabsco 60020 Series Remote Control Halogen Searchlight

If you want another remote control option for your boat's waterproof lighting system, then look no further. The Jabsco 60020 Series is the searchlight for your boat that can provide the needed lighting with a halogen bulb and non-corrosive materials.

This device is fitted with a patented clutch mechanism to ensure that head movement and beam adjustment are not problematic in the long run for your boat.

8. Yierblue Rechargeable Spotlight

If you are not a fan of the fancy features of some of the products on our list and would much rather go with practicality and value, then take a look at Yierblue's waterproof spotlight.

This is considered to be a heavy-duty flashlight that can reach up to 2000 lumens of LED light with a focused stream of light that can reportedly hit objects up to 1000 feet away.

The Different Types of Boat Spotlights

Despite the wide variety of spotlight offerings in the market, we can broadly categorize these products into two major categories: handheld spotlights or built-in or mounted spotlights.

Handheld spotlight products are either wired or wireless. These offerings are lightweight, portable, and can be transferred to different areas of the vessel as necessary. They are not exactly known for their power and distance covered at night. But the high-end handheld spotlight products are known to be capable of emitting bright lights with a powerful beam that can reach quite a distance for its size.

Included in this category are heavy-duty flashlights or spotlights that were not typically designed with marine exploration in mind. However, these products are not the best marine options because they may not have the waterproof capability that sea-based gear and equipment should possess.

As a good buying practice, make sure to do your research and check whether or not a spotlight is fit for sea travel.

Built-in (Mounted)

Built-in or mounted spotlight products refer to the more traditional spotlight offerings of the two categories. They typically have longer battery life and are ideal for boating in larger bodies of water such as the open seas or the ocean. The beam coming from these products are extremely bright and cover a large distance, both in terms of length and width of the beam.

With great power, however, comes great battery consumption. It is best to find a built-in or mounted LED spotlight to be more efficient with energy consumption. Spotlight products fitted with a halogen bulb are not bad, especially if you have a tight upfront budget, but the best marine practice is to go with the high-quality options such as LED or HID, with multiple light settings to toggle between different levels of brightness.

If you are a boat enthusiast, then an LED built-in or mounted device may be better for you (as long as you have the money to spare).

Things to Consider When Buying a Boat Spotlight

The boat spotlight is what we consider to be one of the most overlooked aspects of the overall boat-buying experience. This is precisely why we are here to help you look into the factors that actually matter.

Let's take a closer look at the important things to consider when securing the best spotlight for boating:

Type of Light (Bulb Type)

Much like with trucks and cars, marine spotlight products come with different types of light.

Three of the most standard light classifications are halogen, HID (high-intensity discharge), and LED (light-emitting diode). 

Several tests can be found online regarding the quality and color temperature ("whiteness") of the light emitted from these different types of light. We recommend checking those out for the sake of clarity. Here's a great guide comparing the three .

As a general rule of thumb, if you are on a tight budget, going with halogen bulbs is the right spotlight option.

If, however, you are looking for quality spotlights that are bright, clear at night, and typically come with super bright and dim settings (which you would need depending on the distance requirement), then a beam of light from an LED light or HID light would be most beneficial.

Brightness (Lumens)

Lumens, the scientific designation that measures the brightness of a beam of light, is very important in identifying the best spotlight for your needs. A spotlight comes in a variety of lumens, some going up to 6000 lumens, while others hovering around the 1000 lumens to 2000 lumens range.

It is also important to take note that the higher the brightness of the beam or lumens, the more battery or power the boat spotlight will consume. With an LED spotlight, however, energy management is more efficient regardless of the brightness level as it is a quality spotlight bulb, even at a distance during the night.

We do not advise going for the super bright (or blinding bright) spotlights in most cases. But if you think you would find yourself in need of such a high level of brightness or lumens, then we would recommend finding two-brightness boat spotlights so you can toggle between standard brightness and high brightness power settings.

Battery Life

Battery life is almost as important as the quality of the light primarily because without battery, there would essentially be nothing internal to power your boat spotlight.

There are different types of batteries that have entered the market. The most common and modern battery packs you should see are what are known as lithium-ion battery packs. These batteries can supposedly store more charges overtime with minimum decrease in maximum capacity.

A typical boat spotlight of standard quality would have batteries that offer approximately 10 hours of continuous use. A boat spotlight of high quality, on the other hand, can better the consumption of batteries and go up to as high as 50 hours on low brightness settings.

Whether the marine spotlight is advertised with a duration of 10 hours or 50 hours, we would like you to consider the rechargeable battery packs or rechargeable spotlights that can be powered by an external power source (like another battery or a power bank).

It would be very challenging to carry around extra battery packs (which is the case for non-rechargeable spotlights or non-rechargeable battery packs). This is why it's more practical to invest in rechargeable devices (for smaller spotlights such as a hand held spotlight, even a power bank can top them off).

The tradeoff with rechargeable devices is that the battery will eventually degrade in capacity. Keep this in mind when investing in quality spotlights for boats.

Waterproof Capability

This is a no-brainer kind of factor, but it is still important to take a look at this feature, especially given how varied the product offerings are in this space.

Since you are on a boat, then it should necessarily follow that your spotlight should have a certain degree of water-resistant capability or waterproof capability. We understand that your boat is not submersible or anything like that, but depending on how "active" the waters are, or even the type of weather you are experiencing while sailing the seas (rainy weather or snowy weather), it would be best to go with waterproof spotlights.

It's also important to distinguish a product that has waterproof capabilities from a product that has a certain degree of water resistance.

A waterproof product is typically the better of the two types as it can repel water from penetrating the internal mechanisms regardless of angle of entry or water pressure (given certain limits). Water resistance, on the other hand, is typically measured by how deep underwater the device goes, or in other words, the level of water pressure the product experiences.

Therefore, if possible, go for a product that has waterproof capabilities instead of just water resistance capabilities.

Size, Weight and Dimensions

The chunky and clunky spotlight products of the past are not universal to every type and size of boat. Fortunately, a lot of spotlight products offered these days range from handheld, portable spotlight products to mounted, heavy-duty spotlight devices. Take your pick!

For boats or vessels that are designed for smaller bodies of water such as lakes or rivers, we would recommend purchasing smaller spotlight products for boating at night (potentially with a remote control feature for added flexibility).

If you are boating at night in larger bodies of water such as the open waters or the ocean, then you should opt for the bigger, heavier duty spotlight products.

Mounted or built-in searchlights typically have the greatest variety in sizes and shapes that can cater to all different kinds of boats or vessels. On the other hand, hand held searchlights are usually small in size and stature so they can be carried around by the operator to any area of the boat or direction.

In general, we find the small and portable hand held searchlights to be of more practicality, but this may vary from person to person.

Overall Build (Quality and Durability)

Features and materials such as ABS plastic, hands-free, handheld, shoulder strap, waterproof, stainless steel, impact-resistant, and more are very important. The materials and features attest to the overall quality and durability of your spotlight.

The most important thing when looking at the build is that it is designed for rugged and rough use. It should be able to withstand hard impact, bumping, scratches, dents, and be resistant to the elements. You need a heavy duty spotlight that will last many years.

Keep in mind that most of the cheaper options will be constructed of ABS plastic or aluminum alloy. These aren't necessarily bad, but they are not the most durable materials nor are they the most impact-resistant.

For the most durable and impact resistant materials, look for spotlights that feature polycarbonates and rubbers. It might cost a little more, but it's worth it. Rubber is great for shock absorption, and polycarbonate is shatterproof. 

Aside from the light and light settings offered by the spotlight, you also have to take a look at the accessory as a whole. This includes the materials used to construct it up to the quality and power of the beam of light coming out in the night.

Warranty, Replacement, and Service Terms and Conditions

As is the case with virtually every product, it is important to identify the basic terms and conditions surrounding warranty, replacement, and service terms and conditions of the spotlight you are looking to purchase.

Most spotlight manufacturers offer a warranty period of 1 year to 2 years, but there are special cases where spotlight manufacturers offer 3-year warranty periods.

Although it would be good to choose the spotlight product with the longest warranty duration, it would be fine to opt for the standard spotlight that only offers a 1-year warranty. A year will be fine especially if you frequently go out boating and fishing as 1 year should be more than enough to identify if there are any factory defects or concerns with the spotlight.

Care and Maintenance Advice for Boat Spotlights

Here are a few tips to ensure that your spotlight (and the light bulb) will last as long as possible:

• Make sure to wipe down your spotlight and light bulb (carefully) before and after every boating trip. Remove any dust or particles that might disrupt proper spotlight function.
• In replacing a light bulb, make sure to apply the necessary adhesives or sealants to the light fittings to retain the waterproof capacity of the spotlight and the light bulb itself.
• If you do not go out on fishing and boating trips frequently, make sure to have periodic or regular inspections of your spotlight and its light bulb to check if everything is in working order.
• Rust and corrosion are major issues of boats and boat accessories, especially because of their normal frequency of exposure to moist or wet conditions. The spotlight and the light bulb are pretty much the same. Inspect your spotlight device for any signs of rust and corrosion and address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
• If recommended or allowed by the manufacturer, make a habit of dismantling the different components of your spotlight and light to check the individual parts for any problems or concerns.
• Aside from the light bulb, take a look at the battery pack as well. Rechargeable spotlight products typically have detachable lithium-ion batteries that can be inspected for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
• Aside from the spotlight and the light bulb, take a look at the area where you leave or mount your spotlight. Ensure cleanliness and dryness if possible to avoid any complications in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are three of the most frequently asked questions regarding boat spotlight products and features:

What is the best and brightest spotlight?

Not all of the brightest products should be considered the best. To answer this specific question, we would recommend reviewing our list of best spotlight products in the section above to get more detailed information about what can be considered to be the best product offering in the marine market today.

What is the most powerful spotlight?

In terms of power, there are spotlight offerings in the market that can go up to as high as 9000 lumens, which is extremely bright and almost blinding bright. Refer to our list of products in the section above to have a more nuanced understanding of the different levels of brightness and the importance of each at night in boating scenarios.

How many lumens for boat spotlight?

This question is very subjective, but in most circumstances, an LED spotlight with up to 6000 lumens should be good enough to carry out the most frequent marine explorations or voyages that are done at late hours during the darkest portions of the night.

The best boat spotlights may be completely waterproof, built with stainless steel housing, or even have a shoulder strap option as an added convenience feature. Just like everything else, it would always depend on the scenarios you are presented with at sea during the night.

What may be the best for you as a pontoon boat operator may not be beneficial to someone who operates a yacht. This is exactly why we made a guide such as this, to guide everyone to completely understand the important factors to consider in buying and eventually using a boat spotlight. Hopefully, there are a lot of good bits for you to take home.

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Best Interior Boat Lights , Interior Boat Light , Interior Boat Lighting , Interior Boat Lighting LED , Interior Boat Lights , Interior Jon Boat Lights , Jon Boat Interior Lighting , LED Rock Lights , Rock Light , Rock Lights - November 10, 2021

The Guide to Buying the Best Interior Boat Lights

Interior boat lights can make your boat look really cool at night as well as light up the deck for safety and usability; but if you don't know what you're getting yourself into, it can be a complete nightmare. The wrong interior boat lights can attract bugs, not last, and turn in to a complete maintenance nightmare.  

If you want to learn about what to look for in buying interior boat lights, keep reading. If you just want to see our final recommendation of what makes the best interior boat light, then here you go: Recommendation: Best Interior Boat Lights

Table of Contents

7 Factors That Make Great Interior Boat Lighting

1. Saltwater / Freshwater Corrosion Resistance

Injection Molded Waterproof Wire Connections Improved Waterproof Rating Tinned Marine Grade Wire

2. Dimmability for Optimal Use

3. Quality Circuit Board Design & Components

4. User Friendly Controls THAT WORK!

5. Housing Design: Efficient Heat Dissipation

6. Proper Installation: 12V is the Standard Power Source

7. Choose the Best Color for Interior Boat Lighting

What Color Interior Boat Light Works Best?

Things to Consider: Maintain Night Vision Avoid Attracting Bugs

All-Around Best Boat Lighting Color

Recommendation: Best Interior Boat Lighting Color

How to Best Setup Interior Boat Lights

Here are some of the major causes of pre-mature failure in interior boat lighting. If you spend the extra money up front on good quality interior boat lights, then chances are you are less likely to deal with these issues down the road. However, if you're just trying to save money, I would plan on figuring out how to tackle these issues down the road because they will find you. 

• Saltwater / Freshwater Corrosion Resistance

The simple and easy method to combat this is to go with interior boat lights that are IP 68 waterproof minimum, but IP69K waterproof is even better. That being said, be wary of overly cheap interior lights that claim they are IP 68 or IP69K, because it isn't cheap to meet these waterproof ratings. It could be a case of false advertising. 

Injection Molded Waterproof Wire Connections

There is nothing more waterproof than wire connections that are injection molded. This is an absolute must have for boats. If the wire connections are crimped, it is only a matter of time before you will be having connectivity issues and needing to replace them. 

Improved Waterproof Rating

The most common waterproof rating for interior boat lights is IP 67, IP68, or IP69. We strongly advise against even considering IP 67 waterproof rating for your interior boat lights , so we're tossing that one out of the discussion. 

IP 68 Waterproof Rating

• Product can be submerged up to 1.5m for 30 seconds.
• Good rating for products that may be exposed to water, but not so good if they are going to be permanently installed underwater. 

IP 69K Waterproof Rating 

• Includes IP 68 minimum rating criteria, but also includes protection against ingress of dust and high temperature and/or high pressure water.
• In other words, you can pressure wash the interior boat lights and they will hold up just fine. 
• We strongly recommend finding interior boat lights that meet IP 69K waterproof rating. Just one drop of saltwater can cause an electrical nightmare. 

Tinned Marine Grade Wire

If you're familiar with boats and have owned one for a while, you already know the importance of tinned marine grade wire. If you are new to owning a boat, then you're going to have to my word for it - don't go for any other type of wire. 

Tinned wire is copper wire that has been treated with solder. The solder gives the wire increased corrosion resistance and helps the wire last much longer. In terms of marine products, corrosion resistance in everything you have is the ultimate goal for minimum maintenance. 

• Dimmability for Optimal Use

If you plan on having your interior boat lights on while traveling from one spot to the next, the ability to dim them down is an absolute must-have feature. Otherwise, they're either not bright enough when you're at the fishing spot trying to tie a hook on or they're too bright and they're blinding you while traveling on the water. 

Not all interior boat lighting is compatible with dimming controls, so be sure to address this before pulling the trigger on your next setup. 

• Quality Circuit Board Design & Components

There's not a whole lot of complexity when it comes to interior boat lights, but when buying off Amazon or anywhere else that gets their lights made in China, they are focused on saving money on manufacturing.

The easiest way to save money and produce cheap interior boat lights is to utilize a printed circuit board with aluminum substrate (instead of copper) and use low quality capacitors and other circuit board components. The average consumer won't be able to see or even acknowledge these components, but it has a direct impact on the longevity of the product.

Quality circuit board components can lead to:

• Longer run times
• Brighter LEDs
• Increased power efficiencies (use less power, brighter lights).

Keep in mind - better quality almost always comes at a higher price. If you want low maintenance and to avoid buying interior boat lights over and over again, spring for quality up front and you won't have to worry. 

• User Friendly Controls THAT WORK!

One of the biggest complaints of interior boat lights, namely rock lights that can change colors, is that the app that actually controls the color changing lights via bluetooth commonly has problems properly pairing and syncing from your phone to the light controller. This is a common problem regardless of the brand of rock light you use (due to the ongoing phone updates), so if you want the rock lights to be user friendly - go for the included remote control option or opt for manual controls.

Single Color Interior Boat Lights 

• Lighting should include injection molded waterproof ON/OFF switch for controlling the lights. 

Multi Color (RGB / RGBW) Interior Boat Lights

• Best advice is K.I.S.S. method - "Keep it simple, stupid"
• Included remote control is best for changing colors
• Bluetooth apps are known for having problems properly changing the colors of these lights due to not being constantly updated as your phone is updated. In terms of being user friendly for the long haul, we advise against solely relying on a bluetooth app to control your lights. 
• Lights should include separate hardwired ON/OFF switch. Relying on a circuit board via remote control or via an app is not the most reliable method. An ON/OFF switch will physically break the circuit, eliminating the chances of lights randomly coming on or turning off. 
• If you go against our advice here, we recommend you at least put a battery switch in to cut all power to your lights when you store the boat or travel after loading boat onto trailer.  
• Housing Design: Efficient Heat Dissipation

Similar to our circuit board discussion above, having a properly designed housing made of ideal alloys and proper manufacturing processes is essential to long-lasting interior boat lighting. The most common method of saving money is to utilize plastic or powder coated steel for interior boat lighting. We strongly recommend staying away from either one of these options for use in marine environment, you will have many problems in the future. 

Best Housing Design for Interior Boat Lights

• Material: aluminum alloy - has great heat dissipation properties for the cost and is corrosion resistant.
• Surface Treatment: stay away from powder coating, stick to an electrolytic process such as electrophoresis coating or anodizing. 
• LED Lens / Protection: heat resistant polycarbonate - it is more impact resistant than your standard plastic lens. Good quality polycarbonates won't yellow over time. 
• Proper Installation: 12V is the Standard Power Source

Unfortunately one of the most troublesome experiences people can have when hooking up any lights to their existing power is by utilizing the wrong voltage.

Keep in Mind When Installing:

• Most interior boat lights are rated for 12V DC.
• Do not hook them up to 24V or 36V DC (voltage of most trolling motors) or 110V AC (voltage of generator).
• Any voltage other than 12V DC is almost guaranteed to fry the light, unless the directions explicitly say otherwise.

Typical Power Draw:

• Low end interior lights typically only draw 9 watts each while higher end lights may draw up to 36 watts each.
• The standard setup is 4-8 lights on a boat, depending on the size of the boat.
• Size your battery accordingly - most of the time they can run on the same battery as your other accessories. 
• Choose the Best Color for Interior Boat Lighting

Most people purchase interior boat lighting with the sole purpose of making the boat look cool at night, and the secondary added benefit of lighting up the deck for safety precautions - or maybe even being able to tie a hook on your fishing line. These are all great reasons to purchase, but when you're out on the water at night in the middle of the summer - there are a couple other things you might be overlooking. 

Most interior boat lights come in four primary colors: red, green, blue, and white. You can purchase your interior boat lighting in any one of these colors, or you can get all of the colors in one unit - marked as "RGB" or "RGBW". 

Factors to consider when choosing interior boat lighting color:

Maintain Night Vision

Maintaining your night vision is the single most important factor to consider for interior boat lighting. If you can't see what's ahead of you, then you're in real trouble. So invest wisely in an interior boat light that helps maintain your night vision.

If you're able to purchase a bright interior boat light setup that has dimming capabilities, that's great for getting the best of both worlds. When you're stationary and want to see the deck for safety, you can dial up the brightness. When you're in transit, you can dial the brightness down to maintain your night vision.

 As shown above, red is the best color interior boat light for maintaining your night vision. 

Avoid Attracting Bugs

One of the most overlooked features of interior boat lights is their ability to attract bugs. Bugs can be annoying, especially in the summer when they are most abundant. In reality, bugs are capable of seeing in 3 primary light spectrums: blue, green, and UV light. The one color light that isn't listed here is red. They have a much harder time to see red compared to the other colors.  

As shown above, red is the best interior boat light color that does not attract bugs. 

All-Around Best Interior Boat Lighting Color

Interior boat lighting needs to safely light up the deck so you can maneuver around the boat without tripping over objects, it needs to look cool, and it needs to do both of these things without ruining your night vision and turning your boat into a swarm of bugs. 

As we've discussed in detail above, red is the best all-around color for LED interior boat lights . The same reasons that make red a great color for interior boat lighting are also the reasons it is commonly used in naval ships and aircraft. It lights up what it needs to light up, while being easy on the eyes at night. 

Recommendation: Best Interior Boat Lights

The best interior boat lights are going to accomplish each of the topics we've discussed in this article in great detail.

We've actually explained to you everything that we considered in designing our DURANAV® Interior & Exterior Rock Lights . Not only are they bullet-proof, saltwater proof, and capable of literally running underwater on your boat; but they have limitless controls with the development of our OutriggerGO app. 

Here's a quick recap of what you're looking for in buying the best interior boat lights for sale:

• Improved waterproof rating: IP69K waterproof rating is a must for durability.
• Injection Molded Waterproof Wire Connections.
• Tinned marine grade wire for maximum corrosion resistance.
• Dim while traveling across the water, bright when fishing and tying on hooks. 
• Better performance and efficiencies with quality parts and components. 
• Keep it simple stupid - bluetooth apps are known to have problems with syncing after new phone updates, hardwire is the way to go for long term durability. 
• Stay away from plastic housing, stick to aluminum alloy
• Plan on using a 12V battery source. (DURANAV® Rock Lights can run 12 or 24V DC)
• Red is best color for maintaining night vision and not attracting bugs. 

Buying the best interior boat lights is a strong first step, but afterwards you'll need to set them up properly.

Here are some key tips we've learned in setting up our interior boat lighting:

• Mount the interior boat lights underneath the internal gunnels of the boat (bottom side of the gunwales), shining downward. This will light up the deck and keep them from blinding you. 
• If you have an aluminum Jon boat for flounder gigging and bowfishing , we recommend installing them underneath any steps you may have to get up to the deck in the front of the boat.
• When installing interior LED boat lighting, it's best to make sure all wire connections have dielectric grease on them prior to making the connection. This will help the lights hold up for longer. 
• Good quality interior boat lights can be used underwater as well. If using them underwater, be sure to seal where the light mounts to the boat hull with a sealant such as 3M's 5200 sealant to be sure water doesn't intrude where the wire comes through. Another method is to mount the lights on a tab, and run the wire inside the boat above the water line. 

Our DURANAV® Interior & Exterior Rock Lights meet all of these constraints and more. Their cured-in-place construction means they can be literally run underwater for long periods of time. Combined that with the OutriggerGO app on your phone, and you have limitless controls of your rock lights in any environment. 

Outrigger Outdoors January 04, 2023

Hi Kenneth – thanks for letting us know! We will send you an email to get you put on our waiting list to be the first to hear about them.

Kenneth Sliger January 04, 2023

I’m gonna be ordering your bully netting lights soon but in the meantime I’m interested in red deck lights for my Carolina skiff Jvx once you get them in . Just let me know when you get them in. Thanks

Outrigger Outdoors December 28, 2022

We do not currently have interior lights available – we expect them to be available in early 2023. Probably late January or February. The key design points we discuss in this article are some of what went into the design and development of our interior lights, in addition to them having a wider flood area than current available interior lights. We’re excited to get them released, they’ll be available soon!

Mike King December 28, 2022

Is this something you do not carry?

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Best Boat Lights

The best for better visibility while driving on the water at night.

Large bulb is easily seen from long distances out on lakes and open water. Pole is 12" tall for better visibility, and it folds down for storage when not in use.

Bulb casing can start to decay if left outside and exposed to UV light for long periods of time.

The best budget-friendly option to buy for better placement and flexibility.

Powerful LED lights can be placed in a variety of spots or on other equipment. Spot beam does a good job of illuminating the area in front of the light.

Beam may not be bright enough to be used as a solo spotlight without additional lighting.

A subtle navigation option you can mount on most crafts without much trouble.

Navigation light is highly visible from the rear during nighttime. Durable construction made of ABS plastic makes it waterproof in normal or rough conditions.

The navigation light may require professional installation to secure it.

These LED lights consume less energy than regular models and offer high brightness.

Made with sturdy ABS plastic. Each light is equipped with 6 LED bulbs with high brightness output. Works for any 12V. Comes in a pack of 10 lights. Waterproof.

A few reports of some lights arriving faulty or burnt out.

Consider this design that provides a 2-nautical-mile range of visibility and a 360-degree radius.

Easy to install. Offers energy-efficient light output. Comes with a 24-inch pole that allows for elevated visibility. Can easily be removed and stored when not in use.

The light produced is not as bright as some of our other LED picks.

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

Table of Contents

Buying guide for best boat lights.

Updated June 2022

Display navigation lights must be installed and fully functional on all recreational boats between sunset and sunrise. There are no exceptions to this mandate, according to both inland and international navigation rules. So if you own any type of recreational boat, you’re going to need to invest in some lights for your watercraft.

The number of lights and their placement depends on the length of your vessel. A large powerboat must display high-visibility range lights. A larger vessel may not combine sidelights into a single bi-color light fixture. The placement of nautical navigation lights falls under the jurisdiction of civil authority, state law, and international conventions.

Nautical navigation lights, also known as position or running lights, provide information on a craft’s position, status, and heading; they are not intended to provide illumination for a craft making forward passage. Rather, they act as a point of awareness for other vessels in the area.

Key considerations

To avoid a multi-vessel collision in the dark, boats mount navigation lights that allow other boaters to determine the type and relative angle of approaching vessels. With this information, a boater can decide if there is an immediate danger of collision. Because safety at sea may depend on your navigational lights, we recommend that you choose the best and brightest.

Following the rules

You need the right boat lights to navigate after dark. Navigational lights assist you and other boaters in determining which is the “give-way” vessel when ships meet in the night. As mentioned, it’s mandatory that these lights be displayed from sunset to sunrise and during inclement weather, including cloudiness, rain, and fog.

When approaching an oncoming vessel and viewing the mandated lights, each vessel must follow some rules. The rules state that each vessel must alter course to starboard so they may pass on each other’s port sides.

Basic boat lighting

Red lights are on the left or port side of a vessel. Green lights are on the right or starboard side. White lights are up the aft or stern and at the front or fore bow. All lights must be visible head-on or straight ahead and at least 22.4 degrees abaft the beam.

For powerboats and sailboats under power, side lights, main masthead, and stern lights are mandatory. However, there are permissible variations to the rules and regulations. Before you set sail, you need to know the rules that apply to your boat on the water in which you navigate.

Hovercraft, both day and night, must operate a yellow flashing beacon for added visibility.

Sealed for safety

Boat lights are sealed to resist corrosion, water intrusion, electrostatic discharge, UV radiation, and vibration. Sealed boat lights are completely waterproof. When shopping for boat navigation lights, play particular attention to removable lights such as the stern light: moisture seeping into the light stick receptacle can erode the socket and cause the light to function improperly.

Bulb covering quality

The bulb covering of a boat light may be made of plastic or shatterproof safety glass. Some bulb coverings are made of inferior-grade plastic and can shatter on impact or become cloudy and hazed when exposed to the sun in a marine environment. Other navigation light bulb coverings are made from quality materials that remain crystal clear and operable for long-term service.

Size and illumination

Boat lights also differ in the size of the bulb and the amount of illumination they provide.

Hours of service

Navigation lights are rated for projected hours of service life. Some lights are rated for 10,000 hours, while LED navigation lights are rated for 50,000 hours or more of service life.

Ease of installation

Unless you are experienced with the installation of boat navigation lights, replacing and repairing original boat wiring can be a daunting challenge. LED snap-in lights and panel rewire kits include easy-to-follow instructions, and all the parts and adaptors are engineered to connect to your current boat wiring harness quickly.

Boat light prices

The price of boat lights depends on the manufacturer, the brand, the merchandiser, hours of projected service life, and the quality of the product. There are boat lights for every budget.

You can find quality boat lights in the realm of $35 or less. At the bottom of this price range, between $8 and $12, you will find some lights that are adequate for temporary use but not permanent use. They may not be as tightly sealed as lights that cost more, and they may fail to provide long-term service in a saltwater environment.

At the higher end of this price range, you can find many LED boat lights. Although LED boat navigation lights can be more expensive, they offer reverse polarity protection, eliminating potential wiring issues during installation. The best LED navigational lights exceed U.S. Coast Guard requirements while offering lower wattage with no outages.

When shopping for navigation lights, look for ones that offer a satisfaction guarantee. Lights that cost a little more may offer up to a 10-year protection, while lights that cost a little less may be guaranteed to work for less than a year.

• Sailboats, operating under power, are considered power-driven and must obey “under power” boating rules and regulations.
• Incorrectly installed or inoperative lights place a boat and her passengers in great danger after dark. The majority of recreational boating accidents happen because vessels on a collision course failed to see each other in time.
• To check that your boat lights are correctly working, take your boat to a safe anchorage, turn off all cabin and deck lighting, and turn on all of your nautical navigation lights. From a tender, dinghy, or another vessel, circle your boat , making sure all of your lights are in working order and that they comply with local, state, and international boating regulations.
• After dark, you are required to show the correct navigation lights in all weather conditions. It is also wise to operate your boating lights during inclement weather such as rain, fog, or snow.
• When you are using your boat’s navigation lights, no other lights should be visible that could be mistaken for the lights required by law.

Q. What is the port side of a boat? What is the starboard side of a boat? A. When you are looking forward toward the bow of a vessel, port and starboard refer to the left side and the right side of the boat respectively.

Q. What are boat sidelights? A. Also known as combination lights, sidelights are either red or green. Their purpose is to alert vessels approaching from the side or head-on. Green light indicates a boat’s starboard (right) side. Red light indicates a vessel’s port (left) side.

Q. Where is the stern of a boat or ship? A. The stern is the aft-most or back part of a boat or a ship, defined as the area built over the sternpost. It is opposite the bow or the front of the boat.

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The Best Underwater Lights for Boats in 2024

Finding the right underwater lights for your boat can be quite challenging with so many different options on the market. To help you out, we have listed here some of our favorite underwater lighting solutions based on their features and performance as well as user experiences. We will also provide helpful information to guide you through selecting the best one according to its specifications, how it is installed properly and maintained correctly over time too!

Black Oak's Top Underwater Boat Lights

Black Oak's LED lights are perfect for your boat. They've got all the power, durability, flexibility, and ease of installation you need. We offer a complete kit that includes underwater lights, small LED lights for illuminating the water close to your boat, and totally waterproof lights in three sizes to suit even the largest vessels.

Small Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL6) by Black Oak LED

Large Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL24) by Black Oak LED

Boat LED Lighting Kits

Marine Spreader Light

• Marine Accent Light

Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL6) by Black Oak LED

The FL6 Underwater Light by Black Oak LED is a compact yet powerful source of illumination that provides an incredible 3,200 lumens brightness. This state-of-the-art underwater light utilizes advanced LED technology to give its user maximum output while still remaining highly efficient and reliable.

Compact size

Easy installation

Ideal for small boats and tight spaces

Built with AB2 bronze approved and milled for marine use

Designed to withstand harsh marine environments

The FL6 surface mount underwater light offers the following features:

Surface-mount design for easy installation

Requires just a small hole for wiring and appropriate sealing

Comes with a 1-month return policy and a full three-year exchange warranty

Provides security for your investment

Offers excellent performance and durability

A top choice for boaters seeking a compact underwater lighting solution.

Specifications:

3,200 lumens of brightness

Billet AB2 marine-grade bronze construction

Surface mount installation

You can also go down a size and choose the   Fathom FL3 , which is a three bulb model that is not quite as bright.

Compact and powerful

Durable design

Higher price point

Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL24) by Black Oak LED

The FL24 LED Underwater Light from Black Oak LED is perfect for those who need a bright and powerful light source under the surface. This particular underwater illumination offers an impressive 11,000 lumens brightness and can be selected in several colors to best suit your lighting needs when you go swimming or fishing at night. For superior output among most other lights of its kind, consider investing in this quality choice for maximum clarity down below!

Designed with the latest LED technology, the FL24 offers:

Energy-efficient performance

Low power consumption

Impact-resistant and anti-fouling polymer construction for durability and reliability in harsh marine environments

Those searching for a powerful underwater light should certainly consider the FL24, with its high intensity and adaptability making it a sound investment. Despite being at an above average price point for most manufacturers, this is one of the best lights on offer in terms of quality and performance.

11,000 lumens output

65-degree main Collimator optic

Impact-resistant and anti-fouling polymer construction

You can also go down a size and fit the   Fathom FL12 , which is a twelve bulb model. It's very bright and is a good choice for medium-sized boats.

High-intensity illumination

Available in various colors

Suitable for various underwater activities

Higher price range

This kit from Black Oak includes all the underwater LED boat lights and equipment you need to take care of your boat. Here's what you're going to get:

Curved LED light bar

Marine accent lights

RGB controller

Fathom LED underwater lights

We offer multiple lighting kits based on the size of boat you have and your intended use. Here are our most popular options:

RGB Accent Lighting Kit - This kit is ideal for smaller trailer boats or a jon boat. The kit comes with 2-12 (your choice) accent lights in RGB for multiple color options. Their compact design makes them ideal for mounting above deck or under the gunnels. Mounting hardware and a controller are included. You can also add all the RGB wire you'll need to your order to make installation easy.

Boat Lighting Kits with light bars, pod lights, and accent lights. Every kit comes with a controller, wire sold by the foot, and the hardware you'll need for mounting your lights. Here are the different kit sizes:

16-20' Boat Lighting Kit

21-26' Boat Lighting Kit

27-32' Boat Lighting Kit

33-36' Boat Lighting Kit

37' and larger Boat Lighting Kit

Installation is simple and there are multiple mounting options. For most people, the process involves a few steps:

Choose where you want to install the different lights. Our kits come with hull lights, accent lights, and a light bar. You can install them in the hull, through the transom, above the cockpit, and whever else you want to add accent lights.

Screw mount the lighting kit in place, making sure you can connect all the wiring back to the power source.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring and sealing to ensure optimal results.

Exceptional brightness

Extended lifespan

Appealing aesthetics

Higher initial cost for the entire kit

Black Oak Marine Accent Lights

Light up your console, compartments, under-gunnels, and much more with our IP69K rated marine accent lights! Offered in blue, green, red, white, or multi color in the RGB option, these small, yet powerful LED's are sure to provide you with the lighting you need while on the water. 

The RGB option must be used with an   RGB controller . If you need to run the wires any further than 4', we recommend adding on some of our   RGB Wire   as well.

Specifications

Black Oak Marine Spreader Lights

With the massive popularity of our  2 Inch Black Flush Mount Spreader Light , we decided to release our New - 4 Inch Scene Spreader Light in Black as well! With the amazing 120 degree throw and 3,120 raw lumens, this light is perfect for lighting up your deck, cockpit, bow, and more. Offered in both black and  white , you can now match your other accessories on your boat.

Choosing the Perfect Underwater Lights for Your Boat

When deciding on the best underwater boat lights for your needs, there are a few factors to consider.

LED lights can offer greater energy efficiency and eco-friendliness compared to incandescent options because they consume less power and produce brighter illumination while running cooler than traditional lighting solutions.

Initial costs may be higher but worth it in terms of better performance and longevity over time.

Safety must always come into play as these types of light will help with visibility at night when boating or fishing – particular colors attract fish so bear this in mind before making a purchase!

Lastly, take the type of activity you’ll be engaging in beneath the waves under advice. If you plan on going night fishing, choose accordingly based on what lures them, blue and green being one attractive choice!

Understanding Light Specifications

When selecting underwater boat lights, an essential factor is lumens which point out the light’s brightness. A greater lumen value means more intense illumination so consider this before choosing your lighting solution. The beam angle can also be of great importance. Most underwater lights spread light really widely. This is great for covering a lot of water area, but may be lacking in penetration to the depths.

If you want to illuminate the depths for fish finding, diving, or any other reason, be sure to mix up the wide angle underwater lights with some kind of spot light mounted on your boat. 

Check out the GoPod Marine Clamp On Spotlight for a great, flexible spotlight option.

Installation Considerations for Underwater Boat Lights

Installing your lights can be a bit nerve wracking! A thru-hull install might be the perfect choice, but no one wants to poke holes in their hull or mess up the gel coat on their yacht. Here's a few quick tips to help you with your installation:

Plan, measure, and mark very carefully. Check and re-check your light locations. Using something like Command Strips (double-sided tape that comes off without a mark) can help you fix the lights and then inspect them.

If you can attach your lights into the bilge or a pumped compartment, that's a little safer. It may not be possible for every installation, though.

Make sure every connection is secure and watertight. This is true for the fixtures and for the wiring. Use marine-grade sealant to waterpoof the fixtures and shrink tubing to seal the wiring.

Our team of experts can help you with your installation. If you've got any questions at all, just call us. We answer the phone every day and we'll be happy to help.

Maintaining Your Underwater Boat Lights

Regular upkeep of your underwater boat lights is a must for preserving function and durability. You should always remember to clean the lens with either a soft cloth or brush in order to ward off any buildup, such as algae and barnacles that could possibly affect its luminosity. Make sure there are no signs of corrosion since it can detrimentally affect performance and longevity. It’s advised you use stainless steel screws since metal against metal causes electrolysis issues leading up to rustiness.

To ensure that you get the best underwater boat lights for your vessel, it is essential to consider key factors such as LED or incandescent bulbs and safety features. Fish attraction should also be taken into account when selecting a lighting solution suitable for nighttime boating adventures. Installing these appropriate illumination sources will not only enhance safety, but also add an aura of elegance to your boat while being highly visible on the water’s surface. We hope this blog post has provided valuable information about choosing great underwater boat lights!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many lumens do you need for underwater boat lights.

The number of lumens you need depends on the amount and purpose of your light output. Here are some guidelines:

700-1000 lumens is good for close work or lighting up the area right around your boat

1000-3000 lumens is a good level for flood lights in dark waters for surface swimming, fishing, etc.

3000-7000 lumens will provide light for ocean yachts and deeper waters as well as dock lights

7000+ lumens will work for any general boating purpose

At higher lumens, the angle and color of the lights is more important than a few thousand more lumens.

What is the best color for underwater boat lights?

Light color is decided by the purpose of the lights. There are a few choices:

White lights are good for lighting up the water for swimming, diving, and working.

Green light consistently attracts more fish than other colors, although blue is also a good single color for fishing

Red lights attract the least amount of fish but draw human eyes, so they are good for warning lights

Can LED lights be used underwater?

Yes, you can use LED lights underwater. That's what our Fathom LED series is made for. Many underwater LED light designs have been made to cope with the pressure of being in submerged environments for a long time frame.

What is the main advantage of LED underwater boat lights over incandescent lights?

LEDs for underwater boat lights are the perfect pick as they have a longer lifespan, offer greater energy efficiency and shine brighter than incandescent counterparts. These may be even more important for offshore boats relying on solar power for extended periods.

August Giveaway Winner!

Congrats to Bou Bosso on winning this month's giveaway!   Bou will be walking away with a 20" Double Row 5W Combo valued at $680.   Take a look at what Bou had to say about his Black Oak products below:   For the majority of my life I've had to use a handheld spotlight to operate in low-light conditions. Not only was it frustrating when the light wouldn't work, but it was also dangerous because I wasn't able to utilize both hands while driving and I wouldn't keep...

July Giveaway Winner!

Congrats to Sark Aerick on winning this month's giveaway!   Sark will be walking away with a 20" Double Row 5W Combo valued at $680.   Take a look at what Sark had to say about his Black Oak products below:   I was impressed with how well they increased the night visibility; but, I think a better explanation is how much visibility I lost when turning them off.  After the amazing brightness you feel almost blind with them off.   We do a lot of dry camping at the...

June Giveaway Winner!

Congrats to Justin Enfinger on winning this month's giveaway!   Justin will be walking away with a 20" Double Row 5W Combo valued at $680.   Take a look at what Justin had to say about his Black Oak products below:   I've ran Rigid Industry lights for over 10 years now. I have a pretty high standard of light output for LED lights and these Black Oak pods absolutely blew me away! I am more than pleased and happy with the purchase of this product. I just purchased...

We Ship Worldwide

Black Oak LED ships to Australia, UK, South America, and to over 200 countries worldwide!

To ship to your country, simply click Add to Cart for all items you wish to buy, then click Checkout and enter your shipping address into the Checkout page including your country. The Checkout page will generate a shipping rate which will be added to your order. Once you have completed the Checkout we will send you a confirmation email with your order details.

The Lower 48 States, Alaska and Canada are Free Shipping at Checkout .

If you have any questions, call us toll-free at 1-800-348-1287

All product and shipping prices are shown in US Dollars. To find the latest exchange rate, click here .

Note: While we are able to display real time shipping costs for most items, larger items that must ship freight require additional fees. Simply add the items to your cart and place your order. Within 1 business day we will contact you with a shipping quote for your items.

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The Best Battery Powered Navigation Lights for Boat, Canoe & Kayak

Written by J. Harvey / Fact checked by S. Numbers

Boat owners should know the vital role of navigation lights. These marine accessories provide visibility for other vessels to acknowledge your presence whether you’re moored or underway. They’re also a must-buy due to the mandate of local regulations and international laws. With these concerns, you can turn to battery powered boat lights.

The best battery powered navigation lights are dependable in providing your needs as well as being compliant with the laws. To ensure that you purchase them, take a look at these factors:

• Knowing the Application of Navigation Lights

Before everything else, you have to know very well the applications of battery operated nav lights. You should know what you’re up to before buying a light kit. For instance, kayak navigation lights are submersible while portable ones are dinghy navigation lights. With these details, you can perceive that the smaller the vessel, the smaller the lights should be. So, choose bigger lights for larger vessels.

• Depends on Your Boat Size

Another important factor that you have to look at when buying battery powered boat navigation lights is your boat size. Find something that fits your canoes, dinghies, rowboats, and inflatables.

• Light Color

What you can find in the market are bi-colored, tri-colored, and white lights. Apart from color varieties, there are also options whether the lights can be temporarily or permanently installed. Rest assured that all battery operated nav lights installation is a straightforward process. C-clamps, suction cups, and pole mounts are the usual parts for assembling them.

Color is not only for your boat’s appearance but to comply with the regulations. You have to select the recommended size and color for a specific boat navigation light. Running lights, stern lights, and bow lights come in different sizes, colors, and even forms.

• Great LED Lights

What sets LED lights apart from other types of light is the low draw of energy. Every boat owner will find it favorable as battery operated navigation lights are generally with LEDs.

After you take note of these features, you don’t have to spend a lot of time looking for excellent battery powered navigation light as they are listed below:

• Made for marine use
• Has camouflage color
• Versatile mounting equipment

• Pretty easy installation
• One-year warranty
• Spectacular brightness for safety

• Four-position switch toggles
• Waterproof and survives saltwater
• Comes with the necessary batteries

Table of Contents

1. attwood 14191-7 Clamp-On Boat Navigation Light

2. botepon marine boat bow lights, 3. bright eyes be-btlgt-gr-1 marine led boating lights, 4. shoreline marine portable clamp-on navigation light, 5. innovative lighting 560-1110-7 portable led bow light, 6. deals4you portable marine led boat lights, 7. aqua signal 27440-7 battery-powered led stern light, factors to consider when choosing battery powered navigation lights, what are the most trusted battery powered navigation light brands, what navigation lights are required for human-powered vessels, why are navigation lights red and green, top 7 battery powered navigation light reviews.

These clamp-on battery powered nav lights are perfect for my 14-foot Jon boat . I don’t have to deal with bad switches on navigation lights anymore! The visibility it creates at night is superb and it’s what every boat owner needs when going sailing, hunting, or fishing at night. I don’t have to hurry to go back home when the dark falls.

The LEDs in this navigation light kit do their job well. They guarantee my safety and they’re also the items for the observance of the regulations. With its brightness, no doubt that nearby boats can see me in the dark.

You can get a white LED stern light, LED bow lights in color red and green, poles, quick-release mounts, and pieces of hardware. Everything is pretty good, however, I just wish that the stern light was taller. Installation is a piece of cake but this part requires additional work. I think not everyone should do some modification.

The changes that I made were not complicated at all as the mounting equipment is versatile. You can be creative like me and mount it in many ways on small boats. I like how the clamp holds firmly, so I don’t have to worry about it. Additionally, it’s easy for me to add or remove the lights in its designated area.

• Has brightness that can create superb visibility at night
• Guarantees safety and observance of regulations
• Has versatile mounting equipment for modifications
• Clamps hold firmly but can be removed and attached easily
• Has camouflage color that is helpful for hunting
• The stern light needs to be taller for some

I’m happy and content with these portable boat running lights. They’re well-designed and functional with a one-year warranty. The brightness coming from this red and green light is spectacular as I can enjoy watching the moon at night with my kayak. I can be seen even from 0.6 miles away. Night outings and activities become fun because of them.

These are battery navigation lights that warrant my safety and compliance with water regulations. I don’t have to be afraid of getting run over by motorboats. Even bystanders who are hanging out along the bank can spot me. They’re great to use when sailing on small bodies of water. I placed them on the bow rails and you may also attach them on a cleat.

Whenever I’m out of the lake or river, occasional splashes of water are unavoidable. I’m glad that these lights still function despite those encounters. Initially, I have them as dinghy lights but I’m impressed with their abilities. Therefore, I even bought some of them for my main boat because they work wonderfully as a backup light. They can be a great helping hand when I go out with my fishing boat with their brightness.

• Well-designed and functional with a one-year warranty
• With spectacular brightness for safety and compliance to water regulations
• Can be attached on bow rails or cleat
• Doesn’t get damaged with splashes of water
• Can be used as backup lights with lighting modes
• May rust from saltwater

I salute these portable navigation light boats for promoting boat safety lighting solutions. When I found them, I knew right away that they were perfect for my inflatable pontoon. Nonetheless, they’re also great for kayaks, canoes, skeeters, and other small boats. Although these are tiny lights, the brightness is incredible!

They’re super bright, so they can show you the way in poor visibility, like when you’re night boating. With their brightness, they will pass as emergency lights. Sometime in the past, I met local marine police who congratulated me for correctly choosing and installing navigation lights. Hence, I owe these lights for not getting in trouble.

They’re effective portable navigation lights for small boats because they’re relatively waterproof. They had contact with saltwater but they remained functional. The LED lights are not only waterproof but the silicone sleeve as well for covering. They’re reliable as there’s a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee that every buyer can avail of.

I inserted the silicone loops on the 1 1/8 inches OD frame tubes in my pontoon. They’ll fit rails that have a diameter of around an inch or 1 ½ inches. However, my brother needs to put some 100 mph chrome tape as the lights become loose for his thin boat rails. They must be stable in facing the direction where the light should project.

• Promotes boat safety lighting solution with its brightness
• Can pass as navigation lights
• Relatively waterproof and survives saltwater
• Gives buyers a 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee
• Has four-position switch toggles
• Needs to add 100 mph chrome tape when placed on boat rails below the one-inch diameter

The stern light in this kit did the trick. I adore the simplicity of clamping the light and inserting the batteries to obtain the illumination I need. Moreover, I don’t have to struggle to assemble wires and switches. There’s plenty of brightness coming from the LED lights. The light won’t run out of batteries all night as LEDs don’t draw much energy.

Thus, I don’t have inhibitions to go night fishing. I usually set off in the evening and continue until midnight or sometimes, early morning. During those periods, I can get a hefty catch. Also, the safety of everyone and my boat is guaranteed because of its brightness. Its abilities also adhere to the legal directives.

This boat stern light has a 24-inch pole mount which is the right height for my 20-foot pontoon boat. The available mounting hardware included in the kit can be transformed into different configurations. Because of this, these boat lights will fit any boat type. What only bothered me was the button that seemed to be made of hard plastic. It would be much better if it’s made of pliable rubber.

Since this light works in any boat, I didn’t hesitate to recommend it to my friends and family. My brother put it on his 12-foot aluminum Jon boat. He thanked me for introducing this light as it doesn’t rattle even though his boat has a single-cylinder outboard.

• Can simple clamp the light and insert the batteries
• Plenty of brightness
• For safety and legal directives
• The mounting hardware can be in different configurations
• Fit for any boat type
• Durable enough to stay in a marine environment
• The button could have been better in pliable rubber

This battery powered bow light is terrific as it has stayed with me for years! It’s a provider of sufficient low-setting light so I can go paddling and fishing in the evening or at night. You may even go water skiing with this in the dark. Favorably, I don’t need to drill or follow a process that can mess up the surface of my kayak. But it adheres well with solid brightness that ensures safety and observance of regulations.

It stands out among options of battery powered navigation lights for kayaks. However, it’s suitable for other small crafts like a canoe. It comes with a nice suction cup for straightforward installation and placement on the bow. But it needs to be on a flat surface and I was able to move it on the side. Another way to mount the cup is through the threaded brass insert.

To my surprise, it has some cords that I can link to the rigging if ever the suction cup fails, which never happened. Due to this concern, I added a lanyard so I could retrieve it quickly. The only thing that should be changed about this light is the on or off switch because the lip is slightly raised. I understand that they made it this way to prevent turning it on unintentionally, but it’s hard to do it when paddling.

• Can last for years
• The low light setting for safety and regulations
• Suitable for small craft
• With suction cup and cord for easy installation or placement
• Well-built and waterproof as it works even after being submerged
• The on or off switch has a slightly raised lip

I was first cynical about these battery operated boat lights, but the size is not the main factor in giving off the right amount of brightness. These 12V LED navigation lights are the perfect example. They can take on various roles, such as running lights and backup lights. Thus, fishing and boating at night can be safe and fun. Since my town requires red light and green light, they’re perfect for my needs, even for small vessels.

My kayak can be seen even from two miles away because of these battery operated boat navigation lights. The brightness is magnificent with three lighting modes which are solid brightness, slow blink, and strobe. They don’t only work as a small vessel or inflatable boat navigation lights since a set of these lights is good for a pair of paddles. They’re also useful in other outdoor activities like camping.

You’ll be amazed at how the battery lasts on these as it’s filled with LED light . They serve me for hours or throughout the night on my dinghy that is anchored with my sailboat. Since the batteries can last long, my friend also uses these lights on his rafts every night. You’ll find extra batteries from its package but I suggest that it’s better to buy quality ones.

• Can be running lights and backup lights
• Has magnificent brightness with three lighting modes that can be seen from 2 miles away
• Energy-saver as batteries can last for a long time
• Durable and waterproof to withstand rugged marine use and heavy salt air
• Buying better batteries than the free ones

This white light is much brighter than the stern light that I had before. It delivers the brightness that I need when paddling in the evening and night fishing with my kayak. The strong LED light is fantastic for marine use. Thus, I can be seen even from miles away. It can be an all-around light or a flashlight for power outages.

There are different mounting options available. I mounted it using the sophisticated suction cup to a dry, clean surface. A carabiner clip comes with it too. Some people even place this over their outboard motors as it doesn’t come off even when the boat moves at high speed.

If you are still wary of the suction cup, you can opt for the nice brass inserts and small set screws. These pieces of hardware are for the permanent installation of this wonderful battery powered boat stern light.

You can also customize the mount set-up to give way to your vessel’s structure. A mounting clip and several stainless screws are in the package to help you with the installation. But then, it’s inevitable that you may need other types of materials and parts. Boat owners who purchase some essential things didn’t complain since this stern light serves its purpose well.

• Bright and strong for marine use
• An all-around light that can be seen from miles away
• Can be mounted in different ways and even for customization
• The suction cup doesn’t come off even though the vessel moves at a high speed
• Not relatively bulky with a dependable pole
• Has good battery compartment
• Need to buy other types of materials and parts when customizing the mounting part

Battery powered navigation lights for boats come in several distinct ranges of visibility, an arc of illumination, and location. Variations of colors are also available. Here are their distinct forms.

• Masthead light

Boats operated with a motor or engine need a masthead light. It’s a white light that beams forward and creates an arc of 225 degrees. This has to be placed at least a meter apart and on the top of the sidelights. The acceptable range of its light is two nautical miles. It’s fine to not add this light on sail boats.

Navigation boating lights also stay on the boat’s left and right sides. Hence, the term, ‘sidelights’, came into existence. The green light is placed on the right while the red light is on the left. This pair of lights should go beyond one nautical mile and it’s most suited for boats that are up to 12 meters long. As you can see, it only offers a limited range of scope, which is not relevant to the needs of larger vessels.

• Stern Light

Stern light is the white light found at the stern or rear section of a vessel. With this, the vessels behind you can see you.

• All-around White Light

This is required for vessels that are less than 12 meters long and powered by an engine. The effect of this light is similar to combined masthead light and stern light. Once you have it, you’re visible from any direction.

There are several perks to take advantage of when you add excellent battery operated boat lights to pose as navigation lights. First of all, they’re convenient and practical to use because you don’t need to hardwire an electrical system. You can call it wireless boat navigation lights! Moreover, it’s reliable in times of emergencies like power outages and other unfortunate circumstances.

This type of light is generally uncomplicated to install, provided that you follow the instructions in the user manual. You don’t need the skills of an expert to put things in order. In most cases, you only need to clip or mount it effortlessly. They are also built with durable construction to last in a marine environment.

You can’t only get brightness from them but various colors that meet your needs or legal requirements. Thus, you remain seen despite dark areas or bad visibility. Safety and security are guaranteed when you have them in your boat. Controlling or operating them is super easy. They’re crafted as portable items that can be stored with no complications. In addition, it’s not a burden to take them everywhere you go.

Even though these battery powered lights offer several benefits, they come with an affordable price tag. It won’t be challenging for you to get the right size and color for your boat. Consequently, the case of battery replacement is the same. You can get them without trouble from stores. They can last as long as you work on caring and maintenance.

There are so many battery powered lights in the market, but only some are reliable in providing good service. To get your money’s worth, you can search for reputable brands. You won’t be sorry when you get battery operated navigation lights from Attwood, Bright Eyes, Shoreline Marine, Innovative, Lighting, Botepon Marine, Deals4you, and Aqua Signal.

These companies are recognized in the marine industry as producers of top-quality products. You don’t have to be bothered by issues when you use the lights that they’ve created.

Navigation lights won’t allow you to go astray in the dark. Every human-powered vessel needs a masthead light and stern light regarding this matter. They’re like a pair of safety lights when you go out at night, dawn, dusk, or with low visibility in the waters. Unlike powered vessels, you don’t need the starboard and port sidelights in the same color.

A white light that beams in various directions will be fine for human-powered vessels. However, you’ll need starboard and port lights when you maneuver a larger vessel.

• Starboard Side Light

It’s a green light that is always on the right or starboard side. The main role of this light is to let others be aware that you’re approaching. You can compare it with traffic lights as the green color also means go. Turning this green light on will make you obtain the right of way. Although you have it, you still need to be careful with your actions to prevent collisions and accidents.

• Port Side Light

On the other hand, the port side appears in red and it notifies other vessels that you intend to pass on the left side. You also place it on the left side and it has the same nature as traffic rules. When you see this light, you have to stop and give way to other boaters.

Do you ever wonder why there are red and green navigation lights on the vessel’s sides? As mentioned, these lights are not different from the traffic lights when it comes to meanings and significance. Red is about stopping and green is a go signal. Always remember that these colors have a permanent place on a boat. The red light is always on the left or the port while the green one is fixed on the right or the starboard.

The majority of the boaters prefer the port side when passing other vessels. When it happens, the red light needs to be flashed. Be mindful of flashing the green light as it means asking for the right of way. Upon seeing the green light from another, you have to prepare to give way.

You won’t regret investing in the best battery powered navigation lights as they can provide the much-needed illumination and service for a decent period. Crossing the waters at night, after sunset, and before sunrise is safe and easy because of their brightness. So, don’t forget to turn them on when you’re underway or your boat is moored.

“I am James Harvey – founder of Boating Basics Online. It is established with the drive to help out first-time boaters, which are those desiring to explore their way through the water. So if you are new to boating, start from here with me. “

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Choosing the Best Underwater Lights for Your Boat: Answers to Your Frequently Asked Questions

Posted by Apex Lighting on 23rd Aug 2023

Why Do I Need Underwater Lights for My Boat?

You probably imagine underwater lights as mere cosmetic upgrades for your boat, but they’re not. These fixtures are functional additions that improve visibility under dim light conditions to ensure safe boating .

A 6,000-lumen underwater light, for instance, provides plenty of illumination to avert visibility-related mishaps such as collisions with obstacles and other vessels, especially when navigating murky waters at night.

As a secondary benefit, underwater lights enrich your boating experience by creating an alluring ambiance of color around your vessel. Chilling blues and soothing greens are just some of the options to help you set the perfect mood for a fun nighttime swim or oceanic viewing.

The green light, in particular, serves as an excellent bait for marine wildlife due to its short wavelengths of high energy that are more penetrative and visible underwater.

This improves your chances of spotting rare species, adding a layer of excitement and delight to your boating adventure.

Apex Lighting deals exclusively in top-quality brands to help you realize these benefits of underwater fixtures. The Lumitec Javelin 600X LED Underwater Light , for instance, features a full color-changing illumination of 6,000 lumens and a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of over 70.

That’s a high color resolution that’s excellent for creating an immersive underwater environment, whether you’re after a tranquil ambiance with calming colors or a dynamic atmosphere with intense hues.

What Are the Different Types of Underwater Lights?

Your options for underwater boat lights are excitingly numerous. Each selection offers different mounting styles and lighting colors to suit your taste in aesthetics and functionality, for example:

• Thru-Hull Lights - These fixtures mount from inside your boat and protrude outward from a hole, extending into the water. As such, they appear beneath the waterline, producing a sleek underwater glow for an enchanting ambiance around your vessel. The lights are also serviceable from inside your boat and don’t require dismounting to access the internal components.
• Surface Mount Lights - These fixtures mount directly on the exterior of your boat. They have a higher profile than thru-hull lights but are easier to set up as they require no drilling and subsequent sealing to prevent water intrusion. This makes them the ideal choice for a DIY project , provided you’re trained and experienced in boat light installation.
• Single-Color Lights - These specialized fixtures provide the perfect single-color illumination for specific tasks such as fishing and ocean viewing. A single green light, for instance, has a short wavelength of high energy that’s highly penetrative through water surfaces and excellent for attracting marine life.
• Color-Changing Lights - These fixtures provide the full-color spectrum of red, blue, green, and white with different light effects such as crossfades and strobes. This makes them excellent for creating ambiance around your boat and setting the right mood for a memorable boating adventure.

“I bought two then when I got them I saw how serious they are I bought two more. Impeccable quality bright as anything on the market. I already have 5 OceanLED Pro Xtreme 16's at $1k a piece and these are brighter! You won't go wrong! I can't wait for springtime boating season.” — John, Verified Buyer

How Many Underwater Lights Do I Need for My Boat?

Determining the ideal quantity of underwater lights for your boat involves various factors, primarily, your boat's dimensions and your personal aesthetic preferences .

As a rule of thumb, it's common practice to fit a minimum of two underwater lights for small to medium-sized vessels, specifically attached to the transom.

This symmetrical setup creates a balanced illumination around the transom area, where most of the light-dependent boating activities occur, for instance, fishing and tow surfing.

Case in point, two underwater boat lights are the common design for small to medium pontoons of widths between 7–10 feet. And two fixtures, such as the Lumitec Javelin 600X Rectangular LED provide sufficient illumination when symmetrical, as the video below showcases.

Larger vessels of widths above 10 feet require more than two fixtures, however, the principle of balanced illumination still holds. As such, seeking professional advice on the spacing and exact number of fixtures your boat needs is advisable to ensure safe and adequate lighting.

What Is the Ideal Wattage for Underwater Lights?

There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to the ideal wattage for underwater boat fixtures.

However, there is an efficiency standard that guides the lumen output for your fixture per watt of energy. This is known as lumen efficacy .

Therefore, determining your ideal wattage necessitates first identifying the amount of brightness you require. With this figure, you’re then able to determine the maximum allowable watt rating for that lumen output, according to today’s efficiency standards.

The table below highlights these ranges for different lumen outputs .

Source: Energystar.gov

Can I Install Underwater Lights by Myself or Do I Need a Professional?

Due to their submerged nature and the risks involved, including electric shocks and water intrusion, underwater boat lights require professional installation .

However, a licensed professional helps you not only observe safety guidelines to avoid all the above risks of mixing water and electricity but also ensures your installation is up to code .

One particularly critical regulation requirement for submersible devices is Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection . This mandates an automatic shutdown protocol that activates immediately an imbalance occurs, such as a current flowing through water or a person.

As such, compliance with GFCI necessitates a deep understanding of compliant devices, the setup process, and an assessment procedure after installation. These are highly specialized skills and can therefore only be executed correctly by trained and experienced individuals.

Are Underwater Lights Expensive?

Not necessarily. Underwater boat fixtures accommodate different budgets with a trade-off in the number of features and functionality available.

Certainly, the most advanced options , such as the Bluefin LED Great White GW20 , cost upwards of $1,000 , which is pricey. But these are top-tier fixtures with exceptional features like 12,000 lumens and an over 50,000-hour lifespan or 5.7 years of service.

There are alternative entry-level selections , such as the Lumitec Zambezi Mini Surface Mount , which costs less than $500 . These fixtures offer basic features to ensure reliable service, for instance, marine-grade steel housing and full waterproofing at an affordable price point.

Midrangers , such as the Lumitec Javelin 600X LED Underwater Light , strike the perfect balance between cost and functionality by offering more than the basics without the premium pricing.

As such, they cost less than $1,000 and have extra features such as 6,000 lumens and an impressive Color Rendering Index (CRI) of over 70, which signifies a premium level of color resolution.

Want a quick summary instead? The table below provides an overview of the different categories of underwater boat fixtures, including their price ranges, examples, lumens, and typical lifespan.

“Love them, put them in on my 48 foot cruisers.” — Dejan M., Verified Buyer

What Is the Lifespan of Underwater Lights?

How long your underwater boat lights last depends on your type of fixture and maintenance practices .

The most common type today are predominantly LED lights with fluorescent and incandescent fixtures as alternatives, but this order isn’t by accident.

LED fixtures are popular because they have the longest life span of 25,000 hours , with premium products, such as the Bluefin LED Great White GW20 , clocking over 50,000 hours of service .

Fluorescent bulbs and incandescent fixtures , in comparison, have shorter shelf lives of 15,000 and 1,500 hours, respectively.

This difference stems from the greater efficiency of LED bulbs, which convert electricity into visible light with minimal energy losses from heat. Incandescent bulbs, on the other hand, generate heat to produce light, which degrades their internal components faster.

Fluorescent fixtures also depend on a chemical reaction between a gas discharge, phosphor coating, and electricity to generate light. These elements wear out gradually and faster than LEDs, hence their shorter service life.

Can I Use Underwater Lights in Freshwater or Saltwater?

Absolutely, underwater boat lights are versatile tools that operate in freshwater and saltwater environments. They feature protective elements such as rust-proof housing and watertight seals that facilitate this versatility.

Saltwater is notoriously corrosive due to high amounts of chloride ions and a rust-proof material such as powder-coated aluminum is necessary to protect your fixture from developing cracks and openings due to corrosion.

Aluminum’s inherent resistance to rust increases with the powder coating on its surface as it creates an additional barrier between the salt water and your underwater boat light.

While freshwater isn’t as corrosive as salt water, it still poses a risk for the delicate components within your fixture. An intrusion, should it occur, disrupts current flow within the light and causes electrical shorts that damage components, including the bulbs.

As such, underwater boat lights, such as the Zambezi X2 Surface Mount Underwater Light , feature watertight seals that protect its interior from any water intrusion to depths of up to eight feet.

How Do Underwater Lights Enhance the Aesthetics of My Boat?

You’ve probably come across the poetic phrase, “In the night, the sea comes alive.” This is a fact and part of it involves underwater lights.

At night, these submerged fixtures turn any piece of metal and reinforced fiberglass into a captivating vessel, bathing its surrounding water with artistic , vibrant beams . The kind of beams that show off your vessel’s beautiful contours while creating an alluring ambiance.

And if you choose full color-changing underwater fixtures, your vessel dances with the nighttime waves in the dynamic glow of a red, blue, and green combo. One that adds depth and drama to the whole picture.

It’s the sort of magical scene that takes your breath away the first time you see it before turning you into a storyteller and boating enthusiast for the rest of your life.

That’s the elevating effect of underwater boat lights and why Apex Lighting offers the largest collection of fixtures and accessories for all your vessels. It's about sharing this magic and the joy it brings with you and all your loved ones.

Check out the latest designs today and discover something special for your boat.

Bonus Reading: Boat Interior Lights: 3 Easy Tips to Fulfill Your Lighting Needs

Do Underwater Lights Attract Marine Life?

Yes, your underwater light fixtures attract marine life and this shouldn’t be surprising. It’s the same principle with which the anglerfish attracts prey. Pulses of its bacteria-lighted lure moving back and forth are enough to successfully attract pelagic crustaceans and fishes.

In your case, fishing or observing marine life with underwater lights works optimally with a green glow. The color green has a short wavelength (shorter than violet or blue) that generates more energy and penetrates deeper into the water.

This increases its chances of reaching and drawing the attention of marine life underneath, which swim closer out of curiosity.

That said, there are legal restrictions to using artificial light for fishing and similar activities, especially around seasons, location, color intensity, and equipment.

These rules aim to protect delicate marine life, so be sure to check them before purchasing and installing them to avoid legal challenges.

Is It Safe to Use Underwater Lights While Swimming?

Yes, using your underwater lights while swimming is safe , provided the fixtures are installed correctly without any exposed wires and have a watertight design to completely prevent water intrusion and possibly an electric shock.

Such fixtures typically have a minimum rating of Ingress Protection (IP) 67, which signifies comprehensive protection from moisture and water penetration, impactful splashes, and an immersible capability of up to seven feet.

This means the fixture remains optimal and fully resistant to the above marine elements even at seven feet, neutralizing any possibility of an electric shock through seepage.

For high-wattage fixtures, typically exceeding 100 watts, this level of waterproofing is particularly sensitive due to the amount of energy involved. You want your underwater lights to maintain safety even under stressful conditions such as continuous immersion at seven feet.

As such, Apex Lighting steps it up with marine-grade construction for all its fixtures to prevent corrosion, eventual seepage, and the possibility of shocks.

The 120-watt Bluefin LED Great White GW20 , for instance, features high-impact polymer for its lenses. This sturdy material not only prevents water intrusion and impact cracking but also inhibits marine growth and corrosion to maintain safety throughout its over 50,000-hour lifespan.

What Colors Are Available for Underwater Lights?

The palette of underwater lighting offers a broad spectrum of colors , allowing you to customize the luminous display beneath your boat.

These underwater illuminations are available in a myriad of hues, ranging from the purity of white to the serenity of blue , the freshness of green , the intensity of red , and the warmth of yellow.

But the dynamism doesn’t stop there. Some fixtures, such as the SeaBlaze Typhoon Thru-Hull Underwater , offer an exciting dual-color option of white and blue.

These colors are particularly popular for the creative ambiance mix they enable, such as cross-fade pulses of spacious white and calming blue, but are also common because they’re functional.

White and blue are effective at attracting marine life. While they’re not as long in wavelength as green, they are significantly penetrative in the water and noticeable by sea creatures including zooplanktons, which attract fish.

Can I Customize the Color of My Underwater Lights?

Absolutely. Color customization for underwater lights is one of the most exciting aspects of being a boating enthusiast.

It enables you to set the right ambiance for the occasion, showcase the beauty of your vessel, particularly its contours, and realize those breathtaking moments you’ll always be talking about.

Picture your vessel in the ocean, dancing in tune with the gentle nighttime waves under different glows of a full color-changing fixture , possibly in strobes or cross-fades.

It’s one of the most loved color customization methods supported by many manufacturers via programmable RGB underwater boat lights. One classic example is the Lumitec Javelin 600X LED Underwater Light , available from Apex Lighting.

This fixture offers the full spectrum of RGBW plus the dual white and blue mode in a dazzling Color Rendering Index of over 70. That’s a measure of its resolution out of 100 and a rating of over 70 places this fixture on the high end of the spectrum. Imagine the possibilities.

Another creative way of color customization for your underwater boat lights involves hued lenses or filters . They open up the possibility of matching different colors that mimic marine species and their bioluminescent patterns.

For instance, a green-yellow lens simulates the appearance of alluring phytoplankton and helps create a naturally enchanting ambiance around your vessel.

This is an effective color customization method for your fixture, whether you’d like to attract marine life or just set the mood for a memorable nighttime boating experience.

That said, avoid using flashing blue lights or alternating flashing red and yellow lights when customizing your fixtures.

These colors are exclusively reserved for enforcement vessels and will cause confusion for other boat users who must slow down when approached by vessels bearing these types of lights.

Are There Any Regulations on the Use of Underwater Lights?

The use of underwater lighting for boats is governed by a variety of regulations, and these can differ significantly depending on your geographical location.

Notably, some localities have rules that specifically prohibit the use of colored lights which could be confused with distress or official signals . For instance, in the State of Connecticut, the use of flashing blue lights is forbidden for non-enforcement vessels.

This is a crucial safety measure designed to prevent potential misunderstandings that could lead to unnecessary emergency responses.

Additionally, in certain jurisdictions, such as Connecticut, regulations stipulate that only specialized commercial assistant boats , such as towing boats, can display flashing red and yellow lights.

This typically ensures the safety of other water users and prevents any possible accidents such as collision with the disabled vessel being towed.

As a boat owner, it's your responsibility to understand and adhere to these rules. Therefore, prior to installing and using underwater lights, it's highly recommended to conduct thorough research into the specific rules that apply in your area.

This can often be done by consulting with local boating authorities or marine law enforcement agencies.

What Is the Warranty Period for Underwater Lights?

The duration of warranty for underwater lighting systems can differ significantly based on the specific product and the manufacturer .

Typically, expect a warranty period of between two and three years , as is the case with the Bluefin LED Piranha P12 and SeaBlaze X2 LED Underwater Light CHROME , respectively.

These are reasonable warranty offers considering LED bulbs, which dominate modern underwater light designs and are the most durable, have a lifespan starting from 25,000 hours or 2.85 years.

It also means that 3-year warranties are among the best offers, demonstrating a manufacturer's confidence in the reliability and durability of their underwater boat lights.

That said, there are different types of warranties with different covers. Some are exclusive to specific parts of the lights, such as the internal components, while others are more comprehensive and include more parts, like the fixture housing.

Therefore, you must be fully informed before making a purchase to select the best offer for your type of fixture. Naturally, for the premium options above $1,000, full coverage for the most time period is the most preferred choice.

Can I Switch Underwater Lights From One Boat to Another?

Absolutely, transferring underwater lights from one vessel to another is possible , provided they’re compatible .

This means that their conditions for operation are similar. For instance, they share voltage ratings, share mounting styles (whether surface mount or thru-hull), and have similar dimensions that fit comfortably in each other's mounts.

This type of compatibility is common between models of the same brand. Manufacturers often use similar specifications with slight variations for different editions. It’s a lean production strategy that limits the demand for independent lines and materials, lowering the overall cost of production.

As such, a fixture such as the Bluefin LED Piranha P3 and the Bluefin LED Piranha P6 LED Color Changing share multiple specifications such as surface mounting, a 24-volt rating, and a diameter of 3.8 inches.

Even so, it’s important to consult a licensed professional l for guidance on the best matching light fixtures, installation, and local regulations.

What Is the Best Material for Underwater Lights?

The best material for underwater lights is one that protects your fixturefrom corrosion , strong UV radiation , impact , and prevents water ingress to ensure longevity.

However, there are plenty of effective candidates, which is the reason for the exciting variety of design options in underwater fixtures today.

So, let’s start with the best materials against UV radiation and impact.

You’ve probably purchased and experienced a plastic-cased device that faded, became brittle, and deteriorated after continuous sun exposure. Soon after that, the impact of dust and frequent handling led to cracks and breaks.

Well, this is also possible with your underwater fixtures, especially the lens, without a sturdy material.

Excellent examples of sturdy materials include shatterproof polycarbonate , which is 250 times stronger than glass , and injection-molded plastics . Their makeup protects them from physical impact and includes UV stabilizers and coatings that shield them from the effects of exposure.

For corrosion and water ingress, marine-grade materials are essential in keeping rust from forming and breaching your fixture, enabling water intrusion. These include:

• Powder-coated aluminum - Aluminum is inherently resistant to rust due to a naturally occurring oxide layer that keeps water from the metal’s surface. A powder coating creates an additional barrier between water and your fixture, enhancing resistance to corrosion.
• Marine-grade stainless steel - This material is highly resistant to corrosion due to its unique composition that includes chromium, known to form a protective oxide layer on the surface when exposed to oxygen.

Apex Lighting features marine-grade materials in its entire collection of underwater fixtures, from premium models to entry-level solutions such as the Lumitec Zambezi Mini Surface Mount with its marine-grade stainless steel housing.

It’s part of the brand’s commitment to ensuring the highest quality standards in all products, including accessories.

Do I Need Additional Wiring for Underwater Lights?

Certainly, dedicated wiring for your underwater lights is necessary because it enhances safety , especially in the event of a malfunction.

The last thing you want is to be out at sea with a dead engine and one power connection for the entire vessel’s lighting system.

A separate wire layout for your underwater fixture prevents total power loss to your vessel and safeguards your chances of signaling other vessels if the connection to your onboard navigation lights fail.

This backup lighting capability not only increases your chance of rescue but also prevents possible collision with other boats, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

As such, it’s essential to have a professional install your additional wiring for underwater lights to guarantee reliable functionality and independent operation from your onboard fixtures.

This will entail critical aspects such as fuses and circuit breakers to isolate your underwater lights from any imbalances and failures of the onboard fixtures, which are specialized concepts that require training and experience to execute successfully.

Are Underwater Lights Waterproof?

Yes, underwater boat lights are waterproof . This is the only way they’re able to survive maritime environments without suffering short circuits and blown fuses from water intrusion.

Specifically, underwater boat fixtures have a water-tight seal and rust-proof construction that enable immersion in water at different depths by keeping the pressure, water, and salinity away from the delicate internal components.

Typically marine-grade metals such as powdered aluminum and stainless steel go into constructing their rustproof housing, while tempered glass and adhesives protect against water ingress.

This combination results in different ingress protection (IP) ratings that communicate the level of resistance each light has.

A fixture such as the Zambezi X2 Surface Mount Underwater Light , for instance, has an IP68 rating. This signals fully waterproof seals and an immersion capability of 8 feet, which is more than enough for deep illumination to aid nighttime fishing or oceanic viewing.

What Is the Difference Between LED and Halogen Underwater Lights?

The key difference between LEDs and halogen underwater fixtures is in how they generate visible light .

LED fixtures use diodes to convert electrical energy into light. The process generates minimal heat and consequently is very efficient and less straining to the internal electrical components. This explains the lengthy lifespans of over 25,000 hours that LED lights achieve.

Halogen bulbs, on the other hand, are a form of incandescent fixture, meaning they emit light from heat generation. Specifically, halogen fixtures produce light by passing a current through a tungsten filament in the presence of halogen gas.

The process generates heat and is, therefore, less efficient and stressful on the internal electrical components than an LED light. As a result, incandescent fixtures typically last 1,500 hours .

That said, when deciding between the two, consider that incandescent lights, such as halogen fixtures, are still currently cheaper to produce and widely available.

As such, they’re recommendable for basic lighting where investing in over 25,000 hours of service life isn’t necessary. But for more functionality and energy efficiency , LED lights are predominantly suitable.

What’s more, they’re becoming more and more affordable and are on track to becoming the standard underwater lighting solution for all your boating needs.

How Do I Choose the Best Underwater Lights for My Boat?

It’s true that not all underwater boat lights are made equal. Some fixtures deliver more value in terms of efficiency , durability , and aesthetics , which are excellent considerations for choosing your ideal underwater fixture.

Right off the bat, LED fixtures are the longest-serving underwater lights, clocking over 25,000 hours compared to the 1,500 and 15,000 hours of incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, respectively.

That said, incandescent and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) are still popular alternatives, due to their wide availability and relatively cheap production costs.

Therefore, the following table highlights the maximum acceptable watt rating for each type of light per luminosity. Use it as your second selection point and choose the most efficient fixture for your preferred type of boat lights and optimal brightness.

Lastly, consider the aesthetics of the fixture design you settle for. Choose a boat light with a Color Rendering Index of over 70.

This is a measure of color resolution out of 100, and the higher the score, the more accurate your fixture is at recreating colors around your vessel for a more enchanting ambiance. 70 is an above-average rating and an excellent cut-off point for selecting your ideal fixture.

Can I Use Underwater Lights for Fishing?

Certainly, underwater boat lights attract marine life, making them effective tools for catching fish .

This application is known as bioluminescence and is especially effective during nocturnal fishing expeditions.

Green underwater fixtures, in particular, are quite penetrative through water surfaces due to their short wavelengths (shorter than blue or white) that generate more energy.

This makes them excellent at reaching and attracting smaller fish species, generating an illuminated feeding frenzy that invariably draws in larger predatory fish species. For the avid angler, this naturally-occurring spectacle potentially yields a bountiful catch.

However, it's imperative to note that the application of underwater lights for fishing purposes is governed by specific regulations and guidelines which vary across different regions.

For example, Minnesota prohibits the use of artificial lights to lure or see fish in the water while spearing, but not for bow fishing.

As responsible anglers, it's essential to be well-versed in and strictly adhere to such local fishing laws to avoid legal risks and ensure a sustainable balance of aquatic ecosystems.

What Is the Maintenance Required for Underwater Lights?

Maintaining the pristine condition and efficiency of your underwater boat lights is not as daunting as it may initially seem. All you need is a few simple routine tasks.

Firstly, a weekly cleaning regimen is essential to preserve the brightness and clarity of your lights. This inhibits the accumulation of dirt, grime, and sea growth across the surface of your fixture, gradually obscuring and dimming illumination.

The best approach to regular cleaning is to gently wipe the surface of your lights with a soft cloth after dampening lightly with a mild soap solution. Also, use light brushes to gently scrape away any barnacles stuck on the fixture.

Abrasive cleaning agents such as acetone are not recommended because they weaken parts of your fixture such as the lenses, creating potential intrusion spots for rain and seawater.

Your second maintenance task is to periodically inspect your lights (before and after every cruise) for any signs of wear and tear.

Specifically, look out for cracks , scratches , and any signs of corrosion such as discoloration of metal, noting the extent of damage and how soon you’ll need to make a replacement.

Also, keep an eye out for burnt-out bulbs, for instance, the number of diodes in your LED lamp that don’t work.

Dimming of failing bulbs is a clear sign of failure and the perfect time to replace the internal components or the entire device if the malfunction couples with a damaged housing.

Lastly, check your connections and ensure they’re secure and free from any water ingress and corrosion. One particularly critical area is the terminal where your cable meets the light fixture.

This spot often includes screws and clamps that come loose over time due to the physical nature of a marine environment that includes waves and engine vibrations.

As such, you need to verify that all the screws and clamps are tightened and that the connections are well-insulated to prevent water ingress and damage to your fixture.

Can I Use Underwater Lights as a Navigation Tool?

No, underwater boat fixtures are not designed or intended to serve as navigational tools.

Their lights, though vibrant enough to illuminate the surrounding aquatic environment, don’t possess the necessary range of directionality to support safe and effective navigation in various conditions.

Take the instance of a pontoon vessel. An underwater fixture is typically mounted on the transom area and pointing downwards. This is a sensible position and aim, considering most of the boating activities, such as fishing and swimming, occur within that area.

However, from a navigational standpoint, the ideal location for a fixture would be higher on the vessel and forward-facing to enhance visibility and prevent collisions . This is why navigational lights , such as the LED Masthead Lamp from Apex Lighting, work better than underwater fixtures.

Navigational lights are built to not only shine forward to prevent collisions with other vessels, but to also indicate your direction of travel and boating activity via different color codes in all directions. These are simply impossible tasks for submerged fixtures pointing at the ocean.

Do I Need a Special Switch for Underwater Lights?

Indeed, your underwater boat lights need a special switch to cope with the rigors of a maritime environment and enable distinctive functions such as color changing and dimming.

The maritime risk of water and dust intrusion from harsh weather, splashes, and even fog, is such that your switch will require a more rugged type of insulation than, say, your indoor switches. These include marine-grade seals and an IP-rated case.

In comparison, your indoor switches face minimal exposure to these elements, with their primary stress point coming from frequent use, which wears them out.

On top of coping with maritime elements, your underwater boat light switch also faces vibrations from the engine and your boat’s constant rocking from the waves.

This necessitates an impact-resistant design, such as mounting dampeners , creating more distinction from typical indoor light switches and even dock light switches.

And then there’s the back-and-forth motion that all boats experience. Your fixture needs a special switch to enable easy operation even in these conditions, for example, when changing colors or accessing different brightness settings.

As such, a fixture such as the Lumitec SeaBlaze Quattro features a simple and effective Timed Toggle Protocol (TTP) switch that only requires a flick to toggle between the different color and light settings.

This unique design solves the otherwise sophisticated problem of selecting different light options in unfavorable conditions, such as a rocking boat, which is difficult with an ordinary switch.

Can I Control Underwater Lights With a Remote?

Certainly, remote control functionality is possible with today’s underwater boat lights .

These fixtures adopt the same communication protocols as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, such as Bluetooth and WiFi, for the convenience and ease of use they enable.

How this remote setup typically works is, your underwater lights draw power from your batteries through a communication module, such as the POCO Digital Lighting Control V3 from Apex Lighting.

This module, apart from sending power, also delivers lighting instructions such as on-off and color selections to your submerged fixture via an output channel. The user issues these commands via an input communication protocol, typically Bluetooth, and with a smart device.

The following diagram illustrates this operation.

So, essentially, any underwater boat light is capable of remote control if it’s compatible with such a communication module. This particular device works fully with Lumitec brands to enable on-off commands and color selection and partially with non-Lumitec brands for on-off functions.

Can I Install Underwater Lights on My Sailboat?

Yes, installing an underwater light on your sailboat is not only feasible but also greatly beneficial to your vessel.

The fixture provides a unique and magical atmosphere of vibrant colors around your boat that enhances your nighttime sailing experience.

It also provides functionality with gentle illumination to draw sea creatures for fishing or viewing, while improving visibility around your vessel for safe nighttime sailing.

Even so, there are crucial factors to consider before making the leap, for instance, the weight of your fixture relative to your sailboat size. This is particularly sensitive for small dinghies and daysailers, where significant weight additions impact balance and steering capabilities.

Some fixtures draw power from 24-volt lead-acid batteries, for instance, which generally weigh 39 pounds or more and add considerable weight to a small-sized sailboat.

Another important consideration is your local regulations around underwater fixtures and sailboats. A state such as Minnesota prohibits artificial light , including underwater boat lights, for fishing while spearing.

Such regulations set restrictions on how you’re able to use your boat light, if you decide to install it, and are worth considering to assess value.

Which Color Disappears First Underwater?

Within the visible light spectrum, red has the longest wavelength of 650 nanometers (nm) that generates less energy as it travels and is, therefore, the least penetrative through water surfaces.

As such, the color red disappears first underwater as it’s absorbed by water molecules, becoming completely undetectable at 40 meters of saltwater. This is why a red-pigmented fish appears black at 20 meters, making it the perfect camouflage color for marine life.

Therefore when selecting the best color for attracting marine life, red is the least suitable and is better for creating ambiance around your vessel and setting a vibrant mood for your guests.

Violet and green have shorter wavelengths that generate more energy as they travel. This makes them more penetrative through water and more effective at attracting marine life for fishing and viewing.

Do I Need a Transformer for Underwater Boat Lights?

Not for all underwater fixtures . Transformers are certainly critical for certain types of underwater lights, especially when dealing with voltage differences. A typical example is powering your 120-volt incandescent underwater fixture with a 24-volt or 12-volt battery.

A transformer helps you match your voltage supply (power source) with your fixture by amplifying the voltage or stepping it down through electromagnetic induction .

This principle involves current flow between two coils within the transformer, a primary coil that’s connected to a power source and a secondary coil that’s connected to a load or your underwater lights.

As current passes through the primary coil, it induces electron flow within the secondary coil via electromagnetism. Depending on the number of windings on the secondary coil, this action either amplifies voltage or steps it down.

So, for a step-up action, such as turning 24 volts into 120 volts, the secondary coil has more windings on the secondary coil. As induction creates electron flow within the secondary coil, the electrons experience more turns due to the extra windings.

This generates a greater voltage output compared to the original voltage supply to the primary coil, hence the title “transformer.” Therefore, you need a transformer for underwater lights if your voltage supply (power source) isn’t compatible with your type of fixture.

Can I Use Underwater Lights in Rough Seas?

Yes, underwater lights certainly possess the capability to operate in turbulent water conditions.

They’re built to withstand maritime stress with protective elements such as a stainless steel casing, IP-rated insulation, immersion resistance, and polycarbonate lenses. This material is 250 times stronger than glass and excellent against extreme weather and flying debris.

Even so, you must exercise caution when in rough conditions. In spite of their robustness, underwater boat fixtures work optimally in more serene and peaceful waters.

These conditions avoid pushing your lights to the edge of their limits and help you maximize their expected lifespan and your return on investment. But it’s not just about the fixtures. It’s also about your safety as a boating enthusiast.

Rough seas carry greater risks than a damaged underwater fixture, so it’s better to enjoy your boating adventure in favorable conditions.

Safety Warning: Operating your boat in rough seas poses risks to both you and the equipment. Be sure to follow maritime safety guidelines and consult local weather and sea conditions before setting out.

What Types of Underwater Boat Lights Does Apex Lighting Offer?

Apex Lighting is a one-stop shop that caters to all your underwater boat lighting needs with an extensive range of high-quality fixtures including:

• Thru-Hull Lights - Apex Lighting carries only the most innovative models featuring unique qualities such as the SeaBlaze Typhoon Thru-Hull Underwater with its mounting flange nut. This mount distributes the pressure applied to the nut over a larger surface area to create a firm and secure fitting that stands up to engine vibrations and the constant rocking motion of your vessel.
• Surface Mount Lights - The Apex Lighting collection features sturdy properties to withstand harsh maritime elements such as saltwater and its corrosiveness. One example is the SeaBlaze Quattro , which features a marine-grade bronze body.
• Color Changing Lights - Whether you own a large commercial yacht or a recreational boat, Apex Lighting offers bright and colorful fixtures to create ambiance around your vessel. You’ll find the full-color Lumitec Javelin 600X that’s ideal for medium to large vessels. You’ll also find the more nimble Zambezi Mini Surface Mount that’s perfect for pontoons and small boats.

The table below shows selected examples of each of the different types of underwater boat lights available at Apex Lighting.

“Nice lights, easy to install, pretty bright!” — Ian L., Verified Buyer

What Brands of Underwater Boat Lights Does Apex Lighting Carry?

Apex Lighting deals exclusively with top-notch brands . These names have left significant imprints in the industry and become synonymous with exceptional quality, durability, and cutting-edge design.

First among these brands is Bluefin LED , which offers a wide variety of exceptional underwater lights, including the Manta Ray MR20 Thru-Hull Underwater Light , for its impressive luminescence of 15,000 lumens and full color changing.

Another remarkable brand is Lumitec that’s well-known for its durability. Lumitec manufactures its products to withstand harsh maritime conditions and includes sturdy features such as the plated naval bronze housing of the Javelin 600X LED Underwater Light .

Plating improves corrosion resistance by creating a barrier between salt water and the fixture. At the same time, naval bronze is an alloy of excellent strength and resistance to corrosion.

The list extends to include Aqualuma , which is a long-established brand revered for top-quality fixtures that perfectly blend functionality and aesthetics.

The Aqualuma 18 Series LED Underwater Light , for instance, features a gorgeous transparent case that shows off its inner working and delivers a powerful blue or white illumination of 2,150 lumens.

But the list doesn't end there. Apex Lighting is continually updating its portfolio with more and more brands that meet the high standards clients have come to expect.

So, by choosing Apex Lighting, you can trust that you're investing in the products available in the market from the leading brands in the industry.

Can I Use Apex Lighting’s Boat Lights for Different Types of Boats?

Absolutely, Apex Lighting's vast selection of marine lights caters to a diverse range of aquatic vehicles , whether you own a cozy sailboat, a robust fishing vessel, a luxurious yacht, or any other type of marine craft.

Their underwater light, such as the Lumitec SeaBlaze X2 LED Underwater Light , is 3.94 inches wide and features an easy-screw surface mount style. This makes the fixture minimally intrusive in terms of space and mounting, and a comfortable fit for any vessel regardless of size.

“I purchased 4 of these as a gift for my husband for our 38' SeaRay. We have only been out at night once since we installed them, but they do look great.” — Tiffany K., Verified Buyer

For smaller boats like pontoons and skiffs, Apex Lighting offers the Lumitec Zambezi Mini Surface Mount . It’s an excellent choice for powerful lighting without adding excessive weight that impacts navigation performance and range.

Meanwhile, high-end options such as the Lumitec Typhoon Thru-Hull Underwater light provide advanced features such as a 10,000-lumen illumination and modular quick-change design for color. This makes an excellent choice for larger vessels like yachts.

What Is the Pricing Range for Boat Lights at Apex Lighting?

The pricing of boat lights at Apex Lighting spans a broad spectrum to accommodate all budgets, from premium offers of over $1,000 to economical prices of under $300. Mid rangers cost below $1,000 and above $400.

That said, the individual price of each model depends on factors such as the brand and distinctive features of the light. As such, the 15,000-lumen Bluefin LED Great White GW20 costs upwards of $1,000, while the 6,000-lumen Lumitec Javelin 600X LED costs just under $700.

Therefore to get the ideal value for money, first determine the features that are most critical to your specific application. For instance, where will you place the fixture and how bright should it be? Will you need to safeguard the light from corrosive saltwater?

These considerations help you pinpoint your ideal boat light and keep you from investing in unnecessary features that increase the purchase price.

Does Apex Lighting Offer LED Boat Lights?

Absolutely, Apex Lighting not only offers LED boat lights but also provides an extensive LED collection that caters to a variety of marine lighting needs. These include dock spaces, boat interiors and exteriors, and even underwater illumination.

Why? LED lights are a significant upgrade over traditional bulbs , providing three main advantages.

Firstly, LED boat lights are known for their longevity , with fixtures such as the Bluefin LED Great White GW20 clocking over 50,000 hours of service.

This lifespan far surpasses that of traditional incandescent bulbs, which manage 1,500 hours, and translates into less frequent replacements.

Secondly, LED boat lights are much more energy-efficient compared to their traditional incandescent counterparts. They consume 80% less power , which is a crucial consideration for boat owners as energy resources on a boat are often limited.

Lastly, despite their lower energy consumption, LED boat lights produce intense illumination . The Bluefin LED Great White fixture, for instance, produces 12,000 lumens, which is sufficient for enhancing visibility and safety in any marine setting, particularly during nighttime navigation.

Related Reading: Types of Boat Lights & What You Need to Know Before Buying

Can Underwater Boat Lights Increase the Value of My Vessel?

Absolutely, underwater lights from Apex Lighting have high Color Rendering Index (CRI) ratings that help you enhance the aesthetic beauty of your vessel and, consequently, its value.

After the basics, such as your boat size and sea mileage, it’s the elegance of your vessel that enhances its appeal and perceived value.

This element taps into our subjective perception of value that we rely on to evaluate products after the factual numbers. As such, the Javelin 600X LED Underwater with its high CRI of over 70 and full color changing is excellent at sprucing up your vessel and boosting its overall value.

Likewise, the fixture’s high-polish finish and distinctive rectangular design add to the elegance and personality of your vessel that collectively serve to enhance its value.

How Can I Find the Best Light for My Boat?

Determining the optimal lighting for your boat involves a combination of utilizing digital tools and seeking professional advice .

The Apex Lighting website features a powerful filter feature that allows you to navigate through an array of boat lights with ease.

This filtering tool efficiently sorts lights based on categories such as type, brand, and price, which are excellent considerations to help you pinpoint the best choice for your specific set of requirements.

But what’s more effective is the one-on-one advice from the dedicated staff at Apex Lighting. Nothing beats this personalized touch and wealth of experience in helping you figure out the best light for your boat size, aesthetic style, geographical location, and even environment.

For instance, saltwater versus freshwater. You’ll definitely need more protective features for your boat lights to operate in a saltwater environment than you would in a freshwater setting, which requires more financial investment.

Moreover, the knowledgeable staff at Apex Lighting will help you understand the different lighting technologies available for your boat, such as LED and compact fluorescent bulbs, and their respective benefits in terms of affordability and longevity.

How Do I Install the Boat Lights I Purchased From Apex Lighting?

Apex Lighting products are pretty user-friendly. They enable a plug-and-play setup that makes their installation incredibly straightforward.

But the best part is that you don’t have to figure it out yourself. Each lighting product comes with its own detailed set of instructions to guide you through the entire installation process, from preparing your boat for installation to securing the light in the right place.

What’s more, the Apex Lighting website features explainer videos on each product page with breakdowns of their unique functionalities to further inform your installation.

So, all you have to do for a successful installation is follow the step-by-step manuals and refer to the product videos .

That said, not everyone is comfortable with DIY installations, and the process might seem complex, especially if it's your first time dealing with boat lights.

In this instance, seek assistance from a professional experienced in boat light setups. This not only ensures correct installation but also guarantees optimal operation, which is crucial for their performance and longevity.

“Very easy to install and fit perfectly. Replaced the cheap lights that caused my stereo to “scramble”. All works great now. Another great purchase from Apex Lighting.” — Bill H., Verified Buyer

Does Apex Lighting Offer a Warranty on Their Boat Lights?

Indeed, Apex Lighting provides reasonable 2–3-year warranties on their boat light fixtures to ensure your investment and peace of mind are well-protected.

This information features on each product page under “Warranty Information” and right before customer reviews to help your purchase decision and prove the reliability of each light design.

Additionally, the motivated staff at Apex Light are always reachable via phone at (954) 421-3267 and ready to respond to all your queries, including warranty information.

This provides an excellent avenue for you to discover more about the individual product coverages and the specific terms and conditions of making a claim, for instance, for self-installed light fixtures.

Does Apex Lighting Ship Internationally?

Thinking of gifting a friend overseas? Wondering if they’ll be able to receive it?

Yes, they will. Apex Lighting ships internationally via UPS and USPS .

Both carriers provide services to more than 220 and 180 territories , respectively, extending accessibility to high-quality marine lights beyond the United States. This includes Great Britain, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Australia, which are excellent locations for boating enthusiasts.

That said, the nature of international logistics is complex, with evolving import-export policies and regulations that change over time.

As such, it’s critical to check the latest shipping policies on the Apex Lighting website regularly, especially for non-immediate destinations.

This will provide the most current and accurate information on international shipping capabilities, rates, and other related details.

Alternatively, reach out to Apex Lighting directly and find out whether your desired location is within their shipping list.

“Easy to install and look great at night. Installed for night fishing and diving.” — Warren J., Verified Buyer

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6 Best Trolling Motor Batteries of 2024

Without a reliable trolling motor in your boat, you’d better hope you at least thought to bring a paddle, because you’ll be getting nowhere fast. Trolling motor batteries need to be the proper size for your vessel and feature the power output for the motor to which they’re attached. Here, we cover products at multiple different voltage ratings, amp hours, and price points.

One of these trolling motor batteries, like our top choice, the Ionic Batteries 12V 1200Ah Lithium-Ion Battery, will be a solid match for your fishing activities, whether you need to power a 21-foot bass boat or a pedal-drive kayak . In order to choose the best possible batteries to power your trolling motor, we spoke with boating experts, read user reviews, and compared stats on all the best trolling boat batteries out there.

Table of Contents

• Best Trolling Motor Batteries
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Ionic Batteries 12V 1200Ah Lithium-Ion Battery  »

70% lighter than comparable lead acid battery

Bluetooth-enabled for easy monitoring

Automatic cold weather protection

Can daisy-chain with up to 3 other batteries

Very expensive

Some units have bad cells

The Ionic Batteries 12V 1200Ah Lithium-Ion Battery is a powerhouse tucked into a portable package. At well under 30 pounds, it weighs about half as much as a comparable lead acid battery, yet it delivers plenty of juice for hours at a time. This battery can operate in temperatures as cold as -4 degrees Fahrenheit or as hot as 140 degrees, with a built-in cold weather protection system that prevents it from taking a charge in temperatures below 24 degrees F. Also, you’ll always know where your charge stands because this battery has Bluetooth technology that lets you track its charge level in real time.

This is an expensive trolling motor battery, there are no two ways about that. And some units apparently have cell failures that dramatically limit the duration of power output. However, most last well for more than a decade and enjoy a charge cycle of up to 5,000 charges and discharges, though. And when linked together with up to three additional batteries, you can create enough power to run more than just a trolling motor, but a life off the grid.

Weize TL12100 Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery  »

Good price point

AGM safety features

Color-coded and clearly marked terminals

Requires recharge ASAP after discharge to preserve capabilities

A Weize TL12100 Deep Cycle AGM 12 Volt 100Ah Battery will cost you hundreds of dollars less than a lithium-ion battery with similar power output capabilities, yet it’s durable, reliable, and has a very low self-discharge rate. The battery loses just 1-3% of its charge per month, or only up to 40% of its charge during an entire year of disuse. When you are using this battery with your trolling motor, be sure to recharge it as soon as you can after it gets discharged, or it will eventually start to lose some capacity. The last thing you want is to have your fishing rod in hand in the middle of a lake or river but no way to get back to shore.

As is always the case with lead-acid batteries, this thing is very heavy. At 57 pounds, it might be too heavy for smaller boats, but if your vessel can handle the weight, you’ll be pleased to get a 12-volt, 100 amp hour battery for well under $200 that will last for many years to come, and one with AGM (absorbent glass mat) layers that help prevent acid leakage, too.

ECO-WORTHY LiFePO4 12V 50Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery  »

Very lightweight

Multiple protection features

Up to 15,000 charge cycles

Loses capacity if not kept charged up

Poor customer service

The ECO-WORTHY LiFePO4 12V 50Ah Lithium-Iron Phosphate Battery costs hundreds less than even large lithium-ion batteries (lithium-iron batteries tend to be more expensive than lithium-ion batteries), but it is tough and capable, rated to reach as many as 15,000 charging cycles. This battery has more safety features built into it than you ever knew existed. It has automatic short-circuit protection. It has overcharge and over-discharge protection features. It has high-temperature protection features. And it is safe from overcurrent damage.

All those safety features are good news because, according to reviews, the company’s customer service quality is not the best, but you’ll likely never need it. At just over $150, this battery is a good price for good quality, though, at 50Ah, it might lack the power that some trolling motors require.

Mighty Max ML7-12 Rechargeable Sealed Lead-Acid Battery  »

Great price point

Low self-discharge rate

AGM safety technology

Small Ah rating

Drains fast in cold weather

The Mighty Max ML7-12 Rechargeable Sealed Lead-Acid Battery costs just $20 but, in a pinch, it’s a plucky little battery you’ll be glad you brought along. To be clear, this battery is intended as a backup that you can use to motor home to safety, not as a battery that will have you out cruising the lake or river for hours on end. Its 7.2 amp hour rating is decidedly petite, but so too is this battery at just 4.5 pounds, so it’s no problem to tuck it in with the rest of your gear even if you hope to never need it.

While the Mighty Max ML7-12 Rechargeable Sealed Lead-Acid Battery holds a charge well in mild conditions (think while being stored on a shelf in your basement), it loses power fast in the cold. Its capacity diminishes by more than 35% in temperatures below freezing, but you probably won’t be out fishing in such cold weather anyway.

Li Time LiFePO4 24V 100Ah Battery  »

Hours of output

Reliable battery management system

Up to 15,000 cycles

Large and heavy

If your trolling motor calls for plenty of power, then the Li Time LiFePO4 24V 100Ah Battery will easily deliver. This 24-volt, 100 amp-hour battery will keep your motor running for hours on end, and it will be safe for frequent and extensive use, as well. The built-in BMS (or battery management system) prevents overcharging, over-current, short circuits, and overheating.

As big as it is on safety, the Li Time LiFePO4 24V 100Ah Battery is also just big. It’s nearly 2 feet wide and it weighs more than 45 pounds, but at least it has built-in carrying handles that will help you move it around. It’s also pretty big on price, at $500, but if you want to have plenty of power, you need to pay for it.

CHINS LiFePO4 36V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery  »

All-day capabilities

Reliable waterproofing

Excellent safety features

Heavy and large

The CHINS LiFePO4 36V 100Ah Deep Cycle Battery is an expensive battery, there’s no two ways about it. But able to deliver 100 amps per hour and with a massage 36-volt rating, this battery can keep even an intense trolling motor whirring away for hours on end, though, so you’ll get what you pay for, namely power. It can be used in high heat safely and, with an IP65 waterproof rating, some splashes or drizzle aren’t going to impact your day on the water.

The 70.5-pound weight of this battery may be too much for smaller boats, but if you can fit it aboard, it will be the only trolling motor battery you’ll need for years to come, as it will last. And you can check on the charge status any time during those years thanks to built-in Bluetooth connectivity.

The Bottom Line

With the best trolling motor for your boat in place, you can enjoy hours of steady, smooth motoring about the lake, river, or bay. The Ionic Batteries 12V 1200Ah Lithium Ion Battery is our pick for the best trolling motor battery overall because it weighs 70% less than a comparable lead acid battery, it charges rapidly, and it is rated for an average of 4,000 charge cycles.

Things To Consider When Buying Trolling Motor Batteries

Battery Type: There are essentially three main types of trolling motor batteries: a lithium-ion battery, a lithium-iron phosphate battery, and a lead acid battery. Lithium batteries tend to be lighter in weight, have more capacity, and often last longer, but cost much more. Between the two lithium batteries, lithium-ion batteries tend to be less expensive and have a higher energy density than lithium-iron phosphate batteries; however, lithium-iron phosphate batteries are generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly.

Lead acid batteries are heavier and less efficient, but also much less expensive. Some lead acid trolling motor batteries also feature AGM technology (short for “absorbent glass mat”.) These layers can help prevent battery acid from leaking, so these fine glass separators are worth looking for.

Power Output: You need to have a battery powerful enough for your motor type and boat size, but you also don’t want a battery that’s overpowered. “Not having enough power in the right configuration for the system will lead to disappointment in performance,” says Chris Beres of Batteries Plus. “Battery capacity, rated in Ampere hours (or Ah), will play a role in overall run time.”

Charge Cycles: Most trolling motor batteries are rated for at least 3,000 charge cycles, meaning a full re-charging and full (or nearly full) discharging of the battery through use. Some trolling motor batteries may well last more than 10,000 charges, though, so consider a battery’s durability and longevity when weighing the cost-value balance.

Size and Weight: “When considering [physical properties] of the battery, the first thing is to determine what type of motor you have,” says Roy Widgeon of USA Kayak Fishing Magazine. “Is the trolling motor a stern mount motor on an aluminum boat, or do you have a large bass boat with a bow-mounted high-output motor?” Some batteries will simply be too large and heavy for smaller boats.

Discharge Rate: The discharge rate of a trolling motor battery depends on the battery amp-hour rating and the power consumption of the motor. A 100 amp-hour (Ah) battery can run a trolling motor for 25 hours at low speed and four amps, but only 2.5 hours at a high speed and 40 amps. The higher the amp-hour rating, the longer a trolling motor will run. “Be sure to use a deep cycle battery,” says Beres. “Deep cycle batteries are specifically designed to provide continuous power over an extended period of time, which is perfect for trolling motor use.”

Charge Time: Slow charging times can be an annoyance, especially if you only own one trolling motor battery. Check for charge time information before purchase when you can, and plan ahead and keep your battery charged up so it’s ready for use whenever you want it.

Safety Features: In lead acid batteries, look for that AGM protective layering that prevents acid leaks. Also consider shock absorption abilities, safe hot or cold operating temperatures, and of course good water resistance ratings, as these batteries will be used on the water.

How We Chose the Best Trolling Motor Batteries

Because this is a rather rarefied product category, U.S. News & World Report contributor Steven John reached out to several experts for input in the course of preparing this article. On the battery development side, John connected with Chris Beres, merchandise manager with Batteries Plus . He also spoke to Roy Widgeon, founder of USA Kayak Fishing Magazine , who often uses trolling motor batteries in practice.

Both Beres and Widgeon recommended several specific trolling motor batteries, but even more important was their information on how to choose and use the best trolling motor batteries based on your boat size and type, the waters in which you are fishing, and your battery budget. Armed with information about these essential power-delivery devices, John then selected a number of trolling motor batteries for closer consideration and narrowed the list down to those featured here.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

U.S. News & World Report contributor Steven John has been testing and reviewing products for more than 13 years; in the course of that time he has honed his skills in researching and interviewing experts to gain product knowledge he can turn into actionable information for consumers. In addition to his writing with U.S. News & World Report, John also contributes to Business Insider, New York Magazine, Dad Gear Review, Architectural Digest, Forbes, The Daily Beast, and other publications.

Isabel Roy , who edited this piece, is an Outdoors editor at 360 Reviews. Her grandfather taught her to fish when she was 6 years old and she has loved spending time on the lakes and rivers ever since. She has worked reviewing and recommending products since 2019, researching and testing a wide array of items to help consumers make smart purchasing decisions.

“Match the power to how you use your boat,” says Beres. “Are you a weekend warrior, needing power occasionally for a few hours at a time, or do you need power like the pros, running all day long on a near daily basis? Are you trolling in a river or ocean current vs. still water? How large is the draw from the trolling motor size? Which is to say a bigger engine equals more power which equals larger capacity.”

Any decent trolling motor will last for at least 2,000 to 3,000 charge cycles, but some of the top-of-the-line lithium ion trolling motor batteries can far outperform that. In fact, some may well achieve 15,000 recharge and discharge cycles, which promises multiple years of use even if you’re out on the water almost daily.

It’s really a cost-benefit analysis to choose trolling motor battery types, but if budget is not a top concern, then lithium-ion is usually the way to go. “If you have a bass boat that you will be using the motor for an extended time period a lithium battery is the best option,” says Widgeon. “The lithium battery has many advantages over lead acid conventional batteries [such as] being much lighter, but it costs much more.” Consider your personal preferences as well. A lithium-iron phosphate battery has a lower environmental toll and may be a better choice for you.

You can find small, inexpensive trolling motor batteries decent for small boats, like kayaks or canoes, that cost less than $25. On the other hand, many larger, more powerful trolling motor batteries can cost well over $500 and even over $600.

Of course, and there’s no reason not to swap out an ailing battery. The process is simple and safe provided you follow basic safety precautions, so there’s no need to hire a professional to change your trolling motor battery; just make sure you understand the steps involved before commencing.

About Our Team

Steven John

Contributor

Staff Writer

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

Light Up the Fox will dazzle after dark with dozens of boats decorated in lights for parade on Fox River downtown Green Bay

GREEN BAY - After the hot-air balloon glow along the Fox River on Aug. 17, get ready for another colorful Saturday night downtown on the water.

The Light Up the Fox boat parade will feature 30 to 40 boats decorated with festive lights as they cruise the river after dark on Aug. 24.

It’s the third year for the event hosted by Green Bay Yachting Club in partnership with South Bay Marina . The first year it was just a club event and wasn’t promoted to the public. Last year’s parade was part of On Broadway Inc.’s igNight Market and went on despite heavy rain that sent spectators huddling under the cover of nearby buildings.

For decades, Green Bay had a Venetian Night on the Fox River, said Morgan Emmel, a member of Green Yachting Club and creator of Light Up the Fox. She ran across a newspaper clipping of the event from 1965 and wanted to bring back the tradition. Many yachting clubs up north do similar events that are popular, she said.

“This is not an event we have here, so to bring it to the area was really exciting. Whether it flopped or not, we were going to do it,” she said. “It’s just exciting to bring it to the area and see such a good response with our boaters and people on the deck.”

Here’s a few things to know if you want to catch the show — yacht rock optional.

When and where is the Light Up the Fox boat parade?

It is planned for approximately 9 p.m. Aug. 24. The boats will travel south from the mouth of the Fox River through the Ray Nitschke Memorial Bridge on Main Street and Bart Starr Memorial Bridge on Walnut Street and then turn around at Mason Street and complete the loop.

It's expected to take about an hour.

Where are some of the best places to watch it?

Leicht Memorial Park, CityDeck and the Neville Public Museum are all good viewing spots.

What kind of decked-out boats will there be?

The parade will include everything from 16-foot to 40-foot powerboats as well as four 10-foot sailboats from South Bay Marina's sailing group that will be the “caboose."

There’s a friendly competition among the boaters to see who has the best light display, with first-, second- and third-place prizes awarded. Past parades have included not only strings of lights but illuminated palm trees and the American flag created in lights.

More: Bay Beach Amusement Park has a Trapper Schoepp concert and two more late nights planned for August

More: Yeti's Drive-In in Crandon serves up old-fashioned fun with ice cream treats, carhops and a mythical mascot

Hey, I have a boat. Can I get it in the parade?

Sorry, the event is not open to the public for participation, but spectators are encouraged.

Can the boaters see us if we wave as they go by?

You bet. That’s part of the fun. During the inaugural parade, people who just happened to be dining on the patio at Hagemeister Park and hanging out on City Deck started to cheer as the boats went by. Emmel and her dad responded by blowing their horn and soon others followed. Same thing on the return trip.

“If they hoot and holler, we’ll give ’em a little toot,” she said.

Isn't there also a Green Bay Packers game that day?

The Packers host the Baltimore Ravens at noon for the first preseason game at Lambeau Field, so don’t be surprised if the downtown bridges are lit in corresponding colors.

Kendra Meinert is an entertainment and feature writer at the Green Bay Press-Gazette. Contact her at 920-431-8347 or [email protected] . Follow her on X @KendraMeinert .

15 Best Taper Candles for a Wick-edly Cozy Atmosphere

Warning: You may never want to leave the house.

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If you're looking to create a cozy atmosphere in the living room or enjoy dinner by candlelight in the dining room , taper candles do just the trick. These taller, more decorative candles add sophistication and personality to any room. And while there are many different kinds, they all tend to make a statement in one way or another. Regardless of whether you're going for a more modern, sleek design with all-white tapers or a whimsical feel with trendy twisted candles, we've rounded up the best taper candles for any occasion.

Add a fresh scent to your home with all-natural beeswax taper candles or leave your worries behind with the best flameless tapers. Either way, there's a candle for every space, gathering and holiday. Not a fan of all the dripping? No problem. We've included the best dripless taper candles that are mess-free.

Starting at just under $5, these candles will add charm and elegance to your home for an affordable price. Choose your color, scent (or no scent), size and voilà — you've just created a relaxing atmosphere you'll never want to leave. Browse below for some of our favorites to get you started.

Flameless Taper Candles

Tired of candles you have to clean up after? These flameless tapers look just like the real thing, just without all the mess. Plus, you won't have to worry about blowing them out before you leave the house. Place the set of six together or spread them around the house for elevated ambiance throughout your space.

Natural Beeswax Taper Candles

Made of 100% natural beeswax, this set of six tapers is loved by Amazon customers: "These candles are a beautiful, natural color. They burn a long time and are worth the cost." Other Amazon reviewers love how they don't drip or produce smoke, even when you burn them for hours at a time.

Hand-Painted Striped Taper Candles

Go for a more colorful look with these hand-painted striped tapers made in South Africa. According to the brand, each candle is carefully crafted by a team of at least 12 artisans. Try out a set of four for a pop of color throughout the house.

Black Taper Candles

Going for a monochromatic look or even a spooky Halloween vibe? These black taper candles come in a set of four and are available in a range of sizes. And if you're not looking for black candles specifically, this set also comes in a range of other bright shades.

Dripless Taper Candles

Known for being dripless, these candles come in 30 colors and four different sizes. At just under $20, customers appreciate how affordable they are. "I received the product on time and the quality was great! Just like the advertised pictures and the pricing was reasonable. I can’t wait to use these for my upcoming baby shower," raves one Amazon reviewer.

Unscented Ivory Taper Candles

For under $3, these ivory taper candles are well worth the price tag. If you're not sure about tapers yet, give them a go with this affordable set of four. Try out glass, metal or gold taper candle holders for a classic look.

Tall White Taper Candles

All-white tapers bring elegance to any gathering. These unscented candles are available in three different heights so you can choose what's best for your space. Set all 12 in gold holders for added sophistication, or try out different styles throughout your space.

Holiday Tiny Taper Candles

Who doesn't love decorating for the holidays? Whether you're decking the halls for Christmas or creating a cozy vibe for fall, this set of 12 is available in holiday-themed colors, making them the perfect addition to any tablescape.

RELATED: 20 Best Fall Candles to Celebrate the Cozy Season

Scented Hand-Dipped Taper Candles

Root Candles describes the scent of these tapers as "woody and sweet, accented with hints of fir balsam, vanilla and natural patchouli oil." With over a thousand 5-star reviews, this set of two is great for a candlelit dinner during the holiday season.

RELATED: 25 Best Scented Candles for the Home

Bow Taper Candles

These taper candles are about as cute as they come. With three pastel-colored bows on each, this set of two is bound to melt the hearts of your houseguests. "I love the colors of the bows!! These are adorable," raves one Anthropologie customer.

Lavender-Scented Taper Candles

These lavender-scented soy candles burn without producing smoke. Instead, they give off a soft, delicate lavender aroma. But if lavender isn't your preferred fragrance, try vanilla, green tea, citrus or rose-scented. The best part? Each scent corresponds with a matching color!

Taper Candles

If you love nothing more than embracing color, go for this pick that comes in 14 different shades. With classics like ivory and white and more trendy hues like sage and dove, this set of six candles can be integrated into any room with ease. Match your Christmas decor with reds or greens or go for a more summery look with blues and yellows. The possibilities are endless!

Double Twist Taper Candles

Unique yet sophisticated, twisted tapers are a fun addition to the dinner table, mantel or coffee table. Go for a whimsical take on the classic taper with pink or green twisted candles. This set of six makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on any surface.

RELATED: 18 Striking Candle Decoration Ideas

Dipped Taper Candles

This simple pair is affordable, classic and high quality. "Perfect color that blends into my decor anywhere I put candles," raves one Crate & Barrel customer who bought the set in rust brown. Try them in peony, latte brown or cranberry for a subtle splash of color.

Cedar Stick Candles

Add a touch of nature to your home with these pink beeswax tapers shaped like branches and twigs. Customers love the charming yet sophisticated look this set of two brings to their space. "These candles (I ordered two) have an elegantly rustic style. The level of detail is amazing. The beeswax is...well, the bee's knees!" raves one reviewer.

Laura Millar (she/her) is the assistant editor for Good Housekeeping , where she covers home design. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2024, she wrote for NBC’s TODAY.com where she covered everything from entertainment news to product reviews to pop culture updates.

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The Ultimate Guide to 4-Wire Trailer Connectors

If you’re not an electrician, it might seem like a daunting task to outfit your boat trailer, ATV trailer, or utility trailer with a 4-wire trailer connector. Don’t fret. It’s easier than you think! The 4-way flat connector is one of the most widely used systems for basic towing needs . This vital connection provides the required running lights, turn signals, and brake lights for your trailer. There is also an additional wire for grounding your electrical system.  

This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with an in-depth understanding of the 4-wire trailer connector , covering everything from its basic functions to wiring, installation, maintenance, and must-have accessories. Let’s get into it! 

• 4-way flat connector basics
• How to wire a 4-way flat connector
• 4-way flat vs. other connectors
• 4-way flat best practices

4-Way Flat Connector Basics

Green Right turn signal / brakes Yellow Left turn signal / brakes Brown Running lights / taillights White Ground

Wiring a 4-way flat on both the vehicle and trailer side is crucial for ensuring that your trailer’s lights function properly when you’re on the road. Let’s take a look at the function of each wire color does, steps for wiring your trailer, and the options you have for equipping your vehicle with a 4-wire connector.  

Having a basic understanding of your 4-wire trailer plug is essential for a smooth and safe towing experience. Whether you’re setting up a new towing system, or maintaining an existing one, the knowledge you’ve gained here will help keep your towing system in excellent condition and you safe on the road. Safe travels and happy towing! 

Disclaimer: These photographs, recommendations, and approximations are intended for demonstration purposes only and do not reflect the specifications of any particular tow vehicle, recreational vehicle, or trailer. Always consult the manufacturer’s Owner's Manual.