Marine Accessories: Boat Spotlights for Safety, Signaling and Illumination
Imagine you’re motoring back to a private boat dock rental after fishing the flats, watching the sunset over the bay or docking and dining at a waterfront restaurant. Unlike the highway, there aren't any nice illuminated street lights on the water. Some of those markers (especially in the Keys and the backcountry) are hard to see (and sometimes nonexistent). This is the ideal scenario for when something like a marine spotlight would shed some light on the subject.
Whether you’re fishing and boating at night or just need a little extra light, marine spotlights are an excellent investment for any boater. They provide safety, communication and general illumination in all sorts of situations.
Many of the same spotlights that are used for boating are also used for camping, hunting and diving. So, you may already have a great boating spotlight hiding out somewhere in your arsenal of outdoor supplies. Let’s discuss the types of marine spotlights and all there is to know about them.
Lumens, Beams and Batteries
Photo: Pixabay
A lumen is a measurement of light. It tells how much visible light is coming from a source (whether the source is a flashlight, a lightbulb, a spotlight or ye olde candle). The higher the lumen, the brighter the light to get you back to a private boat slip rental in the dark. For boating purposes, 1,000 lumens is a good place to be.
Beam intensity is measured by a unit called candela. As an example, a candle flame puts out about one candela of light. A boat spotlight puts out about 2,000 or more candelas.
You’ll want a beam distance of about 350 to 500 yards. If you have more than 500 yards, all the better to see with.
Most spotlights use rechargeable batteries but some use disposable ones. It’s really your preference. Rechargeable batteries are great until you forget to recharge (solar panels are helpful to keep things charged). In a case such as that, disposable ones are the ticket.
Fixed-Mount Spotlight
Photo: The Yacht Rigger (Facebook)
Also known as built-in, fixed-mount boat spotlights are installed directly onto the boat. You can find fixed-mount boat spotlights with a motorized swivel that provides 360-degree rotation for optimal illumination. They offer features such as UV resistance, internal electric motors, impact resistance, stainless steel bodies and handheld remote-control operation.
You’ll want to mount it as far forward in the boat as possible for maximum use. The foredeck is a popular spot for fixed-mount boat spotlights.
Pros
- Signal other boats when there’s trouble or you need help
- Prevent accidents and collisions
- Offers a reliable level of brightness
- Light up the water and fishing line for night boating and fishing
- Light up the deck and dock area for parties and social gatherings
Cons
- You’ll have to make sure it’s charged
- Not moveable to other areas of the boat
Features and Considerations
- Dimension and weight of the set-up
- Water and weather resistance
- Durability
- Brightness and light intensity settings (you don’t want to be blinded if all you need is a little bit of light)
- LED lights are more efficient, which equals a longer battery life
Handheld/Portable Spotlights
Photo: Stanley (screenshot)
As the name suggests, this is a hand-held light that can be taken to other places. Think of this type as a bigger and brighter version of a flashlight. Available with a 12-volt or a rechargeable battery, handheld spotlights offer convenience for a variety of uses, including low-light boating or sailing, maintenance tasks and navigating back to a private boat lift for rent. Some can do double duty as a diving light for underwater adventure.
Pros
- Signal other boats when there’s trouble or you need help
- Prevent accidents and collisions
- Use for repairs such as in the bilge or engine compartment
- Find items inside the boat
- Light up the water and fishing line for night boating and fishing
Cons
- Could be dropped in the drink, the bilge or anywhere else
- You’ll have to make sure it’s charged
- Possible to be forgotten or left back at the private boat dock rental
Features and Considerations
- Waterproof
- Whether it floats (dropping is inevitable, especially in choppy water)
- The type of handle (find one that’s comfortable to hold and aim)
- Battery type and capacity
- LED lights are more efficient (equaling longer battery life)
- Brightness and light intensity settings (some even have an SOS mode)
- Durability (a rubber-armored body is best in case of drops)
Marine Spotlight Brands
We hope this has answered any questions you may have about marine spotlights. The next time you’re out fishing or cruising at night, you’ll be happy to have the assistance of a bright and reliable hand-held or fixed-mount spotlight to light the way back to a dock or private boat slip rental.
