How to choose navigation lights for your boat?

Why are navigation lights mandatory?

International maritime regulations, established by COLREG (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea), require all vessels to use navigation lights between sunset and sunrise, as well as in reduced visibility conditions (fog, heavy rain). 

This requirement is not a mere administrative formality:

• they allowthe type of vessel (sailboat, motorboat, fishing boat)to be identified instantly.
• They indicate the direction of travel and the side from which it is safe to pass
• They signal special situations (vessel at anchor, towing, etc.)
• They can determine the right of way between two vessels.

Failure to comply with this obligation exposes you to penalties, but above all endangers the crew and other users of the sea.

The different types of navigation lights

To comply with regulations and be clearly visible on the water, your vessel must be equipped with various navigation lights, each with a specific color and function.

1) Navigation lights (port/starboard/stern)

Side lights are essential for indicating the direction of your boat:

• Red light on the port side (left side): visible in an arc of 112.5° from the bow of the boat.
• Green light on the starboard side (right side): also visible in an arc of 112.5° from the front.
• White stern light: visible in a 135° arc from the rear of the boat.

These lights allow other boaters to instantly determine your course and anticipate your movements. They can be installed separately or integrated into a combination light depending on the type and size of your boat.

2) Masthead light

The white masthead light is placed high up and is visible over 225° from the front. It is mandatory on motor vessels and sailing boats when they are under motor power. This light completes the lighting system and allows identification at greater distances.

3) Combined lights

For small boats where space is limited, there are combined lights that combine several functions:

• Tricolor light for sailboats: combines red, green, and white lights in a single device installed at the top of the mast.
• Two-color light: combines red and green lights for the front of the boat.
• All-round light: white light visible at 360°, used in particular when at anchor.

These compact solutions are particularly suitable for small vessels while complying with regulations.

4) Special lights

Certain situations require special lights:

• Anchor light: white light visible in all directions indicating a vessel at anchor.
• Towing lights: specific configuration for towing operations.
• Fishing lights: indicating a vessel engaged in fishing activities.
• Lights for vessels not in command of their maneuvering: special configuration indicating reduced maneuvering capacity.

Regulations and legal requirements

What type of boat are you looking for navigation lights for?

Motor vessels less than 12 meters in length must carry the following lights when underway:

• a red light on the port side visible at 112.5°,
• a green light on the starboard side visible at 112.5°,
• a white stern light visible over 135°,
• a white masthead light visible over 225°.

An alternative is permitted with a white light visible across the entire horizon instead of the masthead light and stern light, accompanied by red and green side lights. 

Sailingvessels less than 20 meters in length, when sailing only, must carry

• a red light on the port side,
• a green light on the starboard side,
• a white stern light.

They may also opt for a single tricolor light installed at the masthead, combining the three colors in a single device. When a sailing vessel uses its engine, even in addition to sailing, it must comply with the same requirements as a motor vessel.

Vessels at anchor less than 50 meters in length must display a white light visible in all directions, placed in a clearly visible location. This anchor light must be lit from sunset to sunrise and in reduced visibility to signal the presence of the vessel at anchor to other users.

What is the navigation context?

Navigation lights are mandatory:

• From sunset to sunrise
• In reduced visibility (fog, heavy rain, mist)

They must be switched on automatically as soon as conditions require, hence the importance of choosing models with twilight sensors for the most demanding conditions.

What is your navigation area?

Requirements may vary slightly depending on whether you are navigating:

• At sea (international regulations),
• On inland waterways (specific regulations),
• In certain port areas (local regulations).

It is important to find out about local requirements before sailing in a new area.

How to choose your navigation lights?

Technical criteria: choose suitable and reliable equipment

Brightness and range are essential factors:

• For boats less than 12 meters long: a minimum range of 1 nautical mile (1.852 km) is required.
• For boats between 12 and 50 meters: choose a minimum range of 2 nautical miles.

Energy consumption is an important consideration, especially for long night voyages. LED lights consume up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.

Waterproofing is crucial to withstand sea spray and inclement weather. Look for a minimum IPX6 rating to ensure resistance to powerful water jets, or IPX8 for temporary immersion.

The durability of the materials (UV-resistant plastic, stainless steel, anodized aluminum) determines how long your equipment will last in marine conditions.

Practical criteria: consider the long-term use of your boat lights

The installation must be adapted to the configuration of your boat:

• Recessed lights are attractive but require cutting.
• Mounted lights are easier to install but more exposed.
• Removable lights are practical for small boats.

Ease of maintenance is an often overlooked factor. Choose models that can be dismantled for easy cleaning and replacement of defective components.

Daytime visibility: some models incorporate reflective panels to improve visibility even during the day.

What type of power supply?

Several power supply options are available depending on the configuration of your boat and your specific needs.

Onboard battery power (12V/24V) is the most common and reliable solution for navigation lights. This option guarantees a constant and stable power supply throughout the entire voyage, even during extended trips. However, installation requires a dedicated electrical circuit with appropriate fuses and switches to ensure the safety of the system.

Rechargeable batteries are a practical alternative for small boats without an onboard electrical system. This solution offers great installation flexibility without the need for complex wiring, but requires regular monitoring of the charge status. The limited autonomy of these systems requires frequent replacement or recharging, particularly during intensive use.

Solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular eco-friendly option, particularly suited to anchor lights used for extended periods. This technology offers virtually unlimited autonomy in favorable sunlight conditions, significantly reducing maintenance and operating costs. However, performance depends on weather conditions and the exposure of the solar panel.

Which technology should you choose for your boat navigation lights?

LED technology has become the benchmark for several reasons:

• Exceptional lifespan (up to 50,000 hours compared to 1,000 for conventional bulbs)
• Reduced power consumption (crucial for preserving battery life during nighttime navigation),
• Superior resistance to shocks and vibrations,
• Instant ignition even in cold weather.

Conventional incandescent bulbs are less expensive to purchase but consume more power. They have a limited lifespan and are more fragile.

Summary: everything you need to know

Navigation lights are mandatory from sunset to sunrise and in reduced visibility for all boats at sea. This international regulation aims to prevent collisions by allowing navigators to quickly identify the position, direction, and type of vessel they are encountering.

Each boat must be equipped according to its category: motor vessels less than 12 meters long carry four separate lights (red on the port side, green on the starboard side, white at the stern, and white at the masthead), while sailboats may opt for a single tricolor light at the masthead. Vessels at anchor display a white light visible in all directions.

LED technology is now the norm thanks to its low energy consumption, exceptional lifespan, and resistance to marine conditions. Onboard battery power remains the most reliable solution, although solar systems are gaining popularity for anchor lights.

Waterproofing and durability are essential technical criteria, with a minimum IPX6 rating recommended to withstand sea spray. The choice between separate or combined lights depends on the size of your boat and your installation constraints, with flush-mounted models offering a more aesthetic finish than bracket-mounted versions.

Choosing the right navigation lights is not just a matter of regulatory compliance, it is above all an investment in your safety and that of other sea users. Quality equipment will give you peace of mind and reliability for all your nighttime outings.

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