Nighttime navigation requires clear and unambiguous light signals to avoid collisions and to ensure that other vessels can read your course. Sidelights - red to port and green to starboard - are the core components of any onboard lighting system. It is not just about following the law; it is about ensuring that signal visibility is guaranteed by the correct light intensity and the correct projection angle required by international regulations.
When choosing a navigation light, the first thing to check is the type-approval based on your boat's length. The rules vary significantly depending on whether the vessel is under 12 meters, between 12 and 20 meters, or longer. A non-compliant light or one with insufficient visual range is a serious safety deficiency that puts you and others at risk. In addition, constant exposure to the marine environment demands durable materials: the light housing must be able to withstand salt attack without degrading quickly.
At Nautiba we evaluate every request with a technical eye. We know that a light that short-circuits due to water ingress is a serious problem, which is why we prioritize devices with an adequate IP protection rating - such as IP67, which guarantees protection against temporary immersion. If you have doubts about electrical compatibility or mounting systems, contact us before placing your order: we prefer to spend time on technical verification with you rather than handling a return due to a mounting error.
Navigation light maintenance should never be overlooked. Oxidation of electrical contacts is the main cause of failure. We recommend periodically inspecting the wiring and checking that gaskets are still sealing properly. If you notice internal condensation, that is the sign that the light's integrity has been compromised and it should be replaced promptly, before it goes out exactly when you need it most.
What to check before replacing navigation lights
- Always verify the light's type-approval relative to your vessel's length.
- Check whether the light is designed for wall mounting or horizontal base mounting.
- Make sure the IP protection rating is adequate for the exposure level at the installation point.
- Consider power consumption, preferring LED technology where possible to reduce current draw.
- Check compatibility with existing mounting holes to simplify installation without drilling new holes in the fiberglass.
Do navigation lights need to be on at all times?
Under COLREG regulations, navigation lights must be on from sunset to sunrise, and in any other condition of restricted visibility such as fog, heavy rain, or haze.
What does IP67 mean on a navigation light?
The IP67 designation means the device is protected against dust and can withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. It is an excellent specification for components exposed on deck.
Can I just replace the bulb in an old light?
It is possible, but replacing the entire light housing is often more reliable - especially if the outer casing shows signs of deterioration or if the gaskets have lost their elasticity and no longer provide a watertight seal.
What determines the visual range of a navigation light?
Range is determined by the power of the light source and the optical precision of the lenses, which must comply with the sighting distances required by regulations for your specific vessel class.
How do I protect electrical contacts from corrosion?
Apply dielectric grease to connectors and make sure all junctions are sealed with weather-resistant heat-shrink tubing to prevent moisture from wicking up along the electrical cables.
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