The Best LED Boat Lights Every Boaters Should Have

LED boat lights are in demand among boaters around the world due to their various styles and applications. Adding the best LED boat lights in your boat’s lighting fixture allows you to sail from dusk until dawn and along foggy or murky areas. You’ll know that you have them once they have the following characteristics:

• Light Quality: The light quality refers to the light output generated by the LED lights. It’s also called ‘lumens’. Some brands produce white clear lighting while others can deliver it from all angles. You’ll find different features and capabilities so you’ll surely find one that suits your needs.

• LED Light EMI (Electromagnetic Interference): When it comes to safety, you have to be particular with LED light EMI. You have to find out if it doesn’t cause electromagnetic interference on other devices like radios and audio equipment. Furthermore, you should get an LED light that is effective for both personal and industrial use.

• Durable: You can expect top-notch LED lights to last long as they’re resistant to the harsh and unpredictable marine environment. They are tough enough to face saltwater that can cause corrosion. Typically, they will be enclosed in an anodized aluminum housing, which ensures durability.

• Right Color Temperature: The color temperature from boat LED lights is measured in Kelvin. You’ll find them in cooler lights, natural daylight, and warm with yellow tones. When buying LED boat lights, you have to base them on your needs and the ambiance that you want to create in your vessel. The one with natural daylight light has 5,600K. Warmer lights come with a lower number, and vice versa for cooler lights.

• Voltage Compatibility: The electrical system of most boats requires 12 volts to 24 volts. Commonly, 12 volts LED lights are compatible with the electrical system or lighting fixture of most boats. Make sure that you buy one that suits your watercraft.

• Power Saver: One of the reasons that LED is appealing to users is that it consumes less power compared to other types of lights. Although this is the case in vessels, you still have to be aware of the lumens per watt of your boat lights. This feature should be high to ensure low energy consumption.

You have to look for these qualities among LED lights for boats. Fortunately, you don’t have to search any further as you can find them here in the following products:

Top 1

Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights

• Can last for years
• Improves night vision
• Can be in various applications

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Top 2

EXZEIT Waterproof LED Boat Lights

• Durable
• Waterproof 
• One-year warranty

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Top 3

Obcursco LED Boat Navigation Light

• Pretty easy installation
• Improves visibility at night
• Can be in service for a long time

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Best LED Boat Light Reviews

1. Shangyuan Marine Boat Lights

I’m no longer indecisive when going fishing at night because of these LED light strips for boats. They are super bright to guide me all the way even on murky areas because they improve my night vision. I can change rig lines and baits with certainty due to the right amount of brightness coming from them. I love how the light is not too overwhelming to my eyesight.

Despite the small size, it can provide the amount of illumination that you need. Boaters who only have a little space for interior boat lighting fixtures will be happy as these fit in the tight spaces. I like that they don’t stick out at all.

Nonetheless, you can integrate these small lights into various applications. You can place it in different parts of your boat, golf cart light, and more. It can also be used as a decoration. They look stunning on floors and even on the trailer’s bottom. Plus, even if I use all six pieces of lights, I still save energy as it has low temperature and low power consumption.

2. EXZEIT Waterproof LED Boat Lights

These are the best LED boat deck lights for me due to many reasons! I don’t like to compare but I can’t help but be amazed at its magnificent attributes that were missing in the previous lights that I used. With a 6000K color temperature, it has the brightness that spreads efficiently. Its 120 degrees illumination range is quite impressive.

I get the amount of light that I need when I go night fishing and other sorts of activities. Safety is regarded when doing these activities. It’s also a great boat center console light and is way better than halogen lights.

At first, I thought they consume a lot of energy. To my delight, it was lowered to 20W per light without downgrading the brightness. On the other hand, I sometimes think of using it as underwater boat lights because of its notable waterproof ability. These are EXZEIT waterproof LED boat lights with internal wires encased in an aluminum housing with rubber grommet.

In this aspect, you can depend on its resistance to rust and harsh environment. This is a sure implication of durability. So, it’s just reasonable that the manufacturer offers a one-year replacement warranty as a sign of its confidence in this product.

3. Obcursco LED Boat Navigation Light

This boat LED lighting kit proves a couple of amazing things. The red and green lights can even illuminate the whole dock. They’re much brighter than my previous navigation LED lights. Placing them on my boat’s front edge doesn’t restrict me from using the bowlines. Since they don’t stick up, the bowlines don’t knock them off. They can be very helpful for those who have a front trolling motor.

These boat LED strip lights are extremely bright. Thus, there’s immense visibility at night and in dark areas. I’m not afraid to crash onto the dock when stopping by at night.

I also like the clear plastic housing for its flexibility and waterproof feature. It doesn’t crack quickly even though I don’t need to add a tube. When there are waves, some water reaches them but they stay in place and continue to work. Moreover, it holds up well despite exposure to direct sunlight and continuous rain.

4. Seapoon Pontoon Boat Light

I’ve tried many LED boat deck lights for my pontoon but nothing was satisfactory until I bought this one. This can’t only be utilized as LED lights for pontoon boats as you may also add it to your kayak, bass boat, dinghy, and Jon boat. I used it as an interior light but you can have it in an exterior application. It lights up the inside of my pontoon very well.

This looks nice at night as it’s subtle and gentle to the eyes. Hence, it can be a lovely pontoon boat interior lighting. I’m also happy with the brightness of its blue light as I can clearly see things around me at night.

You may put this in various parts on your boat as a boating center console light, cockpit light, or gunwale light. Regardless of what you choose, you won’t have trouble as you can cut every three LED lights. There’s no need to worry as you won’t damage the whole strip. It’s favorable as you can add or adjust the length.

Screws and strip clips come with it to help with installation. Although it has adhesion at the back, I used gorilla glue to ensure that it clings well on the surface. Installation is so easy and the result came out fantastic because the strips didn’t come off even until now.

5. YITAMOTOR 8542099708 LED Light Bar

Since this YITAMOTOR LED light bar can be in different vehicles, even heavy-duty ones, I know that it will be great as marine LED lighting. It’s well-constructed, waterproof, quake-proof, and dust-proof. Also, it’s anti-corrosive and tough enough to counter harsh weather conditions. The credit goes to its die-cast aluminum housing.

It’s just a low-key LED light bar with a slim and compact design. It has a heat dissipation feature as well, and I think that’s the reason why it can be in various vessels and vehicles. Furthermore, it’s energy efficient in connection with this part. This aspect also prolongs the life span of the lights.

It comes with adjustable mounting accessories, which make it possible to place on various surfaces and boat parts. I found that I can make adjustments around 90 degrees. This paves the way for effortless changing of the beam’s direction for wide coverage. It has a high light transmission, which is not available on a traditional light bulb.

6. Partsam Round Chrome Marine LED

I place these four pieces of LED marine lights below the gunwales on the cockpit. But you can install them the way you want as they can be used differently. They are utilized as stern lights, boat interior lights, navigation lights, courtesy lights, and bow lights. Whatever your purpose is, you’ll surely appreciate the bright blue color from these LED lights.

As for me, the soft glow is not too bright or dim. Moreover, you’ll be satisfied to use them as a night light or cockpit light. If I have time, I will also install these as marine LED cabin lights, and I’m certain that they will look fantastic! These lights are lightweight so I was worried at first. But my perception entirely changed after installation.

Each light has a plastic housing that has low upkeep. I know that it’s well protected as there are clear and durable lenses. Based on my observation, they take out less energy compared to regular lights. It’s safe to say that they have low voltage use. It means that using a couple of them won’t cost a lot.

7. OPT7 LED Boat Light

These are the best marine LED strip lights that I’ve ever used. Since I made them as cockpit lights, my boat stands out when docked at night, and I received a lot of compliments. In all fairness, they’re much better than FLO LED boat lights.

This item can change your vessel’s appearance for the better as there are several color options. Cool color combinations are available too. Customize all you like as there are a dozen of lighting modes and color adjustments. So, you can set them into amber, dimmable lights, or whatever pleases your vision. To my amazement, these flash to the beat of the music too. Therefore, the party vibe that they create is undeniable!

There are a lot of boat lighting ideas that you can think of with these boat lights. You can have it as interior boat lights as the variety can bring out a stunning vibe. I’m astonished at the way I can control them. It can be done through the main controller that’s accompanied by a remote or a smartphone app.

These LED strip lighting for boats is not only good at transforming your boat’s look but also at being flexible and waterproof. Each strip can twist, curve, and bend. Hence, there won’t be a problem wherever you place it. I’m satisfied not just with its functions but also all the necessary parts that are provided in every single purchase.

8. TH Marine LED-51830-DP Dome Light

I have both the red and white lights, which are pure and bright without overbearing intensity. They give off white or amber lights that are bright enough to read a book. The red one is just perfect for our navigation station. I’ve heard some people use it for cabin renovation. It’s more than acceptable to have them as marine LED cabin lights as they have wonderful effects as LED boat lights interior.

Hence, I must say that it’s multi-purpose. This dome light can be your buddy during night watches. You can choose which color you’ll turn on from its rocker switch. It can be set as white in one way or red in another. Surprisingly, some folks that I met at the lake think of this as a pontoon lighting kit. It’s placed on the table area of their canopy-structured pontoon.

With its housing and circuit board, I know that this light is protected. The housing has resistance to UV rays and fading, while the circuit board withstands water, vibration, and corrosion. I think these parts also foresee the user’s onboard safety. Without a doubt, it’s an excellent light when sailing in small areas.

9. Obscurco LED Boat Light

The light produced by this boat light is not too bright or too dim. That’s why I feel lucky to have found it. It’s great on walkways, voids, and compartments. There are many ways to use it, like installing a deck or cockpit light and more. Also, it can be a night light, decorative light, transom light, golf cart light, and boat center console light. As you can see, there’s a wide range of applications!

It releases plenty of light and is visible even from a distance. I sometimes go to the lake and even though it’s bright, it doesn’t attract bugs. I think it’s wonderful as I hate insects.

Every single purchase gives you six LED bulbs that need 3 watts each. Hence, it’s fine to use all of them or an additional set as they consume less energy. I like the sleek appearance with the electroplating surface. It’s composed of reliable plastic, which is not prone to corrosion.

I’ve also discovered that it has resistance against water, dirt, snow, sand, and UV rays. So, it doesn’t cease to provide the much-needed light at night.

10. acegoo RV Boat Recessed Ceiling Light

Thanks to this light, I don’t have to worry about my interior boat lighting fixture. It’s cooler than halogens but more of a warm white LED flashlight. I can’t see any reason why it can’t be in a boat as it’s used in camper vans, bedrooms, and shower rooms. I installed several of them, and I feel comfortable with its light flooding downwards. It doesn’t go straight 180 degrees to my eyes or project sideways.

There’s no doubt that it delivers exceptional color and brightness. I can say that it is good value for the money as there are more fantastic features. It bears an elegant design, so it will create a good ambiance. There are no issues when attaching it to the headliners as it’s lightweight, slim, and compact.

Thus, the installation was trouble-free. The spring clips may look flimsy but they get the job done. I don’t need to worry a lot about essential hardware too. It’s a piece of cake to remove and put the lights back. You will even be able to place it in narrow spaces. Once properly installed, it’s resistant to vibration and shock.

11. HONG 111 Marine Boat Lights

I’ve been using these for a long time, and I can say that they’re effective fishing boat lights. They compliment the structure of my boat duck and allow me to go hunting even in the dark. Consequently, you can have them in different types of vessels.

This light strip is available in blue, green, red, and white. I like how I can pick the color that I prefer. I choose blue for my deck and green for the concealed duck boat. You may also use them as boat cabin lights. There are 10 pieces in every pack, so you’ll have enough to spice up the interior. Additionally, it can be in different applications because the brightness is just right.

It’s trustworthy to associate it with every marine application as it’s waterproof and dust-proof. Moreover, it can face any kind of weather and is anti-collision. Rain and water splashes can’t be avoided when sailing but you’re safe with these lights. They remain tough as they’re composed of quality ABS materials.

12. Partsam 4-inch Marine Boat Strip Lights

The six pieces of light strips that you can get from every purchase are all impressively bright. I guess I underestimated them as I didn’t expect that they could still be visible from afar. I’m content with how the bright light spread sufficiently on my deck. You may use it as a stern light and bow light as well. These utility strip lights help me and my friends in our fishing voyage and I am grateful for them.

The greatest strength of this strip light is its universal fit, which makes installation possible on various surfaces. You won’t only find it in water vessels but on trailers, trucks, utility vehicles, and more. Some fellow boaters told me that it works as a dome light. It may also be a backup light for ATV but it won’t be too bright.

It’s compact, so you won’t have trouble fitting it even in narrow sections. Some also have this best led boat light in the cabin and closed areas. With its abilities, it can be in the interior and exterior parts of your vessel.

13. LEANINGTECH Boat LED Navigation Lights

It’s about time to get over with the incandescent bulbs on my bow and it’s good timing that I’ve found these boat navigation lights. You must know that it can be in different kinds of vessels. That’s why it’s not awkward to give them as a gift to my fellow boaters. I won’t be embarrassed as this product has high quality. It’s much brighter than the ones I had before.

These lights are visible during the day and even more when it’s dark. They project the brightness that every boater needs. Since they pass the two nautical mile visibility required by USCG, it’s not a mistake to have them as navigation lights. The green light is on the starboard while the red light is on the port side.

The chrome-plated zinc housing is simply awesome! Although it’s lightweight, it can lengthen the lifespan of the lights. I believe that I can rely on these LED lights in the long run because they’re composed of durable materials. They can face weather changes whether there’s strong wind or downpour. It’s the advantage of being waterproof. Assuredly, this complies with marine use.

14. LEANINGTECH White Marine Lights

You’ll get two waterproof LED lights for boats in every set that can be utilized in so many ways. Aside from various water vessels, you can use them on SUVs, trucks, ATVs, buses, bikes, and other vehicles. Its mounting design is flexible enough to hold on heavy-duty vehicles. I have it on my sailboat and I can’t be more satisfied. Some of my friends have it on their fishing boats and houseboats.

Aside from being waterproof due to its thermoplastic sheath, it has a heavy-duty construction, which makes it suitable for rugged use and hardy in facing harsh weather conditions. It has marine-grade wires too. Of course, it also works excellently in providing illumination. Get a set of it and you’ll have great deck LED lights that can brighten up the whole area.

I can get a clear view of where these lights are pointing at. Some boaters like placing it on their T-top. They’re not only bright but also look good on any boat. Thus, they contribute to a vessel’s nice appearance. That’s why I can’t deny that I’m surprised when I started using them because I only paid for the price of one light bar. Instead, I got two LED lights that draw low energy.

Factors To Consider When Choosing LED Boat Lights

There are multiple types of LED lights. They worked like incandescent bulbs at first and went through evolution for specific purposes. These modifications and creations also lead to numerous boat LED lights as well. Know each of them so you can get the best boat lights for the intended application.

Navigation LED lights

Boat navigation lights are usually located in the direction where the vessel is heading. They’re significant boat accessories as they lower the chances of accidents and collisions among marine vessels. They can be in different colors like the combination of red and green LED lights or just clear white.

Anchor LED lights

This type of boat light is also required by the law. An anchor light marks the boat’s exact location when docking. It also notifies other boats that there’s a boat docked in a certain area. Be aware of the standard lighting performance needed for this boat light. It should be able to deliver white, bright light for visibility even in the dark and fog.

Deck LED lights

The importance of these lights shouldn’t be overseen as well. You don’t have to deprive your deck of adequate lighting. There are many ways on how to set them up. You can place them in the cabin, underneath the roof, and on the deck surface.

All-round White LED Lights

These lights match all sorts of power-driven watercraft. The sufficient brightness that they create spreads in any direction, and it also shows the boat’s position. In favor of all boaters, you can use them for other purposes. They can turn into anchor lights when the sidelights malfunction. Vessels that have a length below 39.4 feet can use them as stern lights or masthead lights.

Docking LED lights

You depend on these lights when you leave or get close to a marina. They have a plain white color that projects extreme brightness to guide boaters in docking their boats. You’ll find them in permanent lighting fixtures situated on surfaces or high posts.

Spreader LED lights

Most boaters love these as they can be in various applications. They’re used for servicing and maintenance. Some utilize them for night fishing or dock lighting. They’re always useful as a light source for vessels nearby.

Underwater LED lights

A marine underwater LED light is the ideal boat light for most boaters as they won’t doubt that it’s designed for marine use. It’s submergible and it implies that you can use them for a fishing expedition. You can attract sea creatures in open water at night. These lights are enclosed securely in a waterproof casing, which prolongs their longevity.

Search LED lights

They are essential as you use them to find or locate something whenever you’re in the water or on the deck. The brightness goes at any angle although you don’t regularly use them. They’re flexible as they can be placed in the interior and exterior parts of your vessel.

Of course, there are benefits from using the best LED boat lights as its popularity is widespread. Here they are:

• Safety

It’s proven and tested that LED lights don’t burn and overheat with prolonged use, unlike incandescent bulbs.

• Energy Efficient

It’s the main reason why boaters choose LED lights as they can save money. These lights consume less energy than their traditional counterparts.

• Vast Applications

It’s known that LED lights are used both on land and at the sea. Hence, they’re not only exclusive for marine applications but other purposes as well.

• Long Life Span

It’s easy to find brands that offer a long life span that is up to 50,000 hours.

• Turn into Dimmed Lights

Brightness is not always sought by users. Some would like to have dimmer lights in cabins or decks. Good thing that the light output of LEDs can be lowered to dim them. You may also decrease the color temperature at the same time.

• Various Colors

Using LED lights is not boring after all. Due to technological advancement, you can have green LED lights as well as hues like red and blue. It can’t just be white the entire time.

You have to be aware of the following drawbacks to know how to properly handle LED boat lights:

• Voltage Sensitivity

Note that LED lights need a regulated current supply together with the voltage that is over the threshold and with a current that is lower than the ideal grade.

• Not Great for Winter Conditions

Snow obscuring can happen in winter as LED lights don’t discharge a lot of heat. Unfortunately, they can cause accidents if you’re not careful.

• High Initial Cost

You may find that the installation of LED lights is more expensive than having traditional ones. But, it’s only the initial expense as they are cost-effective in the long run.

How Long Do LED Boat Lights Last

In most cases, LED boat lights can render service for 50,000 hours. Some brands claim that it can go for 10 years. They have a long lifespan for sure as they don’t burn like other traditional lights.

Are All LED Boat Lights Waterproof

Most LED boat lights are rated as 12v waterproof LED lights for boats. You may even find ones that are submersible or in the form of wireless LED boat lights. Most of them have IP65 or IP67 waterproof ratings. When the rating is higher, the boat lights become more capable of withstanding water.

What Is The Best LED Light Color For Fishing

White and green LED lights are the best choice for fishing. These colors are attractive to most baitfish, especially if you go fishing at night. It’s recommended to use two colors of light on the exterior side of your boat. Placing them in the interior will only attract insects.

Will 24 Volt LED Boat Lights Work On 12 Volts

This match is not effective as it only results in low output lights. When a LED light is connected with half of the required voltage, half of the current is also drawn in. Hence, a decrease in electrical pressure occurs. Always match the LED lights to the appropriate supply voltage.

Conclusion

A boat needs different lights for docking, navigation, and illumination. You’ll find what suits your application in this review as it has the list of best LED boat lights. Since the pros and cons are laid out, it will be easy for you to choose. Once you find efficient boat lights, there’s no need to grope in the dark or avoid the authorities for lighting requirements.

James Harvey

“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. “