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The Best Underwater Boat Lights

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

Whether it is for better visibility for night fishing or to improve aesthetic appeal, the best underwater boat lights are beneficial. They add color and sophistication, making your boat stand out even in the dark!

best underwater boat lights

Unlike their standard counterparts, underwater boat lights are built for marine environments. From the frame to wiring, these lights use components that withstand saltwater, algae, and barnacle, among other elements that can damage its appearance and performance.

If you are looking for top-notch underwater lights for boats, I got your back! Read on and I’ll talk about the best products available, as well as some of their most impressive features.

underwater-boat-lights-reviews

Top 1

Lumitec SeaBlaze

+ Marine-grade aluminum construction
+ Small but packs a lot of power
+ Ease of installation

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Top 2

Husuku SOOP3

+ Two-wire design
+ Durable
+ Guaranteed satisfaction

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Top 3

Jiawill 60W

+ Different colors
+ Vibration and shock-resistant
+ Good option for small boats

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Top 14 Underwater Boat Light Reviews

1. Lumitec SeaBlaze Underwater Boat Light

At first, you might think that the price of these underwater LED lights for boats is expensive. While such is the case, there’s a reason. It is sold as a pair, so you can enjoy the best value for the money.

With a diameter of fewer than three inches, these lights are small. Nonetheless, this does not mean that they compromise power. With 890 lumens and 10 to 30-volt DC, These lights are good for small dinghies and trailer boats.

I also love how this LED light comes with waterproof construction. With its marine-grade anodized aluminum housing, it is not only aesthetically-pleasing but also durable and easy to maintain. I have found that this sturdy finish resists corrosion even with exposure to saltwater. It is also made in the USA, so you can be confident about its quality.

To add, it comes with a self-contained circuitry. It meets the military standards to ensure superior quality. The lights handle harsh environments, including extreme temperatures and vibrations.

I think the LED light is exceptional due to its ease of installation, which requires only surface mount underwater assembly. It has a 1/4-inch hole diameter where I can run the two wires that connect the lights to the power supply. It is also effortless for me to connect the circuitry and controller. Even better, there is no need for bonding as the circuitry is separate from the body.

Another good reason I like this boat LED light is Timed Toggle Protocol, an innovation that gives me better control. It has a simple toggle switch, so I can control the features with ease. I also like that it does not require external controllers.

However, I do not recommend this LED Underwater Boat Light if you have a large boat. As the name implies, this is a mini light. Each housing only has three LEDs.
Pros
  • Small but packs a lot of power
  • Surface mounting for ease of installation
  • Marine-grade aluminum construction guarantees durability
  • Sold as a pair for excellent value for the money
Cons
  • Ideal only for small boats
While they are a bit expensive, these lights offer great value for money since they come as a pair. It has high-quality marine-grade construction and offers ease of installation.

2. Husuku SOOP3 Boat Underwater Light

If you are on a budget, I highly recommend this option for LED underwater lights. I like it as it is significantly cheaper than the options from the big brands. Despite being economical, it packs plenty of amazing features that will guarantee exceptional performance.

One thing I admire in this product is its ease of installation. Even if you have no experience in installing underwater lights, things don’t have to be complicated. I can mount the lights anywhere on the boat. It comes with two screws, allowing me to hook it easily and firmly on the boat. The two-wire design ensures effortless installation.

What I like most is its durability. With an IP68 waterproof design, it is built to withstand many years of use. Stainless steel, plastic, and rubber are the main materials you will find in this LED light. The high-strength construction provides many years of dependable performance. As I see, it has a durable inductance to ensure a stable current supply.

The manufacturer provides quality assurance, which provides peace of mind to boat owners. You have three years to try the product. If there is a problem, get in touch with the manufacturer. Send a photo and they will arrange a replacement or refund!

Nonetheless, I see that the light can be prone to leaking. I suggest that you ensure proper installation to eliminate gaps where water can get through.
Pros
  • Ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers
  • Two-wire design for easy hook-up
  • Built to withstand the test of time
  • Guaranteed satisfaction for three years
Cons
  • Can be prone to leaking
Overall, this is a great budget-friendly alternative for underwater boat lights. It has stainless steel construction and an IP68 rating to ensure durability. Best of all, the manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction for three years.

3. Jiawill 60W Underwater Light

If you have a small boat, I believe this is a great option. I love to put it on my list as it has a compact footprint and low-profile design, making sure that it won’t consume too much space in your boat. Even with a diameter of only 3.7 inches, the light is bright enough for most applications.

When I used it, I saw that this 2,853 lumens Jiawill underwater boat light had exceptional brightness while producing light in different colors. This product also has 6 CREE LEDs for white illumination. Meanwhile, for blue, green, and red illumination, it has 12 CREE LEDs.

Another reason I like this light is that it is one of those lights that can withstand many years of use. With its vibration and shock-resistant construction, it handles even the harshest environments. Not to mention, the shatterproof polycarbonate lens also resists high temperatures. I also don’t need to worry about the excessive heat as this light comes with over-temperature protection.

Ease of installation is another notable benefit that I like. This LED light has the surface-mounting installation hardware needed. You don’t have to be a pro to figure out how to assemble the light. Whether it is from 9 to 32-volt DC, no external driver is necessary. It also has minimal connections.

Nonetheless, while you can use many underwater lights even above the water, this isn’t one of them. The fine-print notes that the light must remain in the water at all times.
Pros
  • Generates light in different colors
  • Vibration and shock-resistant
  • Has temperature protection to prevent overheating
  • Good option for small boats
  • Includes the installation hardware you will need
Cons
  • Not for above-water use
From its bright output with different colors to its protection against vibration, this LED light has exceptional features, making it worth every dollar.

4. HUSUKU SOOP3 Underwater Boat Light

If you are looking for underwater boat lights no drilling necessary, then this is one good option. I love it as I can simplify my installation by using double-sided tape to attach the light to my boat. Alternatively, if you want a secure connection, you can connect the light through a single hole.

From yachts to pontoons, I think this is another great alternative for boat LED lights. It is also one of the most affordable on my list. It proves that even on a budget, you don’t have to compromise performance.

Speaking of performance, I like how it has an ultra-bright output. It has 42 LEDs, warranting exceptional illumination for night swimming and fishing. Despite its power, it has a high energy efficiency with a consumption rating of only 30 lumens per watt. The voltage, on the other hand, is 10 to 36-volt DC. It is a bit low, which also means it does not use a lot of energy.

Another reason I like is that this light has a beam angle of 120 degrees. It is large and asymmetrical, resulting in an oval-shaped light under the water. I really love it as the light can cover a larger area.

If there’s one problem, it would be that water can get in through the LED light. This is despite the claims that the light is IP68 waterproof. I think this is quite frustrating since it compromises durability.
Pros
  • Affordable without sacrificing performance
  • Uses high-intensity LEDs for optimal brightness
  • Can be installed even without drilling holes
  • Low power consumption
Cons
  • Water can get inside the light
All in all, this LED Underwater Boat Light is a top pick for people on a budget. I love how it has a bright output even without consuming a lot of power.

5. Five Oceans Underwater Boat Light

If you want your boat to stand out at night, I’m sure this LED Underwater Boat Light is a great option. The blue light is easily noticeable, which can easily warn others of your presence. This is important for your safety. More so, the light makes bait fish more visible to attract larger fish around the boat.

This stainless steel underwater boat light resists shock and vibration. I’m impressed that it remains durable even in harsh marine environments. This is unlike others that are easily prone to shattering when the water gets rough. The housing has a sealed construction to prevent water from getting in. With its IP68 waterproof construction, it will withstand marine environments.

I commend this underwater LED light because of its low amperage draw, which is indicative of efficiency. I don’t need to worry about excessive power consumption even if I leave it turned on the entire time I am on the boat.

I think the secondary optical lens is also worth highlighting. As I see, it works like a mirror that reflects light coming from the LEDs. According to the manufacturer, it delivers twice the strength of most of its competitors.

One thing I don’t like about this light is that it only has nine LEDs. The output is only 330 lumens and the power rating is 10 to 30-volt DC. So, I think the coverage is not enough if you have a large boat. Also, you will need three stainless steel screws when mounting the light. Unfortunately, you have to purchase them separately.
Pros
  • Resists harsh shock and vibrations
  • Has a secondary lens to improve illumination
  • Low amperage draw improves efficiency
Cons
  • Not for bigger boats because of minimal coverage
  • Not include stainless steel screws
In sum, this marine-grade underwater light delivers impressive durability. It has a waterproof and shock-resistant construction to deliver many years of reliable functionality.

6. SeaBlaze X2 Underwater Light

Looking for a blue and white light to install in your boat? This is one product you should not miss. One thing I love in this light is its versatility. Aside from choosing from solid blue/white colors, you can also choose crossfade mode. All it takes is a flicker of the switch to change the operating mode. You don’t need external controllers!

The durability of this underwater LED light justifies its steep price. It comes with a marine-grade bronze alloy housing. This material withstands even the harshest conditions, assuring long-term functionality even with constant exposure to marine elements.

What I love most is that the LED light has an integrated thermal cut-off to improve service life. I see that this material withstands even the harshest conditions, assuring long-term functionality even with constant exposure to marine elements.

Like other Lumitec underwater boat lights on my list, it passes the most rigorous tests to guarantee quality. The manufacturer takes pride in having a state-of-the-art facility where they make this light. It went through 2,000 hours of continuous salt spray testing.

To add, I love this light because of its easy assembly. This surface-mount light comes with a three-wire hookup to simplify installation.

However, one thing I do not like is its price. It is one of the most expensive on my list, so I am not recommending it for anyone who is on a tight budget.
Pros
  • Bronze alloy housing withstands harsh marine environments
  • Passed rigorous tests to ensure quality
  • Does not require external controllers
  • Comes with a built-in thermal cut-off
  • Three-wire hook-up simplifies its assembly
Cons
  • Not for those on a budget
It is expensive, but it is worth every dollar. This underwater boat light comes with a durable bronze alloy housing and has been through a series of tests to guarantee exceptional performance.

7. HUSUKU SOOP3 Boat Transom Light

If you are seeking marine-grade stainless steel underwater boat lighting, I would recommend this underwater boat light for fishing and boating. I love it as it resists corrosion and other saltwater damages. Not to mention, it has an IP68 waterproof rating, making it perfect for marine environments.

The low power consumption of the light is another thing I like. I don’t need to worry about energy consumption even if I turn on the lights for a long time. Despite its minimal energy use, you can expect a bright light output. Thanks to its 18 LEDs, it generates an ultra-bright beam for better visibility in low-light environments. It produces up to 1,200 lumens.

I love how the manufacturer guarantees your satisfaction for three years. If you are unhappy with the use of this light, contact the manufacturer. They will either replace the defective unit or issue a refund! Either way, it is a win-win situation for any buyer.

Another feature that reflects the high quality of this stainless steel underwater boat light is the pure copper cable with solder joints. I like it as it is better than those with metal cable solder joints. The joints do not easily disintegrate even with continuous exposure to harsh environments.

While it has a lot of advantages, one of the drawbacks I have found is the need to drill a large hole at the back. This can be an added work for the installation of the LED light.
Pros
  • High-strength steel for long-term functionality
  • Low power consumption
  • Long-lasting pure copper solder joints
  • 3-year satisfaction guarantee
Cons
  • Requires drilling a large hole
From durability to energy-efficiency, there are countless reasons to pick this product. It has a stainless steel housing and an IP68 rating to protect against water damage.

8. Jiawill 316L Underwater Light

For high-quality underwater boat lights drain plug, don’t miss this model! I love how versatile it is. It also works as a plug aside from providing illumination. It covers the bottom of the transom, which is the part where water drains if it accidentally gets on the boat.

Since it is a drain plug light, I can install it with ease. When assembling it, I didn’t need to drill a hole. The light went directly to the drain at the transom. Once in place, all I need was to connect the wire to the source of power.

I think this is also a good light because of the different colors it produces. The available colors are white, blue, green, and red. Whether you are swimming, fishing, or docking, the light adds bright colors under the water line.

It also has marine-grade stainless steel housing like many of the products on this list. Plus, it has a shatterproof polycarbonate lens. Even with intense vibrations and harsh environments, I am happy with how the light maintains its structural integrity.

Furthermore, I’m pleased that it has innovative features to protect against damages. I see that it has protection from overheating. There is also reverse polarity protection, which is an internal circuit that prevents damage to the light in case of a reversal of power supply polarity.

I find the light output underwhelming. While it is advertised to have 27 watts, I think that it isn’t that bright. There are only nine LEDs. It is best to supplement it with other lights for optimal illumination or limits its use only to small boats.
Pros
  • Doubles as a drain plug
  • Quick installation eliminates the need for drilling
  • Produces different colors
  • Shatterproof lens handles harsh environments
Cons
  • Light output is a bit underwhelming
To conclude, this drain plug boat light produces different colors, allows quick installation, and comes with durable construction.

9. TH Marine LED-51867-DP Underwater Light

High-quality underwater transom lights are not always expensive. This model proves that even on a budget, you can enjoy reliable performance. It may only have six LEDs, but they deliver extreme brightness. It also has a wide aperture to create a large light beam angle.

I like that this marine LED light has a longer life compared to conventional lights. Most of the options in this list will last 50,000 hours, which is typical in LEDs. This light from TH Marine, on the other hand, has a rated lifespan of up to 100,000 hours!

With a low amperage draw of only 130 mA, I am happy with its power consumption. This is an energy-efficient light. While LEDs in general are known for their efficiency, the low amp allows it to save more power.

Another thing that impressed me is that it does not generate extremely high temperatures. It prevents the light from overheating, which also makes it more durable.

I also like how this TH Marine light can attract bait fish during your trips. With the bright output, it entices planktons and small fish. In turn, it will lure a larger predatory fish near the boat, increasing the chances that you will take home a fresh catch.

The only problem I have found is that this product is not as waterproof as what the manufacturer claims. Water can still penetrate, which can compromise durability.
Pros
  • Long-lasting LEDs despite being affordable
  • Great option for buyers on a budget
  • Low amperage draw for power efficiency
  • Does not generate a high temperature to prevent overheating
  • Attracts baitfish
Cons
  • Not as waterproof as advertised
While it is affordable, this underwater light has a super-bright output and durable construction. Plus, it delivers great energy efficiency.

10. Husuku SOOP3 Plus Underwater Boat Light

This is already the fourth underwater lighting from Husuku included on my list, which speaks of the exceptional quality the brand delivers. Of all the Husuku lights I mentioned, this one has the highest output. Especially if you have a large boat, this is a great choice.

I love how it has an innovative chip that delivers more lumens. The light has 84 LEDs, which provide a total output of 3,000 lumens. It also creates a 170-degree beam angle for wide underwater coverage. Despite being powerful, it is energy-efficient.

The versatility of this marine LED is also notable. I can mount it anywhere in the boat and expect the same top-notch performance. Only one hole is necessary to complete my installation. There’s no need for me to drill through the boat’s fiberglass.

I’m also impressed by the damage prevention features of this product. It has a voltage-stabilizing integrated circuit. This prevents burnout as a result of extreme temperatures. In turn, it protects the internal components from wear through years of use.

Another thing that makes it a versatile option for underwater lights for docks and boats is that it is available in multiple colors. You can choose from blue, red, green, and white.

However, I see that this light has a chrome part, which looks flimsy. Despite having a stainless steel housing, the presence of chrome plating might compromise durability.
Pros
  • High-technology chip for a brighter output
  • Energy-efficient despite being powerful
  • Versatile design allows mounting anywhere
  • Available in multiple colors
Cons
  • Chrome plating looks flimsy
A good option for affordable underwater boat lights, this model has advanced chips and a wide angle for superior illumination.

11. Lumitec 101436 Underwater Boat Light

The Lumitec SeablazeX LED underwater light is a premium product with advanced features. Even if you are a discerning boat owner, you will love how it has an impressive construction and superb performance. This ensures the best value for every dollar!

I really rest assured about its quality. It is made in the USA, assuring its top-notch construction. Like the Lumitec SeaBlaze3 LED Underwater Boat Light, it has a marine-grade anodized aluminum housing. The lights went through a series of rigorous laboratory tests, including salt spray testing. This way, you have an assurance that this marine LED passes the highest standards.

Another good reason I love this mini Lumitec SeaBlazeX LED Underwater boat light is that I can install it effortlessly with a two-wire hook-up. There’s no need for complicated connections. Plus, I can straightforwardly operate the underwater lighting system without external controllers.

What I love most is that there are multiple color options when using this light. It has Time Toggle Protocol, an innovative feature that allows me to change lighting settings. It has single-color lights available in white, blue, red, and green. It has a switch-based cycle mode, so I can choose the lighting color as I prefer.

In exchange for all the good features, I think that the Lumitec SeaBlazeX LED Underwater lighting is quite expensive. More so, it has a brightness output of 12 to 30-volt DC and 670 lumens, which is quite small for some users.
Pros
  • Toggle switch-based color cycle mode
  • User-friendly two-wire hook-up
  • Passed rigorous tests to guarantee quality
Cons
  • A bit expensive
  • Not too bright for some users
All in all, I recommend this for boat owners who emphasize quality. From its marine-grade anodized aluminum housing to different colors, there are countless reasons why I love this product.

12. West Marine Underwater Boat Light

Give your boat a calming appearance in the water with this blue LED underwater lighting.

With its surface mount installation, assembly is quick and effortless. I can do this without asking for help from the pros. The light sits directly on the surface of the boat, which is unlike flush mounting that gets in.

When I installed it, I found that it had self-tapping screws. So, I didn’t need to pre-drill before installating. I think it is convenient as it reduces the time and effort necessary for the assembly.

Durability is another good reason to choose this for the boat LED underwater lighting system. I also rest assured as a rubber gasket that makes it waterproof. It creates a tight seal, eliminating gaps where water can penetrate to prevent potential damage to the internal components.

What I like most is that this LED light has a marine-grade stainless steel bezel. The round housing is made of a high-impact polycarbonate. The combination of these exterior materials will protect the LED bulbs from eventual damage. Even with vibrations and other harsh elements, the housing offers a high level of protection.

However, I have noticed that this marine LED has an output of only 75.59 lumens. Plus, it operates only in 12-volt DC. I don’t recommend this for anyone who has high power requirements.
Pros
  • Rubber gasket creates a tight seal
  • User-friendly surface-mount installation
  • Self-tapping screws
Cons
  • Low lumen output
With its surface mount underwater assembly and high-impact construction, this underwater lighting system is another notable option.

13. Jiawill 60W Underwater Boat Lights

This is not your ordinary option for marine LED underwater lights. The bulbs are from CREE LED. It is popular for its better output and efficiency. The 60-watt lights operate at 9 to 15-volt DC range. With this, you can be confident of exceptional value for money.

Some of you might find the Jiawill underwater lights a bit expensive, but the price is not an issue. It uses shatterproof materials, so I understand why it costs that much. It also has features to protect the internal components from damage, such as overheating. This guarantees a long functional life, unlike its cheaper counterparts with parts that easily bust.

I recommend this for boat owners looking for a low-profile light. With a diameter of only 94mm, it is compact, making it ideal lighting even for a small boat. Despite its size, you can be confident that it does not compromise power.

When I purchased this kit, I saw that it included the mounting hardware necessary for different transom types. However, you need to purchase a bracket separately if you will install it on the trim tab of your boat.

The marine-grade underwater boat lights are controlled through a mobile app. This Bluetooth app lets me control the color options. I can choose from red, blue, or green light. Aside from single-color modes, I’m impressed that it has 29 dynamic color settings as well. Plus, I can easily adjust its brightness and speed.

While it is good that it comes with an app, I believe that an update is long overdue. Many aspects of the app are problematic, which makes it frustrating to use at times. I would love it more if the app is intuitive.
Pros
  • High output CREE LED bulbs
  • Comes with a feature-packed app
  • Includes installation hardware
Cons
  • App needs an update
Discerning boat owners looking for the best underwater LED boat lights will love this product. It is unique because it has a Bluetooth app, offering a convenient way to control the light settings.

14. Lumitec SeaBlaze X2 Underwater Light

This is the second version of the Lumitec X2 underwater lighting on my list. What makes me love it is that this model has a spectrum of vivid colors. I can choose from red, blue, white, and green. I can also change the color options with a quick flick of the toggle switch.

I have to say that its durability is second to none. I really like that this product is very sturdy due to the marine-grade bronze alloy housing. Bronze has international recognition as one of the most robust marine metals, making it an excellent choice for housing underwater LED lights.

Even in other underwater boat lights reviews, this product is praised because of its exceptional brightness. Thanks to its 6,000 lumens, it makes my fishing boat more visible. This is higher by 1,000 lumens compared to the dual-color version of this underwater light. With its light output, it is visible even up to ten feet under the transom.

The installation of this surface mount underwater LED is sort of upfront. Regardless if you will mount it inboard or outboard, place the light about 6 to 12 inches below the water line. It is very simple for me to assemble it as it has a two-wire system.

Like the other Lumitec underwater lights on my list, it has been through salt spray testing. This is a standardized check to test corrosion-resistance. Passing this test is proof of the high-quality construction of this light.

One aspect that makes me hesitant about buying this marine-grade light is its price. It is one of the most expensive on my list.
Pros
  • Naval-quality bronze for a long service life
  • Salt spray test proves its corrosion resistance
  • High lumen output for extreme brightness
Cons
  • High cost compared to competitors
With its durable construction, exceptional brightness, and ease of installation, this underwater light packs impressive features that make it worth every penny!

What is an Underwater Boat Light

best-underwater-led-boat-lights

It is a light on the transom, under the hull, and outrigger spreader, among other different parts of the boat. The right light will create a brighter environment for a safer boating experience, even for night swimming. It warns other boaters of your presence. It makes it easier to traverse the dark waters. To add, it can light up fish and bait!

Types of Underwater Boat Lights

The best way to categorize the boat lights available is based on the main material and technology in the bulbs:

  • HID (High-Intensity Discharge): HID bulb is the traditional choice for underwater lighting. They are known for their exceptional brightness. Plus, they also generate heat, which is a great way to prevent algae and other problems that can damage the light.
  • LED (Light Emitting Diode): LED bulbs are more efficient. They produce less heat. It generates as much light as HID bulbs but consumes lesser energy. LED also offers customizability, allowing you to change the color of the lights as you desire.

Another good way to differentiate the types of underwater lights is through installation.

  • Wired Lights: The products I mentioned in this buying guide belong to this group. They have wires that connect the bulbs to the power source.
  • Wireless Lights: With wireless underwater boat lights, you don’t need to worry about drilling holes. You can attach them using double-sided tape or marine glue. They are also often battery-powered, which can limit light output.

More so, the types of underwater lighting also vary depending on their mounting options.

  • Surface Mount: For most small boats and sailboats, this is the most popular option. It needs small holes for the screws and running the wire.
  • Flush Mount: It is a bit more complicated since it requires flushing, so the wires should get in on the boat.
  • Drain Plug: As the name implies, it is connected to the drain of the boat. Aside from providing light, releasing the plug will let you drain water in the boat.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Using Underwater Boat Lighting

underwater-led-lights-for-boats

Need more compelling reasons to install lighting under the boat? Below are some of its most notable benefits:

  • Improve Aesthetics: Lighting your boat is a great way to improve its looks. Whether the lights are red, green, blue, and white, they will make your boat look good in the dark. It will command attention and turn heads even at night.
  • Enhance Safety: Boating at night is risky. Collisions are common, especially when another boat is hard to notice. To improve your visibility, installing lights will help. It is an immediate warning to others that you are there.
  • Attract Bait: If you want bait like shrimps and planktons to surround your boat, bright underwater LED lights are must-haves. As a result, the lights make it easier for fish to gather near your location. Green and white lights work best for this purpose.
  • Improve Water Clarity: A marine-grade light comes in handy when the sun sets and you want to go for a swim. A good light will make it easier to see when you are in the water. Aside from safety, it also allows you to appreciate underwater beauty.

While underwater lighting has plenty of benefits, it can also have several drawbacks, including the following:

  • Need to Drill Holes: In some cases, installing lighting requires drilling holes. The size of the light indicates the number of holes necessary. These holes can cause water to get in the boat if you are not careful with the assembly.
  • Costly: Underwater boat lighting solutions vary in terms of price. A lot of high-quality lights are expensive. Although, as I note in my earlier recommendations, there are also affordable alternatives.

Buyer’s Guide

Finding the right brand and model of underwater boat lighting is not a walk in the park. To narrow down the possibilities, below are the most important details.

Color

The choice of color is important beyond aesthetics. Pick a light color compatible with a specific situation and application. Marine-grade lighting has single or multiple colors. There is a convenient switch or even a mobile app that will let you change the color lights manually.

Red, green, blue, and white are the most popular colors. Red light is for the left or portside, which warns another vessel that a boat is approaching. Green is for the starboard side. White repel bugs and it is great for shallow waters and sandy bottoms. Both green and white are useful for fishing. Blue light, meanwhile, is a relaxing color.

Installation

You don’t need to pay for the professional installation of marine-grade boat lighting. It is easy to do on your own, as long as you choose the right product. The best ones are those that do not require a lot of time and effort to install. Choose a light that does not require a lot of drilling. In most cases, a small hole for the mount and screws are all that you will need.

Brightness

It reflects the lighting output. The most important is the lumen rating. A higher number indicates a brighter light. Smaller lights have smaller lumens. For navigation, at least 600 lumens are necessary. Meanwhile, if you only want to create a dramatic and calming effect, then you can choose a lower rating.

Furthermore, I have a list of the top-rated battery-powered navigation lights and the perfect boat navigation lights for your preference.

Beam Width

This is the angle of view of the lighting. Larger boats require larger lights, especially in darker environments. It ranges from 90 to 120 degrees. Decide if you want the light to be narrow or wide to choose the appropriate beam width. For underwater lights for fishing, you need a wider beam to attract more fish.

Housing

To ensure the durability of the boat light, the housing construction is crucial. From marine-grade bronze alloy to aluminum, the materials vary. Most of the products I reviewed above come with stainless steel housing. Rust and corrosion resistance are important to guarantee longevity.

Energy Efficiency

Choose lights with minimal power consumption without compromising performance. With energy-efficient lighting, you won’t be draining the battery too fast. It does not demand a lot from your power system. LED lighting is the best option if efficiency is an important consideration for you.

Number of Bulbs

The light is more powerful the more bulbs are present. High-quality underwater boat lights have anywhere from 10 to 30 bulbs. Meanwhile, small lights will have as few as three bulbs. Consider the dimension of the boat and desired brightness to determine how many bulbs you need.

Size

Choose a marine-grade light with a size congruent to your boat. If you have a small boat, pick a small light. Three to four inches is enough for small boats. For larger boats, on the other hand, I recommend going up to ten inches.

Care and Maintenance

Underwater lights are prone to damages from marine life, including algae and barnacle. Exposure to saltwater also speeds up corrosion, unless the light is made of marine-grade stainless steel, aluminum, or bronze, among other similar materials. To maintain the light’s peak performance, below are the most important things to do.

  • Check the lights regularly for any sign of damage. The earlier you see the problem, the quicker you can react. This prevents the issue from getting worse.
  • Ensure proper installation. Keep the lighting tight and secure, preventing water from getting in.
  • Once the boat is docked, use freshwater, mild soap, and brush to clean the lighting. This will rinse saltwater and other elements that cause long-term damage.
  • Keep the light wires neat. Hide them in the boat. Otherwise, it is prone to damage if it is exposed.
  • Pick the right cleaning materials. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. Use mild soap and a soft towel to prevent scratching the surface.
  • If you are using portable underwater lights for boats, keep them in a safe place after using them. They often come with a storage bag to protect from dust and dirt.

Frequently Asked Questions

underwater-lights-for-boats

Before I conclude this guide, allow me to answer a few questions about underwater lighting for boats.

Who makes the top-rated underwater boat lights?

Lumitec, Husuku, Jiawill, Sea Blaze, West Marine, TH Marine, and Tidal Wake are some of the best makers of high-quality underwater boat lights. They offer a diverse selection to meet individual needs. Whether you need a surface mount or drain plug light, these are some of the top brands worth considering.

What color underwater light is best?

The best color for underwater boat lights depends on its purpose. The white or green light is best for attracting bait. For better visibility, white is the best option. For aesthetics purposes, blue is a beautiful and calming color.

Where should underwater boat lights be installed?

The best place to install an underwater boat light is on a flat and unobstructed surface, at least six inches below the waterline. If possible, put it as deep in the transom as possible. This improves visibility when the boat is underway.

How much does it cost to install underwater lights on a boat?

This depends on the type of light, the extent of the job, and the materials. For low-cost to mid-range installation, the cost is anywhere from $200 to $300. For high-end underwater lighting, meanwhile, the cost is as much as $1,000.

How do you install underwater boat lights?

The installation steps depend on whether you have a surface mount, flush-mount, drain plug, or any other type of boat light. Generally, here’s how to complete the installation.

  • Start by positioning the boat in a dry area or any place where you can work comfortably.
  • Determine the exact position where to install the boat light. Mark the area and make sure there is nothing inside it that can be damaged after drilling.
  • Start drilling. Run the wires through the hole and connect it to a power supply. Follow the recommendations from the manufacturer for wiring underwater boat lights.
  • Find the right position for the power box. Choose a dry place with sufficient ventilation.
  • Test the light. If it doesn’t work, inspect the connections, making sure that they are right.

Will an underwater boat light attract fish?

Yes, the right lighting helps to attract fish around your boat. Any light under the water, regardless of its color, will illuminate the area. It will reflect tiny particles, including food, and this is what will draw the fish closer to the boat. Once the baitfish is around, it will attract larger fish, increasing the chances that you will have a fresh catch.

Where can I buy it?

The best place to buy an underwater boat light is online. You will find a great selection of high-quality lights from websites like Amazon and Walmart. The best thing is that it is easy to compare prices and find the best deals available. You can also read reviews from other people and learn from the experiences they are sharing. This makes underwater light comparison a lot easier.

Conclusion

From increased safety to the improved appearance, the best underwater boat lights are great investments! Go beyond price as you decide which product is best to buy!

The options are endless, but this does not mean that all underwater boat lights are the same. Brightness output, marine-grade construction, power consumption, and ease of use are just some of the most important factors to consider.

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