It’s a question that I get asked all the time. “What lights should I use on my boat?”
Since it’s getting darker as winter approaches, it’s a good time to discuss it.
But first…
Local laws, rules, and regulations
You should always check first with your local maritime or waterways authority, or your rowing association.
There will almost certainly be an accepted lighting standard. This will vary from the international rules that govern ships and larger boats (called “COLREGS”) because racing rowing boats really don’t fit neatly in the standard categories and the authorities have realised that the most practical solution isn’t always the most ‘by the book’.
Common rowing boat lighting arrangements have two lights, one each at the bow and stern, giving the boat visibility all round (180deg + 180deg = 360deg!). Some areas require the bow light to be a port/starboard (red/green) sector light (examples https://rowkraft.com/product-category/for-boats/beacons/ and https://www.revolutionrowing.com/products/rowing-shell-bow-stern-lights).
If you row on a very busy waterway and have to deal with ferries and larger commercial vessels, then look first at the local rowing association. They will have a reliable and accepted solution (one example is https://froglight.com.au which was developed with Sydney Harbour and the Brisbane River in mind).
Light types
There are so many lights to choose from these days that have all the features you might need.
- LED.
- Waterproofing.
- Multiple power/flashing modes.
- Rechargeable.
There will be a bike light to suit your needs and budget.
The best for your boat depends on your local rules and your waterway, but you won’t need a light powerful enough to be seen from 2 nautical miles away (COLREGS). All you need enough for the longest straight on your waterway. You’ll rarely need more than 800m (half a mile) of visibility due to bends and so on.
Bike lights are often categorised as “lights to see” and “lights to be seen”. Since we don’t need headlights to show our way, so the smaller “be seen” style are fine.
What lights for the mounts sold here?
The mounts that I make are suitable for most waterways. They were designed while I was rowing on the Thames River in London, and my similar older designs were developed with the Yarra River in Melbourne in mind. The mounts are suitable for just about any bike light that can be fitted to a handlebar or seat post.
Some suggestions
Whilst there are dozens of options, I’ve listed a few below that give you a good idea of what to look for.
https://moon-sport.com/product/orion-w/
https://moon-sport.com/product/comet-x-front/
https://ride.lezyne.com/collections/front-lights-to-be-seen/products/femto-drive-usb-front
https://ride.lezyne.com/collections/front-lights-to-be-seen/products/zecto-drive-250-plus
https://www.knog.com/products/blinder-mini-front-bike-light
https://www.knog.com/products/blinder-front-bike-light