13 best portable navigation lights

Portable navigation lights are essential safety devices used in boating and maritime activities. They are designed to enhance visibility on the water, especially during low-light conditions or when navigating in the dark. Here's what you need to know about portable navigation lights:

  1. Purpose: Portable navigation lights serve as a means of communication and navigation for boats, helping to prevent collisions and ensuring safe passage. They are particularly important when boating at night, in fog, or in other situations with reduced visibility.

  2. Types of Lights: There are different types of portable navigation lights, including red, green, and white lights, each serving a specific purpose:

    • Red and Green Lights: These are typically positioned on the boat's bow (front) and are used to indicate the boat's direction of travel. The green light represents the starboard (right) side of the boat, and the red light represents the port (left) side.
    • White Lights: White lights are used to indicate the boat's presence and its status.A white stern light is placed at the boat's rear, and a white all-around light can be used to indicate an anchored or moored vessel.
  3. Battery-Powered: Portable navigation lights are often battery-powered to ensure their independence from the boat's electrical system. This makes them suitable for small boats, kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft that may not have built-in navigation lights.

  4. Mounting and Attachment: These lights can be easily attached to boats using various mounting options, such as suction cups, clamps, or magnetic bases. Some are designed to float and can be used as safety flotation devices.

  5. Visibility and Regulations: Portable navigation lights are designed to meet specific visibility and brightness requirements set by maritime regulations. The visibility range depends on the type and size of the light. It's crucial to adhere to these regulations to ensure safe boating and avoid legal issues.

  6. Emergency Use: In addition to regular navigation, portable navigation lights can serve as emergency strobe or flashing lights. They can be activated to signal distress or alert others to your position in case of an emergency.

  7. Durable and Waterproof: These lights are typically built to withstand harsh marine conditions. They are often waterproof and designed to float, ensuring they remain functional even if they accidentally fall into the water.

  8. Versatile Use: Portable navigation lights are not limited to boating alone. They can also be used for other outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or as emergency lights in case of power outages.

  9. Compliance: When using portable navigation lights, it's essential to comply with the specific boating regulations and requirements in your area or country. Different regions may have slightly different rules regarding navigation lights, so it's important to be aware of and follow local guidelines.

Overall, portable navigation lights are vital safety equipment for boaters and water sports enthusiasts, ensuring safe navigation and helping to avoid accidents on the water, especially in conditions with reduced visibility.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best portable navigation lights on the market
  

attwood 14190-7 Water-Resistant Portable Clamp-On LED Light Kit with Marine Gray Finish

attwood

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Be safe, and be sure you are seen with Attwood’s most durable, and portable LED navigation lights. C-clamp mount goes on or removes quickly for versatility. Powered by 3 AAA batteries; marine gray color. Attwood Corporation has been an award-winning leader in engineering, testing, and manufacturing the highest quality marine products for over 100 years. We deliver safe and reliable lighting, fuel systems, water systems, seating & pedestals, swim ladders, custom upholstery, and general marine accessories that are easy to install and meet regulatory compliance.

  • Product Type: AUTO_ACCESSORY
  • Package quantity: 1
  • Batteries required
  • Country of Orgin: China

User questions & answers

Question: Would these wptk with a sit on kayak
Answer: Not sure of your state requirements, but Texas only requires you to have a 360° white light on canoes and kayaks
Question: Are these lights coast guard approved
Answer: The Coast Guard does not approve lights. They publish regulations and specifications. The red and green must be visible 112.5 degrees from the bow. These may meet that spec. Hard to tell.
Question: Is there a version without clamps that would fit the Attwood rod holder mount
Answer: there is at bass pro, it has a round screw down mount, but costs MORE THAN TWICE AS MUCH
Question: Does this come with with both lights, and 2 clamps
Answer: Yes it does and screws to mount the lights to the clamps

Innovative Lighting - 560-1110 Portable LED Bow Light with Suction Cup

Innovative Lighting

Based on 365 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Innovative Lighting is celebrating 25 years of engineering, manufacturing, and distributing LED lighting and custom injection molded products.

  • Requires 4 "AA" Batteries (Not Included)
  • Molded One Piece White Body Construction
  • Shock Resistant Neoprene Accents
  • Rated at 100,000 Hours LED Service Life
  • Uses 90% Less Energy than Incandescent

User questions & answers

Question: how many inches wide in diameter is the suction cup base when attached to the boat
Answer: It's at least 3 inches before being attached and probably around 4 inches afterwards. Its a large suction cup and you'll need an equally sized flat area. I actually mounted mine to a sacrificial wooden block via screws and mounted that to my boat because I do not have any slick surfaces to use a suction cup anyway. Hope that helps.
Question: Where can I find replacement bulbs
Answer: You probably never will need a bulb. It's an LED.
Question: Where do you attach it on the bow of a dragon boat? I want to use this for our dragon boat Not sure the best place to suction it. Thank you
Answer: Not sure. If it were me I'd incorporate it with the design of the dragon face. By law it has to be mounted in the front so your choices are limited. If it doesn't stick with the suction cup it can be unscrewed and you can install hardware to make it permanent. It can be reconfigured to be upright as well as the right angle position in the photo.
Question: Is this light waterproof? Can you use it on a kayak and roll the kayak and the light will still work
Answer: We use these lights in the rain all the time on dragon boats. We don't roll our dragon boats, so can't speak to that question, but will say that they last a couple of rainy seasons before the insides start to rust out a bit. They won't rust out quickly if opened and allowed to dry completely when a little water gets in. So, waterproof, yes, but to a point. (Just like anything else)

Deals4you Portable Marine LED Boating Lights, LED Night Lights for Boat Bow or Stern, Kayak Navigation Lights, Backup Lights for Racing Sailboats and Inflatable Boats

Deals4you

Based on 267 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Specification:

*Power Source: 2 x CR2032 batteries (included)

*Compact size,durable and flexible.

*Long service life,each led light are powered by 2xCR2032 battery.

*One button to control 3 mode function: steady on, strobe, slow flash.

*Easy to Install: they can be easily cliped onto tubes from about 5/8 to 1 inch diameter.



Application:

This light is designed for boat or kayak as navigation light, it can be used as skateboard light,bicycle warning light,pet safety light or climbing light, running light and camping light too.





Notice:

To ensure long service life,please do not put it in the water in a long time.



Package included:

4 x Led Light

  • These LED lights are portable, which provide an easy and effective boat safety lighting solution.
  • The silicone sleeve making them water-resistant, they can be easily mounted on bow, stern, mast or paddles without tools
  • Great boat accessories gifts for boat enthusiast. An inexpensive backup light set for dingy or racing sailboat.
  • Works well on Pontoon, Jon, Fishing, Skeeter, and kayaks and other inflatable boats.
  • 3 light modes for you: steady on, strobe & slow blink.

User questions & answers

Question: Do three lights come with one order? I need all three lights to navigate on my boat, one green light, one red, and one white
Answer: Mine came with two, but the white in this style is really not sufficient for the legal requirement for a stern light on your boat. Technically the stern light must be visible for 360 degrees. For an inexpensive stern light I recommend a Dorcy Mini Lantern with two key rings zip-tied to it to allow it to be fastened to the boat. For a really good stern light, I recommend the Kayalite portable stern light. It has a pole that lifts it above the deck, but can be fastened to any boat with something to clip to on the stern.
Question: Battery size
Answer: Each light needs 2xCR2032 battery
Question: I see that the red, green and 2 white option is not available right now. Will it be returning
Answer: We have red green white in stock and we have updated the inventory. Please feel free to order.
Question: How do these attach
Answer: they are elastic and wrap around a pole or bar. The two extremities are then linked with and included simple "s" hook. It's pretty effective system and has a good track record for bike lights.

Bright Eyes Green & Red Aluminum Portable Marine LED Boating Lights - Boat Bow or Stern Emergency Backup Safety Lights for Maximum Attention - Waterproof

Bright Eyes

Based on 336 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a set of LED Aluminum portable boat lights for the bow, stern, or anywhere on your boat. Easily installs around any pole, or cylindrical object on your boat with a diameter of 1" to 1.5" (inches).

  • EASY TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE - Provides a simple and effective boat safety lighting solution - 3 light modes: solid brightness, strobe, & slow blink.
  • Encased in HARDENED ANODIZED ALUMINUM - making them water-resistant and a great solution for a marine environment
  • A PORTABLE WATERPROOF LED light for your convenience. Great boat accessories gifts.
  • For Use on Pontoon, Jon, Fishing, Skeeter, and other boats. Use for bow, stern, or running lights, especially for being seen by other boaters.
  • Bright Eyes boating navigation lights come with our legendary NO-HASSLE LIFETIME WARRANTY

User questions & answers

Question: Are these as bright as the other bright eyes lights that are plastic
Answer: Yes. They are as bright as the silicone lights
Question: Do these come in clear for the 360 navigation light
Answer: Thank you for your question. We currently do not have the clear ones for this style. We do have a white silicone boat light.
Question: batteries or rechargeable
Answer: Thank you for your question Steve. These lights take batteries.
Question: Are the straps long enough to wrap around 3" tubing
Answer: 3" Diameter Tubing? No. I have mine on 1 1/2" Diameter tubing and that is probably Max. I would say.

GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights [4 Pack] for Boat, Kayak, Bike, Dog Collar, Stroller, Runners and Night Running - Clip On, Strobe, Warning, Flashing, Blinking, Reflective Light Accessories

GearLight

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights [4-Pack]



Versatile and super easy to use, these LED safety lights are the best option to keep you safe and visible whether you are a boating enthusiast, dog walker, jogger, runner, or cyclist. Simply strap or clip these small LED pods onto dog collars, or the front or back of child bikes, strollers, scooters, clothing gear, wheelchairs, kayaks, pontoons, or boat bows, to be seen during dawn, dusk, or night.



Whether sailing or camping, spending time at the beach or in the city, or taking a jog or stroll through your neighborhood, GearLight S1 LED Safety Lights will enhance your visibility and comfort. With these lights, you will know you and your loved ones can be seen at a safe distance while doing any low light outdoor activity. You will not notice the lights are on, yet you will have peace of mind knowing you will be seen!



These make for the perfect gift set for any family members, friends, kids, college students, joggers, runners, dog walkers, hikers, trekkers, cyclists, or boaters!



Flashlight Features:



Ultra Bright LED for High Visibility

Compact & Super Lightweight

Weather, Water, and Shock Resistant

Low Maintenance

3 Lighting Modes (Steady, Flash, Strobe)

Versatile and Easy to Use

Each Light is Powered by 2x CR2032 Batteries (Batteries are included)



Package Contents:



2x Red S1 LED Safety Lights (Each Preinstalled with 2x CR2032 Batteries)

2x Green S1 LED Safety Lights (Each Preinstalled with 2x CR2032 Batteries)

4x Straps

4x Extra CR2032 Batteries

1x Mini Phillips Screwdriver

1x Operation Guide



About GearLight



Located in California, we specialize in providing quality and dependable LED products. Our innovative line of flashlights, headlamps, lanterns, and other lighting gear is designed to deliver maximum performance at exceptional value.

  • Super Bright + Long Lasting: Can be easily seen from hundreds of feet away. Ideal for use as navigational, signal, or safety lights. Come preinstalled with batteries that last up to 100 hours of continuous use. (Extra Batteries Included)
  • Lightweight + Versatile: About the size of a car key and weighing less than 1 oz., these lights can be attached to pet collars, backpacks, helmets, and jogging or walking gear. Use the included fasteners to securely strap the lights onto boating bows and sterns, drones, bicycles, arms, wrists, and ankles. Perfect for use as a bike rear, back, and tail light.
  • 3 Lighting Modes + Easy-to-Use: Preinstalled with batteries for immediate use! These lights clip on easily and stay on securely. With one simple push of a button, you have instant illumination with 3 useful lighting modes [Steady, Flash, and Strobe].
  • Weather Resistant: Perfect for use in rain or snow, daytime or nighttime, and summer or winter. Count on them to keep you visible and safe during any outdoor activity in any weather.
  • Excellent 4-Pack Value + Extra Bonuses: Includes 2x Red + 2x Green GearLight S1 Safety Lights with batteries preinstalled. You also get 4x extra CR2032 batteries (2 sets), 4x straps, and a mini screwdriver for easy battery replacement.

User questions & answers

Question: Can these be used underwater
Answer: While they are water/weather resistant, they are not waterproof so they can’t be used underwater.
Question: Can they be clipped to back packs
Answer: Yes that would work just fine.
Question: Can these lights be seen during the day
Answer: I can see them during the day. I would imagine if they are placed in direct bright sunlight they might be more challenging to see.
Question: How do these compare to the other ones: blitzu cyborg led safety light 2 pack + free bonuses - clip on
Answer: This has 4 lights, all clip on. Also has velcro straps, extra batteries, tiny screwdriver. For the price I was surprised. Plus they're bright. I ride at 3am. Drivers can see ne and I can see the potholes.

Bright Eyes Green & Red Portable Marine LED Boating Lights - Boat Bow or Stern Safety Lights - Water-resistant

Bright Eyes

Based on 718 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a red and green LED silicone light set for the bow, stern, or anywhere on your boat. Easily installs around any pole, or cylindrical object on your boat with a diameter of 1" to 1.5" (inches).

Batteries Included: 2 x CR2032 in each light

  • EASY TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE - Provides a simple and effective boat safety lighting solution - 3 light modes: solid brightness, strobe, & slow blink.
  • Encased in a silicone sleeve making them water-resistant and a great solution for a marine environment
  • The perfect, most portable water-resistant LED light for your convenience. Great boat accessories gifts.
  • Works well on Pontoon, Jon, Fishing, Skeeter, and other boats. Use for bow, stern, or running lights, especially for being seen by other boaters.
  • Our Red and Green boating navigation lights come with a 100% Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee

User questions & answers

Question: are these battery operated? can the battery be replaced
Answer: Yes, these are battery operated. Each light runs on 2 standard CR2032 batteries and they are replaceable.
Question: Are batteries included
Answer: Sorry that's not clear in the listing Mike. I'll add that now.Yes, the batteries are included. 2 x CR2032 batteries in each light.
Question: is there a hack for mounting on square pontoon boat railings
Answer: It's a rubbery mounting strap. Worked fine on my square pontoon boat rails
Question: Will this clamp to the square railing on a pontoon boat
Answer: We use these on our pontoon boat it has a square rail, they stretch very easily. The only issue for us was that there is not an actual rail on the very front or back of our boat because of how the sides are constructed. They do make a great backup. We have used them many times. They are actually brighter than the permanent lights on the boat.

Attwood 14191-7 Clamp-On Portable Marine Boat Navigation Light Kit

attwood

Based on 729 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Be safe, and be sure you are seen with our most durable, and portable LED navigation lights. C-clamp mount goes on or removes quickly for versatility. Powered by 3 AAA batteries. Camouflage color. Attwood Corporation has been an award-winning leader in engineering, testing, and manufacturing the highest quality marine products for over 100 years.

  • Kit includes: red/green LED bow light, white LED stern light, quick-release mounts, pole, hardware
  • C-clamp mounting permits fast addition or removal as needed
  • Sealed electronics in a shock-proof housing and shatter-proof polycarbonate lens
  • Over 150 hours of run time on 3 AAA batteries (purchase separately)
  • Attwood products are both compatible and reliable, engineered and built with a never-fail attitude

User questions & answers

Question: The pictures show two different mounting options. Does it come with both because i would not use the clamps? Im interested in the other mounts shown
Answer: My kit only has the clamps, and I wanted to use the other bases for mounting. Big disappointment.
Question: does this kit come with two clamps
Answer: Yes, it comes with two clamps. They are heavy duty steel clamps with rubber grips.
Question: What material is the clamps made of
Answer: The clamps are metal - very nice - work good.
Question: does the red and green light turn (swivel) with the c clamp model
Answer: No it does not swivel, we actually use zip ties with ours for added security. We are pleased with our purchase!

Attwood 14194-7 Portable Navigation Light Kit, LED Bow Light, LED Stern Light, C-Clamp Mount, Marine Gray

attwood

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Attwood Portable Navigation Light Kit ensures that you will be seen and be safe with these compact and portable LED navigation lights. These lights are ideal for use by hunters, campers, while fishing, and on personal watercraft. The kit includes a red/green LED bow light, a white LED stern light, quick-release C-clamp mounts, a telescoping pole, and mounting hardware. These are water-resistant navigation lights with sealed electronics, and they are built to deliver reliable long-term service in harsh conditions. The housings are marine gray. These lights have shockproof composite housings and shatterproof polycarbonate lens. They will deliver over 150 hours of run-time on 3 AAA batteries (not included). Attwood Corporation has been an award-winning leader in engineering, testing, and manufacturing the highest quality marine products for over 100 years. We deliver safe and reliable lighting, fuel systems, water systems, seating & pedestals, swim ladders, custom upholstery, and general marine accessories that are easy to install and meet regulatory compliance.

  • Compact and portable LED navigation lights
  • Ideal for use by hunters, campers, while fishing, and on personal watercraft
  • Includes red/green LED bow light, white LED stern light, quick-release C-clamp mounts, telescoping pole, and mounting hardware
  • Water-resistant navigation lights with sealed electronics
  • Marine Gray housings
  • Shockproof composite housings and shatterproof polycarbonate lens
  • Powered by 3 AAA batteries (not included)

User questions & answers

Question: Where can I purchase just the clamp.. I have the lights already
Answer: According to manufacturer it's not selling separately.

Aqua Signal 27400-7 Battery-Powered LED Bi-Color Bow Light with Suction Cup/C-Clamp Mount

Aqua Signal

Based on 62 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Series 27 is for safe navigating at night or in low light conditions. It provides all-around white LED or bi color LED light maximizing visibility on the water. It is designed for small watercraft, dinghy, canoe, row boat, kayak, etc. that are manually/engine powered and less than 7 m with speeds up to 7 knots. Series 27 is portable and battery powered.

  • Bi-Color Kit Bi-Color light includes suction cup with flexible arm, glue pad for irregular surface and C-Clamp
  • Suction Cup, C-Clamp with inflatable adapter
  • Series 27 is portable and battery powered
  • Designed for small watercraft, dinghy, canoe, row boat, kayak, etc.

User questions & answers

Question: Will suction cup base adhere well to kayak made of polyethylene
Answer: It does not properly suction to my kayak which is made out of the same material. Instead they give you a base that you glue onto your kayak so that it has a flat surface to suction to. The problem is that a kayaks surface has pores that do not allow the suction cup to get a full seal.
Question: Does it have a switch to go from off to green or to red
Answer: Hello, There is one bulb and the lens is two colors (green and red). So the light is either on or off, showing green & red when on.
Question: how water proof is it
Answer: Should be ok it water splashes on it. Not submersible
Question: Is this USCG approved
Answer: Yes, I used it to pass the USCG Auxiliary boat inspection.

Aqua Signal 27440-7 Battery-Powered LED Stern Light with Suction Cup/C-Clamp Pole Mount

Aqua Signal

Based on 122 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Aqua Signal's Battery-Powered LED Stern Light includes a suction cup with flexible arm, glue pad for irregular surface, C-Clamp and 634 mm pole with U-bracket. Designed for vessels up to 23 feet. Uses premium side emitting LED Blubs.

  • Designed for vessels up to 23 feet
  • 4 AAA Batteries
  • Black housing
  • Uses premium side emitting LED Blubs

User questions & answers

Question: How do you load batteries
Answer: You simply unscrew the top and drop the 4 AAA batteries in. 2 up and 2 down.
Question: how long does the light last between battery changes
Answer: Per the product description, 'high quality LED provides up to 30 hours battery life' - this is also dependent on the type and quality of battery used.
Question: does it float
Answer: Yes, it does float.
Question: Is this uscg certified
Answer: No

Innovative Lighting Inc. 560-2110-7 Led Stern Light White W/Suction

Innovative Lighting

Based on 278 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Portable navigation lights from Innovative Lighting are the perfect solution for quick, easy to install navigation lights. The suction cup mount will adhere to most smooth flat surfaces. This stern light features one LED with a clear lens.

  • Molded One Piece White Body Construction
  • Uses 90% Less Energy than Incandescent
  • Sealed Heavy Duty On/Off Switch
  • Uses one LED rated at 100,000 hours service life
  • Requires 4 "AA" Batteries (Not Included)

User questions & answers

Question: Is the suction cup strong enough to with stand speeds of 75mph
Answer: I am not sure if it would. The suction cup is good, but I don't know if that would hold. I use the light on my paddle board and I have a "safety line" on the light so I don't lose it.
Question: Thanks to all who answered about the alternate base for the innovation stern and bow lights. inflatable for same lights have different base
Answer: I am not aware of an alternative base for these lights. The suction cup is applicable to all solid structure vehicles. Inflatables must use some sort of appropriate base.
Question: Which section holds the 1/4" bolt? The light housing or the suction cup base
Answer: The suction cup base has the male threaded bolt and the housing has the threaded nut insert.
Question: How much light does this particular light put out as far as lumens, and how many hours of light am I going to get out of one set of batteries
Answer: I use this as the stern 360 degree running light and anchor light on my sailboat. Lumens would be in the 200 - 300 range based on observable brightness. (Not a light meter) I expect to get about three days (36 hours) out of a set of batteries. The suction cup is really strong, but on occasion it will pop loose. Thank goodness it floats...

attwood Portable All-Craft LED Boat Navigation Light Kit - Realtree Max-4 Camouflage Portable All-Craft LED Boat Navigation Light Kit 14197-7 - Realtree Max-4 Camouflage

Attwood

Based on 114 reviews Check latest price
  • Kit includes: red/green LED bow light, white LED stern light, mounts, threaded pole, hardware
  • 3 convenient mounting options: C-clamp, screw down, or included adhesive pad
  • Sealed electronics in a shock-proof housing and a shatter-proof polycarbonate lens
  • Over 150 hours of run time on 3 AAA batteries (purchase separately)
  • Attwood products are both compatible and reliable, engineered and built with a never-fail attitude

User questions & answers

Question: What batteries do they take
Answer: Each light will require 3-AAA batteries not included.
Question: How tall is thr light bar
Answer: I believe it extends to like 30-36 inches i suck at guessing but it was as tall as my head when i was in my seat
Question: How tall is the white light pole? Can the red/green light swivel
Answer: The poles put together will provide 22" in height.
Question: Can an extension be used to raise the height of the bow light
Answer: The 14196-7 comes with an extension pole. It is not recommended to add additional extensions aside from the one that comes with the kit. There are not additional poles sold separately.

Hstyle Boat Bow and Stern Safety LED Navigation Light Kit for Emergency and Night Sailing, Waterproof and Portable (White)

H-Style

Based on 89 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The H-Style boat light kit is a necessary boat accessory, design for sailing at night or in extreme weather, rescuing and emergency use.

The compact and waterproof design adapts it to any environments and keeps the kit working well and lasting longer.

With free install design, you easily install the light in most places of your boat, such as bow, stern, or any other cylindrical object with a diameter of 1" to 1.5" (inches).

Simply mount the light and tie the hook on the other.

  • Waterproof & Super Bright: Encased in a silicone sleeve making them an excellent solution for a marine environment
  • Portable, Easy and Safe: Easily mounted on bow, stern, mast or paddles without any other tools
  • Multi-Use: Works well on Pontoon, Jon, Fishing, Skeeter, and other boats
  • 3 Lighting Modes: solid, strobe, slowly blink
  • The white boating navigation lights come with a 100% Money-Back Satisfaction Guarantee

User questions & answers

Question: Do these run on 12V or batteries
Answer: They run on the little CR2032 batteries.
Question: Are they coast guard approved for night kayaking
Answer: yes. if you are going slower than 5MPH and are less that 16 ft your only need a stern light...not red & green (Port & Starboard)
Question: Can anyone speak to the waterproof claim of these lights?I will use them on a kayak and that means occasionally wet
Answer: Used them this past weekend, they are not waterproof. They ended up shorting out and got stuck on blinking, they went off when the battery died. Also the batteries that were sent with it were no good.
Question: Would these attach to a kayak bungee? No rods on kayak
Answer: Sorry I do not have.

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