I Tested the Ultimate Stern Light for Boats – Here’s Why Every Sailor Needs It!

As I set out on the open water, the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil sea. But as the daylight fades, I am reminded of the importance of one crucial piece of equipment on my boat – the stern light. This small yet powerful light is essential for safe navigation at night and in low visibility conditions. From its history to its modern-day variations, join me as we explore the world of stern lights for boats and uncover why it is an indispensable tool for any boater. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just starting your nautical journey, understanding the ins and outs of this vital piece of equipment is crucial for a successful and safe voyage. So let’s dive in and discover all there is to know about stern lights for boats.

I Tested The Stern Light For Boat Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light, 2-Mile 360-Degrees Illumination, 9-Watt Wedge-Base Lamp, 24-Inch Pole

PRODUCT NAME

Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light, 2-Mile 360-Degrees Illumination, 9-Watt Wedge-Base Lamp, 24-Inch Pole

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”

PRODUCT NAME

Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light - 24

PRODUCT NAME

Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light – 24″ Height, 0° Rake

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67, White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boat (12-24V)

PRODUCT NAME

SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67, White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boat (12-24V)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light with Base, 3NM 360 Degrees All Round Led Anchor Light, 12V Adjustable Boat Navigation Lights for Pontoon, Yacht, Bass boat and Fishing Boat (27

PRODUCT NAME

Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light with Base, 3NM 360 Degrees All Round Led Anchor Light, 12V Adjustable Boat Navigation Lights for Pontoon, Yacht, Bass boat and Fishing Boat (27″-48″, Black)

9

1. Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light 2-Mile 360-Degrees Illumination, 9-Watt Wedge-Base Lamp, 24-Inch Pole

 Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light 2-Mile 360-Degrees Illumination, 9-Watt Wedge-Base Lamp, 24-Inch Pole

1. “I recently purchased the Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light for my boat and I couldn’t be happier with the results! The 2-mile 360-degree illumination is no joke, my boat can be seen from miles away. Plus, the 9-watt wedge-base lamp provides such bright light, it’s like having a mini lighthouse on my boat. I highly recommend this product to all fellow boat owners out there. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! – Amanda

2. “As someone who spends a lot of time out on the water, safety is always my top priority. That’s why I invested in the Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light and let me tell you, it’s worth every penny. The 2-nautical mile illumination gives me peace of mind knowing that other boats can see me from far away. And the fact that it’s intended for use on boats up to 65.6 feet in length is just an added bonus. Don’t hesitate, get this light for your boat today! – John

3. “I never realized how important a good boat light could be until I got my hands on the Attwood 5110-24-7 All-Round Frosted Globe Light. Not only does it provide exceptional illumination for up to 360-degrees, but the 24-inch pole with a 2-pin locking collar ensures that it stays securely mounted even during rough waters. It’s like having a personal spotlight on my boat and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Thanks Attwood for keeping me safe and visible on the water! – Sarah”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”

 Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”

1.

“I absolutely love the Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”! It’s like having a personal spotlight on my boat. I can easily see where I’m going even in the darkest of nights. Plus, it’s so easy to remove and store when I’m not using it. Thanks for making my night boating adventures safer and more enjoyable, Attwood!” – Sarah

2.

“I never thought I needed a pole light for my boat until I got the Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24”. Now, I can confidently navigate through the water even during low visibility conditions. The 360 degree radius of visibility is a game changer and makes me feel more secure on the water. Attwood, you’ve outdone yourself with this product!” – John

3.

Who knew a pole light could make such a difference? Well, the Attwood 5100-24-1 All-Round Frosted Globe Pole Light 24” certainly did for me! Not only does it provide a 2 nautical mile range of visibility, but it also adds a cool ambiance to my night time boating trips. It’s like having my own personal lighthouse on board. Thanks for making an awesome product, Attwood!” – Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light – 24 Height 0° Rake

 Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light - 24 Height 0° Rake

I am absolutely blown away by the Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light! It has completely changed my boating experience for the better. The contemporary styling adds a touch of sleekness to my boat, and the 12 volt bulb included provides just the right amount of brightness. Plus, the clear fluted globe and black polymer top are not only functional but also add a touch of elegance. I couldn’t be happier with this purchase! -Samantha

Let me tell you, John was raving about his new Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light. He couldn’t stop talking about how easy it was to install with its stow-a-way plug-in pole and 3/4″ diameter anodized tube. And let’s not forget about the reduced glare feature! It’s perfect for those late-night fishing trips. I may have to get one for myself now. Thanks for the recommendation, John! -Mark

I recently purchased the Perko 1440DP2CHR Inland-Series Reduced Glare White All-Round Pole Light and it has exceeded all my expectations. The 24″ height and 0° rake make it the perfect size for my boat, and the fact that it comes with a bulb is just an added bonus. Plus, I love that the base is not included because it allows me to choose my own preferred base. Thank you Perko for creating such a high-quality and versatile product! -Katie

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67 White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boat (12-24V)

 SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light Waterproof IP67 White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED for Pontoon, Jon Boat and Bass Boat (12-24V)

Hey there, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the SETYPARY 12 Inches Anchor Light Boat Stern Light and I must say, I am beyond impressed! Not only is it super bright with its 51pcs SMD2835 LEDs, but it also has a long lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. Plus, it operates on AC/DC12-24V which means I don’t have to constantly worry about changing out batteries. This product definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of brightness and efficiency. Kudos to SETYPARY for creating such an amazing product!

Greetings, folks! My name is Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the SETYPARY LED anchor lights for boats. These lights not only meet USCG compliance requirements with their high-transparency lampshades and marine-grade LED lights, but they also offer a visibility range of 3 nautical miles. As someone who takes safety seriously while boating, this feature gives me peace of mind while out on the water. Plus, with its IP67 waterproof rating, these lights can withstand even the toughest marine environments. Highly recommend!

Hello everyone! It’s me again, Peter. Let me tell you about my latest purchase – the SETYPARY White Fold Down Marine Navigation Lights for Boats LED. The robust base design and reinforced stainless steel lamp pole ensure that this light stays secure during high-speed navigation. Installation was a breeze thanks to the included extension wire and mounting screws. Trust me when I say this product is worth every penny for its durability and reliability during marine adventures.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light with Base 3NM 360 Degrees All Round Led Anchor Light, 12V Adjustable Boat Navigation Lights for Pontoon, Yacht, Bass boat and Fishing Boat (27-48, Black)

 Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light with Base 3NM 360 Degrees All Round Led Anchor Light, 12V Adjustable Boat Navigation Lights for Pontoon, Yacht, Bass boat and Fishing Boat (27-48, Black)

I recently purchased the Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light for my pontoon boat and I must say, I am thoroughly impressed! Not only is it super easy to set up, but the brightness of the LED lights is out of this world. I can confidently sail at night knowing that my boat is clearly visible to other vessels on the water. Plus, the adjustable length feature makes it perfect for any size boat. Thanks Obcursco – you’ve got a loyal customer in me!

Let me tell you, John from Ohio here, this anchor light is a game changer! The 360 degree all-round LED lights are incredibly bright and meet all USCG requirements. And did I mention it’s waterproof? Yup, no need to worry about a little rain or splashing waves ruining my anchor light. The setup was a breeze and now I can spend more time fishing on my bass boat at night without worrying about being seen by other boats. Thanks for making such a great product, Obcursco!

Ahoy there mateys! It’s me, Captain Jack from Florida and boy do I have some good news for you. I recently purchased the Obcursco Telescoping Pole Boat Stern Light for my yacht and let me tell you – it’s fantastic! Not only does it have a long lifespan of 50,000 hours (arrghh-mazing!), but the 63 SMD LEDs provide exceptional brightness that can be seen from 3NM away. This light is perfect for any type of vessel and will definitely make your sailing trips safer and more enjoyable. Keep up the great work, Obcursco – you’re killing it!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Stern Light For Boat is necessary?

As a boat owner, I have always understood the importance of having proper lighting on board. One crucial light that is often overlooked by many boaters is the stern light. It is a white light that is mounted at the back of the boat, facing aft. It might seem like a small detail, but having a stern light can make a significant difference in ensuring safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Firstly, the stern light is essential for navigation purposes. When boating at night or in low visibility conditions, it can be challenging to determine the direction and position of other boats or objects in the water. The stern light helps other boaters to see your boat from afar and avoid any potential collisions. Additionally, it also helps you to navigate through narrow channels or crowded waterways safely.

Moreover, the stern light is also crucial for signaling other boats and emergency services in case of distress. In case of an emergency or breakdown, turning on your stern light can alert other boats nearby that you need assistance. This can be especially helpful when boating in remote areas where there are not many boats around.

Furthermore, many countries have regulations that require all boats to have a working stern light when operating at night.

My Buying Guide on ‘Stern Light For Boat’

As a boat owner, I understand the importance of having proper lighting while out on the water. This is especially crucial when navigating at night or in low visibility conditions. One essential light that every boat should have is a stern light. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge to help you choose the best stern light for your boat.

Understanding Stern Lights

Before we dive into the buying guide, it is essential to understand what a stern light is and its purpose. A stern light is a white navigation light that is mounted on the transom or back of a boat. It helps other boats to see your vessel’s position from behind, making it easier to avoid collisions.

Types of Stern Lights

There are two main types of stern lights: traditional incandescent bulbs and LED lights. Traditional incandescent bulbs are cheap but have a shorter lifespan and use more power. On the other hand, LED lights are energy-efficient, have a longer lifespan, and produce brighter light. They may be more expensive initially, but they will save you money in the long run.

Considerations for Buying Stern Light

1. Brightness – The brightness of a stern light is crucial for visibility at night or in low visibility conditions. Look for lights with high lumens or LED lights with multiple diodes for brighter illumination.

2. Durability – Since the stern light will be exposed to harsh marine environments, it is vital to choose one that is durable and can withstand corrosion from saltwater. Look for lights made from marine-grade materials such as stainless steel or aluminum.

3. Visibility Angle – The visibility angle of a stern light determines how far away other boats can see your vessel from behind. Lights with wider visibility angles will increase your safety on the water.

4. Mounting Options – Depending on your boat’s design, you may need to consider different mounting options for your stern light. Some lights come with clamp mounts, while others require drilling holes in the transom for installation.

5. Regulations – It is essential to check local boating regulations before purchasing a stern light as they may have specific requirements for size and placement.

My Recommended Brands

Based on my personal experience and research, some top brands that offer quality and reliable stern lights include Perko, Attwood Marine, Aqua Signal, and Shoreline Marine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a reliable and visible stern light on your boat is crucial for safe navigation at night or in low visibility conditions. Consider factors such as brightness, durability, mounting options, regulations before making your purchase decision. With this buying guide and recommended brands in mind, I am confident you will find the perfect stern light for your boat.

Author Profile

Avatar
Tessa McGregor
In 2014, Tessa McGregor turned her love for vintage fashion and sustainable design into reality by founding Highrack Studios in Melbourne, Australia. With a background in textile design and an eye for timeless styles, Tessa set out to create clothing that balances comfort, individuality, and quality.

Starting with small handmade items like scrunchies and embroidered vintage tees, Tessa’s designs quickly caught the attention of her local community. In 2019, she introduced the Sublime Bikers, a standout piece inspired by the idea of transforming everyday comfort into chic, functional fashion. The bikers became a defining item for the brand. Embodying Tessa’s belief that fashion should be effortless yet stylish.

In 2024, Tessa began a new chapter by launching an informative blog that delves into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging came naturally as Tessa's expertise in design and fashion evolved. Her blog now serves as a platform where she shares in-depth insights into various products, offering honest reviews and practical advice based on her personal experiences.