The Scanstrut Navlight is particularly well suited to the usage patterns of small dinghies and fishing boats: fit the light mast, remove it when not in use, and close the mounting bracket. Unlike conventional plug-in masts, there are no exposed electrical contacts between the mast and the base. This can reduce the susceptibility of this connection to corrosion.
Wireless via the mast, not via the vehicle’s electrical system
The term ‘wireless’ can be somewhat misleading. The Scanstrut bracket still requires a 12-volt power supply from the boat. The Navlight does not have a built-in battery and is therefore not a retrofit solution for a fishing boat without a power supply. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, an opening with a diameter of 48 millimetres is required for installation. Anyone fitting the mount should also allow for space for the power connection and an unobstructed beam pattern.
According to the Technical specifications from Scanstrut This is a white LED all-round light from Perko with a range of two nautical miles. The mast is described as being 600 and 1,200 millimetres in length. A spring-loaded cover seals the mounting point when the light is removed. During operation, a locking mechanism is designed to hold the mast in place. The manufacturer specifies an IPX6 rating for the unit and an IPX4 rating for the cover. These are product specifications, not the results of on-board testing.
For which motorboats is a single light sufficient?
For voyages at sea, Rule 23 of the Collision Prevention Rules A narrow exception: a motorised vessel under seven metres in length with a maximum speed of no more than seven knots may display a white all-round light instead of the lights otherwise required. Where possible, it must also display side lights. This applies, for example, to small, slow dinghies. A small fishing boat with a more powerful engine does not fall under this exception simply because of its short hull length. For motorboats under twelve metres, a white all-round light together with sidelights may form part of another permissible lighting arrangement. On its own, however, it is not sufficient.
The area in which the vehicle is operated is also important: separate regulations apply for inland waterways. In our Practical guide to night-time motorboat sailing It is therefore recommended that all the required lighting be switched on before setting sail and checked from outside. Scanstrut cites ABYC C-5 and the KVR, amongst others, as standards for the Navlight. Whether the specific model is approved for the intended use and has been fitted correctly must be clarified before purchase. The product page does not currently provide a firm German price or delivery date.
The advantage of the Navlight lies in its detachable light, which has no exposed contacts at the connection point. Its use as the sole navigation light is restricted to very limited circumstances.
Book recommendation
Boats - Logbook by Christian Tiedt is aimed at motorboat skippers on inland waterways and at sea. Among other things, it explains the lighting requirements in both areas, as well as the rules of the water and how to behave when encountering other vessels. This is useful when choosing a all-round light: the lighting must be suitable for the boat and comply with the applicable regulations. Navigation marks, sound signals and marine radio are further topics covered in this handy reference guide.
What sort of navigation light do you have on board? Have your say in the comments.
Michael Rinck
Redakteur Test & Technik
