Understanding Navisafe Navigation Lights and Their Applications

Navisafe specialises in portable marine navigation lights designed to deliver defined light sectors (112.5°, 225°, and 360°) in accordance with COLREG requirements when correctly configured. Unlike fixed, hardwired navigation lights, Navisafe systems are typically battery-powered and modular, allowing sailors to deploy lighting where permanent installation is not practical.

Typical applications include:

- Tenders and dinghies requiring compliant lighting without fixed wiring

- Kayaks and small craft operating in coastal or inland waters

- Backup navigation lighting for offshore yachts

- Temporary installations during refit or electrical failure

For larger sailing yachts, Navisafe lights are most commonly used as redundant systems rather than primary navigation lighting, particularly where masthead or pulpit-mounted lights are already installed.

COLREG Compliance and Visibility Considerations

A key technical consideration when selecting Navisafe products is compliance with COLREG (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea).

Navisafe lights are designed to meet required arcs of visibility, including:

- 112.5° for port and starboard sidelights

- 135° for stern lights (via combined configurations)

- 360° all-round white lights for anchor or power-driven vessel use

However, compliance depends on:

- Correct mounting height and positioning

- Appropriate combination of lights (e.g. separate red/green plus stern vs tricolour)

- Achieving the required visibility range (typically 2NM for vessels under 12m)

Portable lights may not always meet installation height requirements for primary navigation lights on larger yachts, which is why they are typically specified for smaller vessels or backup use.

Navisafe Light Configurations

Navisafe systems are modular, allowing different configurations depending on vessel type:

All-Round (360°) White Lights

Used for:

- Anchor lights

- Power-driven vessels under certain conditions

- Emergency visibility

Bi-Colour (Red/Green) Lights

Used as:

- Combined sidelights for sailing vessels

- Common on tenders and small boats

Tricolour Lights

Combine red, green, and white sectors

Typically mounted at height (e.g. masthead equivalent)

Used on sailing vessels underway

Combined Systems

Multiple Navisafe units can be configured to replicate:

- Port/starboard + stern light setups

- Flexible temporary navigation systems

Mounting Systems and Installation

A defining feature of Navisafe products is their flexible mounting architecture, allowing rapid deployment without tools.

Common mounting options include:

- Magnetic mounts for steel structures

- Rail mounts for pushpits and pulpits

- Pole mounts for elevated positioning

- Suction mounts for smooth surfaces

From a technical standpoint, correct positioning is critical to:

- Maintain unobstructed visibility arcs

- Avoid interference from sails, rigging, or deck hardware

- Achieve appropriate height above deck level

Navisafe Battery Nav Lights

Power Supply and Runtime Performance

Navisafe lights are typically powered by:

- Replaceable AA batteries or

- Rechargeable internal battery systems

Runtime varies depending on mode (steady vs flashing), but users should consider:

- Reduced runtime at maximum brightness

- Battery performance in low temperatures

- The need for redundancy on offshore passages

LED technology ensures low power consumption while maintaining consistent light output across the specified sector.

Typical Use Cases for Navisafe Lights

From a practical sailing perspective, Navisafe systems are most effective in the following roles:

- Primary navigation lighting for small craft (dinghies, tenders, kayaks)

- Backup navigation lights for offshore yachts

- Emergency lighting during electrical failure

- Temporary installations during refit or delivery

They are less commonly used as permanent primary lighting on larger yachts due to mounting and power limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions – Navisafe Navigation Lights

Are Navisafe lights COLREG compliant?

Navisafe lights are designed to meet COLREG visibility sectors and ranges, but compliance depends on correct configuration, positioning, and vessel type.

Can Navisafe lights replace fixed navigation lights?

For small vessels, they can be used as primary navigation lights. On larger yachts, they are generally used as backup or temporary solutions rather than permanent replacements.

What visibility range do Navisafe lights provide?

Most Navisafe models are rated for approximately 2 nautical miles, aligning with requirements for vessels under 12 metres.

Which Navisafe light do I need for my boat?

This depends on vessel size and use case:

- 360° white for anchoring or all-round visibility

- Bi-colour red/green for sidelights

- Combined systems for full navigation setups

- How are Navisafe lights mounted?

They use modular mounting systems including magnetic, rail, suction, and pole mounts, allowing flexible positioning without permanent installation.

Are Navisafe lights waterproof?

Navisafe lights are designed for marine environments and typically feature high IP ratings suitable for exposure to spray, rain, and temporary immersion.

Can Navisafe lights be used offshore?

Yes, primarily as backup navigation lighting, rather than as the sole primary system on offshore yachts.

What is the battery life of Navisafe lights?

Battery life varies by model and mode but typically ranges from several hours to extended multi-day use in low-power settings.