Imagine cruising under a starry sky, the water gently rocking your boat. Now, picture that scene with stunning, vibrant lighting that perfectly sets the mood. Doesn’t that sound better than fumbling for a dim flashlight?
Choosing the right LED strip lights for your boat can feel overwhelming. You need lights that handle saltwater spray, bright sunlight, and constant movement without flickering or failing. Many boat owners face the headache of buying lights that quickly break down or don’t offer the right brightness for safety and ambiance. It’s frustrating when your marine upgrade doesn’t live up to the hype.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what features matter most—from waterproofing ratings to color temperature—so you can confidently select durable, brilliant LED strips. You will learn how to transform your vessel into the best-looking boat on the water.
Ready to brighten your boating experience? Let’s dive into the essential guide for selecting the perfect LED strip lights for your marine adventures.
Top Led Strip Lights For Boats Recommendations
- 【Package Included】: Full kit for your boat project, no other accessories need, our kit included 2 pcs 5m(16.4ft) Marine LED Strip Lights, 44key remote, receiver and 12v power cord and 10 pcs 3M tape hooks and 10pcs led strip clips and screws.
- 【Easy Installation】: Complete led light strip kit Including 2 rolls of 16.4ft led light strips, 44keys remote Control, sensor box, instruction manual, the led lights have a strong backing adhesive, you can install it on any dry and clean places, We now include extra mounting brackets/fixing clips, you don't worry about the strip falling down, flexible to install anywhere you want, It can be cut between every 3 leds
- 【Waterproof and Safe】: Protect your strip lights from water with this waterproof feature; Extremely low heat by low voltage power enables the lights to work longer and become safer
- 【Widely Application】: The boat led strip kit is perfect for under gunwale light, boat deck light, fishing night light, cockpit light, accent light, center console light, courtesy light, interior lights. Common use for pontoon boat, duck boat, bass boat, kayak, Jon boat, sailboat, fishing boat, trailer, car, RV, truck, also idea for home bedroom, living room, kitchen, party etc.
- 【Durable and environmentally friendly】: Low carbon, no radiation, no flicker, and no pollution to human and environment. By adopting qualified FPC circuit board and LEDs, the strip has heat dissipation, making it much more durable.
- UPGRADED 32.8FT BOAT LIGHTS : Full kit for your boats, no other accessories need, our kit included 2 x 5m(16.4ft) Marine LED Strip Lights + 1-2 Splitter cable + 2 x 2M/6.56FT extension cable, 10 pcs 3M tape hooks and 10pcs led strip clips and screws, The boat led strip light is an ideal gift for your friends or family on birthday, Christmas or party, especially for boat lovers
- Super Bright LED Strip : 600 Pcs Super bright 5050 white LEDs are evenly embedded on the 10m(32.8ft) double-layer pure copper FPCB Board and give out beautiful blue light. High-density 60 LEDs/M design makes luminescence more even and bright
- Flexible Design & Easy to Install : The Lights Using flexible copper circuit board, you can gently bend it, Please NEVER rudely bend it to right or acute angle, otherwise the circuit board and silicone coating will crack. The strip lights can be cut between every 3 LEDs along the cutting marks to fit for your project, great for DIY. The light strip comes with strong 3M back adhesive, mounting clips to help keep the boat light strip stay in place
- Safe & Waterproof : This LED strip light is fully covered with water-resistant glue. Waterproof rating is IP65, It can withstand the rainy and snowy weather and protect LED from damage, greatly extend the life of the strip lights to 50,000 hours or more. LED strip with operating voltage of 12V, low heat, no radiation, no flicker
- Wide Application : The lights are widely used for boat interior light, cockpit light, deck light, transom light, step light, cabin light, courtesy light, navigation light, stern light, side light, accent atmosphere light ect
- 【Package Included】: Full kit for your boat project, no other accessories need, our kit included 2 pcs 7.5m(25ft) Marine LED Strip Lights +44key remote controller, 12v power cord, 15 pcs 3M tape hooks and 15pcs led strip clips and screws.
- 【Easy Installation】: Complete led light strip kit Including 2 rolls of 25ft led light strips, 44keys remote Control, sensor box, instruction manual, the led lights have a strong backing adhesive, you can install it on any dry and clean places, We now include extra mounting brackets/fixing clips, you don't worry about the strip falling down, flexible to install anywhere you want, It can be cut between every 3 leds
- 【Waterproof and Safe】: Protect your strip lights from water with this waterproof feature; Extremely low heat by low voltage power enables the lights to work longer and become safer
- 【Wide Application】: The boat led strip kit is perfect for under gunwale light, boat deck light, fishing night light, cockpit light, accent light, center console light, courtesy light, interior lights. Common use for pontoon boat, duck boat, bass boat, kayak, Jon boat, sailboat, fishing boat, trailer, car, RV, truck, also idea for home bedroom, living room, kitchen, party etc.
- 【Durable and environmentally friendly】: Low carbon, no radiation, no flicker, and no pollution to human and environment. By adopting qualified FPC circuit board and LEDs, the strip has heat dissipation, making it much more durable.
- UPGRADED 32.8FT BOAT LIGHTS : Full kit for your boats, no other accessories need, our kit included 2 x 5m(16.4ft) Marine LED Strip Lights + 1-2 Splitter cable + 2 x 2M/6.56FT extension cable, 10 pcs 3M tape hooks and 10pcs led strip clips and screws, The boat led strip light is an ideal gift for your friends or family on birthday, Christmas or party, especially for boat lovers
- Super Bright LED Strip : 600 Pcs Super bright 5050 green LEDs are evenly embedded on the 10m(32.8ft) double-layer pure copper FPCB Board and give out beautiful blue light. High-density 60 LEDs/M design makes luminescence more even and bright
- Flexible Design & Easy to Install : The Lights Using flexible copper circuit board, you can gently bend it, Please NEVER rudely bend it to right or acute angle, otherwise the circuit board and silicone coating will crack. The strip lights can be cut between every 3 LEDs along the cutting marks to fit for your project, great for DIY. The light strip comes with strong 3M back adhesive, mounting clips to help keep the boat light strip stay in place
- Safe & Waterproof : This LED strip light is fully covered with water-resistant glue. Waterproof rating is IP65, It can withstand the rainy and snowy weather and protect LED from damage, greatly extend the life of the strip lights to 50,000 hours or more. LED strip with operating voltage of 12V, low heat, no radiation, no flicker
- Wide Application : The lights are widely used for boat interior light, cockpit light, deck light, transom light, step light, cabin light, courtesy light, navigation light, stern light, side light, accent atmosphere light ect
- Super Bright IP67 Waterproof Boat Light: This pontoon boat lights is Ultra-bright using high-quality 5050 LED. What is more, the IP67 waterproof marine grade led light is fully wrapped with silicone, and has a lifespan of 50,000 hours. (The controller, wires and cigarette lighter are all waterproof). Whether it is a sudden rainstorm or a sailing process with splashing waves, this led boat lights can operate stably without worrying about water intake damage
- Intelligent and Multiple Controls: The marine led lights works perfectly with Zengge APP, and the light control is at your will. This boat led light strip features app DIY buttons, smart timers, music synchronization, candle mode, custom dynamic modes, etc., and you can use the camera to capture colors and synchronize to LED lights. You can also control multiple light groups at the same time
- Music Sync and Smart Timer: Use our boat lights to turn your pontoon into a party boat! Synchronize the color changing effect with the rhythm of music for an unforgettable experience. The smart timer can specify the on and off of colors and modes. The boat led lights can be used as a cockpit light, boat interior light, atmosphere light, ambient light, etiquette light, deck light or night fishing light. Whether in friend or family gatherings, children and the elderly will love it
- 12V Low Voltage Light Strip: The led lights for boat comes with a 3.3ft cigarette lighter plug cord that can be plugged into a boat or RV console panel to power the LED light strip. A 6.6ft power cord can also be used to connect to a 12V battery (positive and negative). The boat lights led waterproof is self-adhesive, just peel off the adhesive tape and stick it on a dry and clean surface, use alcohol to clean the surface for best results, and comes with a mounting clip with screws for reinforcement.
- 2.4G Remote Control All-round: The remote control supports 360-degree through-the-wall control. The boat led strip lights 12v waterproof has a power-off setting that can restore the last setting. (Easy to cut and connect, cut every 10cm). Widely used: pontoon boat, kayak, Jon boat, sailboat, fishing boat, trailer, car, RV, truck, etc
- UPGRADED 32.8FT BOAT LIGHTS : Full kit for your boats, no other accessories need, our kit included 2 x 5m(16.4ft) Marine LED Strip Lights + 1-2 Splitter cable + 2 x 2M/6.56FT extension cable, 10 pcs 3M tape hooks and 10pcs led strip clips and screws, The boat led strip light is an ideal gift for your friends or family on birthday, Christmas or party, especially for boat lovers
- Super Bright LED Strip : 600 Pcs Super bright 5050 blue LEDs are evenly embedded on the 10m(32.8ft) double-layer pure copper FPCB Board and give out beautiful blue light. High-density 60 LEDs/M design makes luminescence more even and bright
- Flexible Design & Easy to Install : The Lights Using flexible copper circuit board, you can gently bend it, Please NEVER rudely bend it to right or acute angle, otherwise the circuit board and silicone coating will crack. The strip lights can be cut between every 3 LEDs along the cutting marks to fit for your project, great for DIY. The light strip comes with strong 3M back adhesive, mounting clips to help keep the boat light strip stay in place
- Safe & Waterproof : This LED strip light is fully covered with water-resistant glue. Waterproof rating is IP65, It can withstand the rainy and snowy weather and protect LED from damage, greatly extend the life of the strip lights to 50,000 hours or more. LED strip with operating voltage of 12V, low heat, no flicker
- Wide Application】: The lights are widely used for boat interior light, cockpit light, deck light, transom light, step light, cabin light, courtesy light, navigation light, stern light, side light, accent atmosphere light ect
- Multi color Marine Grade LED Boat Light ：Upgraded fully waterproof light set has its cords, connections and controller all watertight. This provides better waterproof consistency and installation flexibility. The continuous 33ft (2 rolls for 66ft) led strip lights use 12 volt 5050 leds for high quality lighting and safety. Note: both waterproof strips need to connect with controller outputs for two-roll light set
- Enhanced App Control and Features: Zengge app offers the pontoon boat light rich lighting functions. You can DIY favorite color buttons and brightness, customize dynamic modes, music and candle mode. Use camera to pick color and sync to the led light. The marine boat light also supports group control that you can control multiple light sets together
- Extra Accessories for Easy Installation: Cigarette lighter plug with 3.3ft cord is included to plug into boat switch panel and power on the 12v boat led strip lights. Or you can use the 6.6ft cord is for direct wiring to 12V battery. The marine boat light strip is self-adhesive and mounting clips with screws are included for reinforcement
- Music Sync and Smart Timer: The pontoon boat light has music mode to sync the color changing with rhythm for party. The smart timer allows you to schedule the weatherproof light strip off/on in specifiable colors and modes. Moreover, the waterproof led strip has power-off setting that restores last setting or you can customize your own setting once switching on the boat light
- Led Light for Boat with 2.4G Remote: The 24 key remote enhanced version with 360° through wall control and it is pairable in app. The boat light is designed for boat interior and exterior lighting, such as pontoon, yacht, kayak, jon boat deck, cabin, stern, under gunwale, cockpit and RV, as ambiant, courtesy or night fishing light
- Two Installation Methods: There is 3M adhesive back tapes on the back of the boat interior lights, and 2 screw holes at both ends of the boat led strip lights, you can choose your preferred installation method
- High Quality Marine Led Boat Lights: Made of flexible high quality silicone shell, with IP67 waterproof, the marine courtesy light strip for boats led is glued to avoid ship collision damage, the boat led lights can be used for 50,000 hours
- Unique Design: Voltage - DC 12V; Power - 1.3W; LED strip length 5.9"; wire length 11.8"; each boat navigation light is equipped with 15 pcs 2835 LEDs, which can produce 4 miles of visible light
- Wide Application: Our boat navigation lights are suitable for courtesy lights, step light, decorate light, night light, boat center console light, cockpit light, transom light,side light. Commonly used in marine boats, bass boat, pontoon boat, kayaks, yachts, fishing boats
- 12 Months Warranty: We provide 12 months warranty for our boat led lights. If there is any quality problem with replacement boat accessories, please kindly contact us at any time
The Ultimate Buying Guide for LED Strip Lights for Boats
Choosing the right LED strip lights for your boat can really change how you use and see your vessel at night. These lights offer great looks and better safety. This guide helps you pick the best ones for the harsh marine environment.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important features. They make a big difference in how well your lights work over time.
Waterproofing Rating (IP Rating)
Boats get wet! You must check the Ingress Protection (IP) rating. For boats, you need at least an IP65 rating. This means the lights resist water splashes. For areas that might get fully submerged or constantly hit by waves, look for IP67 or IP68. Higher numbers mean better protection.
Brightness and Color Temperature
Consider how bright you need the lights to be. Measured in Lumens, too little light is unsafe, and too much can cause glare. For ambient lighting under gunwales, a softer light works well. For task lighting, you need brighter output. Color temperature (measured in Kelvin) matters too. Warmer whites (around 3000K) feel cozy. Cooler whites (around 6000K) look more modern and crisp.
Voltage Compatibility
Most boats run on 12-volt DC power. Make sure the strips you buy are explicitly labeled as 12V compatible. Using the wrong voltage will quickly burn out your new lights.
Important Materials for Marine Use
The materials used determine if your lights survive salt, sun, and spray.
The Strip Itself
Look for LED strips coated in silicone or epoxy. This coating protects the delicate electronic circuits from moisture and corrosion. Cheap plastic coatings often crack quickly when exposed to UV rays from the sun.
The Backing Tape
Strong adhesive is crucial. Marine-grade 3M VHB (Very High Bond) tape offers the best hold. It sticks firmly to fiberglass, metal, and wet surfaces. Weak tape means your lights will peel off after the first bumpy ride.
LED Chip Quality
Better quality LEDs last longer and maintain consistent color. Brands often specify the LED chip manufacturer (like Epistar or Cree). Higher quality chips resist flickering and fading better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Boosts Quality?
- Thicker PCB: The Printed Circuit Board (PCB) that holds the LEDs should be thicker. A thicker board helps dissipate heat better, which extends the life of the LEDs.
- UV Resistance: Ensure the outer casing specifically resists ultraviolet light damage. Sun exposure breaks down cheap plastics quickly.
- Aluminum Channels: Always install your strips inside aluminum channels with diffusers. The channel acts as a heat sink, drawing heat away from the LEDs, and the diffuser spreads the light evenly.
What Lowers Quality?
- No Sealant: Strips that rely only on basic coating without proper sealing at the ends fail fast in humid air.
- Low Density: Strips with fewer LEDs per foot (e.g., 30 LEDs/meter) look spotty. Aim for 60 LEDs per meter or more for a smooth line of light.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the lights affects your purchase decision.
Under Gunwale Lighting (Cockpit Ambiance)
This is popular for nighttime fishing or relaxing. You need water-resistant strips (IP65) that offer moderate brightness. Dimmability is a huge plus here so you can adjust the mood.
Navigation and Safety Lighting
For accenting steps or entryways, you need highly visible, reliable light. Red or blue lights are often used for accenting, but ensure white lights used for tasks are bright enough to see clearly without blinding the captain.
Durability vs. Cost
Remember, the cheapest option rarely lasts a season on the water. Investing slightly more in marine-grade, fully sealed strips saves you the hassle and cost of replacement later.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Boat LED Strips
Q: Can I use regular indoor LED strips on my boat?
A: No, you should not. Indoor strips lack the necessary waterproofing and UV resistance. Water and sun will quickly destroy them.
Q: What does IP67 mean for my boat lights?
A: IP67 means the lights are dust-tight and protected against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter deep).
Q: Do I need a special controller for dimming?
A: Yes. If you want to dim 12V LED strips, you need a compatible 12V PWM dimmer switch installed between your power source and the lights.
Q: How do I cut LED strips to fit my boat?
A: You can cut most strips at designated copper markings, usually every few inches. Always cut only on those marks.
Q: Will LED lights drain my boat battery too fast?
A: No. LEDs use much less power than traditional bulbs. A typical 16-foot strip uses very little power, even when left on for several hours.
Q: What color is best for fishing at night?
A: Many anglers prefer green or blue light. These colors attract fewer insects than bright white light while still offering good visibility.
Q: Is installation difficult?
A: Basic installation is simple if you use the adhesive backing. However, you must safely wire them into your existing 12V system, which may require some basic electrical knowledge.
Q: How long should marine-grade LEDs last?
A: High-quality marine LEDs should last 30,000 to 50,000 hours if installed correctly and protected from excessive heat.
Q: Should the lights be installed inside or outside the boat?
A: Always choose lights rated for the specific location. Exterior mounting needs the highest waterproofing (IP67/IP68).
Q: What is the difference between surface-mount and side-view strips?
A: Surface-mount (top view) lights shine straight up. Side-view (or “peel and stick”) lights shine horizontally out the side, which is great for hiding the light source under a lip.