Lights For Night Kayakers
By Tamara Williams, Fri Dec 9th

At night a kayaker will need at least one white light on theirkayak so that it can be shown in the direction of any oncomingboaters. All Lights used for Kayaking should be waterproof andbe using new batteries when starting out for the night. Ahandheld flashlight will do for most kayakers. It is wise tocheck your local laws for the exact requirements. Boatsover 16 ft often have greater lighting requirements. Find outYour Kayaks Length and be prepared for the safety rules thatapply to it.

The best form of "white light" for a Kayaker is a "Deck Light"(also referred to as an anchor light). A strong white light thatyou can see from all directions is ideal, yet not very practicalfor a kayaker. If they had a pole light it would be cumbersomeand inhibit the maneuverability of the kayak. A simple decklight would suit the kayaker better.

Deck or (Anchor) Lights are usually mounted at the Stern (back)of the boat. Often other lights such as Red for Port (left) andGreen for Starboard (right) are used in combination with theAnchor light. The

white front light is not as important if theseother colored lights can already be seen from the front.

Navigating Lights are often not required for small vessels likethe Kayak but they increase your chances of being seen. For Youruninhibited vision sake be sure to have all Navigation lightingnot glaring in your eyes (point them straight or slightly downif effecting your vision. Along with this be sure that yourwhite anchor light is behind you as well. All these helppreserve a clearer night vision.

Headlights can also enhance your night vision. As well they canhelp locate navigation aids such as the channel markers andbuoys.

About the author:Tamara Williams is a successful author and regular contributorfor Inflatable Kayaks and Boats. a site dedicated to providingvaluable information and tips on kayaking products and boatingin general.