Let’s Talk About TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set offers a sleek, low-profile lighting solution for boaters looking to declutter their decks. Manufactured by TACO Marine, these lights are designed for easy installation on rub rails, providing reliable navigation lighting while maintaining a clean aesthetic. I was initially drawn to this product because of my frustration with traditional navigation lights that often protrude awkwardly and create snag points on my bay boat. I was seeking a streamlined, durable, and reliable alternative, and the TACO Marine set seemed to promise just that.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the compact design and solid feel of the lights. The black finish looked sharp, and the overall build quality exuded a sense of durability. My initial thought was, “These are significantly more robust than the flimsy plastic lights I’ve used in the past.”
I considered a few other rub rail mounted light sets from different brands, but ultimately chose the TACO Marine set due to TACO Marine’s reputation for quality marine hardware and the lights’ IP68 water-resistant rating. Many competing products seemed to compromise on either build quality or water resistance, two factors that are non-negotiable for me. I was excited to finally have a navigation lighting solution that wouldn’t get in the way while fishing and wouldn’t require constant maintenance.
Real-World Testing: Putting TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set during a late-evening fishing trip in the Chesapeake Bay. The conditions were slightly choppy, with a light rain starting to fall, presenting a perfect opportunity to evaluate the lights’ performance in adverse weather. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and following the included instructions, and I had the lights mounted securely on my rub rail within an hour. The immediate difference was noticeable: a much cleaner deck and unobstructed views from the bow.
The LED lights themselves were surprisingly bright, easily visible even through the light rain and the ambient light from shore. They provided clear and distinct red and green indicators, ensuring my boat was compliant and easily identifiable to other vessels. There were no flickering or dimming issues, even with the boat rocking in the waves. I appreciated the peace of mind knowing I was operating safely and legally.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. The lights have been exposed to saltwater, sun, rain, and the occasional accidental bump without showing any signs of degradation. I regularly rinse them with fresh water after each trip to prevent salt buildup, but otherwise, they require virtually no maintenance.
Compared to my previous navigation lights, which required frequent bulb replacements and often suffered from corrosion, the TACO Marine set is a significant upgrade. The difference is night and day. I no longer worry about the lights failing mid-trip or needing constant attention. The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set has far exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set
Specifications
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set features several key specifications that contribute to its performance and functionality. The lights are designed for rub rail mounting, providing a sleek and unobtrusive profile. They measure approximately 2 inches in length, making them compact and minimizing potential snag points.
The light source is LED, offering significant advantages in terms of energy efficiency, lifespan, and brightness. They are designated as navigation lights, meeting ABYC and USCG requirements for both sail and powerboats. TACO Marine lists the housing color as Black, blending seamlessly with most boat rub rails. Finally, the lights are built to be water-resistant with an IP68 rating, ensuring reliable operation in harsh marine environments.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the safety, reliability, and aesthetics of the boat. The LED technology ensures long-lasting performance and minimal power consumption, while the IP68 rating guarantees protection against water intrusion. The compact size and black finish contribute to a clean, modern look.
Performance & Functionality
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set performs its job admirably, providing bright, reliable navigation lighting in a compact and durable package. The lights are easily visible from a distance, even in challenging conditions, ensuring compliance with navigation regulations. They offer a wide viewing angle, enhancing visibility to other vessels.
One of the greatest strengths of these lights is their ease of installation. The simple mounting system and included instructions make it a straightforward DIY project. The low-profile design also means they don’t interfere with fishing lines or other deck activities.
However, the fixed positioning on the rub rail might not be ideal for all boat configurations. Depending on the hull design, the lights may be partially obstructed from certain angles, which is something to consider during installation. Overall, the TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set meets and often exceeds expectations for performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The low-profile housing blends seamlessly with the rub rail, creating a clean and modern look. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials that feel solid and well-constructed. The lights are lightweight, which minimizes any potential stress on the rub rail.
In terms of ergonomics, there’s not much to discuss since these are navigation lights and not something you directly interact with beyond installation. However, the ease of installation and the low-profile design contribute to a positive user experience. There is virtually no learning curve; once installed, they operate automatically with the boat’s electrical system.
Durability & Maintenance
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set is built to withstand the harsh marine environment, ensuring long-lasting performance. The IP68 water-resistant rating provides excellent protection against water intrusion, while the durable housing protects the internal components from physical damage. The LED technology ensures a long lifespan, minimizing the need for bulb replacements.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of rinsing the lights with fresh water after each trip to remove salt buildup. There are no user-serviceable parts, but the robust construction suggests that repairs will rarely be necessary. Based on my experience, these lights should last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set does not come with many accessories, as it is a self-contained lighting solution. However, some users may choose to add additional wiring or connectors to facilitate installation, depending on their boat’s electrical system. There are no specific customization options offered by TACO Marine for this product.
The lights are designed to integrate seamlessly with standard boat electrical systems, making them compatible with a wide range of marine batteries and wiring harnesses. While there are no direct accessories or modifications available, the lights’ universal compatibility ensures they can be easily integrated into virtually any boat setup.
Pros and Cons of TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set
Pros
- Sleek, low-profile design: These lights provide a clean and modern look for any boat.
- Bright and reliable LED lighting: Offers excellent visibility in various conditions.
- Easy installation: Simple mounting system for quick and hassle-free setup.
- Durable construction with IP68 water resistance: Ensures long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
- Meets ABYC and USCG requirements: Provides peace of mind knowing your boat is compliant.
Cons
- Fixed rub rail positioning may not be optimal for all hull designs.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set?
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set is perfect for boat owners who prioritize a clean aesthetic, reliable performance, and ease of installation. Pro anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone looking to upgrade their navigation lighting will benefit from this product. It’s an excellent choice for those with bay boats, center consoles, and other vessels where deck space is at a premium.
This product might not be ideal for boaters who require highly customizable lighting solutions or those with hull designs that would completely obstruct the lights when mounted on the rub rail. In such cases, traditional navigation lights with adjustable mounting options may be more suitable. A must-have addition would be high-quality marine-grade wiring and connectors to ensure a reliable and corrosion-resistant electrical connection.
Conclusion on TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set
The TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set is a well-designed and reliable product that offers excellent value for the price. Its sleek, low-profile design, bright LED lighting, and durable construction make it a worthwhile upgrade for any boat. The IP68 water resistance and compliance with ABYC and USCG requirements further enhance its value proposition.
At $209.99, the price is justified by the quality, performance, and longevity of the product. I would personally recommend the TACO Marine Rub Rail Mounted LED Navigation Light Set to anyone looking for a modern, reliable, and hassle-free navigation lighting solution. Upgrade your boat today and experience the difference!