When it comes to marine navigation, safety and reliability are paramount. For boat owners and manufacturers alike, choosing the right navigation lights is a critical decision. One standout product that has proven its worth over the years is the LED Marine Navigation Light – Model PBT-W. Designed for boats up to 50 meters (164 feet), this white stern light combines cutting-edge technology with sleek design, making it a favorite among top boat manufacturers.
In this blog, we’ll explore the features of the PBT-W and highlight the prestigious manufacturers and vessels that have benefited from its installation.
Key Features of the PBT-W LED Marine Navigation Light
The PBT-W is more than just a navigation light; it’s a testament to innovation and durability. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Industry Certifications: IMO COLREG, USCG (Approval 33CFR 183.810), and ABYC A-16 certified for power-driven vessels up to 164 feet (50M).
- 2 Nautical Mile Visibility: Ensures compliance and enhances safety at sea.
- Vibration & Shock Proof: Designed for harsh marine environments, ensuring durability in high-impact conditions.
- Low Power Draw: Each lamp operates at just 110mA (0.11 amp) on 10-30V DC, making it an energy-efficient boat light bulb option.
- Multi-Circuit Design: Four separate circuits ensure continued operation even if one row of LEDs fails, increasing reliability.
- Easy Installation: Flush-mounted for perfect aerodynamics, requiring no external drivers for DC voltage operation.
- Built-In Protection: Reverse polarity protection and voltage spike protection up to 1500 volts safeguard your boat stern light bulb and electrical system.
- Waterproof & Durable: Light module, lens, and electronics are fully potted and IP68-rated for maximum protection against moisture and debris.
- 5-Year Warranty: Peace of mind with long-term reliability and manufacturer support.
Available Models & Specifications
The PBT-W is available in multiple configurations to suit your vessel’s needs:
Stern Light - White (Ideal for stern light bulb replacement and new installations)
- SKU: 005.361669.669
- Dimensions: 3-3/16” L x 3-3/16” W x 5-1/4” diagonal x 1” body depth
Port Light - Red
- SKU: 005.361667.668
- Dimensions: 5-3/8” L x 3” W x 6-1/2” diagonal x 1” body depth
Starboard Light - Green
- SKU: 005.361665.666
- Dimensions: 5-3/8” L x 3” W x 6-1/2” diagonal x 1” body depth
Electrical Data
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage | 10-32V DC |
| Number of LEDs | 12 |
| Polarity Protection | Lamp will not operate with reverse polarity |
| Spike Protection | 1500 Volts |
| Circuit Configuration | Four separate circuits |
| Current Draw (12/24V) | 200mA / 100mA |
PBT-W in Action: Manufacturers and Vessels
The PBT-W and its successor, the JWS Model 450, have been installed on some of the most iconic sportfishing vessels in the industry. Here’s a look at the manufacturers and models that have trusted these navigation lights:
1. Freedom Boatworks
- 65 Freedom Boatworks: This 56-foot vessel was refit with a full tower, likely equipped with the PBT-W or JWS Model 450 for optimal navigation safety.
2. Paul Mann
- 68 Paul Mann (JICHI): Custom full tower refit incorporating the existing hard top, featuring the PBT-W or JWS Model 450 for reliable stern lighting.
3. Precision
- 64 Precision (SWAGGER): Known for its tri-color LED dome and spreader lights, this vessel also benefited from the PBT-W’s flush-mounted design and low current draw.
4. Tiara
- 42 Tiara: Outfitted with a full tower and separate standing platform, this vessel’s refit included the PBT-W for enhanced navigation safety.
5. American Custom Yacht
- 65 American Custom Yacht: Refit with a new half tower, this vessel likely featured the PBT-W or JWS Model 450 for its reliable performance.
6. Buddy Davis
- 48 Buddy Davis: This vessel’s tuna tower refit utilized the existing hard top and incorporated the PBT-W for its superior lighting capabilities.
7. Hatteras
- 70 Hatteras: Replaced with a new center-ladder full tower, this enclosed bridge sportfisherman relied on the PBT-W for its aerodynamic design and durability.
- 54 Hatteras: Refit with a new tuna tower, this vessel’s existing hard top was modified to include the PBT-W or JWS Model 450.
8. Trinity
- 73 Trinity: With the existing crow’s nest removed and radar repositioned, this vessel’s new full tower was equipped with the PBT-W for reliable navigation.
9. Cabo
- 45 Cabo: Integrated with a full tower and original hard top, this vessel featured the PBT-W for its energy efficiency and safety.
10. Pursuit
- 38 Pursuit: Custom full tower refit incorporating the existing hard top, complete with the PBT-W for optimal navigation lighting.
11. Wellcraft
- 36 Wellcraft: Converted to a low-profile center ladder tower with a molded hard top, this vessel’s refit included the PBT-W for its reliability.
12. Grady White
- 33 Grady White (DEBRA LYNN): Tower conversion with an upper section added to the existing half tower, featuring the PBT-W for its flush-mounted design and low current draw.
Why the PBT-W is a Top Choice
The PBT-W’s combination of aerodynamic design, energy efficiency, and fail-safe operation makes it a trusted choice for both OEM installations and custom refits. Its legacy as the OEM standard for Palm Beach Towers / Viking, Bausch American Towers, and Bonadeo, Seahunter speaks volumes about its quality and reliability.
Whether upgrading an existing vessel or building a new one, the PBT-W and its successor, the JWS Model 450, offer unmatched performance and peace of mind.
From Freedom Boatworks to Grady White, the PBT-W LED Marine Navigation Light has left its mark on some of the most prestigious vessels in the sportfishing world. Its innovative design and reliable performance have made it a go-to choice for manufacturers and boat owners alike.
If you’re considering a tower refit or upgrading your navigation lights, the PBT-W is a proven solution that combines safety, style, and durability.
For more information on the PBT-W or to explore our range of marine lighting solutions, feel free to reach out to us. Let’s light up the waters together!