Floodlight

noun
Definition of Floodlight
A floodlight produces a broad, intense beam that lights a wide area. On boats, floodlights are used as work lights, docking lights, and driving lights on the upper deck. The term comes from how they “flood” an area with bright, even light.
What To Look For
Voltage
Match the light to your system. Most marine floodlights run on 12V or 24V DC.
Output
As a rule of thumb, about 2,000 lumens will light a fore or aft deck or your perimeter for docking. Go higher if you want to light the water or a larger cockpit.
Color temperature
Cool white around 5000K looks brighter at the same lumen rating. Warm white can help in fog.
Dimming and control
Dimming makes one light do more jobs. The Lumitec Capri and Caprera families support dimming and multi-mode control.
Marine grade build
Look for sealed housings, UV resistance, and shock resistance. DRSA’s flood and spreader lights are IP67 and built for saltwater.
DRSA Floodlight Picks
-
Lumitec Caprera3 Spreader/Flood Light
Compact, bright, and efficient with refined optics. Great for T-tops and arches.
Shop: drsa.com → Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Lumitec Capri3 Flood Light
Low-profile flood for cockpits and work areas. Dimmable options available.
Shop: Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Lumitec Maxillume h120 Work Light
Serious output for large decks and workboats. A favorite for wide, even coverage.
Shop: Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Rigid Marine Flood Options
Rugged housings with wide flood patterns for utility use.
Shop: Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Under-Gunnel and Accent Support
Pair your floodlights with LED Rope Light or Courtesy Lights for low-level deck visibility.
Quick Selection Guide
-
Night fishing and bait rigging
Choose a wide flood on the hardtop or tower. Add dimming to prevent glare at the helm. -
Docking and security
Aim floods outward to wash the dock face or waterline. Use cool white for reach. -
Family cruising
Mix one overhead flood with under-gunnel courtesy lights for safe movement without harsh shadows. -
Large sportfish or workboat
Use a high-output flood on the hardtop and smaller floods as fill. Wire on separate switches for zones.
Installation Notes
-
Confirm wire gauge and fuse size for your run length and current draw.
-
Use marine tinned wire and heat-shrink connectors.
-
Aim and tighten brackets after a night test.
-
Where possible, add a dimmer or use lights with built-in multi-mode control.
Lumitec vs. Lumishore at a Glance
-
Lumitec
Known for reliability, refined optics, and flexible control, like TTP and Poco digital control. Backed by a 5-year warranty on current products.
Explore Lumitec floods at: Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Lumishore
Strong on helm integration and advanced color control within premium systems. Ideal when you want deeper MFD control and a more immersive ambiance.
See related control options under: Underwater & Specialty Lighting and Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights -
Note: Specs like lumens, beam angles, and IP ratings vary by model. Check each product page on DRSA for current details.
Marine Grade Rating
Choose fixtures that are waterproof, UV-resistant, and shock-resistant. DRSA’s flood and spreader lights are IP67 and built for saltwater use.
Example in a Sentence
“Our LED floodlights give the practical brightness of a 300-watt halogen while using a fraction of the power.”
Synonyms
Fog lamp, flood lamp
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What beam angle counts as flood?
Most flood patterns span about 45 to 120 degrees for wide, even coverage.
Are marine floodlights waterproof?
Yes. DRSA flood and spreader lights are rated to IP67 for spray, washdowns, and temporary immersion.
Can I use floodlights for night fishing?
Yes. Floods create broad light for bait rigging and deck work without tight hot spots.
Do these lights work on 12V systems?
Most DRSA floodlights run on 12V or 24V DC. Check the product page to see if it matches your system.
How do floods differ from spot beams?
Floods light a wide area. Spots push a narrow beam farther for distance targeting.
Why Choose DRSA Floodlights
-
Built for salt, sun, and vibration
-
Efficient LEDs with smooth, even output
-
Options for dimming and digital control
-
Trusted marine lighting specialists since 1988
Ready to outfit your deck
Shop Spreader, Deck & Flood Lights at DRSA.