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More and more, boaters are starting to recognize the advantages of having portable bow lights onboard. And with the latest technology, this boating accessory has become an affordable and efficient 'must have'. As a Back-up Lighting System It's a fact of life. The incandescent bow lights on your boat will eventually go out. It's just a matter of when. Hopefully, it won't be when you're waiting in heavy evening traffic or struggling with reduced visibility. But, just in case, having a portable bow light onboard as a backup will give you an always ready, always available solution for your stationary bow light. For Extra Flexibility Portable bow lights are also an easy answer for your secondary dinghy, skiff, kayak, canoe, or jon boat. They provide additional, instant flexibility for that unexpected boating experience. And they are also handy for lending to a fellow boater in need. What the Latest Technology Offers With the latest technology, portable bow lights have become environmentally friendly and cheaper. One of the biggest advancements for portable bow lights is the use of Light Emitting Diodes (LED). The newer LEDS have improved brightness and boast a service life of up to 100,000 hours or, put another way, more than eleven years. They also use a whopping 90% less energy than incandescent lights, which translates to extended battery life. And because LEDS have no moving parts, they are more durable and have better resistance to shock and vibration. Finally, battery powered LED lights will also reduce the load on your electrical system. When an incandescent light blows, it's gone; an LED will dim over time and give you plenty of time to change out the batteries. All in all, LEDs are only good news for boaters wanting a capable, durable, portable bow lighting system for their vessels. Getting the Most for your Money To get the most for your money when shopping for portable bow lights, look for the following features: * High quality, battery powered LED lights * C-clamp or other types of bases that will allow for quick and easy fitting * Removable lamp carriage for standalone uses * Waterproof casing with sealed, heavy-duty switches for "floatability" * Shock-resistant housing * Standard red/green combination lens * Ruggedness and durability A portable bow light doesn't need to be large to be effective. In fact, you'll want to ensure any member of your family or crew can easily lift and attach it to a bow. Look for a streamlined version with few moving parts that anyone can operate and handle safely. You'll also be pleasantly surprised to find that newer portable bow lights with the recommended features are less than $30.00. It's a small enough price for providing you with additional peace and the flexibility for those great boating adventures just off the horizon. Jerry Payne is an avid boatsman who works as a consultant for the popular boating-accessory site, www.marinemart.com
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