Do you like to entertain on your boat? Are you wondering how other boaters are making their docks look festive?
Believe it or not, there’s an art to designing perfect lighting where your boat is docked. They can give you a sparkling ambiance and an amazing send-off. The right dock lighting provides the added safety, ambiance, and class that every top-notch boat deck deserves.
Here are some of our favorite dock lighting ideas.
1. Go Solar
Believe it or not, solar dock lights provide a gorgeous, subtle look for your dock. They’re also easy to install.
Since solar lights use the sun for energy, you’ll end up saving tons on your electrical bills both now and in the future. And as long as you keep them clean, they could last you for years without needing to replace them or their batteries. Solar lighting could be well worth the investment.
Today’s solar lights can be automated, so you won’t need to worry if you don’t go down to the dock every night. And you may even be able to get tax incentives for using an environmentally friendly option!
2. Safety and Visibility
You’ll want to make sure your boat has enough illumination to bring you and your guests safely into shore at night. Dock lights and underwater lights can both help with this.
Dock lights can also keep you and your guests from tripping as you get out of the boat and walk around the dock. Beyond making your deck look attractive, dock lights can end up saving you the time and trouble that could result from an injury on your dock!
3. Wharf Lighting
Wharf lights have a gooseneck shape and give your dock an immediate nautical look. They look great during the day and evening.
If you’re wharf lights, you’ll need to look for a high-quality metal that is strong enough to stand up to marine conditions. Certified marine-grade lights are available, and they’re usually powder-coated.
4. Motion-Activated Lights
Motion-activated lights are a great way to save money because they’ll only be used when you and your guests are boating, and you won’t have to worry about turning them on and off.
You’ll be able to increase the lifespan of your lights if they’re motion-activated. They also provide an extra layer of safety because no one in the vicinity of your dock will be walking around in the dark looking for switches.
5. Go Green
While many folks opt for traditional white lighting on their docks, green is becoming increasingly popular.
Green lights travel through the water better than other colors, so it’s a great way to attract fish if you’re an angling family. It also provides a lovely ambiance that complements your dock. It can be appreciated by boaters from miles away.
Dock Decorating Ideas
Getting creative with lighting is only one way to get your dock sparklin’.
A pier rope, for example, can be used to provide a little nautical elegance to your spot. It can get wrapped around posts or hung from other fixtures.
Dock hammocks are another great way to make your dock look elegant and welcoming. You can purchase or build one, and it’s a fantastic way to make the most out of the space you’re already paying to rent. Dock hammocks invite you to read away for hours on a warm day before taking a little sail.
Dock swings are also a great way to get extra dock use for your money. Your swing could be anything from a traditional two-seater for lovebirds to an adventurous jumping-off point for kids.
Nautical decorations, from fishing nets to boat bells to signs, can all get used for contributing to the nautical ambiance of your deck. Look for photos online and search for deals at local thrifts stores or splurge on some brand new, sturdy dock decor.
Where to Dock Your Boat
If you’re new to boating, get ready for a healthy adventure. Boating promotes exercise, socializing, and stress relief. It can also provide you with a wonderful way to spend quality time with your family and inspire creativity.
If you live in a rural area with a local lake, the decision about where to dock your boat is a no-brainer. Other folks, however, may need to do a little research before deciding where their baby’s new home is going to be.
You won’t be able to park your boat just anywhere the way you can with a car. You can usually rent or buy a slip at a local marina, but you’ll want to make sure these are available and affordable.
If you have friends who boat, ask them for recommendations on where you can rent a boat dock. Or research local marinas online and call them up. Find out how much it costs to dock a boat there year-round, and if there are any other services you’ll be required to pay for.
You won’t want to rent a boat before you’re sure there’s available space in a local marina that you can afford! Make sure you choose a spot to dock your boat before you buy your craft.
The Best Dock Lighting Ideas
Your boat deck is more than just a place to keep your vessel when you’re not using it. A well-appointed deck can welcome your guest and make them feel that they’re resting in your home away from home. With some unique dock lighting ideas, you can entertain at all hours of the day and night.
Don’t stop getting savvy now. For more great ideas on improving your home and lifestyle, read our blog today.
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