Utility 77 225° Bow/Masthead Light – White Running Light up to 12m

The Osculati Utility 77 11.425.03 is a bow/masthead navigation light that serves as the primary forward running lamp for your vessel when operating under power in the dark. This light covers a broad 225° sector aimed forward – from one beam, across the bow, to the other beam. It’s essentially the “headlight” for your boat, allowing oncoming ships to spot you from afar and understand that you are under mechanical propulsion (as opposed to just sail, for instance). For vessels up to 12 m, the Utility 77 225° delivers the necessary brightness and coverage to meet COLREG72 requirements for a masthead light (2 NM visibility). Whether you’re piloting a motor yacht or a sailboat with the engine on, this lamp ensures your forward sector is illuminated and in line with safety regulations.

The Utility 77 series emphasizes reliability in long-term use. The housing of this light is made of white polycarbonate, durable against impacts and the elements. Its surface is slightly textured (orange-peel finish), which improves appearance, hides wear, and can also reduce glare. The light is built as a fully waterproof system – all openings and seams are sealed to withstand heavy rain, salt fog, and sprays in rough seas. This is particularly important for a masthead light that is often mounted high and directly exposed to weather. The Osculati Utility 77 has undergone RINA certification, confirming that its light output and distribution conform to the requirements (i.e., it shines in the exact prescribed arc and with the required intensity for boats under 12 m).

The fixture comes ready to use – with a 12 V, 10 W bulb already installed. It provides a steady white beam that’s strong enough to be seen at 2 NM. Even though it’s halogen, the bulb is low-wattage (10 W) and won’t significantly strain your electrical system, but if you want even lower consumption and longer life, you can easily swap it out for an LED version of the same base. Installing the Utility 77 225° is very adaptable: thanks to its compact design and sturdy rectangular base, you can mount it in a variety of places. On sailing yachts, the usual spot is on the mast (below the all-round anchor light or integrated with it if it’s a combo fixture), whereas on powerboats – on top of the wheelhouse, an arch over the bridge, or a special bracket on the forward part of the roof. You need a flat surface with two holes for the screws. Position the lamp so that nothing shades it forward (e.g., shrouds or a sprayhood on a sailboat; antennas or gear on a roof for a powerboat). Secure it firmly with the provided screws (or stainless equivalents) and apply sealant underneath. Route the cable inside the mast or through the roof and connect it to the running lights circuit. After installation, your Osculati Utility 77 225° light will provide a clear and powerful white signal forward, complementing your side (red/green) and stern lights, completing your boat’s running light set. Now your vessel is fully equipped for night passages – visible, identifiable, and in full accordance with all rules.

• Typical Use Cases: This light is needed whenever you’re motoring at night on boats up to 12 m. For sailing yachts, it’s the “steaming” light that is turned on when the engine is running (mounted on the mast). For motorboats, it serves as the primary forward running light (on the roof or superstructure). It’s useful when crossing busy shipping lanes, night cruising offshore, or approaching harbors after dark – in short, any situation where you need to clearly declare your presence and direction to oncoming vessels. Essentially, if you’re out at night or in fog under power, this light is doing a crucial job.
• Recommended Vessel Size: Designed for vessels under 12 m, this light provides the forward visibility required for that class (2 NM). It’s suitable for both very small boats (~6–7 m) and larger 10–12 m vessels, in fact giving smaller boats even a bit of extra brightness beyond the minimum, which only enhances their safety. For boats right at the upper limit of 12 m, the Utility 77 ensures they’re not outshone by bigger ships and fully obey the law. If your boat falls in this category, you can rely on this product to give you the needed forward illumination and compliance.
• Installation Tips: For sailboats – mount the light on a solid section of the mast, usually just below the top, to avoid confusion with the anchor (360°) light. Ensure it’s facing straight forward and covers the 225° horizontally (most often this is pre-set by design). For powerboats – pick the highest forward point (e.g., the front of the hardtop or flybridge arch) so the light has the furthest horizon. After mounting, check that no parts – like cabins, outriggers, or antennas – block the light. Fasten the cable inside the mast or roof with grommets or ties to prevent rattling due to vibration. And importantly, keep the clear dome clean – washing off salt spray with a mild soapy solution will maintain the light’s effectiveness. With that, your Osculati Utility 77 225° lamp will serve you excellently, making your night voyages safer for you and everyone around you.