Osculati Sphera 225° White Bow/Masthead Light – Safe Forward Beam

The Osculati Sphera 11.408.13 bow/masthead navigation light is a critical component for safe boating at night or in limited visibility. This forward-facing running light emits a bright white signal over a 225-degree arc – spanning from one beam (side of the boat) across the bow to the other beam – thereby covering the entire forward sector of the horizon. When your vessel is under power at night, this light functions as the masthead (steaming) light required by international regulations (COLREG 72) to signal your presence and direction of travel to others. Thanks to its intense illumination and wide coverage, other mariners will easily recognize your boat from the front and can correctly determine right-of-way, which directly helps in preventing collisions.

Designed for vessels up to 12 m, the Sphera bow light combines Italian-made quality with practical functionality. The durable white housing is crafted from UV-resistant polycarbonate, which means it won’t degrade or discolor even after prolonged sun exposure and saltwater contact. The entire unit is sealed and watertight – rain, spray, and humidity won’t impair its operation. Osculati has ensured this light meets the mark by obtaining RINA certification, confirming that it conforms to COLREG72 standards for vessels of this size (including the required 2 NM visibility and correct light intensity/color). Internally, the fixture comes pre-fitted with a 12 V, 10 W festoon bulb, which provides the necessary brightness and is energy-efficient for a halogen source. If you’re looking to further reduce power draw or maintenance, the design allows for a straightforward swap to a marine LED bulb of equivalent size.

The Osculati Sphera offers flexibility in mounting options – a significant advantage for different boat types. Its compact size and versatile base make it possible to mount in various high locations above deck. On sailboats, it’s commonly installed on the mast (either at the masthead or on the forward side of the mast below the spreaders) to serve as the steaming light. On powerboats, ideal spots include the wheelhouse roof, radar arch, or a forward-facing hardtop. In all cases, the objective is to position the light as high and as close to the boat’s centerline as feasible, ensuring an unobstructed projection of the beam. Installation involves drilling two small holes for screws and one for the wiring. Once you’ve fixed the light in place with the provided or recommended screws (again, stainless steel is best for longevity), seal the holes with a marine-grade silicone or bedding compound to prevent leaks. Then connect the two wires into your boat’s electrical system – typically into the navigation light circuit. Double-check that the lamp is oriented correctly (pointing forward) and that it’s not shining onto your own decks (which can hamper your night vision; if necessary, a small shield can be added to block any downward stray light). With the Osculati Sphera bow light properly installed, your vessel gains a powerful “headlight” that illuminates your forward path and announces your presence to others – a key element for peace of mind and safety during nighttime operations.

• Typical Use Cases: This light is used as the forward masthead/steaming light for any power-driven vessel under 12 m. It’s especially beneficial for sailing yachts (mount on the mast) when motoring at night or in fog, and for motorboats (mount on cabin top or arch) as their primary forward running light. Whenever clear forward illumination is required – e.g., night crossings, navigating busy channels or harbor entrances, or moving in shipping lanes – this light serves the purpose. It’s also useful as an anchor or deck illumination in some contexts (though not a full substitute for a 360° anchor light unless used in combination at the masthead).
• Recommended Vessel Size: Tailored for boats under 12 meters in length, this light meets the required specifications for masthead lights in that category (a minimum of 2 NM visibility). It’s suitable for a wide range of craft – from smaller cruising sailboats to mid-size motor yachts – ensuring that owners of boats in the ≤12 m class can achieve full compliance and safety. If your vessel falls in this range, this light provides the vital forward visibility component of your nav light suite.
• Installation Tips: Mount the light as high as reasonably possible and on the centerline of your boat. For sailboats, the most common mounting is on the mast (either at the very top if used in combination with an all-round anchor light, or on the forward face of the mast a few meters down from the top if separate from the anchor light). For powerboats, consider the cabin roof, a radar arch, or a forward mast/pole if one is available. Ensure nothing (flags, antennas, etc.) obstructs the beam in its 225° arc. After mounting, test the light at night: it should shine forward without illuminating your own bow or deck (any deck glare can be corrected by repositioning or adding a small shroud). Always integrate this light into your existing navigation light switch system, so it can be easily controlled alongside your port, starboard, and stern lights. Periodically inspect the mounting hardware and electrical connections – particularly after heavy weather or extended periods of disuse – to confirm the light remains securely fastened and fully operational when needed.