Base for Anchor Light – Black Plastic, 16° Angled

The 01263-P16 light base offers a practical and affordable solution for mounting removable navigation lights on your boat. It is made from durable marine-grade plastic – a black polymer (ABS or nylon type) specifically formulated for marine use. This material will not corrode, is UV-stabilized (so it won’t chalk or become brittle under sun exposure), and can withstand repeated insertion and removal of the light pole. The plastic construction also eliminates any risk of galvanic corrosion when mounted on metal surfaces and helps keep weight to a minimum – important for smaller boats and inflatables.

The top of the base is molded with a 16° angle, making it functionally equivalent to the chrome-zinc model (01264-CZ12) but in a lighter form. The 16-degree angled pad allows you to install the base on a sloped superstructure or deck and still have the light pole stand perpendicular to the horizon. This ensures optimal visibility of the light and adherence to the rules for horizontal light output. Despite being plastic, the base is engineered with sufficient strength to handle the stresses of the angle and the pole’s weight without deforming.

The electrical socket inside the base is a two-contact (positive/negative) connector for a standard 12V light. The contacts are typically brass or stainless, which ensures good conductivity and resistance to corrosion. In some kits, this base comes with a protective cap – a small plastic cover that can be rotated or placed to seal the opening when the light is removed. If the cap is not included, the socket’s mouth is oriented in such a way (often slightly downward or sideways) that water intrusion is minimized. However, it’s advisable to cover the socket when not in use for extended periods to keep the pins dry and clean.

Installation is very simple – the base has 3 mounting holes spaced evenly around its circumference. You just mark and drill pilot holes on the chosen surface (for example, on the foredeck near the bow or on a stern rail), then bed the base with a gasket or sealant and screw it down with stainless steel screws. The low-profile shape means that when the light pole is not inserted, the base is barely noticeable and won’t snag or trip anyone on deck. At the same time, the internal socket holds the pole steady and without wobble – once you insert the mast fully, it makes firm contact with the electrical pins and stands straight and secure.

Usage & Recommendations:

• Ideal for small boats and RIBs: The plastic angled base is an excellent choice for inflatables, dinghies, fishing boats, yachts up to around 7–8 m, or any craft where a lightweight, budget-friendly option is desired. It will hold your anchor or running light securely without adding unnecessary weight or cost.
• For occasional or seasonal use: If you use your navigation light sporadically (e.g., only during the holiday season or certain trips), this plastic base will meet your needs. The material requires no maintenance and won’t rust, even if your boat is stored outdoors in the off-season.
• Mounting locations: Place the base where the light will have optimal reach – often this is on the cabin roof near the bow for an anchor light, or on the stern (if used as part of a tri-light/stern light setup). Thanks to the built-in angle, you can mount it on surfaces like slanted cabin fronts or angled transoms and still get a vertical light pole.
• Compatibility & spares: The diameter and socket type are standard, so you can pair this base with virtually any removable light on the market. This includes LED poles, which are increasingly replacing bulbs – the base will power them without issue. If over time the contacts wear out, replacement sockets and caps for this model are available and easy to fit, making repairs inexpensive and straightforward.
• Comparison with metal base: While the plastic base performs the same function as the metal chrome base (in terms of angle adjustment and compatibility), it’s more suitable when weight or cost are priorities. For luxury yachts or heavy-duty use, the metal variant might endure extreme conditions longer, but for most standard applications the plastic base provides ample strength and is very easy to replace if ever needed.

With the 01263-P16 base, your navigation light can be mounted and removed quickly and conveniently, while remaining secure during operation. It’s a smart accessory for any boater who wants flexibility and reliability without weighing down the boat or the wallet. Five Marine is proud to offer a product that outperforms the competition in its class – a base designed with simplicity, effectiveness, and longevity in mind.