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Marine SafetyJanuary 2026

Marine Jetty & Boat Ramp Lighting

Solar lighting and photoluminescent markers provide safe, reliable illumination at jetties, boat ramps, and marinas—without complex wiring over water.

Jetty with photoluminescent edge marking providing safe passage over water at dusk

Photoluminescent edge marking provides safe passage along jetties without electricity

Why Marine Lighting Matters

Australia is a nation of boaters, fishers, and waterway lovers. Our coastline stretches over 34,000 kilometres, with thousands of jetties, boat ramps, and marinas serving recreational users. Proper lighting at these access points improves safety and usability after dark.

Traditional mains-powered lighting at waterfront locations presents challenges: running electrical cables over water is complex and expensive, saltwater environments corrode standard fixtures, and power outages during storms leave critical areas in darkness. Solar and photoluminescent solutions address these challenges with zero wiring and reliable operation.

Lighting Priorities for Marine Infrastructure

Jetties, boat ramps, and marina walkways share common hazards: wet surfaces, varying water levels, steep gradients, and proximity to deep water. Good lighting addresses visibility while respecting the marine environment and avoiding light pollution.

Key Areas Requiring Illumination

Jetty Access
  • Entry points from shore
  • Full length walkway
  • Edge/water boundary
  • Mooring/tie-up points
Boat Ramps
  • Vehicle approach area
  • Ramp slope boundaries
  • Water entry edge
  • Waiting/staging zones
Marina Walkways
  • Finger jetty paths
  • Gate/security points
  • Berth identification
  • Service pedestals
Support Facilities
  • Fish cleaning stations
  • Waste/recycling areas
  • Parking connections
  • Toilet/amenity access

Why Solar for Marine Environments

No Wiring Over Water

Solar eliminates the complexity and cost of running electrical cables along jetties or over water

Storm Resilience

Operates independently during power outages when safe navigation is most critical

Low Light Pollution

Directional, warm lighting minimises impact on marine life and maintains dark sky values

Marine-Grade Durability

IP65+ rated fixtures with corrosion-resistant housings withstand salt spray and weather

Photoluminescent Edge Marking

Photoluminescent markers offer a unique solution for marine environments. Products like Luminokrom absorb daylight and glow for 10+ hours after sunset—with no power, no wiring, and no maintenance.

Ideal Applications
  • - Jetty edge delineation
  • - Step and ramp boundaries
  • - Mooring cleat locations
  • - Pathway guidance
Key Benefits
  • - Works during power outages
  • - Zero energy consumption
  • - Multi-year service life with proper application
  • - Visible in fog/mist

6 Tips for Marine Lighting Projects

1
Assess environmental exposure
Evaluate salt spray, wind exposure, and flooding risk. Specify IP65+ ratings and marine-grade materials (316 stainless, marine aluminium).
2
Map solar panel placement
Ensure panels face north with clear sky view. Jetty shade structures, buildings, or vegetation can reduce charging. Consider separate panel mounting.
3
Prioritise edge visibility
Water edges are the critical hazard. Use photoluminescent markers for continuous edge delineation, bollards for vertical visibility.
4
Consider wildlife impact
Use directional fixtures and long-wavelength lighting in wildlife-sensitive areas. Avoid uplighting over water.
5
Plan for tidal/flood exposure
Mount fixtures above high water marks. Use submersible-rated products for areas that may flood. Ensure drainage around installations.
6
Check council/maritime requirements
Waterway structures may have specific permit requirements. Confirm lighting is permitted and meets any navigation marking standards.

Key Takeaways

  • Jetty edges, boat ramp slopes, and walkway boundaries are critical lighting priorities
  • Solar eliminates complex wiring over water and operates during storm-related outages
  • Photoluminescent markers provide passive edge marking that works without power
  • Marine-grade fixtures (IP65+, corrosion-resistant materials) withstand salt spray and weather exposure
  • Use shielded, long-wavelength lighting to reduce wildlife impacts in sensitive areas

Sources & References

[1]
National Standard for Commercial Vessels — Australian Maritime Safety AuthorityView source
[2]
Navigation Lights Requirements — Marine Safety QueenslandView source
[3]
Boating Safety Rules — Marine Safety SAView source

Light Your Waterfront Safely

IP65-rated solar lighting for jetties, boat ramps, and marinas. No mains power required in marine environments.

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This article was researched and written with the assistance of AI tools. While we strive for accuracy and cite official sources, information may change. We recommend verifying critical details with relevant authorities. This content is for general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Some links in this article may be affiliate links — if you purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps support our content. See our Terms & Conditions for full disclaimer.