Chartlights/Cigarette Lighters

Essential Marine Electrical Accessories

Chartlights and cigarette lighters represent a clever dual-function solution in marine electrical systems. These compact components combine a 12V power outlet socket with an integrated chart light, providing both illumination for reading navigational charts and a power source for various marine electronics and accessories. The dual-function design allows users to activate the chart light independently or use it alongside the power socket, making these accessories essential for navigation stations on boats of all sizes.

Marine Environment Construction Standards

These components are typically constructed from 304 stainless steel, which offers superior corrosion resistance in harsh saltwater environments. The mounting requirements are straightforward—most units require approximately 2 to 2-1/4 inches of clearance behind the dashboard and feature quick-connect wiring for simplified installation. The standard 12V configuration at 10 amps provides sufficient power for most marine accessories while the integrated LED or incandescent chart light illuminates navigation materials without compromising night vision.

Top Brands in Marine Chartlights and Cigarette Lighters

When selecting chartlights and cigarette lighter assemblies for your vessel, brand reputation matters. Sea-Dog Line brings over a century of marine hardware manufacturing expertise to this category, celebrating over 100 years as a supplier of quality marine parts with ABYC certification backing their electrical components. Their combination units feature robust construction designed to withstand continuous marine exposure.

Seachoice offers an accessible alternative with their extensive marine electrical lineup. Established in 1988 as a supplier of high-quality marine hardware and OEM replacement parts, Seachoice has expanded to offer thousands of marine accessories while maintaining competitive pricing and a no-hassle warranty policy that appeals to both recreational boaters and professional mariners.

Installation and Application Considerations

When installing chartlights and cigarette lighter assemblies, proper placement near the helm or navigation station ensures convenient access to both the power outlet and illumination. The chart light function is particularly valuable during nighttime navigation, providing focused lighting that allows crews to read charts, plot courses, and check instruments without flooding the cockpit with brightness that would impair natural night vision. The power socket serves double duty, accommodating standard 12V accessories from handheld GPS devices and marine radios to portable spotlights and device chargers.

Material selection remains critical in marine applications—stainless steel housings resist the corrosive effects of salt spray and constant moisture exposure far better than chrome-plated alternatives. Quality units incorporate water-resistant seals and durable switch mechanisms that maintain reliable operation through thousands of cycles, even in demanding offshore conditions.