Overview

The Hella Marine 998505001 is a combined masthead (steaming) navigation light and deck floodlight that mounts on the forward face of a mast or other vertical surface. The masthead light meets a 2 NM visibility requirement and is suitable for boats up to 12 m (39.4 ft), while the deck light uses a 12 V, 20 W halogen bulb to throw working light onto the foredeck and cockpit area.

This style of combo light is common on smaller sailboats and compact powerboats where you want a proper steaming light when motoring, plus a practical mast-mounted work light without adding another fixture. The housing is IPX4 rated for spray and rain, and the overall size is 7.5 in x 5.25 in x 2.875 in (about 191 mm x 133 mm x 73 mm).

Key features

• Two-in-one unit: 2 NM masthead (steaming) navigation light plus a deck floodlight for forward working light
• 12 V system support, with a 20 W halogen deck lamp for on-deck visibility when handling sails or gear after dark
• Vertical, side mount format intended for the forward side of a mast, with flexible mounting arms to suit different mast profiles
• IPX4 water resistance for typical on-deck exposure, including spray and rain
• Stainless steel metal parts in the mounting and hardware for better longevity around saltwater
• Compact footprint for tight installations: 7.5 in x 5.25 in x 2.875 in (191 mm x 133 mm x 73 mm)

Installation and setup

Mount the unit on the forward side of the mast (or another vertical surface) where the steaming light has a clear arc and is not blocked by sails, rigging, or deck structures. Aim the floodlight so it lights the foredeck without shining back into the cockpit or helm position, since glare can be more of a problem than a lack of brightness.

Use proper bedding/sealant at fasteners and cable pass-throughs, and support the cable run inside the mast so it does not slap or chafe underway. After mounting, confirm alignment at night at the dock so the deck light falls where you actually work.

Electrical and system integration

The masthead light circuit and the deck flood circuit are wired separately, which lets you switch them independently at the panel. Plan your wiring so the steaming light ties into your navigation light switching, and the floodlight is on its own switched feed for deck work.

On boats where existing wiring is aging or undersized, this is a good moment to pull new tinned marine wire and heat-shrink your terminations. Keep connections protected from moisture in the mast base and any junction points.

Compatibility and fit

This style of 2 NM steaming light is used on vessels up to 12 m (39.4 ft). Confirm your local requirements for when the masthead (steaming) light must be shown, and verify you have enough mounting area for the housing and cable routing based on the overall dimensions.

It is intended for 12 V installations. If your boat is 24 V, confirm bulb and wiring requirements before ordering so you do not end up with the wrong electrical setup.

Use on board

This light makes sense for skippers who motor under power at night and also want a mast-mounted work light for sail changes, anchoring prep, docking lines, or checking the foredeck without juggling a handheld light. It is also a practical fit for small cruising sailboats where space on the mast and cabin top is limited.

Maintenance and care

Rinse salt off the lens and housing with fresh water after heavy spray or washdowns, and check the mounting fasteners seasonally for tightness. If performance drops, inspect for corrosion at connections and replace bulbs with the correct type and wattage for this fixture.