Night Lights Spectacle
On the night of World Sailing Day on the 28th of May, the Night Lights Spectacle turns marinas, harbours, ports, rivers and waterfronts into a glowing celebration of sailing. Every vessel – big or small – is invited to dress up with lights; along the hull and around the deck, up the rigging and mast, creating a brilliant night spectacle that’s impossible to miss!
Choose how you’ll take part:
Come and watch
For Visitors & Families
No boat needed. Come down to the water after dark to see rows of illuminated masts and shimmering reflections across the harbour.
Light up a vessel
For Boat Owners & Crews
Light up your boat, join the line of illuminated masts, and be part of the spectacle – whether you’re in the marina or moving slowly on the water.
Host it (Marina / Yacht Club / Port)
For Marinas & Yacht Clubs
Make your waterfront the front row.
For visitors & families
You don’t need a boat to take part. Come to the waterfront after dark to watch a living light installation across masts, berths, and moving boats.
Chidren’s Lights
Bring a small light, flag, or glow accessory and become part of the shoreline atmosphere – perfect for family viewing spots.
Calling marinas, yacht clubs & ports !
Contact us for all supporting materials, media packs and guyides on hosting a succesfull nikght!
For boat owners
Light up your vessel in a way that’s visible, tasteful, and safe.
Keep it simple: Outline rigging, railings, cockpit, or deck edges – then arrive after dark and hold position or join the local flow.
Safety note: Follow local rules and do not compromise navigation, visibility, or safe operation. World Sailing Day emphasises that owners also hold responsibilities to act with appropriate precautions and compliance.
What lights are recommended – and where can I get them?
Use secure, weather-resistant decorative lights that are suitable for marine use. The aim is a clear outline and atmosphere (rigging, railings, deck edges, cockpit) – not bright forward-facing beams. Avoid anything that could confuse navigation or dazzle others, and follow local marina/harbour rules.
Frequently asked questions
Night Lights takes place after dark on World Sailing Day (28th May). As standard – we are turning the lights on around the world 30 minutes after the local sunset. Check the local listing for your marina/harbour or the Events page for confirmed times.
No. Night Lights is designed to be enjoyed from the shore as well as from the water. Visitors and families can come down to the waterfront after dark to watch the illuminated boats and reflections across the harbour.
Yes. Hosts can register a Night Lights location – contact us! Set a local time window, and invite berth holders to light up from their berths or take part in a slow parade where appropriate. Hosts can also choose to distribute lights locally (gift or resale, depending on your model).
Use simple, secure, weather-resistant decorative lights that are suitable for marine conditions – Check our offers!
The goal is visibility and atmosphere (rigging, railings, deck edges, cockpit), not bright forward-facing beams etc.. Avoid anything that could confuse navigation or dazzle others.
Yes. Decorative lighting must not compromise safe operation or visibility, and all participants should follow local marina/harbour rules. WSD’s approach is that events should be planned and run safely, with appropriate precautions and local compliance. See Safety guidance here.
Yes. We can provide lights – these can be purchased in our online-shop. We recommend water-resiistant LED lights. In the Media Center we have guidelines which can help you.
Yes – share your best photos/video and include the location so it can be featured as part of the Night Lights story (please ensure you have permission to share any identifiable people).
World Sailing Day – 28th May partnered with Sailing Miles
Sailing Miles is the first global loyalty and rewards program designed and created for the sailing and marine industry. WSDO and the global rewards Sailing Miles program has partnered to stimulate and incentivise people and companies to stay engaged with sailing and get the best out of both programs.
If you sign up today, you can claim your first 1000 miles for free. Double that amount if you become a member of both WSDO and Sailing Miles!
