In November 2022, Jeff Schieman was exploring the expansive Metstrade show in Amsterdam, a hub for showcasing boat-related equipment and materials. Amidst a plethora of innovations, the display by Kanvaslight, a French company specializing in integrating optical fibers into textiles, captivated Schieman. This technology allows fabrics to illuminate by embedding optical fibers and attaching a light injector, creating a visually striking effect.

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Schieman, a founding partner at SeaDek in Florida, which manufactures specialized foam flooring for boats, saw potential applications for this technology in boating accessories such as Bimini tops and seats. He envisioned integrating this illumination technology with SeaDek's EVA foam products.

Fast forward to the 2024 Miami International Boat Show, where SeaDek introduced its innovative product, Lighted SeaDek, which earned the company an Innovation Award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association. The product was praised for adding a new dimension of functionality and customization to boat flooring.

Since its inception in 2004, SeaDek has been at the forefront of boating innovation. The company initially provided an alternative to traditional hard-fiberglass or carpet flooring with its comfortable, traction-enhancing foam flooring. This product could be customized in various colors, textures, and patterns, quickly gaining popularity among boating enthusiasts.

The partnership with Kanvaslight allowed SeaDek to enhance their product line uniquely. Unlike conventional LED lighting, which is typically hidden due to its less aesthetic appearance, the fiber-optic technology used in Lighted SeaDek offers a clean, consistent light display that can be prominently featured without detracting from the boat's appearance.

The innovative use of fiber-optic strips, which remain cool to the touch and are water-resistant, marks a significant advancement in maritime lighting. These strips can be integrated with dimmers and sound systems, providing both practical illumination and an engaging ambiance.

Currently, Lighted SeaDek is available exclusively to boat manufacturers for new builds and can only be installed during the construction phase to ensure proper integration with the boat's electrical systems. This limitation has not deterred interest, with many boat owners eager to retrofit their vessels with this innovative lighting.

Schieman emphasizes that SeaDek's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is unwavering. The company continues to lead in the marine industry by exploring new ways to enhance boating experiences through advanced technology. For more details on SeaDek's innovations, visit their official website.