Not sure if spreader lights are a popular item with the KISS methods of sailfar boats and sailors but i needed to replace my old not working 55w/ea stainless spreader lights while I was rerigging my Alberg this winter. I wanted LEDs but did not want to pay the 150-200 or more at least the ones designated "spreader lights". One day while trolling a local marine store I spotted some underwater LED lights that claimed to be 600lumens for $30 ea, I figured why not. Lets hope they last. They only draw .2 ah, I finally got them wired in and working. Whatcha you think? Got $60 invested
I have a spreader light (well, not exactly on the spreader...it is a single light mounted in the same fixture as my steaming light on the mast that shines down on the foredeck) and find it occasionally useful. Not so much while sailing; but rather when cleaning the boat up at the slip after a night sail, bagging the jib, etc... (much of my sailing is done after dark). Works at anchor as well. Perhaps not a high need; but certainly quite convenient. Mine is halogen instead of LED. I'm not sure what the current draw is; but I try to keep it lit a minimum amount (especially since changing the bulb would be a PITA). The only real draw back is it attracts bugs like nobodies business.
The halogen bulbs in our interior fixtures draw more than 3 amps each, which is as much as our radar/chartplotter. I've switched over to LEDs as much as possible. Looking forward to putting some in the spreader lights. Good idea!