Joining Conversation
Hi Guys,
Just find your messaging interesting. I own a Bavaria 36 cruiser, so not an Ocean, but a Bav.
I too have been contemplating "upgrading" to an LED bulb for the anchor light. Several good reasons including power draw and longevity of bulb life. However, after reading a thread on this forum, especially information provided by MainSail, a person who I think always provides excellent info, I have changed my mind.
According to him, (and it seems much case law), you are taking on a large potential risk for increased liability if you do. He knows this from personal (family) experience involving a court case over a boating collision. It seems that lawyers could use the fact that you "substituted a non-OEM bulb" as a defense for their client "not seeing" your anchored boat were a collision to occur. This thread is under the Hunter Owner's area.
Several stores and LED manufacturers are also posting warnings to avoid the potential liability chain regarding any "navigation lights" as defined under the Coll. Regs. See the following thread for more info:
http://forums.hunter.sailboatowners.com/showthread.php?t=152668
Just want you to understand the potential risks and problems you are "taking on" by doing what otherwise seems a wise choice.
Ultimately the decision lies with each individual, but I think often these decisions are made without knowing the complete story. By the way, I did upgrade to interior LEDs (same fixtures, just bulbs) and are very happy with them. Warm white, I agree.
Regards,
Tom