Nautikai blog

VHF antenna for sailboat — masthead vs stern rail, the choice that changes range

The position of the VHF antenna determines the practical range of your radio. Masthead = 20–25 NM to a cargo ship, 15–18 NM to a signal station. Stern rail = 5–8 NM (4× range loss). For a serious sailboat, the masthead antenna is non-negotiable. Technical comparison, RG213 cable, watertight connectors, 2026 ex-VAT budget.