Jadralski blog

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

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