VHF boat antenna

The role of a VHF marine radio

The Very High Frequency radio is a mode of communication operating via the emission and reception of waves. The body of the VHF is connected to an antenna that serves as a receiver of electromagnetic waves emitted by the radios.

The antenna acts as a transformer of these perceived waves into an electrical signal and allows the message to be understood. A microphone often allows the device to be used in reverse to transform a voice message into a wave audible by boats and radios located in the vicinity.

The advantages of VHF

The VHF offers several interests.

This mode of communication is the most popular at sea, it is perfect for communicating from boat to boat. The system allows you to receive and transmit distress signals, often crucial at sea.

This makes the VHF radio an essential safety feature.

The other interest of the VHF channel is to be able to receive weather reports in real time.

Which VHF antenna ?

It is with the help of the VHF antenna that you can receive or transmit a radio signal at sea. Most often, on boats, VHF antennas are made of stainless steel or fiberglass.

For optimal reception it is recommended to use antennas between 1 meter and 2.4 meters.

The choice of the VHF antenna depends on the type of boat.

Sailboats or motorboats do not have the same antenna requirements.

Motorboats need an antenna that can withstand the wind generated by the power and speed of the boat. Some antenna models are foldable, perfect if you need to transport your boat on a trailer.

VHF antennas on powerboats are most often positioned on the flybridge, the roof or a rollbar.

The VHF antennas for sailboats are installed on the masthead or on the rear balcony.

To properly mount your antenna, it is necessary to choose a solid mount and an antenna bracket suitable for the antenna. Provide a bracket for mounting on the mast of your sailboat.

Owners of motorboats, semi-rigid boats, open boats or tiller boats will opt for a swivel mount. The quality of the cable routing in the boat and the connection of the PL antenna socket will condition the good performance of the VHF antenna.