Vhf Antenna Placement: Best Location For Cc Boats

When it comes to boating, safety is paramount. One of the most important pieces of safety equipment is a Very High Frequency (VHF) radio, which is why it's found on almost every powerboat. The placement of this device is crucial to ensure clear communication and optimal signal strength. The best location for a VHF radio on a boat depends on several factors, including the boat's design, the antenna type, and the desired range of communication.

VHF radios are typically mounted in an area that is easily accessible and within reach of the helm. This could be at the dashboard or console, providing quick access during an emergency. The antenna height and positioning are also critical factors. A higher antenna can provide better range, but it should be placed where it won't obstruct the view or interfere with other equipment.

It's important to consider the boat's construction and materials as well. For instance, metal hulls can interfere with the signal, so proper antenna installation is key. Additionally, the length of the boat and the need for multiple stations should be considered when deciding on the best location for the VHF radio.

VHF radio safety

A VHF radio is a critical piece of safety equipment that should be on board every powerboat. Knowing how to use it could save your life and the lives of your passengers.

The Basics

A VHF Marine Radio allows instant communication between your boat and other boats, marinas, bridges, and the United States Coast Guard (USCG). It is the primary means of communication on coastal waters and is preferable to a cell phone, CB Radio, or other means of communication. Most VHF Marine Radios also have instant access to NOAA weather forecasts, 24 hours a day.

Using a VHF Radio

To use a VHF radio, turn it on and pick a channel, set the squelch to the point where you don't hear any white noise, and begin talking. Remember that everyone tuned to that station in the area can hear you, so watch your language and keep your conversations short and to the point.

VHF Radio Channels

• Channel 16: Emergency and Distress calls only. This is the channel monitored by the USCG.
• Channel 9: The primary calling channel. This is also the channel designated for radio checks.
• Channel 22A: Restricted to USCG use only.
• Channel 13: Bridge-to-bridge communications between vessels. Ships less than 65 ft in length must maintain a listening watch on this channel in US waters.
• Channels 68, 69, 71, 72, 78A: "Working Channels." The only channels available to non-commercial vessels for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications.

VHF Radio in an Emergency

In an emergency, tune your radio to Channel 16 and full power. If lives are in danger, transmit "Mayday" three times, followed by your vessel name, position, and situation information. If your situation is bad but not life-threatening, use the call "pan-pan" instead.

Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

DSC is a feature on all fixed-mount radios that sends a signal with your location to the Coast Guard with the push of a button. To take full advantage of DSC, you must obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number.

The best antenna for VHF on a CC boat

When choosing a VHF antenna for your CC boat, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the height of the antenna is important. The higher the antenna, the better the range of your radio, as VHF radios transmit via "line-of-sight" radio waves. Therefore, a taller antenna will provide greater signal coverage. However, it is also important to consider the length of the antenna cable, as longer cables can result in signal loss. Thicker coaxial cables are recommended to minimise this loss.

The antenna's dB rating, or gain, is another crucial factor. Antennas with higher dB ratings focus energy perpendicular to the antenna shaft, creating a stronger signal for receiving stations. However, this also reduces the amount of energy transmitted above or below the antenna, which can be an issue if your boat is pitching or rolling in the sea. For this reason, a lower dB gain antenna is often preferable for boats, as it provides a broader radiation pattern that is less affected by the movement of the boat.

When choosing a VHF antenna, consider the materials used. Stainless steel or fiberglass are common choices for the antenna itself. Stainless steel whip antennas are short, create less windage, and are suitable for masthead mounting on sailboats. Fiberglass antennas are typically longer and can be more durable if coated with polyurethane.

For the inner electrical element, which radiates and receives signals, brass or copper elements are recommended for optimal performance and durability. Coaxial cable is also an option but may not perform as well.

• Tram 1600-HC Pretuned 35-Inch VHF Antenna: This antenna has a 4.6-star rating and features an RG58 cable and PL-259 connectors.
• Shakespeare 5101 8' Classic VHF Antenna: With a 4.3-star rating, this antenna offers a 6dB gain and is constructed with quality materials.
• Tram-Browning 1604 AIS/VHF Marine Antenna: This 39-inch antenna covers AIS and VHF bands and features a chrome-plated brass base.
• Shakespeare 4' Centennial VHF Antenna: This 4.7-star rated antenna features brass and copper elements and a smooth polyurethane coating for added durability.
• Tram 1607-HC 46-Inch Fiberglass Marine Antenna: Pretuned for VHF with a 3-dB gain and a ratchet mount, this antenna has a 4.4-star rating.
• UAYESOK VHF Marine Antenna: This low-profile antenna has a 4.6-star rating and comes with a 16.4-foot RG-58U cable and an adjustable ratchet fixed mount.

These antennas offer a range of features and are highly regarded by users, making them suitable options for your CC boat.

The range of VHF radios

The range of a VHF radio is determined by several factors, including power output, antenna height, and atmospheric conditions.

VHF radios operate on a line-of-sight basis, meaning the antenna height will dictate how far the signal can reach. For example, an antenna mounted at 12 feet above sea level will have a horizon of about 4.5 miles. If your buddy has an antenna mounted at 18 feet above sea level, the two of you could communicate while about 6.7 miles apart.

The height of the receiving antenna also matters. If the Coast Guard's antenna is 100 feet tall, you can expect a reliable range of about 13 miles.

It's important to note that power output doesn't directly increase range. While a higher wattage radio will allow you to punch through static and other radio traffic better, it won't increase the distance your signal can travel. That is determined by the height of your antenna and the receiving antenna.

Additionally, atmospheric refraction can slightly increase the actual distance your signal can travel beyond the line-of-sight horizon.

VHF radios are intended for short-range communications, generally 5-10 miles, and at least 20 miles to a USCG station. If you need to communicate over longer distances, you will need a satellite telephone or an MF/HF radiotelephone.

Using a cell phone vs. a VHF radio

Cell phones and VHF radios are two different tools with different functions. While cell phones are great for staying connected to shore-based contacts, VHF radios are designed specifically for communication with other ships and marine installations.

Cell Phones:

• Convenience and Familiarity: Cell phones are convenient and familiar, allowing easy communication with land-based people and businesses. They are ideal for staying connected to your shore-based network and can be used for calls, texts, and accessing information.
• Limited Offshore Coverage: Cell phones are designed for land-based use and may have limited coverage offshore. The range and signal strength can vary, and you might experience unexpected drops in coverage.
• Location Services: While cell phones with GPS can provide location services, this information might be challenging for rescuers to access due to privacy concerns and carrier restrictions. This can make it difficult for the Coast Guard to locate you in an emergency.
• Not Monitored by the Coast Guard: The Coast Guard does not monitor cell phone calls, so they won't be able to respond directly to your distress calls. You would need to call the local Coast Guard station or 911, which might not be equipped for maritime search-and-rescue coordination.
• Practicality in Emergencies: In an emergency, using a cell phone might not be practical. If your boat is sinking or on fire, you might not have a hand free to operate the phone, and it could be easily lost or damaged.
• International Use: Using a cell phone for international calls can be expensive, and you may need special agreements with your carrier for international roaming.

VHF Radios:

• Marine Communication: VHF radios are designed for marine communication and provide instant communication with other boats, marinas, bridges, and the Coast Guard. They are the primary means of communication on coastal waters.
• Emergency Alerts and Ship-to-Ship Communication: VHF radios have distress buttons and Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capabilities, allowing you to send emergency alerts to the Coast Guard and all boats within VHF range. You can also monitor ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore calls, which is crucial for coordinating rescue efforts.
• Weather Alerts: VHF radios provide instant access to NOAA weather forecasts 24 hours a day, helping you stay informed about storm warnings and other urgent marine information.
• Durability and Reliability: Many handheld VHF radios are designed to float, flash, and operate in extreme wet conditions, making them more durable and reliable in emergencies.
• No Roaming Charges: VHF radios can be used anywhere in the world without incurring roaming charges, making them ideal for international boating.
• Privacy Concerns: Conversations on VHF radios are not private, and individual boats cannot have personal phone numbers. Anyone tuned to the same channel can hear your conversations.

In summary, while cell phones have their place on board as a means of staying connected to shore-based contacts, VHF radios are purpose-built for marine communication and safety. They provide reliable communication with the Coast Guard and other vessels, ensuring that distress calls are heard and prompt assistance can be provided.

As such, it is recommended to use both tools complementarily: keep your cell phone handy for shore-based communication and use the VHF radio for marine communication and emergencies.

How to use a VHF radio

A VHF radio is a critical piece of safety equipment that should be on board every powerboat. Knowing how to use it could save your life and the lives of your passengers.

• Turn on the VHF unit and adjust the squelch: Turn the knob until you hear static, and then turn it back until the static stops.
• Tune to Channel 16: This is the channel monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard. It is reserved for distress and safety calls, and for contact calls with other vessels or shore stations.
• Perform a radio check: Ensure your unit is functioning properly, but do not use Channel 16 for this.
• Use an "open channel": Channels 68, 69, 71, 72, and 78A are designated for conversation and are considered non-commercial channels.
• Turn the radio to its one-watt power setting and key the microphone: Call "radio check" three times, followed by your boat name and location. For example, "radio check, radio check, radio check, this is [boat name] in [location]."
• Wait for a reply: Confirm that someone has heard your transmission.
• For general communications, use Channel 16: Start by hailing the other party on Channel 16. For example, to reach your friend on "Some Fun," call their boat name twice, followed by your boat name and "over."
• Wait for a response: The other boat should respond with their boat name, followed by your boat name and "over."
• Reply with an open channel to switch to: For instance, "69." Both parties then switch to the agreed-upon channel to continue the conversation.
• Keep conversations brief and to the point: Remember that VHF radios are for "`operational`" purposes. It is okay to share weather information, but avoid casual conversations.
• Use low power for nearby boats: If the other boat is close by, switch your radio to 1 watt (low power) to avoid interfering with distant boaters' transmissions.
• End transmissions with "over" and your boat name and "out": This indicates that you are done using the channel.
• In an emergency, tune to Channel 16 and full power: If lives are in danger, transmit "Mayday, Mayday, Mayday" followed by your vessel name. If the situation is bad but not life-threatening, use the call "pan-pan."
• Wait for a response from the Coast Guard: Be ready to provide your location, preferably using latitude and longitude coordinates.
• Digital Selective Calling (DSC): All fixed-mount radios have a DSC feature, which sends a signal with your location to the Coast Guard with the push of a button. To use DSC, you need to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number and link your radio to GPS.

Remember that VHF radios are not private; everyone tuned to the same channel can hear your transmission. Always follow proper VHF protocol and be respectful of channel designations and other users.

Frequently asked questions