Choosing the correct marine VHF antenna cable is critical for reliable communication at sea. The wrong cable type or excessive cable length can significantly reduce signal strength, even when using a high-quality antenna.
This guide explains the differences between RG58, RG213, RG214 and LMR-400 coax, helping you select the right cable for your installation and maximise VHF performance.
Common Uses for Marine VHF Antenna Cable
- Connecting VHF antennas to onboard radios on sailing yachts and motorboats
- Upgrading existing installations to reduce signal loss
- Extending antenna cable runs on larger vessels
- Installing new VHF systems with optimised cable routing
- Improving transmission range by reducing coax attenuation
- Professional marine electronics installations
Choosing the correct marine VHF antenna cable is critical for reliable communication at sea. The wrong cable type or excessive cable length can significantly reduce signal strength, even when using a high-quality antenna.
This guide explains the differences between RG58, RG213, RG214 and LMR-400 coax, helping you select the right cable for your installation and maximise VHF performance.
Common Uses for Marine VHF Antenna Cable
- Connecting VHF antennas to onboard radios on sailing yachts and motorboats
- Upgrading existing installations to reduce signal loss
- Extending antenna cable runs on larger vessels
- Installing new VHF systems with optimised cable routing
- Improving transmission range by reducing coax attenuation
- Professional marine electronics installations
How Cable Length Affects VHF Performance
Long cable runs can significantly reduce effective transmission range. Even high-quality antennas will underperform if paired with excessive or low-grade coax.
- Keep cable runs as short as possible
- Avoid unnecessary joins or connectors
- Use higher-grade cable for longer installations
Correct antenna height and positioning also play a key role. See our marine VHF antenna range guide for more information.
Common Installation Mistakes
Many VHF performance problems are caused by poor cable installation rather than the antenna itself.
- Using RG58 for long cable runs
- Poorly fitted connectors causing signal loss
- Sharp bends damaging the cable structure
- Water ingress at connection points
- Excess cable coiled tightly behind panels
For best results, cable routing should be kept clean, dry and as direct as practical. On professional installations, connector quality is just as important as cable choice.
Recommended Marine VHF Cable Setup
- Short runs: RG58 can be used where flexibility is important
- General installations: RG213 is the preferred choice for most boats
- Interference-prone installations: RG214 offers double shielding
- Long runs or masthead antennas: LMR-400 / ANT-400 offers the lowest loss option
F&C Marine supplies RG58, RG213, RG214 and ANT-400 cable options in fixed lengths or multiples of 5 metres. Cables can also be supplied pre-made with N-type or UHF plugs where required.
Shop Marine VHF Antenna Cable
For help choosing the correct marine VHF antenna cable, contact F&C Marine with your approximate cable length, antenna type and connector requirement.
Technical Reference
All cables supplied are 50 Ohm impedance and designed for RF signal transmission in marine and communication systems. Performance differences are primarily due to conductor size, shielding, and attenuation characteristics.
For additional technical information on marine antenna systems, see AC Antennas.