JimC wrote:
I'm considering installing a short-range radar on my 26M, and I would
appreciate recommendations or comments.

Great toy.

... For example, when traveling
down the Houston-Galveston ship channel, it would be helpful to be able
to see traffic going up and down the channel in the event of fog or rain
that obstructed visibility.

You are dumb to be out in the channel under such
circumstances, when your boat can easily transit much
shallower water and be safe from any large commercial
vessel. You should also monitor Ch 9.


... Also, it would be helpful to be able to see
oil platforms, traffic, etc., offshore in poor weather conditions

You're a fool to be out in the Gulf in a Mac 26X in poor
weather conditions. I thought the point of it being a "fast
motorboat" is that you can run for home when the weather
gets bad?


.... or at night.

Oil platforms are lit up like a football stadium at night.



Do most sailors consider this a necessity for offshore sailing

A necessity, no. A useful tool for some types of cruising, yes.


.... Did you mount the radome on top of
mast

On a trailerable boat, mounting extra stuff on the mast is
not desirable.

Fresh Breezes- Doug King