Need to install a new VHF antenna to a sailboat. Masthead would give
max antenna height, but drawback would be longer cable and extra
connectors. Have some experience about cable and connector losses
being a ham radio operator, and therefore give serious thought to
putting the antenna to top a a short pole on deck. Shorter cable, no
need for extra connectors as this would be permanent installation.
Plus much easier to install.

Lower antenna height (some 3-4 meters instead of 14m in masthead
installations) will of course reduce range, but would it stll be ok
for costal waters. In my home waters some 20 NM range is quit enough
to contact coastguard or SAR if needed.

Mika