VHF mounting location

[JURA]

I recently purchased a new GX 1700 GPS and would like to know why I have never seen one mounted near the helm on a sailboat. I would like to mount it on the binnacle and was wondering why I shouldn't.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

No reason. In fact, most folks have their VHF at or close to the helm. Same with the GPS. The only caution is the obvious one - mount the VHF antenna somewhere else, preferably high.

 

[RichH]

The units microphone/speaker contains a magnet which will greatly interfere the boats binnacle compass when in close proximity.

 

[Manny]

Another alternative, I think that radio can take a remote mike, you could put the main unit in the cabin or somewhere else and have the remote at the binnacle. By the way I have the same unit on order, it's nice that the GPS is built right in.

M

 

[Bill Roosa]

I have my VHF mounted at the helm
It really depends on how you intend to use the boat. A blue water cruiser will probably opt for VHF down below as otto will be helming the boat most of the time. An inland or costal cruiser will probably opt for a helm mounted VHF as they spend more time navigating from the helm. The best of both worlds is to have two mikes with the controls on the mike and mount the VHF down below to keep it safe.
So where do you want to talk on the radio from? mount the mike there

 

[Gary_H]

My VHF is mounted below in the main cabin but I use a remote WHAM mike in the cockpit.