Marine Radar Installation
Radar shows you other vessels, the coastline and squalls in fog or at night, and on the busy waters of the Solent and the Channel it is one of the most valuable pieces of electronics aboard. We handle marine radar installation from start to finish: mounting the radome or open array, running the cable, powering it and connecting it to your chartplotter.
A radar only performs as well as its installation. Height, a clear view around the scanner, a sound cable run and a good network connection make far more difference than people expect.
We are based at Shoreham Airport and fit radar aboard at the berth between Brighton and Southampton, including Raymarine and Garmin systems.
Radome installation on sailing yachts
On a yacht the radome usually goes on the mast, on a bracket with a guard to stop the genoa snagging, or on a pole at the stern. Mast mounting gives more range but means running cable inside the mast and through a sealed deck gland, often best done when the mast is down. A stern pole is easier to service and avoids mast work entirely. We talk through the trade-off before deciding.
Open arrays on motor boats
Motor boats often have room for an open-array scanner on the arch or hardtop. Open arrays give a sharper picture than a radome of similar power but need clear space to rotate and careful positioning so the beam is not blocked by structure or aimed at the flybridge.
Power and networking
Radar draws significant current when transmitting, so it gets its own fused supply with cable sized for the run. The scanner connects to a compatible chartplotter over the maker's network, and heading data from an autopilot or heading sensor allows overlay on the chart and target tracking. We commission the system, set it up for your boat and show you the main controls.
Raymarine installation · Garmin marine installation · Autopilot installation
What is the best marine radar?
The best marine radar is the one that suits your boat, your chartplotter and where you sail. A small boat may be best served by a compact radome from the same maker as its plotter; a larger motor boat may benefit from an open array. Staying within one brand keeps networking simple. Send us your boat and plotter details and we will help you choose before you buy.
How far can marine radar see?
Range depends mostly on scanner height and the height of the target, because radar works roughly to the horizon. A higher mount sees further; a low radome on a small boat sees less but is still invaluable for nearby traffic in poor visibility. Written quote first, as always.
Radar during a mast-down refit
If the mast is coming down for rigging work, it is the ideal moment to run radar cable inside it, fit a new deck gland and renew masthead wiring at the same time. Planning these together saves a second lift and gives a tidier result than threading cable through a standing mast.
Frequently asked questions
What is the range of marine radar?
It depends mainly on how high the scanner is mounted and how tall the target is, because radar works roughly to the horizon.
Where should a radome go on a yacht?
Usually on the mast with a guard, or on a stern pole. Mast mounting gives more range; a pole is easier to install and service.
Can my radar overlay on my chartplotter?
With a compatible plotter and heading data, yes.
How much does radar installation cost?
It depends on the mounting position, cable route and networking. We assess the boat and quote in writing.
Planning a radar installation?
Send the boat details, where it is kept and what you have in mind, and we will come back with the next step and a written quote.