Hello Jerry, Greetings from Minnesota.I would love to hear about your trip in the Keys, especially because I have plans to trailer my M17 to Big Pine and sail in Hawk's Channel.I have an older M17, circa 1976, and my fixed VHF is mounted above the small galley, port side.The nice thing about newer radios is that they are smaller and have more features. The antenna is at the top of the mast, with the coax running inside the mast.When you run your coax, be aware of the various methods to keep the "cable slap" to a minimum. Bones ____________________________________________________________ Designer Home Decor Sale. Save Up To 70% On Chic Decor! Join Now For Free - New Sales Daily http://thirdpartyoffers.juno.com/TGL3141/4fbce0ccb579a16117e3st03vuc