Shakespeare AIS 4ft Antenna Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna is a vital piece of equipment for any serious boater relying on Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology for safety and navigation. Manufactured by Shakespeare, a trusted name in marine communication, this antenna is engineered specifically for the wider bandwidth requirements of AIS transceivers. Its 4-foot length and fiberglass construction promise a balance of performance and durability, but does it live up to the hype?

My journey to this antenna started with a growing concern for safety while navigating busy shipping channels and coastal waters. I needed a reliable AIS solution to enhance my situational awareness, and after researching various options, the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna seemed like the best fit. The promise of enhanced technical performance and longevity sealed the deal.

Unboxing the antenna revealed a sleek, white fiberglass design. The build quality felt robust, reassuring me that it could withstand the harsh marine environment. The SO-239 connector inside the mounting sleeve looked simple and efficient for installation.

I considered a couple of other AIS antennas, including a shorter, more compact model and a higher-gain, longer antenna. Ultimately, I chose the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna because it seemed to offer the best balance of size, performance, and ease of installation. The other options seemed either too limited in range or too cumbersome for my boat.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. I was eager to test its performance, but also aware that a faulty antenna could compromise my safety at sea. The price tag also added a layer of expectation – this wasn’t a cheap piece of equipment, and I expected it to perform accordingly.

Real-World Testing: Putting Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna on my 28-foot sailboat, using a Shakespeare Style 4187-HD Ratchet Mount as recommended. My first test was during a day trip along the California coast, known for its heavy maritime traffic. The conditions were clear, with moderate swells.

The antenna immediately proved its worth. AIS targets appeared clearly on my chartplotter, providing a much better picture of the surrounding vessel traffic than I had before. I noticed a significant improvement in the range and reliability of AIS signals compared to my old, general-purpose VHF antenna.

Using the antenna was straightforward; once installed, it required no special adjustments or configurations. The increased clarity of the AIS data provided immediate peace of mind. I experienced no initial issues or surprises, only a heightened sense of safety.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna continues to perform flawlessly. It has withstood numerous coastal trips, including some rough weather with high winds and heavy rain. The white fiberglass finish still looks new, with no signs of fading or discoloration.

The antenna shows no signs of wear and tear, which speaks volumes about its build quality. The fiberglass construction is sturdy and the connections remain tight. I periodically clean the antenna with fresh water to remove salt buildup, but other than that, it requires virtually no maintenance.

This antenna far outperforms my previous VHF antenna, which struggled to pick up AIS signals from distant vessels. The enhanced range and clarity of the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna have significantly improved my situational awareness and overall safety on the water. It has exceeded my expectations and proven to be a worthwhile investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Shakespeare.
• Length: 48 inches (4 feet). This provides a good balance between signal gain and physical size, making it suitable for a wide range of vessels.
• Fabric/Material: Fiberglass. Fiberglass offers excellent durability and resistance to the harsh marine environment, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• Color: White. The white color helps to minimize heat absorption and maintain the antenna’s integrity over time.
• DB Gain: 3dB. This gain provides a significant boost in signal strength, extending the range and reliability of AIS communications.
• Antenna Band: AIS. Specifically designed for the AIS frequency band, this antenna is optimized for receiving and transmitting AIS signals.
• Construction: Fiberglass. The fiberglass construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion in marine environments.
• Cable Length: N/A. The antenna comes without a cable, allowing users to select the appropriate length and type for their specific installation.
• Features a stainless steel mounting sleeve with a silver-plated outer conductor and copper inner conductor. This contributes to superior signal transmission and corrosion resistance.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring reliable AIS communication. The 3dB gain enhances signal strength, while the fiberglass construction guarantees durability. The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna is designed to withstand the rigors of the marine environment.

Performance & Functionality

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna performs exceptionally well in its primary function: receiving and transmitting AIS signals. It consistently provides clear and reliable data, even in challenging conditions. The accuracy of the AIS data is crucial for collision avoidance and safe navigation.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction, optimized design for AIS frequencies, and ease of installation. The only potential weakness is its 4-foot length, which may be too long for some smaller vessels. However, the benefits in terms of performance outweigh this minor inconvenience.

This antenna meets and exceeds my expectations for AIS communication. It has proven to be a reliable and effective tool for enhancing my situational awareness and safety on the water.

Design & Ergonomics

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna features a sleek, white fiberglass design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle during installation. The stainless steel mounting sleeve adds to its durability and provides a secure attachment point.

The antenna is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. The SO-239 connector simplifies the process of connecting the antenna to a VHF radio or AIS transceiver. There is no significant learning curve associated with its use.

Durability & Maintenance

The fiberglass construction of the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna ensures that it will last for many years. It is resistant to corrosion, UV damage, and the harsh effects of saltwater. With minimal maintenance, this antenna should provide reliable performance for the long haul.

Maintaining the antenna is simple: periodically rinse it with fresh water to remove salt buildup and inspect the connections for corrosion. No special repairs are typically required, thanks to its robust design.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna doesn’t come with many accessories, but it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of standard VHF and AIS accessories. The most important accessory is a high-quality coaxial cable to connect the antenna to the radio or transceiver. A suitable mounting bracket is also essential for secure installation.

This antenna is compatible with virtually all AIS transceivers and chartplotters on the market. You can also use various coaxial cable adapters to ensure a secure and reliable connection.

Pros and Cons of Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna

Who Should Buy Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna?

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna is perfect for:

• Boat owners who prioritize safety and situational awareness: If you navigate in busy shipping lanes or coastal waters, this antenna will significantly improve your ability to see and be seen by other vessels.
• Experienced sailors and cruisers: The enhanced range and reliability of the AIS signal are particularly valuable for long-distance voyages.
• Commercial fishermen and charter boat operators: Reliable AIS communication is essential for safety and compliance in commercial operations.

Who should skip this product?

• Owners of very small boats or personal watercraft: The 4-foot length may be impractical for vessels with limited mounting space.
• Casual boaters who only operate in protected waters: If you rarely venture into areas with heavy maritime traffic, a simpler VHF antenna may suffice.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality, low-loss coaxial cable to minimize signal degradation. A Shakespeare Style 4187-HD Ratchet Mount is also highly recommended for secure and versatile mounting.

Conclusion on Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna

The Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna is a top-tier AIS antenna that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the benefits in terms of enhanced safety and situational awareness make it a worthwhile investment. The superior signal strength and rugged construction provide peace of mind on the water.

The value proposition is strong: you’re paying for quality, durability, and performance that can potentially save lives. I would personally recommend the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna to any boater who takes safety seriously and wants the best possible AIS communication. Don’t compromise on safety – upgrade to the Shakespeare AIS 4ft Phase III Antenna and experience the difference!