My 2 cents worth: A VHF radio is not a luxury on a boat, it is a necessity.  
Having the mast head antenna increases your range from about a mile with a 
hand  held to around 18 miles with a mast head antenna and permanently mounted 5 
watt  system. Most have the NOAH weather alert feature which I find helpful on 
our  inland lake. We are close to the mountains and weather conditions can 
change  quickly and do. Although we're on an inland lake, I can find my self 15 
miles  from my dock easily. Even motoring that can take almost three hours to 
get  home. It's nice to be able to duck for cover before the worst of a storm  
hits.
When you discuss battened sail, I'm assuming you are deciding between the  
battened or non battened IMF. Spend the extra bucks and get the battened main  
sail. I have two batteries. I run cabin lights, radios and wash down pump on 
one  and use the second battery for running and navigation lights. I tend to use 
the  stereo a lot, but want to be seen at night. I also have a battery 
percent of  charge gauge installed so I know where I stand with my consumption. 
(Electricity  that is)
 
Rummy



************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com