directv for a houseboat question

(tommyg) · (tommyg) **Join Date: Apr 2002** 05-02-2010, 9:12 AM

we're considering buying a small houseboat, and I'd like to understand the options for getting sat tv (directv) up at the lake (Berryessa). Does anyone have specific recommendations? It seems like there are quite a few portable kits out there like this:

http://bestwaysatellite.com/inc/sdetail/250

then I also saw that directv has a portable satellite/tv all-in-one kit, though 17" would be a bit small, and I'd be worried about placement to get reception:

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/content/equipment/satgo

If anyone has recommendations as to what's worked best for them, I appreciate it. Thanks.

(tommyg) · (tommyg) **Join Date: Apr 2002** 05-02-2010, 9:20 AM

this is one other option that seems to have really good reviews:

http://www.amazon.com/VuQube-VQ1000-.../dp/B0014SCLCM

(soundbox) · (soundbox) **Join Date: Oct 2007** 05-02-2010, 10:54 PM

http://www.kvh.com/tracvision_kvh/

(acurtis_ttu) · (acurtis_ttu) **Join Date: May 2004** 05-03-2010, 10:58 AM

If it's on a boat, you really need to get an in motion sat. All it takes is a fart in the wind to create enough motion for you to drop signial with the stationary sat's. Keep an eye on craigslist. You can usually find the in motion tracvisions for around $1k.

Even when moored or at dock on calm waters the boat can move enough to drop signal.

My dad has the in motion tracvision, works great on his cruiser

(acurtis_ttu) · (acurtis_ttu) **Join Date: May 2004** 05-03-2010, 11:01 AM

or buy a Hd antenna. I take this on my pontoon boat during college football season. I pick up all the major stations. I can watch most of them while the boat is moving. Just find out where all your stations orginate from.

http://www.antennasdirect.com/C4-Cle...V-antenna.html

All in HD.

(phatboypimp) · (phatboypimp) **Join Date: Apr 2005** 05-03-2010, 12:15 PM

I agree with Adam, you want a motion satellite. I have a set up for tailgating that is like that first link, it is tough to get it tuned into signal on the ground I can't imagine what it would be like on the water. You get better at it over time, but honestly it would be nearly impossible if the water was rough or the boat was moving. It wouldn't be worth it in my opinion if it wasn't a motion dish. You also need a pretty clear line of sight to the satellite, so trees can prove to be a big problem.

(tommyg) · (tommyg) **Join Date: Apr 2002** 05-03-2010, 12:46 PM

thanks for the info guys. Realizing now as I'm putting together my priority list that sat is lower on the list than some other areas. will definitely keep my eyes on cl for a motion sat option, but also talk to some of the folks at the marina to find out what their experience has been.