I think transmitter installation is now on a par with ensigns, anchors, speed cameras and power boat wash.

In fact for ignorance expounded with fanatical ferocity it perhaps exceeds some of the above.

I long since gave up posting advice/opinions on the subject despite >40 years professional and amateur experience.

I would suggest that everyone should read the theory then do their own thing and learn from experience.

PS

I think the term everyone is looking for is "Skin Effect"

The effect of high frequency currents to flow on or close to the surface of a conductor. At the sort of frequencies we use it has a very small effect. It has a greater effect at VHF but no-one seems to get excited about that.

Everyone gets excited about skin effect in the earth lead but of course they invariably forget that exactly the same effect occurs in the aerial - frequently parts of the aerial will be carrying much higher currents than the earth lead.

The other thought about earthing is that the earth you use on a boat is the sea. Whether you use tape or wire, a sintered plate or a keel bolt or wet string whatever, the only thing they all do is connect to the sea. That is unless you use a true counterpoise which is a resonant component and will only work on a few frequencies (odd quarter waves)

And thats my lot on the subject - no doubt everyone will tell me i'm wrong - again.