Topband: RX Antenna for DXepedition

[GEORGE WALLNER]

Dear Group Members,

I need advise regarding the need for a dedicated RX 
antenna for a small (200 lbs), two person expedition.

I am going on a diving trip to Willis Islets and have 
decided to activate the location. I have received the 
callsign VK9WWI and intend to operate between Sep 24 and 
Oct 04 (dates are somewhat WX dependent, etc.) I want to 
focus on 160 and 80 meters, but at the same time need to 
keep the gear to the minimum. For TX antenna I intend to 
use an inverted L consisting of a 60' telescoping mast and 
some length of horizontal wire. The antenna will be fed 
via a tuner, so at this stage I am not too worried about 
exact dimensions. For grounding I will mostly rely on the 
sea water and will try to erect the TX antenna either in 
the water or at the water's edge. (My home QTH is on the 
water's edge, so I got some experience in that erea.)

The big question I am facing is whether I should take a 
separate RX antenna, such as a K9AY loop, or wire for 
beverages? Given the location, I do not expect much 
man-made noise. On the other hand, I expect QRN from 
thunder-storms to the north. Will the noise on the TX 
antenna be too high? Would a dedicated RX antenna be worth 
the extra weight and work required to erect it?

I understand that this is a very subjective question, but 
any advice based on experience will be helpful.

TKS, 73,

George
AA7JV

PS: I know that I will have to eat my earlier words and 
QSL (or get somebody to do it)!