Planning a masthead VHF antenna install to meet offshore reqs.

We were planning to do the typical thing: wire leaves base of mast above decks, runs through fitting seal to get below decks. We were not crazy about drilling through the deck, sealing the hole, adding the fitting weight, a quick-disconnect etc.

It then occurred to me: Why not drill through the bottom of the mast, and on through the step, and just have the cable pass through that hole?

Then I'm removing material/weight instead of adding it, everything stays sealed, no need for quick disconnect, etc.

Could even drill from inside the boat up, so no need to drop the mast.

Its this a horrible idea?

-dan