[dog]

Unfortunately you tend to get a lot of Morons who can't spell.
Sailmail is via SSB not VHF. VHF doesn't have any appreciable range,
once you're at sea.

You can get full Internet access via a satellite phone system, but if
you're on a small sailboat, you will be using an awful lot of power to
get it. Full internet access at sea requires you to use a stabilized
satellite antenna. Not only is the equipment power hungry, but it is
also quite expensive, as is the air time. Unlike a terrrestrial
broadband connection, most of the satellite-based ones charge by the
bandwidth used, not a flat monthly fee.

If all you need is decent access when near shore, then it might be
worth looking into an EDGE or GSM-based solution. While not as fast as
satellite, it is considerably cheaper. However, you would probably have
to get a new sim card and account for each country you use it in. Some
countries have a flat-rate plan, some do not. Really it depends on the
particular country and what providers are there.

On 2006-07-06 19:19:42 -0400, "Capt.Mooron" said:

Don't listen to the ignorance and nay saying regarding internet
service while at sea. Several providers have sail mail. Many marinas
offer high speed internet on a global basis.
Research what you need. Keep in mind the baud rate drop is substantial
when at sea. VHF sail mail will keep you in touch with a laptop. stick
to text messages and it will allow downloads of weather data.

CM