On Mon, 21 May 2012 20:22:59 -0400, Earl
wrote:

I think a satphone is still useful if you need to talk with someone
but satphones are considerably more expensive to buy and talk time is
somewhere around a buck a minute.

Sure, but who really wants to talk to someone while boating? This is
great for emergencies or simple questions and answers from the office or
home.

===

I've run into more than a few people who have a need to keep in touch
with their office, investments or family while on an extended cruise
or fishing trip. The other nice thing about a satphone is that you
can get a true internet connection albeit at *very* slow speed. That
can be useful for detailed weather information or travel arrangements
among other things.