I’m fascinated by your comments about Globalstar–do you think it’s a viable option for our cruise despite the company’s problems? I’m reluctant to buy a $1000 SSB modem if we can get satellite service instead…Best regards, Candace
Hi Candace: The Globalstar survivability issue is a problem–they have better service than Iridium but I doubt they will find enough clients to remain solvent with the original capital base–however, the phones can be had for around $600–and for time-to-time usage, it is probably worthwhile. However, I doubt they have coverage from the E. Atlantic Islands to the Caribb and I would prefer to have two systems of communication.–Steve
Another Reader had this to say:
Steve, Linda Your case for Globalstar is a good one but you might have pointed out that the company’s financial position is very shaky and it may well go belly up. Also Globalstar’s coverage is far from global–vast areas of ocean are not covered. Iridium, on the other hand, has been rescued (by the Pentagon) and will be viable for at least three years. It has complete global coverage. The data rate is a quarter than of Globalstar at the moment but Iridium hope to have it up to Globalstar’s rate by the end of the year. Costs are comparable. $20 a month and $1.50 a min for Iridium $24.95 and $1.49 a minute for Globalstar. You can get an old model refurbished Iridium phone for less than $600–the new models are about $1400 I think. Drop-out problems are less with the new phones. Not only do these phones compare more than favorably with Inmarsat but they also compare favorable with Pinoak et al. There is a chance I will have to take my Sadler 34 from Boston to Falmouth in September. I will be taking my Iridium with me. Great site. Andrew M
Posted by Steve Dashew (January 30, 2001)
