Off-Grid Communications
Posted by Ranger Tugs on Friday, July 26th, 2024
Keep in Touch
If you’re out on an extended cruise in remote areas, you might not always have cell reception. That’s where satellite communications come in. For devices with satellite access, it’s piece of mind to know that you’ll always be able to communicate. With advances in technology, now it’s easier and more affordable than ever for boaters to keep in touch while venturing off-grid. We’ve compiled a list below of the best options.
InReach
Garmin's inReach lineup provides two solutions to communicating without cellular reception: The inReach Mini 2, and inReach Messenger.
The inReach Mini 2 has the form factor of a short, hand-held radio and has access to global satellite coverage, capable of text, and SOS messages from any location regardless of cellular coverage.
The inReach Messenger has similar functionality to the Mini 2, but with a few key differences. While it shares access to the same global satellite coverage, the Messenger has a significantly smaller screen, reducing GPS display capabilities. However, the Messenger features longer battery life, and is capable of reverse charging other devices.
Both the Mini 2 and Messenger pair with your phone, and allow users to text or send an SOS via the Garmin Messenger app. MSRP for Garmin's satellite communication lineup comes in at $399 for the inReach Mini 2, $449 for the marine bundle, and $299 for the inReach Messenger. All inReach devices require a monthly service subscription, starting at $14.95 a month.
Spot
Spot is a company centered around GPS text communication for adventurers. Their lineup includes the Spot X, Spot Gen4, and Spot Trace. The former two are GPS messaging devices, while the latter is a simple tracker. The flagship Spot X is a stand-alone messenger with a built-in keyboard and screen, allowing you to communicate without any other accessory device. The smaller Spot Gen4 acts in tandem with the Spot X app to grant your cell phone access to satellite messaging. While there are obvious similarities to the inReach lineup from Garmin, there are a few key differences.
- Rescue Assistance: Beyond just SOS capabilities, Spot offers their Global Overwatch & Rescue plan. Partnering with FocusPoint International, Spot offers a subscription plan which provides around the clock support in the event of a crisis, including medical and security assistance.
- Cost: The Spot lineup ranges from $150–$250, with affordable monthly service plans starting at $11.95 a month for the Basic plan. For an additional $40 a year, Spot customers can also benefit from the Global Overwatch & Rescue Plan.
Starlink
Starlink now offers plans and equipment specifically for marine applications. This solution is costly yet offers a similar web browsing experience to a home broadband connection with the extended coverage area that only satellite can provide. With WIFI aboard, you can communicate via any method that relies on internet; iMessage for texting, WIFI calling, email, are just a few of the many options available. We’ll dive deeper into internet options in a separate post.
iPhone
Although one of the previous satellite communication solutions might be preferable as a rugged, standalone solution, Apple has continued to develop satellite connectivity for iPhone since the release of the iPhone 14. With the latest iOS 18 update, iPhone 14 and newer will receive the ability to exchange iMessages via satellite. Previous iOS versions limited satellite communications to emergency services only. This update allows you to text friends and family as you would normally, in areas without cellular reception. Currently, there’s no monthly cost associated with Apple’s satellite communications feature.
Conclusion
With satellite communication devices from companies like Garmin and Spot, staying connected to family while on the water is easier than ever. On top of that, modern iPhones are expanding satellite texting capabilities, providing easy access to off-grid communication for boaters. Enjoy your time on the water with the confidence that help is always within reach; explore these options and choose the best fit for your boating lifestyle to ensure your safety and connectivity.
For more information visit:
https://www.garmin.com/en-US/c/outdoor-recreation/satellite-communicators/?series=BRAND11460