Paul, we found that we used our SSB with a Pactor III modem all the way across the Atlantic
for weather fax, email and evening contact with Southbound II for detailed weather. We'd
be lost with out it.

Regarding a Sat Phone in the Carib; we successfully used Global Star there. They have very
good service and good email connections. If you are going beyond to the Pacific then
Iridium will be a better deal long term. The differance in the costs for Global Star in the
Carib are much lower and the transfer speed for email faster = cheeper. Your choice.

Also keep in mind that the Carib. safety net runs every morning starting around 0800 on
the SSB. lt's a nice way to stay in touch with everyone and anyone.

Good sailing.
Richard
SM 209