During an emergency, a reliable marine satellite telephone can make a lifesaving difference. You never know what's going to happen at sea. A storm could hit or someone could have a medical emergency. You want to be sure you can communicate at all times. Unlike conventional communications systems, a marine satellite phone provides you with instant, direct contact to emergency responders, no matter where you are located.

While emergency use is one of the most common marine applications for satellite phones, a marine satellite telephone can also be an important piece of business equipment. The phone can help you maintain contact with clients while at sea and even provide you with a data line to send and receive information. Before finding a marine satellite phone for sale, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do I need the complete marine cellular phone package, including equipment and airtime?

2. Do I need a marine satellite phone that is portable?

3. Would it be more cost effective for me to rent a marine satellite telephone?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase a marine cellular phone package

Because the marine applications for satellite phones are so important, you should invest in high-quality equipment, including a marine satellite antenna that can continuously track the satellite, even in the roughest sea conditions.

I recommend: Inmarsat is an industry leader that has provided telephone communications for the maritime community for more than a quarter of a century. In fact, Inmarsat was founded in 1979 specifically to ensure constant telephone contact for ships. Marine Wholesales offers leading marine satellite phone brands, including Inmarsat, at discount prices.

Consider a marine satellite phone that can be used on and off your boat

There may be times when you need to take your satellite phone off your boat and use it while you are on land. If this is the case, you may want to consider a handheld marine satellite telephone with a docking station.

I recommend: Outfitter Satellite Phones is a provider of equipment and service for marine satellite phones that prides itself in being an innovator in satellite communications. Galaxy1 Communications advertises itself as being the leading expert in providing portable satellite phones.

Consider renting a marine satellite phone

If you purchase new equipment, it can cost you tens of thousands of dollars to establish marine satellite phone service. If your needs are short-term, it may be more cost effective for you to rent a marine satellite phone.

I recommend: Satellite Phone Source offers a wide variety of phones for rent. Satphonestore is a full-service satellite phone provider that is based in Miami. The company began as a retailer and installer of marine electronics in 1974.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Try to figure out ahead of time how much you will be using your phone. Many satellite phone providers offer rate plans that can be customized for users with heavy or light call volumes.