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Post by finatic on Feb 7, 2020 17:40:37 GMT -5
Anyone have any experience with this unit? Spot X 2way satellite messenger with bluetooth.
Looking for a Reasonable unit other than a satellite phone when offshore and out of reach. The units sell for $250 to $350. There is a Monthly fee which runs from 15 to $29. and an activation fee of $19. Allows you to text to any cell phone. And they can text back. 30 to 50 miles offshore I want my ass covered as well as the people with me.
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Post by fishnfool on Feb 7, 2020 17:48:19 GMT -5
I think Garmin offers a similar unit, not sure how pricing compares but might be another option.
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Post by finatic on Feb 7, 2020 17:58:01 GMT -5
Yes the Garmin is $350, I think they both do the same. Don't know why the price between the two.
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Post by hookedup on Feb 7, 2020 21:43:34 GMT -5
I've got the Garmin inReach and I'm very happy with it. I think the new SPOT does similarly and is priced similarly. I pay a monthly fee and send unlimited text messages from 3 different messages I set up online (1.Everything is fine (used to mark where I caught a fish when offshore), 2. I'll be late but all is okay, 3. Need help contact SeaTow:Phone#). The messages include my LAT/LONG and how to contact me. I also get 10 text messages a month in the fee. Linking my phone to the inReach makes those easy to send. Lastly it has the emergency button and when pushed I'll be contacted for what the problem is and they'll get what I need, or if unable to get me, they'll send emergency services (Coast Guard) to my location.
I've used it frequently and there is a delay due to satellite coverage. It's usually about 10 minutes. It gives piece of mind to know I can get Sea Tow if needed and I'm out of VHF range. They've said they'll come out 100 miles if necessary. My wife doesn't worry when I'm in the boat unless a sudden storm comes up, or I'm late. With the inReach I can let her know I'm okay no matter where I am, or if I'm going to be late getting in.
I keep it in my ditch bag unless I'm using it, so it's always on the boat if I'm on the boat.
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Post by finatic on Feb 8, 2020 11:09:20 GMT -5
Thank you Richard, Maybe we can talk later about setting the unit up and monthly fees.
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Post by hookedup on Feb 8, 2020 12:46:58 GMT -5
The plans (subscriptions) are easy. My basic plan is below and add about 60 cents for taxes, etc. Next plan up allows 40 text messages per month and tracking at 10 minute or more interval for $24.95. Next plan is unlimited text messages and tracking at 2 minute interval for $49.95. I stayed with the basic plan as I can use my HX870 for tracking if I want that and I don't mind paying if I want over 10 text messages.
And they have monthly plans that are similar, but at a higher cost and you can stop them over the winter. I opted for the annual plan since I go out in the winter.
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Post by hookedup on Feb 8, 2020 13:06:43 GMT -5
Here is an example of what your selected receivers can access when you send one of your preset messages. Clicking on More provides your location, speed, etc. information
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Post by finatic on Feb 8, 2020 20:12:38 GMT -5
Wow, that's really nice. I'm going to really look into it for this season. Thanks for taking the time to post all that information.
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