February 10, 2010 19:50
If you are really going cruising, not just to Catalina or up and down the coast, you need an SSB. It doesn't have to be the $1900 Icom 802, but you need an SSB. I have an Icom IC-735 from the late 80's, it works just fine and you can get one on eBay for about $300. If you think Iridium is better for data, then forget the Pactor modem and get an Iridium setup. The true value of the SSB is that information can be conveyed to many end users at once. This is essential for weather routing, getting information on upcoming ports or harbors, or even in an emergency situation. The SSB is your lifeline at sea, I wouldn't consider venturing far without one. Without the Pactor and buying used equipment, I bet you could get a strong setup for between $750 and $1000.