Modern weather communications.

[pauldowrick]

Morning all,

I am sure this topic has been done to death, but things change so fast.

I have just bought a C & N 39 ketch which I intend to take blue water.

What are the current recommendations for getting weather forecasts? I have just stripped out an old first version Navtex and Target SSB.

Many thanks

Paul

 

[davethedog]

Depends upon budget and ease of use you are after...we have used an Iridium go and predictwind and very pleased with it.

 

[robmcg]

With the target ssb hooked up to a laptop you could have downloaded grib files for free. Old tech but still works.

 

[geem]

We use a Garmin Inreach when on an ocean passage. We simply have a sailor friend send us weather info. The Inreach is a tracker and text only satellite device. You can also get marine weather directly from the Inreach for any location at additional cost. Its a cost effective system that allows you to keep in touch with friends and family.

 

[Roberto]

I think the approach should be the other way around: first you decide what type of weather information and/or assistance you feel comfortable with, once you know that you can decide the most appropriate type of technical communication means to be used. Bear in mind that weather related communications may overlap with other types (distress, private, etc) so the technical tool choice might be influenced.
There are many possible profiles: totally rely upon external routing? then a sat phone or a messager. You like gribs and try your own routing software? then a data enabled satellite instrument or ssb transceiver (I am afriaid your ssb is receive only, no gribs). You feel comfortable with weather charts? then your own radio is likely to be ok to receive weatherfax. Several different technical solutions depending on what type of personal interest, knowledge and dedication one has