Predict Wind

Weather

As for my selection for weather, I've gone with the Predict Wind / Iridium GO! / Expedition solution.  This seems like the best combination of data, communications and software for our setup.  The standard package from Predict Wind will get us the first step of the way for data.  This package should be upgraded to the Professional package as soon as we start sailing as it contains higher resolution gribs and the tides and currents data.  Predict wind also offers the option of having the data emailed to you so that it can be picked up via SSB/Pactor.  The Iridium GO! package we went for includes unlimited data and SMS for $125/month.  In my opinion, that's a real game changer for safety at sea as a lot more people will be able to afford to get timely weather and routing information.  As I start to play with the Predict Wind web application, their iOS app and their Windows PC Application, I'll report here on the results.  So far I'm impressed with the functionality of the Windows PC application.  It allows a direct connection to the GO! unit to download the gribs, satellite images and other data,  The data can then be viewed with the PredictWind app or imported into Expedition for additional what if scenarios.  Here are the links to the various pieces:

Predict Wind
Expedition Marine
Iridium GO!


Notes:
You can order the Iridium GO! through Predict Wind or purchase separately.
If you purchase the Expedition software through NorthU, you get to watch Peter Islers webinar class on how to use the software for FREE.
The Iridium GO! package looks like it winds its way to this company for service.  Atlantic Radio Telephone, SatPhoneStore.com

P.S. I did purchase an extra battery for the Iridium GO! unit, just in case...