HF Radio V Sat Phone

[Antipodean2]

Hi

We are planning a trip from Queensland to Solomon Islands later this year. My yacht has a old HF unit a Codan , not suitable for upgrading and thinking about replacing the Radio and tuner.

The marine Tech has asked us to consider another path Iridium Go.
It will turn your I Phone into a sat phone.

Cost is a factor as a new Hf , tuner, pactor modem, subscriptions for service and mail, is adding up

The Iridium Go unit is less than the HF Radio but data and calls extra costs.

It would be nice to have both but practicalities are one or the other.

If any one has any of Xperience or preferences your views would be appreciated
Thanks