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sck5 · 30-09-2009, 07:11

another vote for a netbook - I also have one as a backup. At $350 they are hard to beat. Lenovo (formerly IBM) has a great one, but I am sure the others that Osiris mentions are good also. Being so cheap they arent exactly disposable but it isnt such a major bummer if they go bad.

And use TWO zip loc bags. Just do it.

There are lots of threads around for long distance wifi. I have a nanostation 2 which operates through the network plug in a computer instead of the usb port, but is also very good. Around Chesapeake Bay I rarely am out of range of a free wifi connection. And even for the ones you have to pay for it makes reception far better.

osirissail · 30-09-2009, 07:31

- - WiFi is everywhere there is a resort or major population center or marina. Free WiFi has almost completely disappeared as the owners of the equipment have figured out to set them up with security locks. Used to be everybody just plugged them into their computers and started broadcasting and us free-loaders were using their systems.
- - Costs of subscription vary from US$25/mo to US$75/mo depending upon the island. Connection speeds also vary from very slow to fast - but never really fast. However there are a few "subscription" services that you can use on many different islands as you journey from island to island. That makes the "monthly rate" very attractive.
- - The secret to success is having a good powerful amplified WiFi antenna on your end and that it is moveable about your boat. Your mast or boat structure will block the signal if it gets between your antenna and the land antenna as the boat swings at anchor.

sck5 · 30-09-2009, 08:28

"However there are a few "subscription" services that you can use on many different islands as you journey from island to island."

care to name names?