We agree that the cost of BGAN satellite Internet service is very expensive when compared to cellular services or other satellite dish services. The primary reason is because you are transmitting to a satellite over 22,000 miles away using the L-Band frequency.
Which Satellite Messenger Should I Get? – Comparing the SPOT X, SPOT Gen3, Garmin inReach Mini and Garmin inReach Explorer+
The Coast Guard encourages boaters to invest in a VHF-FM radio as their primary means of distress calling. VHF is superior to cell phones for boating emergencies. When a Mayday is sent out via a VHF radio it is a broadcast to Coast Guard radio stations as well as any VHF-equipped boat within listening range.