Which satellite phone
 

I have a chance to guy a satellite phone for $350 but what network provider should I consider.

Anyone have experiences they'd share? Any of you sailers?

Check the coverage
 

Providers don't cover some areas as well as other providers ...

You need to say where you need the coverage. Or better still ask them what areas of the world they cover ... and if there are any additional charges for different areas ..

Iridium. do a advrider search.
Which Satellite Phone To rent?? - ADVrider

You should know that.

I only needed one for a few months so I rented a Motorola 9505a; massive battery required no charging for a few calls over that time. On Iridium.

Amusingly, you can't use an Iridium handset in North Korea (I understand), Cuba (fair enough) or Poland (what the ffck?! even my home mobile works here!). So if you're specifically going to those places, well do the math.