Range Global Services renews partnership with the Global Solo Challenge

27/02/2025

Global Solo Challenge

RGS provided Iridium phones and airtime solutions to skippers in the inaugural Global Solo Challenge, and will provide a variety of satellite communication solutions to participants in the next event which begins in August 2027 in Vigo, Galicia, Spain.

So far, more than 100 skippers from over 23 nations have expressed interest in participating in the GSC, and so far 15 skippers have formally registered and are confirmed to participate in the non stop around the world race by the three great capes.

Race rules require that each yacht carry two satellite phones for this event. One phone will be kept in a waterproof container for use during the event, and the other will be kept securely in a grab bag for extreme emergencies. Both of these phones are required to have spare batteries. Besides Iridium phones and equipment, many skippers will utilize Starlink satellite equipment to send photos and videos for social media updates.

Satellite communication provides a critical component to participants in this grueling event. Besides gathering crucial weather information to help plot a proper course, entrants will need to stay in contact with race organizers during the race for safety issues. Entrants will also wish to stay in regular contact with their family, friends and onshore support teams. RGS understands the cost of satellite communications is an important factor when considering the costs to participate in such a grueling event. RGS will provide the most cost efficient solutions to meet the requirements of GSC organizers not only for the race, but for skippers completing their qualification requirements. A number of options will be made to participants including:

rental of satellite equipment and airtime service
purchase of satellite equipment
airtime service for skippers who already own their own satellite equipment

Equipment and airtime offerings will be available for a variety of Iridium products, from handheld phones, Iridium GO, Iridium GO Exec and other Iridium Certus 100 solutions, and GMDSS.

Besides providing 24/7 customer support for all the skippers participating in the GSC, RGS also provides free consultations to all participants on satellite communications needs and requirements.