phones for overseas during Sea Year

[shutterbugC]

I was just wondering what is the best thing to get my DS for Sea Year as for phone usage? An unlock GMS phone? Magic Jack? Other? I know that he may not call very often, but should he want to, I would like to know the best thing to get him.
No, I am not a helicopter mom, just don't want a several hundred dollar bill since I pay for his cell phone. Right now, I can get an unlock GMS phone for around $70.
Please let me know if I should get this or not.

Thanks,

 

[kpmom2013]

The answer to your question totally depends on what specific ship your DS/DD is on as well as what route they will travel. There is no one-size-fits-all answer. You can read suggestions on other threads and the ideas you listed all work on some ships and in some places, but once your DS/DD goes to sea, all your plans may not work. They will find a way to contact you if they need to. Email is much more predictable on most ships. Also, keep in mind that time is limited on sea year, and between working and doing sea projects, do not expect much time to be spent on communication with home. We got two phone calls during first sea year--Christmas Day and little sister's birthday. One email per week was about average. I know our DS has lot of stories to tell, and we are looking forward to seeing him next time for the first time since sea year. Semper gumby.

 

[KP2013dramamama]

Our son recently called us from the ship's satellite phone. He's on his 2nd sea year. DS purchased a $35 phone card for 7 hr usage. When he was out the first time after his first year ended he used his cell phone when he was near the US West Coast. It really depends on the ship, where the midshipman are going, etc.

 

[kdbax]

Our DS has been using the satellite phone as well, 15 minutes at a shot. Not too much choice for him - he's been on the ship over 2 1/2 months and has been ashore a grand total of 2 days. Of course, phoning is one of his very few opportunities to spend some money.