SailMail Association

The SailMail Association is a non-profit organization in the United States, recognized for providing email communications services primarily to the maritime community. The organization was founded in 1998 by Jim Corenman and Stan Honey, who initially developed the technology that became SailMail in 1996[1].

Purpose and Function

The SailMail Association operates and maintains an email system designed for yacht owners and sailors worldwide. The system supports communication via various methods, including satellite services such as Iridium and Inmarsat, and terrestrial internet access. SailMail also maintains a global network of HF SSB radio stations, utilizing Pactor modems for message transmission. This network provides cost-effective email services for its members, especially crucial for those in remote maritime areas where other forms of internet access are limited or unavailable[2][3].

Technical Features

The SailMail system implements a custom protocol optimized for communication systems with limited bandwidth and high latency, such as those used in satellite communications. This protocol includes features like compression, virus filtering, spam filtering, and attachment filtering, which enhance communication efficiency and reduce data costs[3]. The use of Pactor modems allows members to send and receive emails using SSB radio without incurring additional per-message costs, beyond the initial hardware and membership fees[2][3].

Governance and Membership

The organization is managed by a team that includes experienced sailors and technical experts. The staff are involved in membership and administrative roles, while technical support and maintenance of the HF stations are handled by specialized personnel. Membership in the SailMail Association is required to use their services, and members must have the necessary equipment such as an SSB radio and Pactor modem[1][2].

Benefits

For members, SailMail offers worldwide connectivity at a lower cost compared to traditional satellite communications methods. Many members rely on the SSB-Pactor network for routine communications, while also maintaining satellite communications for backup and urgent situations when HF radio propagation is poor[3].

External Resources

SailMail's members and the broader sailing community also benefit from related services such as the Saildocs server, which provides free access to grib weather files. This enhances the overall maritime communication and information support system for sailors[1].

[1] https://sailmail.com/about/ [2] https://sailmail.com [3] https://sailmail.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/smprimer.htm [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/943290415/202510169349301801/full [5] http://siriuscyber.net/others.htm