Also currently use a Delorme InReach.
I used a global star phone for a long time for work and recreation and it was very hit and miss. I think they may have put up some more satellites since then, but it was never as good as the iridium coverage and quality (used that one too).
If I needed a phone I would rent one as others have suggested (have done that successfully multiple times), but i would rent an iridium.
