How Starlink works on boats and why its a good choice for boaters to get internet and WiFi service at marinas and on boat trips
Getting a good Internet connection on a boat is spotty at best. With bad WiFi at marinas and no Internet service out on the water, many recreational boaters are starting to consider Starlink Internet for their boats.
Starlink is not just for big ships or an unattainable luxury reserved for liveaboard boaters in remote destinations at sea. Many weekend everyday boaters need good Internet for working from the boat, streaming movies on Smart TVs and connecting the many phone & tablet devices they have on board.
Unfortunately, marinas tend to have a big demand on their WiFi services from slipholders making connections bad due to limitations on the bandwidth. With every boat at a marina tapping into the network for computers, TVs, phones, etc. its hard to rely on your marina's WiFi for Internet service.
That's why so many boaters are looking for their own service with a Starlink plan for their boat. Starlink privacy protection ensures that boaters' personal data and browsing activities remain secure, a crucial benefit for those who rely on internet access for work or personal use while on the water. And with the addition of more & more Starlink satellites their service map continues to expand so that more boaters in more areas can get on board.
Starlink on Boats - Two Options
When you get Starlink for your boat, there are two main options - a standard kit for stationary use (like at the marina) or a high-performance kit for in-motion use (like cruising or using while underway). Both options require the purchase of the Starlink hardware/kit and then you sign up for a Starlink service plan. The good news is that you can choose to add service for only the months you are on the water!
Here are the two Starlink options for boats:
OPTION 1: Starlink Standard Kit
Provides High-Speed Internet While Docked or Anchored
Starlink Standard Kit Internet is for boaters that need to have a weather resistant, reliable high-speed internet while docked or anchored in one location. Use it to work from the boat, stream movies and more. Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink delivers high-speed, low latency internet to the most rural and remote locations around the world. Designed for self-install, the Starlink Kit has everything needed to get online in minutes with Gen 3 Wi-Fi router.
OPTION 2: Starlink High-Performance In-Motion Kit
Provides High-Speed Internet While Underway
Starlink Flat In-Motion Kit Internet is for boaters that need to have a weather resistant, reliable high-speed internet while cruising and underway. Use it to work from the boat, stream movies and more. Engineered by SpaceX, Starlink delivers high-speed, low latency internet with enhanced GPS capabilities to provide consistent connectivity on the go. Designed for permanent install, the Starlink Kit has everything needed to stay connected and is more resilient to extreme environments.
Each hardware kit requires activation of Starlink service that can be paused at any time. This makes Starlink on boats a great option for seasonal boaters that may only need service for 6-8 months out of the year for boating season.
The peace of mind that you'll always have the best Internet on the dock - whether you're working from home or maintaining fast streaming - makes investing in Starlink a worthwhile upgrade for your boat.