Hurtigruten Expeditions will be the first cruise line to implement SpaceX’s broadband service Starlink across all ships, the company said.
In co-operation with long-time connectivity partner Speedcast, the installation will be completed this month.
“As the world leader in exploration travel, it’s only fitting that we bring the world’s most innovative technologies on board our ships to further enhance the experience and day-to-day lives for our guests, crew, partners and the communities we visit”, said Hurtigruten Expeditions CEO, Asta Lassesen (pictured).
Speedcast and Hurtigruten Expeditions began testing and integrating Starlink terminals on board the fleet of small-size expedition cruise ships in March. The installations will be complete by the end of October.
“We’ve seen major players announcing plans for implementation of Starlink connectivity. Our partnership with Speedcast and fleetwide introduction of the new service not only puts us ahead of the rest of the cruise industry, it also puts us ahead of the technology. When Starlink introduces maritime coverage in Antarctica and the Arctic, we will be ready,” Lassesen added.
“With vessels operating in some of the most remote and spectacular areas of the world, Hurtigruten Expeditions is an ideal partner for introducing ground breaking technology in the cruise industry.
“Speedcast’s expertise lies in our ability to combine all available connectivity paths and manage a complete service that offers the highest levels of uptime, availability and performance,” said Joe Spytek, Speedcast CEO.
The broadband internet solution – using a network of low-orbit satellites – will not only enhance the guest experience but also through a network of science partnerships, as Hurtigruten Expeditions hosts scientists on each sailing.
All of the ships feature Science Centres and science equipment, and guests can take part in citizen science programmes.
Faster and more reliable internet enables the delivery of scientific results from some of the most unexplored areas of the world.
Hurtigruten Expeditions offers free internet connectivity not only for guests, but also for all crew members.
“Introduction of new technology makes it easier for everyone on board to remain connected with friends, family and loved ones no matter where they are. We challenge all cruise lines that follows our example by installing Starlink to also follow our example to make internet free for all crew members,” Lassesen explained.
