Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is to offer SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on its ships.
Using advanced low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Starlink delivers broadband internet connectivity, which will improve the capacity, speed and reliability of the internet on board.
NCLH is currently testing Starlink, beginning with ‘Norwegian Breakaway’ (pictured), with the aim of rollout this technology across its entire fleet in a phased manner.
“We are thrilled to offer Starlink on board our ships to improve internet connectivity at sea. This initiative is a testament to our continuous quest to find new and innovative ways to enhance the experience for both guests and crew while sailing on our award-winning brands,” said Harry Sommer, NCLH’s President and CEO-elect.
“Ensuring that this technology meets our high standards of excellence for our guests is incredibly important to us, which is why we are introducing this cutting-edge technology across our fleet in a phased manner.
“Once deployed, guests and crew will have a faster and more reliable method to stay connected with friends and family including by sharing in real-time the incredible memories they create while at sea,” he said.
If the trials are successful, the company is targeting to equip seven more vessels with Starlink by year-end, including all three of the new additions this year, Oceania Cruises’ ‘Vista’, ‘Norwegian Viva’ and Regent’s ‘Seven Seas Grandeur’.
A comprehensive rollout plan is under development and details regarding timeline and availability on specific ships will be communicated once finalised.
In addition to enhancing the guest and crew experience, the extra bandwidth will also allow for more flexibility for on board services and improve the ship-to-shore connection for operational needs, the company said.
