Enlarge / Starlink Maritime uses two terminals on large boats.
Starlink
SpaceX yesterday announced a Starlink Maritime service that will bring satellite internet service to large boats for $5,000 a month and a $10,000 hardware upfront purchase.
“From merchant ships to oil platforms to premium yachts, Starlink Maritime allows you to connect from the most remote waters on the planet, just like you would at the office or at home,” the service’s website reads.
Starlink Maritime touts download speeds of up to 350Mbps and the ability to “pause and pause” the service at any time, while billing is in monthly increments. There’s also “secure fleet management” and remote monitoring to “manage your Starlink fleet from a single portal”.
The user terminals displayed on Starlink’s Maritime page are similar to those used in Starlink’s home internet service. But SpaceX CEO Elon Musk wrote on Twitter that Starlink Maritime “uses two high-capacity terminals, which are important for maintaining connectivity in rough seas and severe storms.” The terminals are also “resilient to relentless salt spray and extreme deep sea winds and storms,” he wrote. advertisement
Musk says $5,000 is cheaper than alternatives
Starlink
Musk acknowledged that the $5,000 monthly fee was “obvious.”[iously] “Premium pricing,” but added that “it’s a lot cheaper and faster than alternatives.”
“SpaceX was paying $150,000/month for a much worse connection to our ships!” Musk wrote.
The unveiling of Starlink Maritime came shortly after the Federal Communications Commission granted SpaceX’s application to operate consumer and enterprise Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) across the United States. The permit covers moving vehicles, aircraft and ships in US and international waters.
Starlink already had an RV service, but it’s not intended to be used while driving an RV. Another vehicle-moving service is believed to be on the way, and SpaceX plans to provide Starlink internet on flights.
If you’re tired of your yacht and just want Starlink internet at home, it’s $110 per month with a one-time hardware fee of $599.