Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings to Offer Starlink High-Speed Internet Aboard Fleet

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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings plans to offer Starlink high-speed internet aboard its fleet. The company is currently testing Starlink, with the intention of rolling out the technology in phases across its entire fleet.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., the world’s leading cruise company operating the Norwegian Cruise Line (“NCL”), Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises announced on Thursday their plan to improve connectivity for guests and crew at sea by offering SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on their ships. Using advanced low earth orbit satellites, Starlink delivers industry-leading broadband internet connectivity, which will improve the capacity, speed, and reliability of internet on board. The Company is currently testing Starlink, beginning with Norwegian Breakaway, with the intent to roll out this game-changing technology across its entire fleet in a phased manner, the company said in a press release.

“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, president and CEO-elect of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“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 added.

If the trials are successful, the company plans to equip seven more vessels with Starlink by the end of 2023, including the three additions of this year: Vista from Oceania Cruises, Norwegian Viva, and Seven Seas Grandeur from Regent. A plan for a wide deployment is under development, and details on timing and ship-specific availability will be communicated once finalized. In addition to improving guest and crew service, the additional capacity will also provide more flexibility for onboard services and improve ship-to-shore communications for operational needs.

Article edited by @SmokeyShorts; follow him on Twitter

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