B.C. Ferries is reassessing its satellite internet options as geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Canada impact government contracts with American companies. While the ferry operator has been piloting SpaceX’s Starlink service for crew members on northern routes, it now plans to conduct a public procurement process to evaluate Canadian providers as well.
The move comes in response to Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s recent decision to permanently cancel a $100-million contract with Starlink following U.S. President Donald Trump’s 25% tariff on Canadian imports. British Columbia Premier David Eby has also taken a firm stance, stating last month that the province would prohibit Crown corporations from awarding contracts for major projects to U.S. firms.
As a result, B.C. has ruled out using Starlink for high-speed internet expansion in rural communities. Although B.C. Ferries is no longer a Crown corporation, it remains provincially owned and is aligning its approach with the broader “Team Canada” strategy in response to potential trade disputes.
“We are assessing all available and affordable connectivity solutions to ensure our crews have reliable communication in areas with poor or no cellular connectivity, including whether Canadian alternatives can meet our needs,” said B.C. Ferries senior communications advisor Sonia Lowe. (via Times Colonist)
What Are The Canadian Alternatives to Starlink?
While B.C. Ferries will conduct a public procurement process, they are unlikely to find a suitable alternative. Telesat Lightspeed, is currently developing a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation aimed at delivering high-speed global coverage, but is not expected to launch consumer services until at least 2026. Xplore Inc. provides satellite and fixed wireless internet in rural Canada, with speeds up to 25 Mbps (Starlink provides speeds up to 250Mbps). Viasat, while not a Canadian company, offers satellite internet in Canada, though its speeds and latency do not match Starlink’s LEO technology.
While these alternatives offer connectivity solutions, none currently provide the same combination of speed, low latency, and global reach as Starlink.
Ensuring Reliable Communication at Sea
Connectivity is a crucial safety concern for ferry crews, particularly in remote regions like Bella Coola, Prince Rupert, and Haida Gwaii. B.C. Ferries began trialing Starlink last year, recognizing its ability to provide high-speed internet in areas with little to no cellular coverage. While the service has been well received by crew members, the ongoing tariff tensions have prompted a reconsideration of options.
“Whether at sea or in a terminal, we need systems that work in all conditions across the geography we operate,” Lowe emphasized. “Through this process, we’ll be weighing reliability, safety benefits, cost, and long-term service.”
B.C. Ferry and Marine Workers Union president Eric McNeely also noted that mariners working in isolated areas rely on internet access not only for safety but also for staying connected with their families. While Starlink has been instrumental in addressing these needs, McNeely acknowledged that exploring alternative providers makes sense given the current political climate.
