Maersk, a global leader in integrated container logistics, has inked a partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to bring high-speed connectivity to its fleet of over 330 container vessels.
The addition of the satellite internet is set to revolutionize life at sea by ensuring seamless internet connectivity with speeds exceeding 200 Mbps. This significant upgrade promises a substantial improvement in both crew welfare and business operations. Maersk says crew members aboard their vessels will benefit from high-speed, low-latency internet, enabling them to stay connected with loved ones and enjoy high-definition video calls even in the remotest parts of the world’s oceans.
The decision to join forces with Starlink follows a successful pilot phase, during which more than 30 Maersk vessels had the opportunity to test the technology. The feedback received from the crew was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the company signing the deal.
Aside from the improved quality of life for crew members, the implementation of high-speed, low-latency internet will also lead to cost-saving measures by enabling the transition of business-critical applications to the cloud. It will also enhance remote support and inspections of the vessels, thus increasing operational efficiency.
“We are excited to announce our journey with Starlink to provide state-of-the-art connectivity to our seafaring colleagues. The high-speed connectivity will enable our seagoing colleagues to stay connected with their loved ones while at sea. It will also propel the expansion of seamless cloud solutions, enabling our vision to digitalize our vessel operations,” said Leonardo Sonzio, Head of Fleet Management and Technology at A.P. Moller – Maersk.
The rollout of Starlink across Maersk’s fleet is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2024,
Starlink has been a game-changer in delivering reliable and high-speed internet access to even the most remote locations worldwide. The service has already been picked up by almost the entire cruise industry, and is also starting to gain a foothold in the airline industry.
Maersk is not the first container shipping company to add Starlink to its fleet. In June Seaspan become the first major containerships owner and operator to fully equip its fleet with Starlink. That was followed by Hapag-Lloyd, one of the largest container shipping companies, announcing last month that it will deploy SpaceX’s Starlink internet service to more than a hundred of its ships.
