Passengers traveling on Tokyo Kyushu Ferry’s Hamayu can now experience high-speed internet in the middle of the sea, thanks to Japan-based telecom operator KDDI. The company has introduced free Wi-Fi on the overnight ferry route, leveraging Starlink’s satellite internet service.
This marks a significant upgrade from previous connectivity options, which were limited to areas within range of land-based cell towers.
Seamless Connectivity Across a 1,000km Route
KDDI’s deployment of Starlink on the Hamayu ferry is part of a broader effort to enhance internet access on long-distance maritime routes. The vessel, which can hold nearly 300 passengers, travels nearly 1,000km (621 miles) between Yokosuka, located south of Tokyo, and Shinmoji in southwestern Japan, a journey that takes approximately 21 hours.
Previously, onboard Wi-Fi relied on base stations along the coast, meaning passengers only had access to intermittent service in specific areas where signals could reach the ferry. The introduction of Starlink eliminates these dead zones by providing continuous high-speed internet throughout the entire route.
The service boasts peak speeds of up to 220 Mbps, allowing passengers to browse the web, stream content, and stay connected no matter where they are. (via Telecompaper)
Expanding Starlink’s Reach in Japan
KDDI has been a key player in expanding Starlink’s presence in Japan. In 2022, the telecom company signed an agreement with SpaceX to become an official Starlink reseller. Since then, it has been working to bring the satellite internet service to enterprise and government customers, as well as improving connectivity in rural and remote areas.
The deployment on the Hamayu ferry is just the beginning. KDDI has announced plans to expand Starlink service to additional ferry routes, further enhancing internet accessibility for maritime travelers. While the service is currently being offered for free as a trial, it is expected that KDDI will assess its long-term feasibility based on passenger demand and performance metrics.
