For decades, connectivity at sea meant compromise. Either you accepted the slow speeds and eye-watering invoices of conventional VSAT systems, or you simply disconnected when you left the range of coastal mobile networks. Starlink Maritime has fundamentally changed that equation.

Developed by SpaceX, Starlink Maritime is the version of the company’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network specifically designed for vessels underway. Unlike geostationary systems operating from 35,000 kilometres altitude, Starlink satellites orbit between 340 and 1,200 kilometres from Earth. The result: latencies that are incomparably lower and speeds no previous marine system had ever achieved.

For a yacht or ocean sailing vessel owner, this translates into something concrete: genuine internet aboard, without the sacrifices that previously seemed unavoidable.

A common misconception is that Starlink Maritime is simply the home service installed on a boat. It is not.

Starlink Residential is designed for fixed antennas on land. The contract specifies an installation address, and the service may be suspended if detected outside that location. Using it aboard a moving vessel violates the terms of service and can result in degraded signal or account suspension.

Starlink Maritime is designed specifically to operate in motion, even under the most demanding open-ocean conditions. The principal differences:

FeatureStarlink ResidentialStarlink Maritime
MobilityFixed (registered address)Total — no movement restrictions
CoverageTerrestrialGlobal, including open ocean
Service priorityStandardPriority over residential users
HardwareStandard flat antennaReinforced marine antenna, rated for harsh conditions
Monthly price~£45/monthContact us for current pricing
Uptime commitmentNo specific guaranteeSuperior availability commitment

The Starlink Maritime antenna is also certified to withstand the vibrations, salt humidity and pitch and roll movements inherent to a vessel at sea. It is not an optional accessory — it is an integral part of the system.

Available plans in 2025

SpaceX offers different service tiers for vessels. Plans may evolve, so the figures here are indicative; we recommend verifying them at the time of your consultation.

The entry-level plan for vessels. Allows use on water and land within the contracted region. Ideal for yachts that navigate primarily within a specific geographic area (such as the Western Mediterranean) and spend part of the year in port.

  • Speed: 50-200 Mbps
  • Latency: 20-60 ms
  • Recommended for: Recreational yachts with regional navigation

For vessels requiring greater data capacity or navigating in areas with higher network demand. Offers priority data before transitioning to reduced speed.

  • Speed: up to 220 Mbps (priority data)
  • Latency: 20-50 ms
  • Recommended for: Superyachts, charter fleets, owners working regularly aboard

The plan for ocean-going vessels and circumnavigators. Coverage on all oceans, with no regional limitations.

  • Speed: 50-250 Mbps
  • Latency: 20-60 ms
  • Recommended for: Ocean sailing vessels, superyachts on transatlantic or transpacific passages

The hardware: what installation includes

The Starlink Maritime kit includes:

  1. Flat High Performance Antenna — SpaceX’s marine antenna. Compact, low profile, with electronic satellite tracking (no moving parts). Dimensions: 59.5 × 38 cm.
  2. WiFi 6 Router — Starlink’s router, compatible with high-density user networks.
  3. Power and data cable — Designed for exterior installations with UV protection and salt resistance.
  4. Mounting plate — For installation on deck, mast or vessel structure.

Our certified technicians can additionally integrate the antenna with the vessel’s network switch, onboard entertainment system and other connected devices, achieving a fully integrated and discreet installation.

Real speeds at sea: what to expect

SpaceX’s figures are honest, but it is worth understanding which factors influence real-world performance:

  • Geographic position: Satellite density is highest over Europe and the Americas. In the North Atlantic and Mediterranean, performance typically exceeds 150 Mbps under normal conditions.
  • Number of users aboard: The onboard network shares bandwidth. For superyachts with many simultaneous users, higher-capacity plans are essential.
  • Extreme weather conditions: Heavy rain can temporarily reduce speed. This is normal behaviour for any satellite communications system.
  • Antenna position: A professional installation ensures the antenna has unobstructed sky visibility. A mast or sail can interrupt the signal if the antenna is poorly positioned.

Under typical Mediterranean or North Atlantic conditions, yacht owners report speeds between 80 and 200 Mbps with latencies of 30-50 ms — more than sufficient for any professional or entertainment use aboard.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to change my plan if I navigate outside Europe?
This depends on the plan contracted. The standard Mobility plan covers the region where you register. For oceanic navigation or between continents, the Global plan is recommended. We advise you on the most suitable option based on your usual routes.
Does Starlink function when the vessel is underway at cruising speed?
Yes. The Starlink Maritime antenna features real-time electronic satellite tracking. It functions correctly at cruising speeds and requires no manual orientation. The system adapts automatically to the vessel's movement.
Can I pause the service when the vessel is ashore or laid up?
Yes. Starlink allows monthly subscription pauses. This is a practical option for owners who do not use their vessel during certain months of the year, such as the winter lay-up period.
What happens if there is a technical issue with the antenna offshore?
Our certified installers provide 24/7 remote technical support. The vast majority of incidents are diagnosed and resolved without physical intervention. If hardware inspection is necessary, it is coordinated at the next port of call.