Starlink Internet For Your Boat – Update!

I have been using the Starlink Internet Satellite Dish for almost a year, and I love it.  I paid CAD $800 for the hardware and $190 monthly for unlimited data.  I have had guests on board, so four devices are streaming video, and there was no problem.  But remember, this is just the internet, so you must subscribe to a TV app (such as Netflix, Crave, Global, TSN, etc.) to watch your favourite shows.  There is occasionally buffering when watching a movie, but it doesn’t happen often.  Speeds hover around 100 – 140 Mbps down and 10 Mbps up.  I attend Zoom meetings, edit videos online, and upload them to YouTube with no issues.

I boat in the Pacific Northwest (Vancouver, Gulf Islands) and have had no issues with the internet while traveling (10 – 12 knots), but I understand that this may change when Starlink releases the marine or new Roam version.  I have also joined a couple of Facebook groups that you may find interesting, Starlink On Boats and Starlink Canada

I have it temporarily installed, but I am working on a permanent solution, possibly in an empty dome on the upper arch – stay tuned!

*****UPDATE May 2023*******

Recently, there has been quite a bit of chatter regarding the RV Roam package on boats, and some boaters have had their service discontinued. The only option to use your Starlink while in motion is to upgrade to the more expensive Mobile Priority Data Plan.  Starlink released a statement that said, “In motion use is when Starlink is online and being utilized while on a moving vehicle or vessel. Having Starlink mounted on your vehicle or vessel that is parked, docked, or anchored, is not considered as being used in motion.”

I have put a sign on my helm to remind me to turn the Starlink off when transiting.  I think boaters thought this might happen, nevertheless, I still love the service.

Further information on Starlinks plans and pricing can be found here.

Starlink Dish
Starlink dish on my boat.
Starlink Satellite Router Installed on a Boat
Starlink router on my boat.

I only endorse products I have used or that come highly recommended by a fellow boater.  If you purchase a product through an Amazon affiliate link, I may receive a small commission.  However, there is no extra cost to you.  I am not recommending products solely for the commission, I am doing it so I can try more cool products.