Ryan McVinney who is constantly recording, streaming and uploading/downloading video from yachts and boats for both YachtWorld and Boat Trader (as part of the brand’s video series Stomping Grounds), suggests another approach for those who consume high amounts of data (i.e. This is often called bandwidth shaping, and helps the service provider make more money by reserving enough data to maximize across all their customer accounts. You can still stream video and do zoom calls, but it may become so slow it is virtually unusable. Most “unlimited” cellular plans begin to slow down the data rate once you’ve reached these caps. Add to that the aggravation of certain limited “caps” on data – even for accounts that claim they have unlimited data usage – and you can be in for a headache on long cruising trips when your passengers are guzzling up data. MailASail’s Roam-Free 4-Gateway (from $479) has antennas which are much larger than on a mobile phone, and is able to boost an existing 4G signal nearly a thousandfold.Īs we are all probably painfully aware at this point, higher data usage = bigger monthly bills. If you find yourself with a weak 4G signal, there are some devices which will help you strengthen it.
Again, this will only work if you’re within range of a cellphone tower, but this is a cost-effective option for those staying relatively close to shore.
Many cell phone carriers will allow you to use your smartphone as a hotspot, so that you can share your cellular internet connection as a WiFi hub for other devices onboard. Digital Yacht’s WL510 WiFi Access System (from $672.23) can be plugged directly into your laptop’s ethernet port, and offers a 10km range capability - perfect for boosting weak connections at marinas. In this case, a WiFi booster may strengthen your connection. However, during peak times you may struggle to get a strong connection, particularly when below deck. If you’re staying relatively close to land, the cheapest option to access WiFi onboard a boat is to simply connect to the WiFi provided by the marina, harbor or port you’re docked at. But just how much does it cost to fund connectivity out in the deep blue? Your Connection Options And Associated Costs Land-Based WiFi The hybrid-workforce has swapped the office for a yacht deck.
Ensuing the pandemic, the number of boat owners working remotely significantly increased. There are endless perks to working remotely on a boat a wide range of scenic spots can be a catalyst to productivity. Of course, custom and high-end Internet satellite systems are available that can provide global access with plenty of data for as much as $50,000 or more. Of course, like all boating technology, there’s a solution for just about every price range, with basic Internet solutions starting as low as $1,500. It’s the only way to get reliable service when you’re out on open water. Boaters who want the most expansive coverage have to go with satellite. Although signal boosters are available for those who don’t venture too far from shore, these have their limits. Several satellite dishes are available from a variety of manufacturers that include the hardware and a data plan that is charged monthly like a cell phone or land-based Internet plan. Existing equipment was adapted to work on moving vessels, and those willing to pay can find plenty of options to stay connected. There is satellite service available on boats today that can offer connectivity for things like messaging, phone calls, Internet surfing, and even HDTV reception. The Internet works differently on boats and yachts, and it will work differently depending exactly how far out from shore you are. When you’re cruising along the ICW or Great Loop, internet access will be vital for finding fuel, marinas, food and other basic services along the way. As such, getting a reliable set up with a strong signal is typically going to have a hefty price tag. Plus, a boat is constantly moving and rocking, and satellite connections generally require a stable location, so technology has to adapted.
Distance is the biggest issue since larger, more complex satellites are necessary to provide compensation for the range. Numerous challenges come with trying to stay connected when you are dozens, or even hundreds, of miles from shore. Our guide provides solutions for everything from low to heavy-duty data usage. From accessing navigational information, to staying in touch with friends and family, access to the internet can make many aspects of being out on the open sea much easier. While some sailors will leap at the opportunity to forgo emails for a few days and go truly off-grid, there are many practical reasons why you might need to access the internet hundreds of miles out at sea.