SpaceX Starlink Internet and Phone on Boats

Exit Forum Forums Kimberley Coast Boating Forum. Mech, Elec and Comms SpaceX Starlink Internet and Phone on Boats

  • This topic has 4 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 1 year ago by Quick Decision. This post has been viewed 721 times
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    • #3892
      Ross
      Keymaster

        Has anyone had experience with Starlink on their boat, and what’s the result?

        There is lots of interest around using the RV version of Starlink on Australian coastal cruising boats, particularly in remote coastal areas such as the Kimberley, where fast, reliable phone and data access is expensive and out of reach for most cruising boaties.

        Is Starlink an economical and reliable alternative to other, much more expensive satellite comms?

        Cheers,

        Ross

         

         

      • #3899
        Quick Decision
        Participant

          Yes, we have been using Starlink RV for a few months now. Its been amazing, a game changer!

        • #3901
          test777
          Participant

            We’ve been using Starlink RV with the rectangular dishy since early November in Brisbane, along the NSW and VIC coasts. Great upgrade over relying on Telstra towers for mobile coverage. We’ve used it up to 20 miles offshore and boat speeds up to 20 knots – no problems at all. One thing we’ve noticed that if it is turned on while the boat is moving that it never stops “Searching”. If that happens we simply slow down to below 1.5 knots boat speed for a minute or so, then once it is online we can speed back up again.

            It does have odd short interruptions due to network issues and sometimes obstructions (such as the mast if the boat rotates at anchor). It also has difficulty if the view to the south is blocked by tall mountains.

            We are paying AUD174 per month. Not super cheap, but much more effective than mobile and cheaper (and faster) than other satellite services. It is awesome and certainly a game changer for coastal connectivity. We are keeping our Iridium Go for passages.

          • #3912
            Konjo
            Participant

              We ordered the RV version 1 day ago and it seems to be on the way already! Coverage map seems to be all of Australia. We will be trying it out in the Kimberly this year.

            • #3938
              Quick Decision
              Participant

                Yes, we have had Starlink for a few months now…..loving it. It was a great decision. Perth based, short range sailing only so far. Will be heading to the Kimberlys soon, and can provide feedback.

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