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How to choose a satellite communication system for your boat
When you move away from the coast, conventional communication disappears. In that context, having a reliable satellite communication system is not an option, but a necessity. This guide will help you choose the right system for your vessel, budget and intended use.
What is maritime satellite communication?
Satellite communication in the maritime domain allows voice, data or emergency signals to be established via satellites, without relying on mobile or terrestrial coverage. It is an essential solution for mariners entering remote areas or making transoceanic crossings. Thanks to this technology, it is possible to receive weather updates, communicate emergencies and access online services from anywhere in the world.
Main suppliers and technologies
- Iridium: Offers global coverage, including the poles. It is ideal for oceanic crossings. Although its speed is moderate, it is excellent for voice calls, short messages and emergency communications.
- Inmarsat: Widely used on commercial vessels. Provides high transmission speed and coverage of almost the entire planet, except polar regions.
- Globalstar: Low-cost alternative with good voice quality, although coverage is limited to land and coastal areas.
- VSAT: High-end system providing broadband Internet via satellite. It is ideal for large yachts or luxury boats, although it involves high installation and consumption costs.
Criteria for choosing the right system
- Type of navigation: If you are doing coastal navigation, you could opt for a cheaper system such as Globalstar. For longer voyages, Iridium or Inmarsat are more appropriate.
- Vessel size: Systems such as VSAT require space and power. For sailboats or medium-sized vessels, a portable satellite phone may be sufficient.
- Intended use: From sporadic calls to constant Internet access, every need requires a different type of system.
- Available budget: You should consider not only the price of the equipment, but also subscription fees and data consumption.
Recommended equipment and accessories
- Portable satellite phone: Models such as Iridium GO! or Thuraya X5 allow you to send messages, make calls and issue alerts.
- Marine antennas: Equipment such as KVH TracPhone or Intellian offer continuous connection, ideal for those who need constant connectivity.
- Satellite routers: Allow connection sharing with other on-board devices.
Installation and maintenance tips
- Install the antenna in a high location with an unobstructed 360° view (avoid sails, structures or rigging).
- Ensures watertight connections and shielded cables resistant to the marine environment.
- Periodically check the sealing and condition of the wiring.
- Perform functional tests before each trip and carry charged back-up batteries.
Safe and connected navigation
A quality satellite communication system not only enhances the onboard experience, it can make all the difference in a critical situation. Investing in reliable technology gives you peace of mind and raises your safety level every nautical mile.
If you want to learn more about the basics of maritime identification, we recommend you read this article on what is a ship’s MMSI on Crownline Spain.
For technical guidance on remote connectivity on the high seas, see Cutwater Boats’ publication on satellite communications.
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