Royal Caribbean Group announced its plan to implement SpaceX's Starlink – making it the first in the cruise industry to adopt the high-speed, low-latency connectivity for a better onboard experience for guests and crew across the fleet. The innovative broadband internet service will be installed on all Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises ships, along with all new vessels for each of the brands.
Fleet-wide deployment of Starlink technology will begin immediately, using insights gained during a trial period on Freedom of the Seas, which received overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests and crew. The installation is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2023.
"Our purpose as a company is to responsibly deliver the best vacation experiences to our guests, and this new offering, which is the largest public deployment of Starlink's high-speed Internet to date in the travel industry, demonstrates our commitment to that purpose," said Jason Liberty, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Caribbean Group.
"This technology will provide game-changing internet connectivity on our ships, enhancing the cruise experience for guests and crew alike." It will enhance and enable higher bandwidth activities such as video streaming as well as activities such as video calling. The use of Starlink is another example of our continued focus on innovation and excellence for our guests, our crew, the communities we visit and our shareholders."
Faster and more reliable internet will also make it easier for guests and crew to stay connected to work, family and friends – no matter where they are in the world.
"Royal Caribbean Group choosing Starlink to provide high-speed, low-latency internet across its fleet will make their passengers' getaways even more luxurious," said Starlink's vice president of sales for SpaceX, Jonathan Hoeffler. "We couldn't be more excited to be working with Royal Caribbean Group to ensure that travelers at sea can stay connected with a great online experience."
