What’s the best upgrade for your boat?

It’s easy to get addicted to life on the water. Who wouldn’t want to spend days in total tranquility, surrounded by great views and beautiful sunsets? Yet, there’s one funny thing about being a yachting fan. There’s always something more to drool after. There are so many accessories, so many add-ons, so much you can do to customize. It’s hard to know where to start.

Obviously everyone is going to have a different opinion on what the best upgrade is for them. And there are probably as many different answers are there are different boats on the water. But, I’m going to share my opinion, and maybe you’ll agree.

The best upgrade: internet service

Yes, I think the best thing you can do with your boat is add an always-on connection to the internet. I know, you’re thinking, “I got a boat to get away from it all!” But let’s be honest, that’s just not how things really work today. You’re going to want to connect with other people, shop, and browse. Maybe not all the time, that’s true. In fact I hope that most of the time you spend on the water is spent truly enjoying yourself. But here in the 21st century, none of us can afford to be disconnected for long.

For many folks, the solution is cell service. With the proper hardware like a cell phone signal booster, you can get cell service up to 5-10 miles off shore. That’s pretty far, I’ll grant you. But is it really far enough? Truthfully, it’s hard to guarantee cell service that far out, and it depends greatly on where the land-based cell towers are. Why not choose a solution that’s good 100 miles offshore? When you want to get away from land, you’re going to go that far out, or at least 15-20 miles so you’re in international waters.

Satellite Internet (VSAT) is a better option

No doubt you’ve seen those white gumdrops on other boats. They’re satellite antennas, surrounded by a weatherproof cover called a radome. In most cases, they’re used for satellite television. But, the latest generation of satellite antennas from our friends at Intellian is just for internet service.

When paired with a data plan from Signal Connect, you’ll be on your way to surfing the web while you’re sailing the seas. You’ll get high speed and a generous data allowance — there are even unlimited plans available. You’ll be connected anytime you want, and you can share that connection with anyone whose device has Wi-Fi (which is, let’s face it, every device.)

It’s a smart upgrade that’s going to really enhance the quality of your life on the water. It’s there when you need it for you and your guests… and sits silent and ready to serve when you’re enjoying a cocktail or a quiet conversation.

How can you get started?

Signal Connect makes it easy. We are your total solution provider for the hardware and service you need. We’ll show you all the options. Then, we’ll help you decide what’s best for you. When you need help or support, we’ll be here for you. You’ll get total white-glove service.

Want to find out more? Call us at 888-233-7563 during East Coast business hours. If it’s after hours, fill out the form below and we’ll get back to you, usually within one business day.

About the Author

Stuart Sweet
Stuart Sweet is the editor-in-chief of The Solid Signal Blog and a "master plumber" at Signal Group, LLC. He is the author of over 10,000 articles and longform tutorials including many posted here. Reach him by clicking on "Contact the Editor" at the bottom of this page.