Can you use a streaming box on a boat?

Oh, to live life on the sea. To watch the sun rise over the water, to settle sleepily in for the night as waves rock you to sleep. It sounds so peaceful. That said, here in the 2020s we don’t seem terribly well adapted to peace. Our lives are full of distractions and connections, and when we don’t get them, we get… antsy. That’s one of the reasons that marine internet upgrades are the hottest new segment at Signal Group.

The challenge

The challenge with streaming is the same challenge you have with any internet-based activity while on the water. The boat, by itself, will probably only get cell service three to five miles off shore. Add a cell phone signal booster and you get another few miles. For real flexibility you need VSAT, or satellite internet.

But I’m getting ahead of myself. The other thing you’ll need if you’re going to stream is Wi-Fi. You’ll only get so far hooking your cell phone up to a television. A streaming box is a must-have if more than one person is watching at the same time. Streaming boxes demand wired or wireless internet, simple as that. It’s got to be part of your plans.

The solutions

If you’re willing to stay close enough to shore to get cell service, there’s a solution. First, you need a cell phone signal booster. This is a simple device that amplifies the cell signal from outside and pumps it into the cabin. You’ve probably noticed that even close to shore you don’t get great cell service inside, and it’s because the construction of your boat blocks cell signals. A cell phone signal booster fixes that, plain and simple.

Once you’ve got great cell service, you need to turn it into Wi-Fi. There’s a solution there, too. Adding a hotspot with a cell plan is all you need. You just need to make sure it’s the right hotspot… one that gives you what you need.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you can forget about the hotspot and cell booster. VSAT Satellite Internet from Signal Connect lets you surf, shop, and share from 100 miles offshore. There are plans to fit practically any budget, and the system works just like home internet. There are wired and Wi-Fi options, and it’s no harder to use than any other internet system.

Getting the help you need

Getting internet on the water so you can use a streaming box is a custom job. You need someone who will walk you through it from beginning to end. Luckily, you have an expert in your corner. The folks at Signal Connect do more marine activations than anyone else in the world. They’re here to help you make your streaming dreams come true.

Call us during East Coast business hours at 888-233-7563 and discover how easy it is to add streaming to your boat. We’re here for you and we’re ready to help you enjoy life on the water without feeling disconnected!

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.