The 2024 boating season is in full swing now in much of the country. If you haven’t gotten your boat out of drydock for the spring, you’re probably thinking about doing it soon. And, you’re probably thinking about the upgrades you’ll want for this year. Boating isn’t the cheapest hobby, and it seems like there’s always something you want to spend money on. This year, it’s all about internet upgrades.
Let’s talk about Starlink for a second
You’ve already heard of Starlink, I’m sure. It’s the satellite internet system created by SpaceX (Elon Musk’s company.) It uses a fleet of thousands of small satellites to deliver a high-speed experience that’s as close to traditional fiber as possible. In 2023, Starlink officially started supporting marine customers with solutions that give you great service on the water, about as far out as you’re ever going to go.
Starlink isn’t a cheap solution. But, if you’ve been looking for an option that lets you surf, shop, and social from the boat, it’s something to look at. It has higher speeds and more range than cellular internet. So, if you’re looking to go beyond about 5-10 miles offshore, it’s the choice you want to make.
But, it’s important to know this: most Starlink marine plans don’t include unlimited internet. You can choose the amount of data you want, but even with the biggest plan you could end up using your entire monthly allotment in two days if you stream a lot of video. That’s why it’s smart to pair Starlink with a satellite TV system that lets you watch all you want for one low price.
If you choose Starlink AND satellite TV…
This means you’ll have a traditional marine satellite dome as well as the odd-looking Starlink antenna. This might make your boat look a little unfinished, even a little lopsided. What’s the solution? An empty dome.
You can choose from a selection of empty domes from KVH and Intellian that look exactly like your TV satellite dome. You can put the Starlink antenna into the dome and return the boat to looking perfectly symmetrical. The Starlink antenna will work just as well with the empty dome around it and you’ll have a better-looking boat.
Why doesn’t the empty dome cause problems?
These dome-shaped covers (they’re properly called “radomes”) are specifically engineered to let RF broadcasts pass through. Even though you can’t see through them, they’re essentially invisible to RF broadcasts. This is how they are engineered.
Radomes are there to protect sensitive electronics from the harsh marine environment. They’ve been used since the 1940s and 1950s, in the early days of radar. Most satellite equipment has a lot of moving parts, and the sea air can corrode wiring terminals and rubber seals, and stop grease from working as well. Using a radome protects your delicate equipment without blocking satellite signals.
Starlink antennas don’t have moving parts and the marine systems are already insulated from the weather. Still, having a radome not only gives you another level of protection, it also makes your boat look better.
Want the best for your boat? Want the easiest upgrade experience?
You don’t want to spend hours on hold and you don’t want to worry about finger-pointing. There’s a simple solution: work with Signal Connect. We offer both Starlink and satellite TV. We’ll recommend the right accessories. Even better, we’ll take care of all the activation so you can get on the water instead of staying on hold. We can even recommend an installation partner in your area!
Call the experts at Signal Connect. We have been doing marine satellite for over 20 years and no one in the world has done more satellite activations! Call us at 888-233-7563 during East Coast business hours. If it’s after hours, fill out the form below. We’ll get right back to you!
