Starlink Roam: Reliable Internet Connection For Boaters?

Starlink Roam, previously known as Starlink RV, is a service plan designed for those in touring vehicles, off-grid cabins, and stationary locations on land. However, there have been reports of Starlink Roam being used on boats, with varying levels of success. While some users have experienced successful internet access while sailing, others have encountered limitations, as per the terms of service, which specify that the basic Roam plan does not provide coverage on external bodies of water or while in motion.

Starlink Roam works on boats in the middle of the sea

Starlink Roam, previously known as Starlink RV, is a service plan designed for those in touring vehicles, off-grid cabins, and other locations where connectivity is needed while stationary and on land. However, some users have reported that Starlink Roam works on boats in the middle of the sea, providing internet access for navigation, weather updates, and other online activities. One user reported having 100mbs internet access while in the middle of the sea, which allowed them to access YouTube and other online services.

It's important to note that per the Starlink Terms of Service, the basic RV/ROAM/Mobility plan does not provide any access on external bodies of water or while in motion. The Marine/Mobile Priority plan is designed for such use cases. Most nomadic users who travel in RVs and boats along inland waterways will find the Roam Service plans convenient, as they work anywhere in the world on land and coastal waterways without requiring a change of service address.

While Starlink Roam is not officially supported on external bodies of water, some users have found that it works in practice, even in the middle of the sea. This may be due to the fact that Starlink coverage is still expanding and improving, and the service may not yet be fully optimised for all use cases.

Starlink Roam works on boats in coastal waterways

One user reported having 100mbs internet access in the middle of the sea, which they used for navigation, weather updates, and streaming YouTube videos. They also mentioned that the service worked in Guatemala and Honduras.

Another example of Starlink Roam's effectiveness at sea is the rescue of four American sailors whose yacht sank mid-Pacific. While conventional rescue communication protocols were effective, the rescue was accelerated by the fact that several other yachts on the route were made aware of the situation through social media, and a WhatsApp group was set up to coordinate the rescue among boats with fast connectivity.

Starlink Roam works on boats in inland waterways

However, it's important to note that the basic RV/ROAM/Mobility plan does not provide access on external bodies of water or while in motion. The Marine/Mobile Priority plan is required for that.

There have been reports of people using Starlink Roam on sailboats, even in the middle of the sea, with speeds of up to 100 Mbps. It has also been used in countries like Guatemala, Honduras, and Cuba, although Starlink may not officially support its use in unsupported countries.

Starlink Roam works on boats in unsupported countries

Starlink Roam is a convenient option for nomadic users who travel in RVs and boats along inland waterways. It works anywhere in the world on land and coastal waterways without having to change a service address.

It's important to note that per the Terms of Service, the basic RV/ROAM/Mobility plan does not provide any access on external bodies of water or in motion. The Marine/Mobile Priority plan is the one that offers this access.

While Starlink Roam may work on boats in unsupported countries, it is not a guaranteed service, and users should be aware that it may not always function as expected.

Starlink Roam can be used for navigation and weather updates

Starlink Roam has been used by sailors for connectivity while at sea. In one instance, four American sailors were rescued after their yacht sank in the mid-Pacific. Their rescue was accelerated by the fact that several other yachts on the route were made aware of their plight through online communication. This highlights the potential life-saving benefits of having internet access while at sea.

Most nomadic users who travel in RVs and boats along inland waterways will find the Roam Service plans convenient. The service works anywhere in the world on land and coastal waterways without the need to change a service address. This makes it a reliable option for those who need internet access while on the move.

Overall, Starlink Roam can be a valuable tool for those who need internet access for navigation and weather updates, especially when combined with the Marine/Mobile Priority plan. It offers a high-speed connection that can be used for a variety of purposes, including essential tasks such as planning routes and checking for potential hazards.

Frequently asked questions