As vessels return to Mallorca after a busy 2024 Med season, the refit period is in full swing—and with it, a key question looms: should we say goodbye to traditional VSAT services? Some vessels did this at the end of the 2023 season, and in 2024, we are expecting many more.
Streamlining connectivity for 2025
Many vessels are using this downtime to review their onboard connectivity options and IT networks. With Starlink proving itself as the go-to system for fast, reliable internet, and new low Earth orbit (LEO) networks like Eutelsat OneWeb entering the market with high-speed flat panel antennas, the big question that captains, engineers, and owners are asking is: is it now time to remove the domes?
Backup options for Starlink
In many cases, the answer is yes, as there is now a real alternative and/or backup to Starlink. The Eutelsat OneWeb LEO network offers speeds of over 100 Mbps with backup data plans starting at just $200 per month. Hardware is low cost compared to VSAT and also uses flat-panel, easy-to-install antennas. This gives vessels a reliable alternative in regions where Starlink isn’t available, particularly Turkey and parts of the Middle East. If Starlink fails, you’ll still have high-speed, low-latency internet access to run all your essential applications.
Or, if you aren’t ready yet, you can keep your domes and activate a VSAT service (e3 Systems offers speeds up to 20 Mbps on a daily basis)—but be warned that compared to LEO services, VSAT remains comparatively slow, expensive, and comes with high latency that can limit onboard functionality of some applications.
The challenge of removing domes
Removing VSAT or TVRO domes isn’t a simple task. It requires expert engineers to carefully remove the hardware, reroute cabling, and install replacement systems in optimal positions. But with proper planning, this winter refit season is the ideal time to tackle these upgrades and improve your vessel’s IT network to support faster, more reliable connectivity.
LEO networks: What’s next?
Aside from Starlink, many other LEO players are entering the market. Eutelsat OneWeb is now fully operational in key yachting areas, offering great coverage in places Starlink can’t reach. With a variety of airtime plans available to cater to both primary and backup connectivity, plus a choice of antennas from Kymeta and Intellian, it’s easier than ever to find the right fit for your vessel.
Meanwhile, Amazon’s Kuiper project is another hot topic and seen as ultimately the main rival to Starlink, although it is still very much in development. It is expected to compete with Starlink on speed and coverage, and could also tap into Amazon’s AWS cloud network to boost security and efficiency. Kuiper is expected to launch its service by 2026 and, like Starlink, is aiming at the terrestrial market first before entering the maritime space. This sets the stage for an exciting race between satellite giants from which the end-user almost always benefits.
The future of TV onboard
Vessels with matching TVRO and VSAT domes may worry about the aesthetic imbalance of removing one but not the other. However, with fast global internet connectivity now available, many vessels are switching from location-dependent satellite TV to IPTV services where, if you have internet, you have TV. With Starlink, it’s easy to stream Netflix or Apple TV from almost anywhere, though accessing live, country-specific content remains a challenge.
To address this, e3 Systems is expanding its IPTV services this winter. In addition to their low-cost UK-based IPTV service, they hope to offer a wider package of live sport and movies.
The e3 eHUB advantage
With the e3 Systems eHUB connectivity management device, vessels can enjoy a seamless onboard experience that matches the connectivity owners are used to at home. The eHUB offers everything a Kerio does and more, such as clearly and simply managing all your connectivity devices as well as options for breakouts in the UK, USA (other regions can be arranged if needed), plus advanced bonding service for your Starlink and other connectivity as standard. The in-country breakout enables users to access in-country content for both entertainment and internet services. After years of development, it’s now possible to recreate the same high-quality connectivity environment that owners enjoy onshore.
Conclusion
With the rise of new LEO networks and evolving internet solutions, traditional VSAT satellite services are quickly becoming outdated as they no longer provide vessels with an acceptable backup system, either technically or financially. If you’re considering an upgrade, now is the time to explore your options. Contact e3 Systems to discuss the best path forward for your vessel’s connectivity needs.
