I'm buying a Starlink setup for internet on our boat
Since September, my wife and I have been sailing down the east coast from NYC on our way to the Bahamas. Although shes retired, Ive continued working remotely as almost all of my business has migrated to the internet. And theres the problem.
Its been tricky to connect to the internet and Ive had to tether my computer to my cellphone too often to be a functional alternative. Another sailor demonstrated his Starlink system and I was sold.
It consists of the control unit which connects to our boats 12-volt DC system and the receiving antenna. The coverage and bandwidth seem to be superior to even some of the WiFi systems weve encountered at different marinas. Incidentally, we dont have WiFi available when were anchored out which is about 60% of the time. Starlink seems like the solution to my problem.
It aint cheap. The hardware costs $600 and the monthly subscription is $135. However, for me, these are necessary business expenses if Im to keep in touch.
The equipment is being delivered today and Ill post again when Ive installed it and its up and running.
My only misgiving is that Starlink is made by SpaceX, Musks company. Im not happy about putting money in his pocket but if I dont have good internet, I wont be making any money! Its a Devils bargain, I guess!
Blues Heron
(6,131 posts)Ive been watching the Delos sailing channel on youtube, and they have a big dome-style satellite internet setup on their boat - got to be beaucoup bucks more than starlink though . Forget what their speeds are though
PJMcK
(22,886 posts)I havent seen the software yet but I think it assists in aiming the antenna. Its a flat panel about 14-inches square and mounted on a four.footed stand.
Once Ive installed it, Ill let you know.
Blues Heron
(6,131 posts)P.s. just watched a sailing one life vid and they had a starlink setup they had just got.
targetpractice
(4,919 posts)Starlink seems essential, despite Musk's involvement... Teslas seem optional for the same reason.
I'd like to learn the real-world bandwidth Starlink's provides... Looking forward to your updates.
MLAA
(18,599 posts)Perhaps, once you have your starling you could post a picture a day along with a song?
Wingus Dingus
(8,407 posts)they have a Starlink setup on their yacht and their business is guiding people in their mobile tech setups.
PJMcK
(22,886 posts)Much appreciated.
getagrip_already
(17,435 posts)It will be interesting to see how they.morph that plan over time.
As for giving money to musk, if it makes you feel better, they claim to still be losing money on starlink, so the investors are footing part of your bill.
I've thought of it for my boat, but we don't Cruise to different ports, so it would be for use on extended fishing trips, and they have limits on offshore use.
Anyway, good luck, and happy voyages!
PJMcK
(22,886 posts)We bought the RV version. The maritime version costs $10,000 for the hardware and $5,000 per month! Im sure its for passenger vessels, not little sailboats like ours
BComplex
(9,075 posts)now. At least, the ones who can afford it.
Where I'm located in the Nowhere section, luckily the landline company can give me 10 megs of speed, which is what I've been living with for the 10 years since they brought that much out here.
getagrip_already
(17,435 posts)$600 for the antenna, $110 for the service, plus bits and bobs.
My cable internet is about $100/mo. So the service costs are similar, but the hardware is as much as a cheap smartphone. A lot of people can't afford either.
But if your choice is cell phone hotspotting, it is a much better solution, especially if you work from home or do a lot of uploading.
I'm hoping for some competition......