Starlink satellite internet is revolutionizing remote working from almost anywhere, including luxury cruise ships, which is great news for our busy professional clients.
While travel advisors are used to working while on cruises (it’s part of the job, after all), the vastly improved connectivity on luxury cruise ships has led to a rise in the digital nomad trend across the board.
Full speed ahead with Silver Nova Otium Suite.
Ponant is just one of many cruise lines that have invested in Starlink high-speed internet since it was introduced in 2019. Starlink is part of the SpaceX system (Elon Musk’s company that owns the satellites) and consists of more than 6,000 “low earth orbit” satellites designed to provide fast and effective global internet coverage, especially in remote areas.
Ponant’s regional marketing and communications director for Australasia, Charles Boutet, says the company’s luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot, has been thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of all guests who work while traveling.
“The Observation Lounge with bar and reading area on Deck 9 is a personal favorite – perfect for working or relaxing while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding polar landscape. What’s more, Ponant recently upgraded its onboard Internet service to the Starlink satellite network, offering complimentary, unlimited and optimized Wi-Fi connectivity on all ships, no matter where you’re sailing in the world,” said Boutet.
Until now, connectivity for both sea and river vessels has been expensive and unreliable at best, but Starlink will allow travelers to use the internet much like they do at home: streaming video, video calling, downloading, uploading, sending attachments, and more.
The cost of the new and efficient internet access varies by cruise line, but it is complimentary for guests on luxury cruise lines such as Explora Journeys, Ponant, Scenic ocean, Seabourn, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
Silversea offers unlimited complimentary access to all guests, and Premium Access packages offering enhanced features are available for purchase or complimentary in higher-end suites. World and Grand Cruise guests automatically receive complimentary Premium Wi-Fi in all suite categories.
Celebrity’s basic internet package is included in the all-inclusive fare, but can also be purchased before or after your cruise if you’re traveling on a cruise-only fare. Premium internet packages are also available for an additional fee, allowing streaming, video calling, file transfers and posting.
Things to note: Certain parts of the ship offer stronger connectivity than others.
No system is foolproof, and internet speeds at sea are rarely as fast as on land. Wi-Fi often drops out when ships are in and out of port, and connectivity degrades when multiple ships in an area try to connect to Starlink satellites at the same time.
Mountainous regions like Alaska often have weak satellite signals, and a variety of factors, including bad weather, can slow down speeds. Certain parts of the ship (typically where the router is located, e.g. public spaces) receive stronger signals than others, so if you’re having momentary issues connecting from your cabin, try the library or reception area, or ask the ship’s IT experts for help.
But overall, Starlink has made working the world’s oceans and rivers a lot easier, and it’s only going to get better. Numerous tech websites and cruise forums cover more detailed information, but advisors should keep up to date with the latest information.
The living room of the Seven Seas Grandeur’s Work-Life Balance Penthouse Suite.
Luxury cruise ships offer the perfect environment for combining work and play. Everything you need is right on your doorstep: rooms with a view (and room service), fitness centers, dining options, and bars. When you’re in vacation mode, you can take a shore excursion, take in a show, enjoy a spa treatment, or spend time with friends and family on board.
For Lisa Pile, vice president and general manager of sales for Asia Pacific at RSSC, remote working comes naturally.
“No matter which ship you’re on, there’s always plenty of space on our perfectly sized luxury ships,” she said.
“But the really nice thing about working at sea is that every desk has a view, and 99 percent of the suites have their own private balcony so you can get some fresh air.”
RSSC’s ultra-luxurious and spacious suites are well-equipped for business travelers, with separate sitting areas with desk space.
“To meet evolving technology needs, we’ve introduced USB and USBC ports on our new Explorer class ships,” Lisa added. “The size of your suite category will determine the number of power points available. Veranda level suites have a minimum of five power points, while higher level suites, such as Regent Suites, increase this number.”
Eden’s inspiring workspace at Celebrity Edge.
Tim Jones, Celebrity Cruises’ vice president and managing director, Australia and Asia Pacific, said all of the company’s cabins are equipped with comfortable desks and ample charging points, giving guests everything they need to stay productive while enjoying their cruise.
“But beyond the cabins, Celebrity Edge, which re-launches in Australia and New Zealand in October, also offers tranquil spaces perfect for working,” Tim said.
“With lush greenery and comfortable seating, the rooftop garden provides a serene environment for concentrating on work or holding quiet meetings. Similarly, the resort deck offers an inviting ambience with ample seating and breathtaking views.
“I personally like to grab a bite to eat at the Eden Cafe and then head up to Eden’s Deck 6, a lesser known space at the aft of the ship with plenty of natural light and the perfect place to sort through emails in my inbox.”
Echoing Tim’s sentiments, a Silversea spokesperson said guests are encouraged to work in quiet areas such as the Art Café or Observation Lounge for a change of pace, and that the Internet Café provides computers, email and Internet access for guests who want to leave their laptops in their suites. Most ships have staffed business centres, which is a game changer for busy professionals.
