Royal Caribbean to deploy Elon Musk’s ‘game-changing’ Starlink high speed internet

The SpaceX technology will be fitted to the cruise operator’s three brands by next year

Royal Caribbean Group is to deploy “game-changing” high-speed internet connectivity across ships in its three brands by early next year.

The Starlink broadband system operated by Elon Musk’s rocket company SpaceX is already available in 40 countries using advanced satellites operating in low orbit around the earth.

The broadband internet service for passengers and crew will be installed on all 64 Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises ships, along with all new vessels for each of the brands.

The installation is due to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2023 following a successful trial on board Freedom of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean Group president and chief executive Jason Liberty said: “Our purpose as a company is to deliver the best vacation experiences to our guests responsibly, and this new offering, which is the biggest public deployment of Starlink’s high-speed internet in the travel industry so far, demonstrates our commitment to that purpose.

“This technology will provide game-changing internet connectivity onboard our ships, enhancing the cruise experience for guests and crew alike. 

“It will improve and enable more high-bandwidth activities like video streaming as well as activities like video calls.

“Using Starlink is one more example of our continued focus on innovation and excellence for our guests, our crew, the communities we visit and our shareholders.”

He added: ”Our work with SpaceX is another example of how Royal Caribbean Group continues to lead the cruise industry in innovation and adoption of cutting-edge technology.”

SpaceX vice president of Starlink sales Jonathan Hofeller said: “Royal Caribbean Group selecting Starlink to provide high-speed, low-latency internet across their fleet will make their passengers’ getaways even more luxurious. 

“We couldn’t be more excited to work with Royal Caribbean Group to ensure travellers at sea can stay connected with a great internet experience.”