Norwegian Holdings to Offer SpaceX’s Starlink Internet on All Cruise Ships

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced it would offer SpaceX’s Starlink high-speed internet on all ships.

The company will begin testing Starlink on Norwegian Breakaway and roll out the internet service across its Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands.

“We are thrilled to offer Starlink on board our ships to improve internet connectivity at sea,” Norwegian Holdings’ Harry Sommer said. “This initiative is a testament to our continuous quest to find new and innovative ways to enhance the experience for both guests and crew while sailing on our award-winning brands.”

If trials are successful, Norwegian Holdings will look to equip seven additional ships with Starlink by the end of 2023, including all three new additions this year, Oceania Cruises’ Vista, Norwegian Viva and Regent’s Seven Seas Grandeur.

Norwegian will use Starlink’s advanced low-earth-orbit satellites to deliver broadband internet connectivity to passengers sailing with the cruise line. The additional bandwidth will expand flexibility for onboard services and improve the ship-to-shore connection for operational needs.

“Ensuring that this technology meets our high standards of excellence for our guests is incredibly important to us, which is why we are introducing this cutting-edge technology across our fleet in a phased manner,” Sommer continued. “Once deployed, guests and crew will have a faster and more reliable method to stay connected with friends and family including by sharing in real-time the incredible memories they create while at sea.”

The company will announce a full rollout plan and details once finalized.

In March, Norwegian Holdings announced that chief executive officer Frank J. Del Rio would retire from the company and relinquish his position on the board of directors, effective June 30.

To replace Del Rio, Norwegian named Sommer as CEO, starting on July 1. Del Rio is expected to remain in a consultant capacity as senior adviser to the board through 2025.