MSC Cruises Enhances Onboard Connectivity with Starlink Satellite Internet Installation
MSC Cruises is significantly upgrading its onboard internet service by installing Starlink satellite infrastructure across its fleet, aiming to provide guests with high-speed connectivity by May. This move makes MSC Cruises one of the first major cruise lines to adopt SpaceX’s cutting-edge low Earth orbit satellite technology, ensuring passengers enjoy faster and more reliable internet access while at sea.
After successful bandwidth and data traffic trials in 2022, MSC Cruises has proceeded with the installation of Starlink equipment on 15 out of its 22 ships, marking a significant milestone towards enhancing guest experience. The MSC Magnifica had the distinction of being the first in the fleet to be equipped with Starlink in December 2022, setting a new standard for onboard connectivity.
The initiative comes in response to the growing demand for higher bandwidth onboard MSC cruise ships, driven by travelers’ increasing need for internet access to browse, stream, and stay connected during their voyages. To cater to this demand, MSC Cruises offers two distinct internet packages: one designed for general browsing and a more comprehensive package that supports both browsing and streaming.
Explora Journeys, MSC Cruises’ sister brand, is also embracing Starlink technology, with the first of its six vessels already equipped and plans to install Starlink on Explora II before its launch in August. This adoption of satellite internet technology underscores the cruise industry’s commitment to improving guest services and staying ahead of technological trends.
MSC Cruises’ move to equip its fleet with Starlink satellite internet follows a growing trend among cruise lines seeking to enhance their onboard connectivity options. Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Aurora Expeditions, Windstar Cruises, Holland America Line, and Scenic Group are among other cruise operators installing Starlink infrastructure, highlighting the industry-wide effort to provide guests with an improved and connected cruising experience.