Nebula deploys Starlink satellite solution to global maritime vessels

The Challenge

A global maritime operator required reliable high-speed connectivity for two of its commercial vessels docked in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. With crew welfare, operational efficiency, and real-time data access becoming increasingly critical, the client needed a robust satellite internet solution to replace its ageing and costly legacy VSAT system. The vessels were also on a tight maintenance schedule in port, giving the technical installation team a limited window to install and fully commission a state-of-the-art, modern connectivity solution before the embarkment date.

Filipino deck Officer on bridge of vessel or ship. He is speaking on GMDSS VHF radio

The Solution

In response to the client’s requirements, Nebula Global Services mobilised a specialist engineering team to Santa Cruz de Tenerife to carry out a comprehensive Starlink installation on both vessels. Our approach included:

· Full pre-deployment consultation to determine optimal Starlink hardware configuration for each vessel’s layout and operational needs.

· Rapid on-site installation of dual Starlink High Performance terminals per vessel, strategically positioned for maximum line-of-sight and signal integrity.

· Seamless integration with each vessel’s existing network infrastructure, enabling prioritised routing, bandwidth management, and secure VPN connectivity.

· Real-time testing and commissioning to ensure system performance met or exceeded maritime-grade standards.

· Training provided to onboard crew and IT stakeholders to support day-to-day management of the new system.

The Outcome

Within 48 hours, both vessels were equipped with fully operational Starlink systems, delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity at sea and in port. The result was transformative in terms of increasing network performance and associated operational efficiencies:

· Crew gained access to fast, consistent internet for communication and welfare, even during long transits.

· Operations benefited from real-time reporting, better fleet coordination, and reduced downtime.

· The client achieved a significant cost saving compared to legacy VSAT services, with no compromise on quality or reliability.

Since the conclusion of the project, the vessels have since completed multiple voyages with uninterrupted Starlink connectivity, positioning Nebula Global Services as the partner of choice when setting a new standard for digital communications across the fleet. This technology solution provides the owner of the vessels with a blueprint for success when considering future communication upgrades.

View at mountain range from a cruise ship Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands

Customer Success Experience

Mobilisation of dedicated team

Specialist Starlink engineers deployed to ensure seamless migration and complete customer success experience.

Reduced operational overheads

Cost savings compared to legacy VSAT services, with enhanced quality and reliability

Enhanced crew welfare

Crew able to access fast, consistent internet for communication with family during long transits.

Rapid on-site installation

Within 48hrs dual Starlink high-performance terminals were installed on each vessel, strategically positioned for maximum line-of-sight and signal integrity.