Carnival Corporation has signed a deal for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet service and is already rolling out high-speed connectivity on Carnival Cruise Line and AIDA Cruises ships. Carnival announced today plans to install Starlink on almost 100 cruise ships sailing for Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, Seabourn, P&O Australia, Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Cunard.
"For many of our guests, it has become more and more important to maintain the type of connectivity at sea that they've become accustomed to at home, and of course to share the unforgettable experiences of their cruise with friends and family," said Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation. "We are in the business of delivering happiness, and Starlink makes it as easy as possible for our guests to share all their great moments and memories, giving them even more joy out of their cruise vacation."
According to Weinstein, "The added bandwidth will give the brands the capabilities and flexibility to introduce new guest services and features, as well as help boost operational functions like onboard equipment monitoring and real-time communications between ship and shore teams. And importantly, adding Starlink's innovative technology to the company's existing connectivity platform will also help our amazing crew stay in touch with friends and loved ones."
"High-speed, low-latency broadband internet is critical in our modern age, and we're excited to provide Carnival Cruise Line and AIDA's guests an internet experience that makes their travel even more enjoyable," said Jonathan Hofeller, vice president of Starlink sales for SpaceX. "In even the most remote waters, guests onboard Carnival Corporation ships will be able to share real-time updates with friends and family.
Carnival Cruise Line is a longtime customer of satellite operator SES, and the latest announcement clarified that SpaceX’s Starlink is part of a “growing portfolio” of satellite, and technology providers in the company’s communications ecosystem.