Having a fast and reliable internet connection has been a challenge onboard cruise ships. However, Elon Musk’s Starlink has revolutionized connectivity, offering high-speed internet access to cruise ships and making online communication more accessible than ever before.
One cruise passenger, however, took matters into his own hands. In a post shared on social media, a guest set up his own personal Starlink antenna on his cabin’s balcony, propping it up with a chair and other makeshift supports. While this innovative solution might seem like a clever way to bypass the expensive onboard Wi-Fi, it poses serious concerns about the safety and cruise line regulations.
It is obvious that cruise lines prohibit passengers from bringing their satellite dishes, as ships already have systems in place to manage internet connectivity.
Yes. This is my current situation. pic.twitter.com/KdnPK3Lpqk
— Joe Montalto (@joemontalto13) January 12, 2025
Beyond being a policy violation, placing an object such as a chair and satellite dish on the balcony railing is an extreme safety risk. The open sea is unpredictable, and strong winds or sudden ship movements could easily dislodge the setup, sending debris flying into the ocean—or worse, onto decks below, potentially injuring passengers or crew. Loose objects falling from balconies can create serious hazards, and cruise lines enforce strict policies against placing anything unsecured in these areas.
In the comments on the social media post said that he was sailing on the cruise ship Disney Wish, adding that "even some of the ship employees commented how awesome."
While bringing personal Starlink equipment on a cruise might seem like a cost-saving hack, it is both a safety risk and violation.
