Hapag-Lloyd has announced its intention to implement SpaceX’s Starlink satellite broadband service throughout its entire fleet.
Crew members on four pilot vessels have been able to test the Starlink system since May.
According to Hapag-Lloyd, these studies have garnered highly positive feedback. By providing seamless video discussions and streaming services, Hapag-Lloyd believes that high-speed satellite internet has changed marine communication.
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The Starlink satellite network reportedly provides an exceptional bandwidth of up to 250 megabits per second, allowing Hapag-Lloyd to undertake remote maintenance and vessel inspections in addition to private usage.
The next steps in the spread of the free and fast internet offer on board are to complete the ordering of the equipment and antenna installation by the end of 2023, followed by the progressive activation of the service on the company’s ships in early 2024.
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Dr. Maximilian Rothkopf, COO at Hapag-Lloyd, said: “We are very happy to provide our seafarers with Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet and thus to enhance their well-being on board. But also for Fleet Management the change in communication and connectivity will be huge.”
Donya-Florence Amer, CIO/CHRO at Hapag-LLoyd, stated: “Implementing the new technology to our fleet marks a significant leap forward in ensuring maritime connectivity and stands to revolutionise the way our seafarers stay connected while at sea.”
In August 2023, Hapag-Lloyd reported an EBITDA of $3.8 billion and an EBIT of $2.8 billion for the first half of 2023.
