Starlink on Sailboats: The Revolution of Connectivity at Sea

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In recent years, connectivity at sea has undergone a significant evolution. Until recently, the only reliable solutions for satellite connection were Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec devices, which guaranteed global coverage, but with extremely low speeds and high costs. Today, with the arrival of Starlink Mini, the landscape of maritime communication has changed drastically, offering high-speed connection at a lower cost.

IMPORTANT: Please note that the plans and information reported are updated as of March 9, 2025 and may be subject to changes in the future.

Starlink on Sailboats: A System That Has Revolutionized Maritime Communication

The introduction of Starlink on sailboats has represented a true revolution in maritime connectivity, offering for the first time high-speed satellite internet even on the open sea. The standard version of Starlink has already proven to be a valid solution for vessels, allowing a stable and fast connection while sailing.

However, with the arrival of Starlink Mini, the accessibility and practicality of this technology have taken a further step forward. Compared to the standard version, the Mini model offers numerous advantages for those using Starlink on sailboats:

• Connection speeds over 100 Mbps, with excellent performance even in non-optimal signal conditions
• Lower energy consumption (20-40W compared to 75-100W of the standard version)
• Possibility of power supply with powerbank, increasing portability and versatility
• Easy installation on sailboats, thanks to more compact dimensions
• Cables with smaller connectors, facilitating passage through cable glands compared to the standard version

Thanks to these improvements, Starlink on sailboats confirms itself as the most suitable solution for sailing, combining power, energy efficiency, and ease of installation.

Iridium GO! vs. Starlink on Sailboats: Which is More Convenient?

Until now, Iridium GO! and Iridium GO! exec were the only options for those sailing far from the coasts. The main advantage of Iridium is global coverage and the possibility of being used in emergency situations. However, the extremely low speed and high cost make these devices less competitive compared to Starlink Mini.

But let’s look at this interesting comparison table:

ATTENTION: It should be emphasized, however, that despite Starlink on sailboats becoming increasingly mobile, for ocean crossings it is still advisable to have a basic subscription with Iridium GO! to ensure the possibility of emergency communication if needed.

Which plan to choose for Starlink on a sailboat?

For private individuals, the Unlimited Roaming plan is currently recommended, available at about 72 USD per month (if activated in Switzerland). This plan includes the Mobile Priority option, which can be activated and deactivated on request, even for just a few hours or days. The cost of Mobile Priority is about 2 USD/GB. Currently, this option is available only for the Unlimited Roaming plan, while the 50GB per month plan does not include it. Starlink plans are subject to changes, at least once a year.

Powering Starlink on a sailboat: the role of Power Bank for great mobility

One of the limitations of the standard version of Starlink was the high consumption and the need for a dedicated power source that required a fixed installation. Starlink Mini solves this problem, allowing it to be powered even with a power bank with USB PD capable of delivering at least 100W (20V/5A).

A perfect example is the Anker Prime 27,600 mAh, which offers:

• 140W output, perfect for Starlink Mini
• Fast charging and compatibility with solar panels
• Compact size and lightweight, ideal for mobile use
• A display to see remaining battery life and consumption
• The ability to connect via app and monitor it via Bluetooth
• A battery life for Starlink Mini of about 3 and a half hours

Used together with a special waterproof USB-C cable, you can power our antenna without too many complications. I recommend not exceeding 5 meters of cable length for this Power Bank solution.

For me, working on multiple boats and making transfers around the world, this solution is simply brilliant!

Installing Starlink on a sailboat

Starlink Mini can operate in temperatures from -30°C to 50°C and with wind gusts up to about 95 km/h.This makes it suitable for a fixed installation on the boat as well.

For those who want a permanent setup, Starlink Mini lends itself to various configurations. Here are some installation solutions:

1. Mounting on the stern pulpit
   • Adjustable bracket to optimally orient the antenna
   • Easy to remove when not in use
2. Installation on a radar pole
   • Excellent position for a clear view of the sky
   • Protection from splashes and waves
3. Removable solution on a foldable support
   • Ideal for those who want flexibility
   • Can be stored when not needed

And what about power supply?

Reading Starlink’s specifications, this antenna expects a power supply from 12 to 48V with a power supply that must deliver at least 60W. In reality, the 12V power supply seems to be insufficient.

In this case, it is necessary to install a DC-DC converter to bring the power supply to 20-24V.

Starlink on a sailboat connected via Ethernet cable

Another advantage of Starlink Mini is the ability to connect the Starlink Gen3 router, a third-party router, or other network devices via an Ethernet cable. This allows for a stable and secure connection without relying solely on Wi-Fi.

The connection can be made with a standard Ethernet cable, but this solution does not guarantee adequate waterproofing for use in a marine environment. For those who need a more secure and water-resistant connection, the dedicated Ethernet cable for the Starlink Mini kit is available in various lengths. This cable is equipped with waterproof RJ45 connectors, ensuring IP67 protection against water and moisture ingress.

The solution of bypassing the internal router of the antenna and connecting your own router allows for interesting network configurations, capable of also utilizing other connections such as marina Wi-Fi or mobile networks (via SIM). For personalized consultations, contact free-time-activities.com.

Thanks to this option, users can integrate Starlink Mini into their onboard system without compromising on connection quality and reliability.

Competition and the future of satellite connectivity

Although Starlink on a sailboat is currently the most innovative solution, other players are developing similar technologies that could, in the future, create competition and break SpaceX’s monopoly. Among these are:

• OneWeb, a company aiming to provide global satellite internet with a network of low Earth orbit satellites
• Amazon Kuiper, a project that aims to offer satellite connectivity competitive with Starlink

These developments could lead to cost reductions and further service optimization, making satellite connection at sea increasingly accessible and performant.

Conclusions: The future of connectivity with Starlink on a sailboat

With costs drastically lower than Iridium, unparalleled speed, and the ability to be powered by a simple powerbank, Starlink Mini is a true revolution for connectivity at sea.

However, for ocean crossings and emergency situations, it is always advisable to maintain a minimal subscription with Iridium GO! to ensure backup communication if needed.

If you already have experience with Starlink on a sailboat, share your configuration in the comments!

Need a consultation? Contact free-time-activities.com!

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Last update: Apr 6, 2025 @ 13:58