How to Get High-Speed Internet for Your Sailboat

A reliable internet connection is critical in the modern world we live in. From ordering food to hailing a ride home, the internet always plays a massive role in our everyday lives. But, what will happen if you decide to prepare your sailboat, go off the grid, and just stay there for as long as you like? Unfortunately, whether you’re in the mountains or at sea, you will still need a reliable internet connection for other reasons, like communication, emergencies, information, and many more. 

When it comes to remote area internet, there’s one type of internet that dominates all other internet types—satellite internet. But is it the only way to get high-speed internet for your sailboat? In this article, you’ll discover several options that can provide you with stable internet even aboard your sailboat. 

Getting Internet When Docked at the Marina

Using a WiFi hotspot is the best way to connect to the internet when docked at a marina and the most affordable option. There are a few options for connecting to the internet while boating. The first step will be selecting a marina with internet service available. In the long run, having WiFi in your rental agreement can save you time and money.

Using your phone as a hotspot is the next best solution. You can utilize your smartphone’s 4G data connection as a WiFi router. It’s easy, it works, and it doesn’t cost a lot of money. However, you will almost certainly have to sign up for a plan with unlimited data. 

As a result, it’s a brilliant idea to compare prices. Using your phone as a hotspot is convenient because it operates across the country. It’ll even work if you’re on the other side of the world. Even if you don’t use this as your primary source of wifi, it’s a viable option because of the added ease it provides. The speed is the sole drawback, as is the fact that it won’t work without cell service.

Getting Internet While Sailing

There’s no doubt that getting a stable internet connection at sea is challenging. However, there are two options that you can use. Using your phone’s hotspot is the first option. In order for this to work, you must be within range of a cell tower at all times. While sailing from coast to coast across the United States, you may be able to keep your cell phone service if you stay close to the coast. For the most part, at least.

Most likely, your ultimate goal is to set sail and leave the land behind. You may not be sailing to the Caribbean, but you’ll probably be away from cell phone reception—making your internet connection spotty. Now, let’s go to option two, your last choice. 

Your second option is to connect to the internet via satellite. In some cases, a worldwide satellite internet service provider is produced by a business. You may either install it on your yacht or keep it in the box and use it when you need it on the deck. 

On the other hand, you also have the option to purchase your own satellite dish. The cost of satellite internet equipment ranges from $600-$1,000. Even though it isn’t cheap, once you have it, you can use it for a very long time. Subscription fees are still charged by some service providers, but many don’t.

It’s an excellent investment if you love to travel far with an internet connection. However, you need to manage your expectations when it comes to speed. It can be very slow that it’s almost impossible to finish any task on time. Fortunately, some satellite internet plans allow you to upgrade internet speeds to give you a more stable connection—allowing you to download or stream movies, facetime with your friends, and browse the internet. 

Final Thoughts

It’s not impossible to get fast internet for your sailboat—only if you’re willing to pay for it. With the situation at sea, it’s clear how expensive high-speed boat internet could be. Fortunately, you have other more affordable options that can supply you with a decent internet connection, such as connecting to the marina’s WiFi or opting for your cellular data.