Importance of Internet
Having internet access on a boat charter is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
As technology continues to develop, access to the internet (email, web…) has become an essential need for many people, whether for work or leisure. And this need does not stop when it comes to yacht charter. In fact, internet access on a yacht charter has become increasingly important as it allows individuals to stay in touch with work, friends and family while enjoying their holiday.
Cellular data: GSM, 3G, 4G...
The quality of the connection can vary a lot depending on the local mobile provider, and the device you are using. If you plan to sail longer distances, far away from land, you will not have any mobile connection. Whether you use your operator’s internet or your own, it works like mobile telephony. There may be places where coverage is very weak or non-existent.
Find answers to FAQs about using your mobile phone to call, text and use data when travelling abroad in any EU country here.
Satellite system
There are two primary ways to access the internet on a yacht: satellite internet and cellular internet.
Satellite internet is the more popular choice for yacht owners as it provides better coverage and faster speeds, even when far out at sea. On the other hand, mobile Internet is cheaper, but its coverage is limited to areas close to land and its bandwidth is limited.
The two main types of internet access available are:
Cellular Data (mid-size yacht and sailing yacht): Mobile Internet works by connecting to mobile phone towers on land. A yacht with a cellular internet connection must be within range of a mobile phone tower to access the internet (ie 10Nm maximum). The signal is then converted into usable data that can be accessed on the yacht’s computer, phone or other devices: ask your captain for your login details.
This type of internet connection is great for checking your email, but not for watching videos on YouTube or Netflix.
Satellite Internet (newer yachts and superyachts): this option is ideal for people who need a faster and more reliable Internet connection. Satellite Internet provides a stronger connection, allowing users to stream movies, video chat and work without interruption.
Satellite internet relies on a network of satellites orbiting the earth. A yacht with a satellite internet connection has a satellite dish that sends and receives signals to and from the satellite. The signal is then converted into usable data that can be accessed on the yacht’s computer, telephone or other devices. Satellite internet providers usually offer different data plans that vary in price, speed and data usage limits.
Post updated on May 1, 2024
About the author: Remi van der Deure – French Riviera Charter broker.
Hello,
I am the senior Yacht Charter Broker at Charterminute, a well-known yacht charter boutique in Antibes.
I have served in the yacht charter industry for over 15 years and have gained a strong reputation among my clients, as evidenced by consistent 5-star ratings on Google Reviews and TripAdvisor.
My specialty is organizing corporate yacht charters for startups and large companies during popular events like the Cannes Lions Festival, MIPIM, TFWA, and MIPCOM.
I am also proud to be a member of esteemed yacht broker associations, e-MYBA and ECPY, demonstrating my unwavering commitment to providing exceptional yacht charter services and memorable experiences in the French Riviera.
You can contact me directly at +33 (0)662.465.991 or remi@charterminute.com.
