Maritime Satellite Communication 

Yes.

Satellite phones are designed to communicate directly with a satellite network rather than depending on cellular towers.

This makes them particularly useful for vessels travelling beyond reliable mobile coverage.

Coverage varies between satellite networks, so it is important to choose a service appropriate for the areas in which you operate.

A handheld satellite phone generally needs a suitable view of the sky to communicate effectively with the satellite network.

Using it deep inside a vessel can therefore be difficult.

A maritime docking station can solve this by connecting the phone to an externally mounted antenna while allowing the handset or associated telephone equipment to be used from inside the vessel.

A docking station holds a compatible satellite phone and connects it to additional equipment such as an external antenna, power supply and, depending on the model, standard telephone or data connections.

This can turn a handheld satellite phone into a more permanent onboard communication system.

A mast-mounted antenna gives the satellite system a clearer view of the sky while allowing the satellite phone or terminal itself to remain safely inside the vessel.

The antenna is then connected to the onboard equipment using appropriate satellite antenna cabling.

It depends on how often you need satellite communication and what you need it for.

A handheld satellite phone is well suited to occasional voice communication and emergency backup.

A docking station can make a handheld phone much easier to use regularly onboard.

A dedicated maritime terminal may be more appropriate where a vessel needs more extensive voice, data or multi-user connectivity.

Yes, some maritime satellite terminals provide data connectivity as well as voice services.

The speeds, data allowances and capabilities vary significantly between systems and satellite networks.

If internet access is an important requirement, choose a system designed specifically for satellite data rather than assuming a standard satellite phone will provide the connectivity you need.

The right network depends on your operating area, communication requirements and equipment, but Inmarsat is a popular option.

Coverage, available services, data capability and airtime pricing vary between satellite networks.

For vessels operating across large geographic areas, network coverage should be one of the main factors considered when choosing a system.

Some straightforward installations may be possible for experienced users, particularly where the system consists of a dock, antenna and pre-specified cable.

More complex installations may benefit from professional installation, particularly where antenna positioning, long cable runs, onboard power or integration with existing communications systems are involved.