Walk the docks at almost any busy marina and you’ll see satellite domes atop boats of varying sizes and types. Some pull in live TV programming far from shore while others provide links to the internet, data and worldwide phone service allowing you to “tune in” just like at home to streaming video and music, Wi-Fi calling, web browsing, email and social media.
The antennas access programming and communications by locking on to specific satellites despite sea conditions. They do this through three-axis engineering that permits the antenna components inside the dome to move in concert with the sea state. Satellite communications equipment has evolved to the point that boats as small as 25 feet or so can be equipped with the latest technology. Below are some of the best systems on the market.
When we put together our list of the best satellite communications electronics, Starlink was in its early stages and had only recently included a marine category for its stationary flat-panel equipment. Starlink was the only retail outlet for sales to boaters and had/has a reputation for being difficult for customers to contact for answers to questions or technical support. Since then, Starlink has begun working with partner companies for some sales and service.
The satcom lineup is part of an exercise we do every year at Marine Electronics Journal in which we survey electronics manufacturers about products they make for boaters in 21 categories from VHF radiotelephones and fishfinders to autopilots and electronic charts. We ask them to name the one model in a particular category of boating electronics they consider to be their best.
It’s not necessarily the most technically advanced or newest or the one with the most whistles and buzzers, but rather the model they rate highest in that category for one reason or another. Could be the functions and features it offers, or maybe it breaks new ground in maximizing effectiveness or utility, or maybe it’s the most popular as measured by sales to boaters. In some cases, it has proved itself over the years as the go-to device. We call the results the Best & Brightest Boating Electronics.
Satellite TV
The KVH TracVision UHD7 delivers superior TV entertainment at sea. The high-performance 60cm (24 inch) TracVision UHD7 antenna delivers the ultimate in satellite TV enjoyment with the ultra-high definition of 4K for DIRECTV plus built-in support for DISH Network and Bell TV. You’ll enjoy advanced stability tracking for exceptional reception in rough seas or on top of a tuna tower. The NMEA-award-winning TracVision UHD7 enables you to watch virtually any high-powered regional TV service around the globe and is compatible with DISH programming throughout US, Central America, or Caribbean waters, and Bell in Canada. Enjoy a flawless at-home viewing experience that includes local channels and DVR support with the KVH TracVision UHD7.
The Intellian s6HD is an all-in-one satellite TV antenna system offering the same quality of high-definition channels users expect while at home. Best suited for vessels larger than 45 feet, this antenna is the lightest and smallest DIRECTV HD satellite system available, weighing less than 48 pounds. This antenna provides uninterrupted HD TV viewing by connecting to three DIRECTV HD satellites simultaneously. It relies on a two-axis high-speed tracking system with fully automated satellite search and identification to ensure the fastest signal acquisition. The device has a single wire multi-switch built in, allowing for signal distribution to 16 receivers. This means that the largest vessels can accommodate over a dozen 4K TVs with this device.
Small-Boat Satcom (Internet, Phone & Data)
On smaller vessels looking to maintain onshore communications and utilize safety features, Fleet One is an ideal choice of terminal. This device is capable of voice and data connectivity up to 150Kbps onboard and is designed to connect over the Inmarsat network. Its features include analogue voice lines, a built-in firewall, two LAN ports with PoE and soft PBAX. This can be maintained in even the toughest conditions, anywhere in the world.
This device facilitates all required onboard safety features. In an emergency situation, the Inmarsat 505 Emergency Calling directs a call straight through to a Maritime Rescue Coordination Center.
Are you ready to enjoy streaming video and music, Wi-Fi calling, web browsing, email and social media, and more on your boat? The KVH TracPhone LTE-1 is an ultra-compact, marine-grade system that is faster than 4G LTE and includes a high-gain, dual-antenna array, modem, GPS, and Wi-Fi router in the dome. Designed for use in US waters, this compact, marine-grade system (34.2 x 33.7cm, 2.8kg) offers multi-device connectivity to support everyone onboard. You’ll enjoy a simple plug-n-play installation and flexible airtime plan, and the LTE Manager app allows you to manage onboard Wi‑Fi and data usage and receive usage alerts via text or email. Search for adventure, not a signal, with the NMEA-award-winning TracPhone LTE-1.
VSAT
Live, work, and relax onboard—just like home, with the NMEA-award-winning KVH TracPhone V30. Stream HD content, chat via WhatsApp, connect with the office, get weather information, browse the internet, check emails, whether you are at the dock, along the coast, or offshore. This ultra-compact, fast, affordable, 37cm SATCOM system offers data speeds as fast as 6/2 (down/up) and global airtime service with choice of metered plans or no-overage unlimited plans. Installation is easy using a single coax cable, a rotary joint for unlimited rotation, and DC power. Precision two-axis stabilized pedestal design plus stabilized skew keep you connected even in rough seas or high speeds. KVH says to bring the best onboard your 30+ foot boat with the KVH TracPhone V30.
For customers looking for high-speed internet connectivity, the Intellian v60E is a compact Ku-band stabilized VSAT maritime antenna system which can be used for data streaming and video calls. The Intellian v60E is ideal for vessels over 60 feet. The antenna is easy to install, without the need for a crane in most cases. This system offers outstanding internet connectivity across the US and worldwide, as well as being compatible with all major satellite operators. This gives customers the flexibility to choose the service that works best for them. To ensure the sleekest aesthetics on any vessel, this antenna also comes with a matching sat TV radome.