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HAL sees satisfaction levels rise with Starlink internet connectivity

Holland America Line has completed the installation of Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starlink high-speed internet on all 11 ships in its fleet.

Nieuw Amsterdam (pictured) was the final vessel to be fitted with the technology during dry dock in mid-December.

The line claimed a “notable surge” in passenger satisfaction with the on board internet service this year with the use of the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology.

The Starlink internet connection was first installed on Koningsdam in April. 

Connectivity has significantly improved across the fleet with each Starlink installation, “which is particularly noticeable in historically spotty service areas where weather, topography or port interference can impact bandwidth and quality,” HAL said.

The ships have seen improvement in connectivity in challenging areas including ocean crossings and sailings in Alaska, the Amazon, Antarctica and Chile.

Increased satisfaction scores among passengers and crew have been achieved along with stronger bandwidth in key regions.

HAL technology vice president Kathleen Erickson said: “We’ve heard from guests the new Starlink high-speed internet is better than they expected while cruising. 

“For guests who are working remotely from our ships, it has been a game-changer. And for team members who rely on internet to stay connected with family back home, this is an important improvement.”

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