Can I Access the Internet While Out at Sea?

Sailing out on the open seas, but don't want to lose internet access? Accessing the internet on a boat can be expensive, but it's worth it. Maintain communications while you're offshore, determine where you want to go at the next port, check the weather and catch up on your favorite television shows while in the marina or out at sea.Don't settle, make sure you consider all of your options.

Where Will You Use It?

The type of internet access you want will affect the type of product you need to purchase for your ship. Do you want to use it while you're at sea? While you're in the marina? As one of the largest GPS and Marine Electronics retailers on the web, can help you decide which tools you'll need and where.

You will first need a satellite internet provider who can provide access even while you're at sea by installing a satellite dish. This provides the most flexibility since you can access it whenever you need or want it. You can also get the same type of internet that's accessible on a smartphone or a laptop. This, however, is only available when you're in a port and you can pick up a wireless signal. If you just want to use the internet when you're in port or at a marina, you can do that by simply accessing wireless hotspots from your computer or cell phone.

How Much Are You Willing to Spend?

As with anything else, budget is essential when determining what to select for your yacht.

Installing a satellite dish will enable you to access internet from anywhere, whether you're out at sea or but it will cost you. Not just the dish, which can be anywhere from $300 to $500, but also the the actual price for using it, which can cost anywhere from $200 per month to $3 per minute. Even though you'll be able to access from wherever you want, it will be very expensive.

The cost of wireless internet that you use only in port is a more reasonable amount. It's in the $50-70 range, just as it is for a phone's data plan. However, this isn't accessible when you're at sea. You can only use it in port.

Accessing wireless hotspots is the least and expensive and the least reliable option. Although some marinas will have reliable internet access, it's not guaranteed and since they're free, it's likely that they'll have very high traffic and the connection could be spotty.

How Will You Decide?

As you consider your options, remember that what works for one person won't work for the other. The family man might want to be able to get in touch with his family easily, while the loner might be okay only checking in every few weeks. A super-planner might want to have access to the internet, while someone with more of a go-with-the-flow personality might not need to have information at the tip of his fingers every second, or even at every port.

Some things to consider before deciding include:

- Whether you want to have constant internet access
- If the price is worth being able to get online any time
- If there are people you want to remain in contact with
- What you want to use the internet for and whether or not you can sacrifice those options
- How long you'll be at sea

For all of your internet needs for your boat, visit You can choose the option that best suits your needs and purchase the tools to make it possible to access the internet per your requirements. Set up your boat so that no matter where you're going, you can find an internet plan that meets your needs.