American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Group (ARC), the leading provider of U.S.-flag roll-on roll-off shipping, has equipped its entire American-flagged fleet with Starlink satellite internet technology to help mariners stay connected with their loved ones while at sea.
Operated by SpaceX, Starlink utilizes low-Earth orbit satellites to provide high-speed internet access in remote areas, including maritime environments.
“Our mariners are the most important asset we have. They put in long weeks at sea and make tremendous personal sacrifices in order to help our military partners move critical vehicles and materials to strategically important regions of the world. This new technology allows ARC’s crews to maintain contact with family and friends ashore while delivering for the U.S. government,” stated Eric Ebeling, ARC president & CEO.
This new capability addresses one of the major challenges of life at sea, significantly enhancing the quality of life for ARC’s mariners by enabling communication with family, access to streaming services for movies, shows, and music, and the ability to download e-books.
“Wi-Fi has become a necessity for many mariners, rather than a luxury. Improving seafarer quality of life is a priority and we are glad to see that ARC is making improvements like adding Starlink to the ships they are working on,” commented Jordan Biscardo, communications director of Seafarers International Union (SIU).
Beginning in early 2023, ARC has been systematically installing Starlink on its vessels, completing the process with the newest vessel, M/V ARC Honor, in February of this year. Besides supporting the well-being of seafarers, the addition of Starlink to the entire ARC fleet will also enhance onboard security and communications.
