An MSC guest using satellite connectivity. Photo: MSC Cruises

[Via Satellite 06-13-2016] MSC Cruises has worked together with Marlink to launch a next-generation connectivity solution for its fleet with multi-band VSAT services. Working with Marlink, MSC Cruises will provide dynamic bandwidth to its 12 existing ships as well as the next-generation ships currently under construction, including MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seaside.

Marlink is installing a multi-band satellite communications solution that combines capacity on new Ku-band High Throughput Satellite (HTS) and traditional Ku-band widebeam satellites. The upgrade builds on MSC Cruises existing VSAT network with new high throughput modems and a network configuration designed to handle larger amounts of capacity from different satellite operators.

The new satellite solution will be able to accommodate seasonal fluctuations in order to optimize MSC Cruises’ global dedicated “cloud of bandwidth.” This latest service upgrade also includes Marlink’s satellite back-up services for MSC Cruises offices on shore, and integration of terrestrial services for improved redundancy.