Clipper Explorer Photo: Viasat

Inmarsat Maritime, a Viasat company, has won a new deal with a major Norwegian shipping company. It will equip Solvang’s fleet with Inmarsat’s NexusWave fully managed bonded connectivity service to support the gas shipping company’s evolving crew and business connectivity requirements. Solvang’s fleet, which includes six semi-refrigerated ethylene carriers, eight large gas carriers, and 13 very large gas carriers (including seven new builds), depends on reliable satellite connectivity. Inmarsat Maritime announced the deal, on March 20.

The fully managed NexusWave service combines LEO, GEO, LTE, and L-band network underlays in one bonded connection to achieve maximum download speeds of up to 340 megabits per second, maximum upload speeds of up to 80 Mbps, and network availability exceeding 99.9%.

This connectivity is seen as crucial for running cloud-based business applications and video conferencing, as well as ensuring that crew members can stay in touch with their family and friends. Inmarsat’s NexusWave will provide Solvang with high-speed, reliable service, along with unlimited data and global coverage, thereby supporting the Norway-based company’s evolving connectivity demands.

“In a rapidly evolving maritime industry, our operations are increasingly reliant on cloud-based solutions and video conferencing, while our seafarers expect a home-like Internet experience on board the ship. With NexusWave, our vessels will be seamlessly connected to high-speed Internet at all times – with no unexpected costs and a single point of contact for support and service,” Terje Skaar, Superintendent – Electro, Solvang, said in a statement.