In today’s digital world, staying connected is essential for everyone, including those working at sea. Modern seafarers face the challenge of remaining in touch with family, friends, and colleagues while managing day-to-day operations on board. Yet, with advancements in maritime connectivity, what once seemed impossible is now a reality. Let’s explore how these changes are improving life and work for seafarers and the maritime industry.
The Modern Demands of Seafarers
Seafarers today have evolving needs, and staying connected is at the top of their list. According to the Seafarers’ Happiness Index, satisfaction with contact with family while at sea has dropped from 7.56 to 7.11 in Quarter 2. This decline highlights the ongoing challenges with communication. Seafarers need better, faster, and more affordable internet services to improve their overall experience.
Training is another key concern, with satisfaction dropping from 7.41 to 7.09. This reveals an urgent need for companies to focus on delivering better training programs, drills, and familiarization activities to keep crew members safe, competent, and prepared for any challenges that may arise.
Given these insights, reliable internet access is no longer just a nice-to-have — it is essential to improving both the personal and professional lives of seafarers.
Fast Internet at Sea: A Game Changer
Thanks to cutting-edge technology, fast and reliable internet at sea is now within reach for all seafarers. At MarPoint, we leverage a range of technologies to ensure vessels stay connected, including low-earth orbit satellites like Starlink, 5G networks in ports, and traditional geostationary satellites. What’s more, the cost of this technology has dramatically decreased, making it more accessible than ever before.
Our services don’t stop at connectivity. MarPoint provides a complete telecommunications management system, ensuring cybersecurity, centralized IT management, and continuous support. This integrated approach helps vessels operate more efficiently and securely, while also enhancing the lives of those onboard.
Empowering Seafarers with Quality Internet Services
MarPoint’s internet services offer seafarers more than just fast communication.
With high-speed connectivity, they can:
- Engage in remote learning to advance their skills
- Enjoy entertainment and access the latest news, sports, and educational games
- Stay connected with friends and family, even while far from home
Additionally, with platforms like EvoNews, crew members can access offline news, sports updates, and educational content, keeping them informed and entertained even without a constant internet connection.
Prioritizing Cybersecurity and Training
We provide comprehensive training programs to ensure seafarers can fully utilize these advanced systems. Our team educates crew members on the latest technologies, focusing on cybersecurity and compliance with regulatory frameworks like IMO 2021 and IACS UR E26/UR E27.
We also collaborate with shipping companies to conduct cybersecurity awareness drills and exercises, helping crew members prepare for digital threats. Our 24/7/365 support ensures seafarers can easily access help with personal internet usage and system handling whenever they need it.
Looking to the Future: Green Technologies and Automation
As the maritime industry advances, seafarers will adopt new green technologies and smart automation to optimize vessel operations for greater efficiency and sustainability. While this progress brings exciting opportunities, it also introduces new challenges, such as cyber risks and technical complexities.
It’s predicted that by 2027, the global demand for maritime officers will exceed supply, with a projected shortage of over 8%. However, with the right tools, training, and continuous high-quality connectivity, the future of seafaring looks promising. Seafarers are ready to embrace these advancements and face new challenges head-on.
A Career of Growth and Tradition
Seafaring has always been a dynamic and rewarding career path, offering personal growth and professional development. Countries with rich maritime traditions continue to lead the global industry, and with improved working conditions and ongoing technological advancements, it’s an exciting time for the next generation to consider a career at sea.
Join the Future of Maritime with MarPoint
Want to learn more about how MarPoint can enhance your vessel’s connectivity and prepare your crew for the future? Contact us today to embark on this exciting journey into the next generation of maritime connectivity.
