In a groundbreaking move, Japanese telecommunications giant KDDI Corporation has introduced Starlink’s WiFi service on-board an overnight ferry, providing a significant boost to connectivity for passengers traveling between key locations in Japan.
KDDI Brings Starlink WiFi to Ferry Routes
KDDI has teamed up with Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, to offer high-speed satellite-based WiFi on the Tokyo Kyushu Ferry’s Hamaya vessel. The service, which went live on January 22, 2025, promises internet speeds of up to 220 Mbps, making it one of the fastest maritime internet services available. The service is initially being offered free of charge for customers.
Service Expansion Plans: Future of Satellite Internet at Sea
KDDI aims to extend this WiFi service to additional ferries, making it accessible to more passengers on routes that traditionally struggle with limited connectivity due to their distance from land-based signal towers. This partnership could revolutionize ferry travel by offering reliable, high-speed internet to remote locations.
Addressing Connectivity Challenges on the Water
Previously, Tokyo Kyushu Ferry had to rely on land-based signals to provide WiFi services to its passengers. However, this system had limitations, especially on longer journeys across Japan’s seas. By leveraging Starlink’s satellite technology, KDDI is now able to deliver uninterrupted, fast WiFi service even in areas where radio waves from land-based networks typically can’t reach.
KDDI and Starlink: A Longstanding Partnership
This ferry initiative marks another chapter in the ongoing partnership between KDDI and Starlink. In 2023, KDDI signed a strategic agreement with Starlink to bring satellite-to-cellular service to Japan, using Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellites and KDDI’s wireless spectrum. This move aims to improve cellular coverage in remote and underserved areas of Japan.
In addition to its ferry partnership, KDDI previously collaborated with Starlink to restore communication services in Japan following the 2024 earthquake, showcasing the flexibility and reliability of satellite internet in times of crisis.
ATR and Air New Zealand: The Next Frontier for Starlink in Aviation
In another significant development, ATR, a global aircraft manufacturer, announced that it would be introducing Starlink internet on select aircraft in its fleet. A successful test on its ATR 72-600 aircraft has paved the way for Air New Zealand to become the first airline to offer Starlink connectivity on one of its ATR-owned planes. This expansion into aviation further underscores the versatility and growing global reach of Starlink’s satellite service.
FAQ Section
1. How does KDDI’s Starlink service work on ferries? KDDI utilizes Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellite network to deliver high-speed internet to ferries, ensuring connectivity even in remote sea areas.
2. Is the Starlink WiFi service on ferries free for passengers? Yes, KDDI is offering the service free of charge for a limited time to passengers aboard the Hamaya ferry.
3. What are the expected speeds for the Starlink WiFi on ferries? The service can provide internet speeds of up to 220 Mbps, significantly improving the online experience for ferry passengers.
4. How is Starlink different from traditional maritime WiFi? Unlike traditional WiFi services that rely on land-based towers, Starlink uses satellite technology, offering faster and more reliable service in remote locations.
5. Will other ferries offer Starlink WiFi in the future? Yes, KDDI plans to extend the service to more ferries, ensuring better connectivity on additional routes across Japan.
