Specialist support vessel operator will pool bandwidth for optimised access to high throughput, low latency connectivity, increasing flexibility across the fleet

Marlink, a leader in managed services for business-critical IT solutions is supporting Simon Møkster Shipping with flexible allocation of Starlink LEO bandwidth across its fleet.

The pooled bandwidth model enables Simon Møkster to deploy LEO internet bandwidth where it is most needed, supporting simplified connectivity for business applications and crew welfare services.

Simon Møkster Shipping completed a fleet-wide upgrade of its hybrid network solution to Sealink NextGen in May 2024, accelerating the company’s digitalisation programme.

Adopting the pooled model for LEO internet services provides benefits including:

• Pooling of bandwidth between vessels in the same fleet enables capacity to be allocated to assets depending on deployment;
• Baseline flexibility to use best effort LEO internet for crew welfare services and guaranteed bandwidth VSAT for business applications;

Simon Møkster Shipping is a leading provider of modern, high-specification support vessels to the offshore energy sector, operating 15 vessels designed for operations in harsh weather conditions. From its head office in Stavanger, Norway it mainly operates in the North and the Barents Seas with approximately 500 employees in onshore and offshore roles.

The company was among the first operators to deploy a Marlink hybrid network solution and has progressively upgraded its fleet to ensure high quality and reliability, treating its vessels as floating offices. Reflecting the increased cyber risk that can occur with the use of LEO internet solutions, the Sealink NextGen solution comes with EDR and UTM cyber solutions as default standards.

“Simon Møkster Shipping accelerates our digital journey with a new level of flexibility and efficiency offered by the Starlink pooled bandwidth model,” said “Terje Gjerde, Simon Møkster Shipping. “With Marlink as our trusted partner, we’re not just staying connected, we’re gaining the digital edge we need to stay ahead in a highly competitive market.”

“At Marlink, we’re committed to enabling vessel operators like Simon Møkster Shipping to turn complex connectivity challenges into opportunities—wherever they operate,” said Tore Morten Olsen, President, Maritime, Marlink. “By pooling bandwidth across the fleet, they gain the flexibility to adapt in real time to operational and locational needs, unlocking new levels of efficiency, agility, and performance.”