4G/5G internet for boats and yachts
A cellular router supplies internet where the vessel can receive a compatible operator network. External antennas connect to a router in a dry equipment space; Ethernet and access points distribute the connection onboard. Cellular service is not a substitute for offshore satellite coverage.
External antennas and an interior router
Keep the router dry and ventilated, with access to the SIM and connectors. Plan antenna positions and cable runs before mounting: salt exposure, cable entry and available power all affect the installation.
- Near-shore operating area, operators and SIM arrangement
- Antenna height, separation, connectors and cable length
- Dry router position, ventilation and service access
- Cabin Ethernet, indoor Wi-Fi and exposed deck coverage
- DC supply, grounding and weather-sealed cable entry
Onboard network path
External antennas feed the cellular modem. The router provides Ethernet to the vessel LAN, while separate access points can cover additional cabins or deck areas.
Match antenna connections, cable routes and power distribution to the selected router and vessel plan. For link priorities and recovery settings, check the router software functions for the chosen model and firmware.
Router, access points and cable runs
Cabin materials and deck boundaries determine access-point placement; antenna cable length constrains the router position.
4G/5G router
Installed in a dry, ventilated position and connected to the cellular antennas, SIM and vessel LAN.
5G routersAccess points
Indoor APs cover cabins and internal spaces. Exposed deck or marina positions require an outdoor-rated AP.
Wi-Fi APsMulti-WAN and backup
List the available WAN sources and their priority order. Failover changes the active connection; load balancing spreads traffic between links. Neither alone guarantees bonded bandwidth or uninterrupted sessions. Check the required behaviour for the selected model and firmware.
Installation checklistBefore fitting the onboard network
- Vessel type and near-shore operating region
- Operator, SIM arrangement and cellular antenna count
- Antenna, router and access-point mounting positions
- DC and PoE sources, grounding and cable lengths
- Preferred WAN, backup order and any bandwidth-bonding requirement
Discuss your onboard network
Send the vessel type, operating region, antenna positions and available power. Include the cabin or deck areas that need Wi-Fi.
Confirm regional bands, antenna connections and software functions for the selected model and firmware.
Discuss a marine installation Software functions