Stay Connected with Peace of Mind at Sea. Launching Wi-Fi Service Using Starlink Onboard Ferries

Key facts

  • Stay Connected with Peace of Mind at Sea. Launching Wi-Fi Service Using Starlink Onboard Ferries
  • Taiheiyo Ferry, operating between Nagoya, Sendai, and Tomakomai, will launch a Starlink-based Wi-Fi service. Costing 1,500 yen for 24 hours of unlimited use (free for 'au' users), it will be available on the 'Kitakami' from April 6, 2026.
  • Source: PR Times
  • Date: April 7, 2026

Direct answer

Taiheiyo Ferry, operating between Nagoya, Sendai, and Tomakomai, will launch a Starlink-based Wi-Fi service. Costing 1,500 yen for 24 hours of unlimited use (free for 'au' users), it will be available on the 'Kitakami' from April 6, 2026.

Citation
Stay Connected with Peace of Mind at Sea. Launching Wi-Fi Service Using Starlink Onboard Ferries (April 7, 2026), PR Times
Source
PR Times
Date
April 7, 2026
Taiheiyo Ferry, operating between Nagoya, Sendai, and Tomakomai, will launch a Starlink-based Wi-Fi service. Costing 1,500 yen for 24 hours of unlimited use (free for 'au' users), it will be available on the 'Kitakami' from April 6, 2026.
新製品NQ 78/100出典:PR Times

📋 Article Processing Timeline

  • 📰 Published: April 7, 2026 at 02:47
  • 🔍 Collected: April 6, 2026 at 18:00
  • 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 21, 2026 at 00:41 (342h 40m after Collected)
Taiheiyo Ferry Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Nakamura-ku, Nagoya, Meitetsu Group), which operates ferries between Nagoya, Sendai, and Tomakomai, will introduce 'Ferry Wi-Fi' provided by KDDI Corporation and Wire and Wireless Co., Ltd. This service utilizes the high-speed, low-latency satellite communication Starlink, achieving high-speed internet communication of up to 220Mbps* even at sea where mobile phone signals have traditionally been difficult to reach. The greatest feature is that while this service is offered for a fee, it offers 'unlimited use' within 24 hours from the start of the connection. Additionally, 'au' users can use it for free. Without worrying about time, you can enjoy a comfortable internet environment just like on land, such as watching videos and browsing social media. The service will begin on the ferry 'Kitakami' starting with the departure on April 6, and is scheduled to be sequentially introduced to 'Ishikari' and 'Kiso'. *This is a best-effort service. The stated speed is the maximum value based on technical standards and does not indicate actual usage speed. ## Launch Date From the departure of 'Kitakami' on April 6, 2026. Scheduled to start sequentially on 'Ishikari' and 'Kiso' from June 2026 onwards. ## Available Area (Kitakami) Onboard public spaces (entrance, restaurant, promenade, etc.) *Not available in guest cabins. *6th deck AP is scheduled to be operational during April 2026. ## Pricing 1,500 yen (24 hours) Customers using 'au' (including those subscribed to the au Starlink Direct exclusive plan / au Starlink Direct exclusive plan +) can use it for free. *This service requires a direct contract between the customer and KDDI Corporation / Wire and Wireless Co., Ltd. Please note that procedures are not accepted at the Taiheiyo Ferry counter or onboard information desk. ## Supported Environment Smartphones and tablets running Android / iOS / iPad OS *Connection from a PC is not possible.

FAQ

Which companies are providing the new Wi-Fi service on Taiheiyo Ferry vessels using Starlink technology?

The Ferry Wi-Fi service on Taiheiyo Ferry vessels is provided by KDDI Corporation and Wire and Wireless Co., Ltd., utilizing Starlink satellite communication technology.

What is the maximum internet speed offered by the new Starlink-based Wi-Fi service on Taiheiyo Ferry ships?

The Starlink-based Wi-Fi service on Taiheiyo Ferry ships offers a maximum speed of up to 220Mbps, based on technical standards, though actual speeds may vary.

When will the new Wi-Fi service launch on the 'Kitakami' ferry and which other ships will follow?

The Wi-Fi service will launch on the 'Kitakami' ferry starting April 6, 2026, and is scheduled to be introduced on the 'Ishikari' and 'Kiso' ferries from June 2026 onwards.

Where on the 'Kitakami' ferry will passengers be able to access the new Wi-Fi service?

On the 'Kitakami' ferry, Wi-Fi will be available in onboard public spaces such as the entrance, restaurant, and promenade, with the 6th deck access point operational by April 2026.

How much does the 24-hour Ferry Wi-Fi service cost and who can use it for free?

The 24-hour Ferry Wi-Fi service costs 1,500 yen, but 'au' users, including those on the au Starlink Direct exclusive plans, can use it for free with a direct contract.