Solstad Offshore as renewed its connectivity contract with Marlink, committing 65 offshore vessels to Sealink, Marlink’s high-throughput Ku-band VSAT service —Solstad’s vessels will be provided with Sealink Services and L-band backup to ensure seamless global connectivity.

To meet the diverse demands of its OSV fleet, Solstad sought a highly flexible, customized and future-proof service. Building on more than 10 years’ partnership, Marlink cooperates closely with Solstad Offshore to meet their operational and ICT (Information Communications Technology) requirements. A tailor-made setup consisting of five diverse packages will allow Solstad to choose the hardware fitted to each vessel, ranging from basic 4G connectivity to a fully managed, high-throughput single or dual antenna VSAT system.

Photo: Christian Nesheim (l) and Tore Morten Olsen (r).

Marlink’s services for Solstad Offshore are made flexible through use of an innovative Self-Service portal, on board and on shore. Without needing to pick up the phone, users will be able to up- or down-grade their bandwidth allocation, activate or deactivate services such as content filters, and change their coverage area. This adaptability will allow Solstad Offshore more control, for example by increasing the bandwidth for a vessel in alignment with current on-board requirements. 

To avoid unauthorized use of the portal, user accounts will be allocated with various access rights. Support tickets, changes and invoices will also be handled via a customer portal, specifically designed to meet Solstad Offshore’ needs, and providing transparency for both users and managers.

Christian Nesheim, ICT Director, Solstad Offshore, said that reliable links with shore are vital in today’s industry to ensure operational efficiency and vessel safety, as well as improving quality of life for vessel crews by keeping them in touch with families ashore. Many of the firm's clients work in the highly demanding oil and energy sector, and by providing them with outstanding connectivity, Solstad will continue to deliver value at every level.

Tore Morten Olsen, President Maritime, Marlink, added that the company has worked together with Solstad Offshore to produce a service offering which the firm believes to be unmatched in the industry. By enabling customers to configure their connectivity to their exact requirements, Marlink increases the value and service experience for their customer.