Exploris One Ushers in New Era of Connectivity for Expedition Cruising

The launch of Exploris One marks a seminal moment for the expedition cruise sector, introducing unprecedented levels of connectivity and digital experience to guests onboard. In a recent upgrade, Marlink, a global leader in smart network solutions, has implemented a comprehensive hybrid connectivity framework onboard this new French expedition cruise vessel. This installation, carried out during the ship's refit in Valparaiso, Chile, seamlessly integrates multiple cutting-edge technologies, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites from Eutelsat OneWeb, Starlink, Iridium, Marlink GEO VSAT, TV-RO, and 5G GSM services. This robust amalgamation ensures that guests aboard the 144-passenger ship enjoy an uninterrupted digital experience—even in the remotest corners of the globe.

Exploris One, the flagship of the new French-speaking leisure market's expedition cruise line, embarked on its inaugural journey in December 2023. The ship is destined to traverse some of the world's most isolated and extreme environments, from the icy realms of Antarctica and the Canadian Arctic to the verdant landscapes of Svalbard, Iceland, and Greenland. The itinerary also includes expeditions to Western Europe, South America, and the Atlantic Islands. Given the challenging and often unpredictable conditions of these destinations, the onboard hybrid network solution plays a pivotal role in ensuring seamless connectivity, allowing passengers to share their experiences in real-time, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience.

The technical expertise of Marlink was instrumental in the execution of this project. The team meticulously managed the installation of antennas and below-deck equipment, integrating them with the vessel's existing network infrastructure. This extensive refit not only equipped the vessel for endeavors into polar and remote regions but also underscored the commitment to maintaining superior safety standards and connectivity, irrespective of the ship’s global positioning.

Philippe Videau, the President of Exploris, has expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership with Marlink, highlighting the alignment of Marlink’s technical prowess and Exploris’s ambition to deliver unparalleled service excellence. This cooperation ensures that Exploris One is not merely a vessel for adventure but a platform for sharing and connectivity, enabling guests to relay their incredible journey to friends and family back home in real time. Furthermore, Tore Morten Olsen, President of Maritime at Marlink, reaffirmed their commitment to providing a sophisticated network solution that supports exciting digital possibilities onboard, enriching guest experiences while ensuring operational efficiency and safety.

The deployment of Marlink’s hybrid network solution on Exploris One exemplifies the potential for technological innovation to enhance the cruising experience. As cruise lines delve into more remote expeditions, the importance of reliable connectivity becomes paramount not only for operational necessities but also for elevating the guest experience. Exploris One’s pioneering approach sets a new standard for expedition cruises, promising adventurers not just a journey through uncharted territories but a fully connected, immersive digital experience throughout their voyage.