Castor Marine to provide 40 new VSAT systems to Wagenborg Shipping

Netherlands-based Castor Marine has won a multi-year deal from Wagenborg Shipping for the supply of more than 40 new VSAT systems.

The systems are to be installed onboard Wagenborg vessel fleet, and will offer satellite internet services based on Castor’s global VSAT network.

The deal also includes Inmarsat Fleetbroadband as back-up for the VSAT service, as well as IT support for the vessel's LAN infrastructure.

Additionally, Castor Marine will provide a complete solution for the Wagenborg fleet operating worldwide, including installation and onboard support services.

Wagenborg Shipping fleet director Theo Klimp said: “Increasing business and crew demand for fast and reliable internet requires an integrated IT and communication solution from a proven satellite service provider.

“Castor Marine is not only a satellite network operator with its own teleport facilities, but also understands and supports our IT infrastructure onboard. They are able to provide a full end-to-end solution including hardware lease, VSAT bandwidth, Inmarsat Fleetbroadband airtime and installation and support.

“We found in Castor Marine a partner that has, and can further develop, services to support our IT requirements over time. Castor Marine has installed VSAT systems on nine vessels already, and our crew members are very satisfied.”

Wagenborg currently provides shipping services for the global exporting industries and possesses a fleet of 173 vessels.

Castor Marine CEO Ivo Veldkamp said: “This deal also underlines our unique selling points for the maritime market: Castor Marine not only offers highly reliable maritime Ku-band services as a network operator, but also designs and support the IT infrastructure to meet the needs of business and crew welfare applications of the most demanding customers, such as Wagenborg Shipping.”

Castor Marine is a provider of IT services and maritime communications solutions.