Starlink has rolled out a new Standby Mode that could change the way boaties manage their onboard internet. For just NZD 10 per month, Residential customers can now pause their regular plan and keep their system ticking over with unlimited low-speed data.
For liveaboard sailors, this may not have huge appeal — most will still need full-speed connectivity day in, day out. But for some it might, and for those who use their boat seasonally, or only head out on the weekends, the feature provides a smart middle ground.
Starlink residential vs roam: which plan suits Kiwi boaties? |
The Starlink Residential plan is intended for use at a fixed street address, but it can work well for liveaboards who spend most of their time tied up at a marina or mooring. You’ll get full-speed service in your registered area, plus the new Standby Mode, which allows you to pause your plan for NZD 10/month while still receiving unlimited low-speed data. That means you can step ashore, travel, or haul out the boat without paying the full monthly rate — and your system still gets updates and can handle calls or messages.
Best for seasonal and hop-on/hop-off boatiesFor those who only use their boat in summer, or for weekend trips, Residential is also a good fit. You can keep the dish onboard and switch between full-speed service and Standby Mode as needed. This approach makes Starlink more cost-effective, while still ensuring it’s ready to go instantly when you are. - Advertisement, article continues below -
Best for cruising and passagemakingIf you’re cruising far from home or regularly shifting locations, the Roam plan (formerly called RV) is the safer bet. It allows you to use Starlink anywhere within New Zealand and overseas service areas, without being tied to one address. For long offshore passages or commercial operations, the Maritime plan is designed to deliver stable coverage at sea. It’s more expensive, but it’s built for wide-area use and compliance. |
What Standby Mode delivers
When you switch to Standby, you’ll still have:
- Unlimited low-speed data, enough for Wi-Fi calls, texts, emails, and messaging apps.
- Instant reactivation to full-speed internet as soon as you’re ready to head back out cruising.
- Ongoing software updates, so your system remains up-to-date even while paused.
This means you can leave Starlink onboard without paying full subscription fees year-round, while still knowing your gear is active and capable of handling emergency communications at anchor or in remote cruising grounds.
