The shipowning and management company is rolling out Satcom Global Aura’s VSAT service across its globally trading fleet of tankers, bulk carriers and containerships.
To date, 36 vessels are live on the Aura network and upwards of 80 will be installed on Zodiac-managed vessels by the end of the year.
Committed to providing seafarers with a superior quality of life on board its vessels, Zodiac was seeking a VSAT solution capable of providing an enhanced communications experience.
A Zodiac Maritime spokesperson, commented: “We have a responsibility to ensure the welfare of our clients’ valued workforce and we appreciate that access to communications is a key part of that. We want the crew we manage to be able to communicate with the wider world without restriction or delay.
“As a vessel charterer, it’s also essential that technology on board our vessels performs to the highest standard, meeting the expectations of our customers. Aura outperforms several VSAT solutions we have experienced over recent years, so we’re very happy with our choice,” the spokesperson said.
Following a successful trial, Satcom Global began the installation programme in 2017, using ports across Europe and Asia. Satcom Global’s team of experienced maritime engineers are installing Intellian v100 Ku-band antennas and Iridium Pilot L-band back-up terminals across Zodiac’s fleet. Wi-Fi access points provide crew with the ability to access communications in private, using their own devices.
Alex Stewart, Satcom Global COO, added: “We are delighted to continue our relationship with Zodiac and provide them with a future proof solution for their fleet communications. As a technologically minded organisation, Aura VSAT is the perfect solution to grow with their needs. This year, all Aura customers will benefit from a range of network enhancements, including increased footprint and bandwidth as HTS (High Throughput Satellites) come online.”
Offering crew communications is just one element of Zodiac’s commitment to the health and happiness of the crew on board the managed vessels, which are not only equipped with computers offering access to email, but also a selection of recreational items such as TV, video (DVD) library, table tennis tables, a library and a gymnasium, the company said.
Seafarers are also offered a clear personal career development programme and additional training courses, such as navigation and safety courses, personal workshops and training sessions in local manning offices and in London.