INSTALL A WIRELESS BOOSTER

The Shakespeare Stream offers an economical means of improving on board cellular internet connectivity.

Longtime Boating contributor and marine electronics expert Ken Englert told me that the most common question customers in his store ask is: “How can I get internet reception on my boat?” Expensive satellite dome receivers such as those from KVH and Intellian, along with hefty service fees, are the most common means of connecting to internet aboard boats over 40 feet in length overall.

But large domes are not practical on many smaller boats, and that’s why Shakespeare introduced the Stream wireless booster. This compact, affordable system amplifies weak cellular signals along inshore, coastal and popular cruising waters, enabling boaters to use their existing data plans to host a reliable hotspot on their phone or other cellular device while underway, at anchor or at the dock. Ideal for unlimited data plans, the Stream is compatible with AT&T,

T-Mobile and Verizon 4G, 3G and 2G, and no additional service fee is required.

To be clear, the Stream does not offer the global internet connectivity of sat service. It must pick up cell service, albeit weak, to boost connectivity.

Once that occurs, you can check the weather forecast, read emails, or research marinas, fuel docks and accommodations at your next port of call, all while aboard your boat.