The commercial fishing industry in the Pacific Northwest has faced increasing challenges, especially in recent years. With the combined impact of environmental changes, rising operational costs, and increasingly stringent regulations, fishing fleets are under more pressure than ever to maximize diminished seasons. In today's competitive landscape, fleet owners and captains must minimize unexpected expenses, manage regulatory reporting requirements, monitor onboard systems, prioritize crew welfare, and be equipped with the latest communication technology to boost efficiency and enhance overall performance.

Reliable satellite communication is essential for commercial fishing fleets—not a luxury. Prioritizing operational efficiency, reducing expenses, ensuring safety by accessing real-time weather updates, monitoring sea conditions, and maintaining connectivity is crucial for success. As a bonus, by tracking data usage and providing onboard digital entertainment, a fleet can enhance these key areas and boost crew morale by connecting them with loved ones. Historically, the high operating costs and limited human resources have made maintaining these systems challenging.

Always Connected: Ensuring Constant Communication and Support

Fleets have been using VSAT on their boats since the 1990s and now face the emergence of brand-new technology rapidly changing the market. Each new product that is revealed brings new service options, but it also creates confusion about which ones best serve fleet owners' needs.

Recently, Starlink has made waves as an alternative or companion to traditional VSAT services. Starlink's service and integration with an onboard network have revolutionized fleet connectivity with unparalleled speed and affordability. However, fleets need more than just a service —they need a partner that offers both connectivity and consultative services to meet the demands of the maritime environment.

KVH Industries steps in as that partner, with 24/7/365 support and dedicated teams ensuring constant connectivity. Fleet owners and onboard staff can be assured that KVH understands the urgency of their situation and will provide immediate assistance to help them stay connected.

"When choosing a solutions provider, companies need to ask if the provider can help solve issues and concerns or give them better solutions," says Graham Powers, a customer account manager at KVH Industries. "It’s important to know that they are reliable and there are ways to get a person on the line."

Maximizing Efficiency and Reducing Costs

In an industry where every moment matters, fleets must manage their data usage expectations and minimize overhead costs. Delays or inefficiencies can quickly lead to escalating costs, which are difficult to absorb in today's economy. Therefore, finding a solutions partner with a comprehensive range of services and expertise specific to maritime needs is essential.

 "Our flexible plans, along with numerous combinations of service, support, and product options, can be customized to meet diverse needs," Powers explains. "Customers also love our net 30 billing and our ability to structure everything to fit corporate requirements."

Most fleets already have communication systems, but the market is changing, and the numerous options can be overwhelming. Navigating these options can be challenging without a dedicated IT team on board to work on connectivity solutions and lack of time.

“This is where KVH excels as a partner,” says Powers. “We are the experts in the marine industry, dedicated to guiding our customers through every step of upgrading equipment, evaluating and purchasing new products, or finding the perfect plan that best suits their needs.”

 KVH offers flexible, customized plans that reduce expenses and products that ensure clarity and control. While Starlink offers a fast, versatile data pipe, it can feel like owning a sports car with no brakes due to its lack of the native controls found with VSAT services. A fleet should select a solution to control data and manage all communication systems to avoid unexpected charges from unforeseen usage. The CommBox™ Edge Communications Gateway is one of KVH’s offerings that meets these demands by delivering seamless integration and control for every communication channel aboard vessels, including 5G/LTE, VSAT, Starlink, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and more. This powerful tool allows fleet operators to manage their systems more deeply, both on-site and remotely, further enhancing Starlink services and addressing potential issues before they escalate into costly problems.

“KVH takes the guesswork out of network monitoring, ensuring our customers are always aware of and in control of their data usage and system reliability” says Powers.

Why KVH Industries

"With over 40 years of experience, KVH has earned a reputation as a trusted leader" says Powers. "We are not just offering products but also offering affordability and dependability in our solutions. The market is changing. Coming on board with KVH gives you access to expert education and guidance through resources, tutorials, and training before and after purchase."

 As commercial fishing fleets in the Pacific Northwest adapt to a continuously evolving industry, having a partner like KVH Industries can make the difference between profit and loss.