TUI Cruises invests in hybrid network connectivity on new flagship

Hardware for communicating with multiple satellite constellations have been installed on TUI Cruises’ new cruise ship, Mein Schiff Flow, to enable high-speed connectivity for passengers and crew.

TUI Cruises is preparing to officially name its flagship, an InTUItion-class vessel, at a ceremony in Trieste, Italy, on 20 June 2026 and intends to livestream the event via SpaceX’s Starlink low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation.

Flat-panel antennas have been fitted to Mein Schiff Flow so passengers and crew can connect to Starlink.

Very small aperture terminals (VSAT) have also been installed for communicating with Ku-band geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites and L-band back-up satellites in an integrated communications system.   

Marlink was responsible for providing a resilient, fully managed hybrid network including VSAT, LEO, and mobile satellite connectivity and digital services platform on Mein Schiff Flow.

Its network is designed to support premium digital operations and connectivity services for more than 3,900 guests plus 1,500 crew on board.

Marlink deployed its XChange NextGen and Possibility portfolio to deliver the hybrid network architecture and ensure it continues to operate in remote environments as consistent connectivity remains essential for operational, crew and passenger requirements.

“Intelligent orchestration across multiple satellite services enables dynamic traffic management based on network availability, application priority and operational requirements,” said Marlink.

Marlink has worked with TUI Cruises since 2018, including deploying its Sealink NextGen VSAT on newbuild InTUItion-class vessel Mein Schiff Relax in 2024.

“Today’s cruise guests expect the same digital experience at sea as they enjoy onshore,” said Marlink president for maritime, Tore Morten Olsen.

“By combining multi-orbit connectivity, intelligent traffic management and resilient onboard infrastructure, we are helping TUI Cruises deliver a consistently connected experience while supporting critical ship operations wherever Mein Schiff Flow sails.”