Inmarsat's FleetBroadband 150
Inmarsat’s newest maritime service, FleetBroadband 150, has won an innovation award just nine months after its launch.
Sail Magazine, which reports on cruising and sailing news for seafarers of all abilities, picked FleetBroadband 150 (FB150) as the most innovative new electronics product in its annual awards.
The magazine’s annual awards celebrate technology that makes sailing easier, safer and more enjoyable.
Highlighting the service’s affordability and ease of use, judge and electronics editor Tim Bartlett said: “Until now, satcom has seemed just too big and too expensive for most recreational users.
The challenger in this year’s America’s Cup will rely on FleetBroadband to give it a technological edge in its bid to win the oldest active trophy in international sport.
The Golden Gate Yacht Club’s team, BMW Oracle, will use FleetBroadband to gather weather data when it takes on cup holder Société Nautique de Genèvei n Valencia, Spain, from 8 to 12 February.
The 33rd Americas Cup will see the teams line up their gigantic 27-metre (90ft) multi-hull racing yachts – USA (formerly BOR 90) and Alinghi 5 – for a best-of-three race regatta that will determine who takes the prestigious prize.