Danish shipping giant AP Moller-Maersk has announced a partnership with Space X’s Starlink to use the satellite connection onboard Maersk's vast fleet.

Starlink will be placed aboard 330 of Maersk's independently operated container ships, offering high-speed internet with download speeds of more than 200 Mbps.

According to Maersk the partnership follows a fruitful pilot phase in which crew members on more than 30 Maersk ships had the chance to test the Starlink system, submitting largely positive feedback.

Leonardo Sonzio, head of fleet management at Maersk, said the connectivity would improve sailors' morale: “We are excited to announce our journey with Starlink to provide state-of-the-art connectivity to our sea-going colleagues. The highspeed connectivity will enable our seagoing colleagues to stay connected with their loved ones while at sea.

“It will also propel the expansion of seamless cloud solutions, enabling our vision to digitalise our vessel operations.”

Maersk stated that alongside the benefits of the high-speed satellite internet, the partnership will save costs by allowing access to mission-critical business apps via the cloud.

The partnership will enhance remote support and vessel inspections, according to the US space firm.

SpaceX’s VP of Starlink commercial sales Jonathan Hofeller said: “A.P. Moller-Maersk’s vessels are key to global trade and Starlink’s high-speed broadband through the world’s most advanced satellite internet constellation will help boost efficiency through seamless connectivity no matter where in the world they are.”

This deal expands Starlink’s presence across the shipping industry, which also features a fleet partnership with major shipping carrier Hapag Lloyd and a connection agreement with maritime solutions company NetTalk Maritime.

As further highlighted by Seaspan Corporation, connection services provided by Starlink, allow vessels to be treated as “remote offices” which support crew safety and wellness.