Clarus Networks to deliver managed Starlink to the UK’s largest ferry operator.
Clarus Networks, a Starlink Authorised Reseller in the UK, has been awarded a 12-month contract to supply satellite connectivity, technical support and centralised fleet network management for CalMac Ferries, the UK’s largest ferry operator.
Awarded through Public Contracts Scotland, the agreement will see Clarus deploy a pooled Starlink data service across CalMac’s operational fleet, delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity. The service is intended to support improved operational efficiency while enhancing crew welfare and the onboard passenger experience.
Operating 29 routes to more than 50 destinations across 200 miles of Scotland’s west coast, CalMac’s fleet completes around 136,000 sailings each year – providing a vital lifeline service to remote communities and supporting Scotland’s thriving tourism sector. In such a geographically dispersed and operationally demanding environment, resilient connectivity is essential.
Under the agreement, Clarus will deliver:
- Starlink satellite connectivity for each vessel, using a pooled data model to maximise efficiency and minimise cost across the fleet.
- Configuration and technical support for all Starlink hardware and associated systems.
- Access to Aavora, Clarus’ proprietary Starlink fleet and terminal management platform, designed to give CalMac complete visibility and control of all vessel connections in one place.
- Fleet-wide pooled data – allowing dynamic bandwidth allocation across all vessels, ensuring that high-demand routes receive additional capacity when needed, reducing costs and enhancing overall service quality to crew and customers.
- Proactive monitoring and 24/7 support to ensure service continuity and optimise performance in real time.
Aavora, developed in-house by Clarus Networks, enables fleet-wide bandwidth allocation, real-time diagnostics, and policy-based traffic shaping. The platform gives CalMac’s IT and operations teams the tools to monitor and manage Starlink terminals, receive alerts, troubleshoot remotely, and analyse data usage trends – supporting consistent performance and operational resilience across the fleet.
Chris Schonhut, Director of Maritime and Energy at Clarus Networks, commented, “We’re delighted to partner with CalMac to enhance connectivity across their fleet. Starlink’s LEO satellite network offers huge potential for improving maritime operations, and our Aavora platform ensures it can be managed simply and effectively at scale. This contract is a great example of how technology can support critical infrastructure and communities in remote parts of Scotland.”
David Gammie, IT Director at Calmac added, “Reliable connectivity is a foundational element of the Technology & Digital infrastructure to run a modern ferry service that supports both crew operations and customer needs. Clarus’ experience in maritime deployments and their fleet-wide connectivity management capabilities will help us deliver a better-connected service across the ferry network.”
CalMac Ferries operates the largest fleet of vessels in Scotland, providing lifeline services to over 50 ports and harbours throughout the Hebrides and the Clyde. Maintaining reliable communications in these geographically challenging areas is a critical part of their operational resilience strategy.
