02/10/2026
Low-cost satellite technology is increasing superyacht connectivity, but how are you managing the cyber risk?
Intersys MD Matthew Geyman spoke to Insurance Business UK recently about what the rapid rollout of always-on connectivity means for vessels.
Previously, vessels used slow, expensive VSAT and Inmarsat satellite systems sparingly. The arrival of Starlink and rival low-earth-orbit satellite networks means systems – navigation, propulsion, guest WiFi, lighting, CCTV and even hot tub sensors – may be interconnected and always on.
Provided appropriate cyber security measures are undertaken, the risks can be managed.
Frequently, however, those measures simply are not taken, says Matthew, in an industry failing to keep up with tech adoption.
He says, ‘Even though many of these superyachts are phenomenally technologically complex, that discipline isn't embedded in them in the way that it is in other industries, especially other regulated industries.’
Common issues include:
❎ High crew turnover preventing cyber resilience from becoming embedded
❎ A culture of poor cyber hygiene (incidents such as senior crew receiving onboard passwords on a piece of paper are typical)
❎ Poor management of third-party contractors, in terms of system access
Matthew says insurers and underwriters need to push for stronger baseline standards.
He also wants cyber security built into the Human Element, Leadership and Management (HELM) training required under Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), which currently does not cover it.
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