Royal Caribbean Group is springing for Starlink internet access for Juneau residents, businesses and cruise visitors.
Noting connectivity problems in the Southeast Alaska city, the cruise company is partnering with Juneau-based Alaska Native corporation Goldbelt Incorporated on a pilot program to bring free high-speed, low-latency internet to the area.
Royal said the internet would benefit locals, cruise guests and businesses.
Users will log in at participating businesses in downtown Juneau. Installation begins this week at the Goldbelt Tram Lower Terminal and will continue north on Franklin Street, with expectations that the "full range" of the pilot program will become active in the coming weeks.
Access points and networking are being provided by Peplink, which the company said would help maximize coverage and improve accessibility when moving from location to location.
Royal Caribbean Group and its partners will assess the effectiveness and impact of the pilot program by relying on feedback from local businesses and their customers. Royal will evaluate whether to refine and expand the service to other destinations.