MTN Named Communications Provider, and Expands Footprint Onboard, for Premier Cruise Brands Delivering Unique Experiences

 

 

February 11, 2015

 

MTN Communications (MTN) announces the expansion of its cruise client base with three additional operators leveraging enhanced services for passenger, crew and corporate communications.  MTN provides products, solutions and content to address each line’s unique passenger segment with Internet and calling communications, entertainment and content. 

 

The following operators have contracted with MTN:

·       Noble Caledonia specializes in “small ships delivering big experiences.”  With the goal of generating lasting memories for like-minded travelers, the operator revolves its itineraries around world events, and focuses on reaching new and unusual destinations in the world’s far-flung corners.  With the goal of creating the ultimate onboard ambience, passenger camaraderie, and a warm and friendly atmosphere, Noble Caledonia strives for a personal and caring service touch.  This UK-based operator offers itineraries to every continent around the world.

·       Grand Circle Cruise Line, based in Boston, has been creating cultural connections for 50+ years, operating small ship and river cruising worldwide for American travelers.  Immersing passengers into other cultures, Grand Circle’s focus is making customers feel comfortable and well-cared-for every step of the way.  Grand Circle itineraries cover every continent in the world.

·       Celestyal Cruises, a new brand of Louis Cruises, renewed its contract with MTN, extending a relationship that has spanned more than 12 years.  The cruise operator is part of a leading tourism organization hosting travelers from around the world who want to experience the Eastern Mediterranean.  Based in Greece, it is the preeminent cruise line for the Greek Isles and Turkey, and operates six ships. 

“One size does not fit all in cruising, and each brand needs to deliver a customized and unique communications experience for passengers, as well as reliability and affordability for crew,” said Brent Horwitz, senior vice president and general manager, cruise and ferry services, MTN.  “No matter where they sail and no matter what they offer onboard, we concentrate on providing each the most robust and specialized communications solution.  These operators are addressing the explosion of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) passengers and crew onboard vessels.  Our approach enables them to deliver impressive Internet speeds; the ability to download and upload bandwidth-intensive images, videos and files; access live global TV; and stay in touch with family and friends.  These are initiatives to exceed the high expectations of quality service at sea as we welcome these organizations to the MTN family.” 

 

MTN has been enhancing its network to further transform the customer experience, offering passengers and crew more options on how to pay for and consume data.  The company evolved its infrastructure into a robust hybrid network, combining satellite and terrestrial broadband connectivity.  MTN also supports the industry’s latest modem technology for improved efficiencies and throughput available on vessels.  Its regular roll-out of new communications solutions for customers supports Internet, TV, voice services and mobile apps for the maritime industry’s most demanding customers. 

 

MTN, the pioneer in delivering the first broadband VSAT (very small aperture terminal) satellite communications to a U.S. Navy vessel at sea, brings more than 30 years’ experience in innovating remote communications solutions.  The MTN Team brings a history of employees previously employed, or currently working, on vessels at sea.  With 24x7x365 proactive network operations center (NOC) support and technicians around the world, MTN brings proven experience delivering value-added solutions far beyond just delivering a communications “pipe.”