Marlink, a subsidiary of Rockville, Md.-based Telenor Satellite Services, rolled out a new maritime communications service to provide global voice and advanced data communications to leisure boats, fishing vessels, coastal and security patrol boats, and other small vessels.

The Fleet F33 Mobile Packet Data Service (MPDS) uses Internet Protocol (IP) technology and time-shared channels to find clear channels for cost-efficient Web access, e-mail and “always on” remote access. Marlink information services include online navigational information and updates, online weather reports, and e-mails with attachments. Users only pay for the data packets they send and receive.