We partnered with CalMac Ferries to design, build & support the largest privately owned WAN in the UK.
Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries (CalMac) manage a passenger ferry service operating at 57 ports and on 31 vessels across 200 miles of the West Coast of Scotland.
CalMac complete over 150,000 sailings a year to transport over 10,000 coaches and 1,000,000 cars to some of the most remote areas in the UK.
Problem faced
CalMac wanted internet services on their ferries and in their ports for their customers to use.
Novo's solution
Novo worked closely with CalMac to design, install and commission a solution to use both private radio networks and public cellular networks to deliver services to some of the most remote areas in the UK.
Remote though they are, these ports and islands host some of the busiest tourist traffic in Scotland during the summer months and provide a valuable lifeline service to the island communities all year round.
The outcome
Novo Technologies is proud to have facilitated the installation of the UK’s largest WAN/LAN, serving all Caledonian MacBrayne vessels and ports and covering all sea routes to keep clients consistently within broadband coverage.
This fully managed network service includes the provision of free public wi-fi to every port and vessel, with a range of benefits to staff and public alike; improving the customer experience and enhancing staff welfare.
Beyond the initial install, Novo Technologies have now provided an ongoing managed service to CalMac since 2016. Activities involve monitoring equipment, fixing faults, proactive upgrades, and stock management to keep the network operating at the high-standards required.