A great marine wi-fi extender will help to connect a boat to a nearby wi-fi connection and ensure the internet is working smoothly when onboard the vessel.
There are a number of top boat wi-fi extenders to choose from with each one having its own strengths.
The best marine wi-fi extenders are:
- Best Overall: Alfa Long-Range WiFi Repeater Kit
- Best For Price: BearifiBearExtender Outdoor Marine Wi-Fi Extender
- Best For Wi-Fi Range: Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System
- Best For Features: Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender
- Best For Tech Support: C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System
It's important to note that these wi-fi extenders are not providers of the internet itself but rather they will assist with connecting to a nearby internet signal.
The main purpose of a wi-fi extender is to ensure that there is a wi-fi connection onboard a boat from a relatively large distance away from the internet access point.
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1. Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit
The best overall marine wi-fi extender is the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit manufactured by the brand Alfa Networks in Taipei City, Taiwan and sold worldwide.
The Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit comes in a package that includes 1 Camp Pro Alfa R36A Wi-Fi Extender Router, 1 Tube USB Outdoor Signal Receiver, 1 AOA Outdoor Omni Antenna for Tube, 1 Omni RP-SMA Antenna for Camp Pro Wi-Fi Extender Route signal transmission, 1 twelve volt Power Adaptor for Camp Pro Wi-Fi Router, 1 Outdoor Water-Resistant Tape for securing the antenna, and 1 USB cable for connecting Camp Pro Wi-Fi Exterior Router and Tube.
The Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit is priced between $220 and $230 at most retailers. It comes with a 1-year warranty in America and a 2-year warranty in Europe.
The total weight of the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit is just 2.2 pounds so the kit is lightweight and not heavy.
The Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater can be used in weather temperatures ranging from -4°F to 104°F and humidity levels of 10% to 90%. This Wi-Fi booster can be used on multiple devices from mac, android, windows etc.
The 9 dBi outdoor external antenna that comes with the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater kit is made of fiberglass material and can pick up internet coverage 1,200ft away from where the external antenna is installed.
The 5 dBi indoor internal antenna that comes with the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit can provide Wi-Fi internet onboard a boat with an onboard range of 500ft.
Boats up to 500ft in size can use the Alfa Wifi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit which means even large super yachts can avail of it.
The Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit takes approximately 15 minutes to install on a vessel. When installing the external antenna, ensure it's installed vertically for the best results.
Once the Wi-Fi kit is fully installed, you can set up your own password to secure the network.
The benefits of the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit are:
- It is easy to install: Simple one-page installation instructions make setting up this Wi-Fi extender kit easy with clear and concise installation instructions provided. The installation instructions can be accessed by scanning a QR code that is provided with the kit and takes approximately 15 minutes from start to finish
- It comes with a great warranty: A 1-year warranty for American customers and a 2-year warranty for European customers adds peace of mind when purchasing this Wi-Fi extender
- It provides Wi-Fi coverage to both small and large boats: This wi-fi extender kit offers wi-fi coverage on boats up to 500ft which is a great coverage range for most boat owners
- It works on multiple devices: This wi-fi extender kit can be used on multiple devices simultaneously and is compatible with both Windows and iOS devices without any restrictions
One disadvantage of the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit is the signal is sometimes spotty and poor in very bad and cloudy weather conditions.
The wi-fi radio frequency bands of the Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater Kit are 2.142 GHz - 2.472 GHz.
2. Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender
The best marine wi-fi extender for the price is the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender manufactured by the brand BearExtender in Taiwan and sold worldwide.
The Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender comes in a package that includes a 16ft USB cable, a 10 dBi directional antenna and a heavy-duty detachable stand with an adjustable metal pole with 3 mounting options.
The Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender is priced between $60 and $70 at most retailers. It comes with a 1-year warranty against manufacturer defects.
The total weight of the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender is 1.68 pounds which makes it easy to carry or travel with as it's lightweight. It is USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 compatible.
This wi-fi extender can only be used by Microsoft windows devices with a USB port. It can not be used on any other devices.
The dimensions of this Bearifi Outdoor Wi-Fi Extender without the tripod are 18.8cm x 10.16cm.
The range of the Bearifi Outdoor Wi-Fi Extender is 2 to 4 times that of a computer's built-in wi-fi which is approximately 30ft to 60ft range.
The Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender takes approximately 5 minutes to install on a boat. Simply connect the USB to your device and follow the onscreen prompts.
The benefits of the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender are:
- It is cheap: This wi-fi extender is priced between $60 and $70 at most retailers which is the cheapest marine wi-fi extender on the list
- It has a great warranty: This wi-fi extender comes with a great 1-year warranty for added peace of mind
- Simple installation: This can be installed simply by connecting the USB to the device and following the prompts on the device
- It is water resistant: The wi-fi antenna enclosure is IP65 certified water and dust resistant which means it can be used in most weather conditions and will repel rainwater or corrosive seawater
- It is FCC certified: The Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender is FCC certified which means it only produces safe levels of radiofrequency radiation
Two disadvantages of the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender are it is not compatible with Mac OS X, iOS, or Android and the wi-fi extender can only be used on one device at a time.
The wi-fi radio frequency bands of the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz which offers the ability to connect to up to 600 Mbps combined band connectivity.
3. Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System
The best marine wi-fi extender for the wi-fi range it offers is the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System manufactured by the satellite industry brand RedPort in Tennessee, America and sold worldwide.
The Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System comes in a package that includes a stainless steel connector, a 9 dBi antenna, a 10-meter ethernet cable, a 120-200V AC adapter and access to an app named XGate. A 12-volt cigarette plug adapter is an optional extra and it is sold separately.
The Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System is priced between $650 and $680 at most retailers.
This wi-fi extender system is colored white and steel grey. The antenna included in this wi-fi extender system weighs 18 ounces and is 28 inches in length.
The overall weight of the entire Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System is 1.12 pounds which is lightweight and it will not be heavy when installing it.
The 9 dBi outdoor external antenna that comes with the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System can pick up internet coverage 7 miles away from where the external antenna is installed during clear weather conditions with no obstructions.
However, the optimal range during our testing was a 3-mile range from the antenna to the internet location.
The Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System takes approximately 20 minutes to install on a boat.
When installing the wi-fi extender antenna, mount it at the top of the boat ideally 10ft + above the boat deck with no objects obstructing it for the best wi-fi signal results.
The Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System can be simultaneously used on any device capable of connecting to a wi-fi connection. This includes laptops, computers, tablets, TVs, smartphones, etc.
The benefits of the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System are:
- It can pick up a long range signal: This wi-fi extender can pick up an internet connection from up to 7 miles away which is a great long range distance
- It is weather resistant: This wi-fi extender is made of marine-grade material with a UV & corrosion protective coating to help protect the antenna from any sun damage and seawater corrosion damage
- Multiple devices can use it simultaneously: This wi-fi extender can be used by multiple devices simultaneously which means it is not limited to just one device when onboard the boat
Two disadvantages of the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System are it is an expensive price and there is no warranty with this wi-fi extender.
The wi-fi radio frequency band of the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System is 2.4 GHz. It is 802.11 b/g/n wireless standard which means it is a single-band wi-fi router.
4. Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender
The best marine wi-fi extender for features is the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender manufactured by the brand Winegard Company in Burlington, Iowa, America and sold worldwide.
The Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender comes in a package that includes three 5 dBi outdoor 2.4 GHz antennas, a long range outdoor unit, two 4G LTE antennas, a 12-volt 9.5 inch power wire, power inserter, mounting pedestal, ethernet coupler, a 25' ethernet cable and an operation manual.
The mounting pedestal allows for up to a 30-degree slope.
The Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender is priced between $450 and $550 at most retailers.
This wi-fi extender system is colored white and stainless steel grey. It weighs 3 pounds. The dimensions are 10.3 x 10.3 x 13.9 inches so it is small enough to fit neatly on the roof of the boat.
The Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender uses MIMO technology which is a wireless technology that uses multiple transmitters and receivers to transfer more data at the same time, typically up to 450 megabits per second
It can be used simultaneously on multiple devices from televisions, cell phones, gaming systems, computers, laptops, etc.
The 5 dBi outdoor external antenna that comes with the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender has a maximum wi-fi range of approximately 1.5 miles from the onboard antenna.
Installing the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes on a boat.
For the best results, install the wi-fi extender to the roof of the boat in an area without any obstructions.
Buyers of the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender offer the ability to avail of 4G data plans from ATT, Verizon, T-Mobile and FreedomGO. The wi-fi extender can also be connected to satellite internet provider Starlink
The Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender comes with a 2-year parts warranty against defective parts and a 1-year labor warranty. During year one of the warranty, Winegard will repair or replace the defective wi-fi antenna by providing labor where necessary.
The benefits of the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender are:
- It has excellent security features: This wi-fi extender and 4G LTE come with wireless security WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA mixed, double firewall protection, denial of service attack prevention and a separate and secure guest network access for guests onboard the boat which helps keep the wi-fi connection protected
- It can connect to both wi-fi networks and nationwide (USA) 4G LTE networks: This wi-fi extender can connect to both wi-fi networks or 4G networks which gives boaters multiple internet options while onboard
- It comes with a great warranty: This wi-fi extender comes with a great 2-year parts warranty and 1-year labor warranty for added peace of mind
- It comes with great prepaid 4G data plans: This wi-fi extender comes with data plan options to connect with 4G networks without being tied to annual contracts as boat owners can pay monthly for added convenience
- It's easy to install: This wi-fi extender can be installed on the roof of a boat easily with a screwdriver and by following your device's on-screen prompts
- Easy color-coded troubleshooting options: If there is an issue with this wi-fi extender, the LED lights will change color. Each color represents a different troubleshooting error that can easily be fixed with the instructions given. There are 8 different colors with 7 colors being troubleshooting errors
Two disadvantages of the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender is it is expensive and not within every boat owner's budget and boat owners can only avail of the 4G data plans through Winegard.
The wi-fi radio frequency band of the Winegard Connect 4G1xM Wi-Fi Extender is 2.4 GHz. It is 802.11 b/g/n wireless standard with a top wireless speed potential of 450 Mbps.
5. C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System
The best wi-fi extender for the technical support offered is the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi Repeater System manufactured by the C. Crane in California, America and sold worldwide.
The C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System comes in a package that includes a 30ft USB Cable, 1.5ft USB Amplifier Cable, Silicone Grease, CC DX Mile & 8dBi Omni Wi-Fi Antenna, Weatherproof Coaxial Sealant, Stainless Steel/Aluminum Steel Pole Mount With Bolts & A Setup And Operation Manual. It also coms with 2 Ethernet ports and works on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz wi-fi bands.
The C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System is priced between $250 and $350 at most retailers.
This wi-fi extender system is colored white, stainless steel grey and black. The antenna weight is 1.3 pounds and the antenna dimensions are 28" L x 1.5" W x 1.5" D.
The C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System can be used in weather temperatures ranging from 32°F to 122°F and humidity levels of 20% to 90%. This Wi-Fi extender can be used simultaneously on multiple devices from Windows, Android, Apple, gaming consoles and Smart TV devices.
The 8 dBi omni-directional outdoor external antenna that comes with the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System can pick up an internet network connection up to 1 mile away from where the external antenna is installed. However, for the best wi-fi connectivity results, 400 ft. away is the optimal range for picking up a wi-fi signal.
Installing the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. Install the external antenna on the roof of the boat with no obstructions around it for the best results, ideally 10ft. + above the boat deck. Install the antenna vertically.
Once the wi-fi extender is installed and your device it picking up wi-fi networks, for the best results of faster internet speeds, choose internet networks with a signal higher than 50% as anything lower than this is slow and spotty.
The C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System comes with a 1-year full manufacturer's warranty.
The benefits of the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System are:
- It comes with a great lifetime tech support service: Owning this wi-fi extender enables the owners to avail of great lifetime US-based tech support to assist with any tech issues they may have
- It comes with a top 1-year warranty: This wi-fi extender system comes with a great 1-year warranty for added peace of mind
- It comes with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee: If a buyer is unhappy, they can return this wi-fi extender within 60 days to get a full refund which is a great option to ensure they are truly satisfied
- It is FCC & ROHS Certified: This C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System is FCC certified which means it only produces safe levels of radiofrequency radiation. It is also ROHS certified which means there is a limit on the use of specific hazardous materials found in this wi-fi extender
One disadvantage of the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System is it takes almost 30 minutes to install which is the longest of any wi-fi extender to install onboard a boat.
The wi-fi radio frequency bands of the C. Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System are 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz. Its wireless standard is 802.11 B, G, N, AC.
Top Marine Wi-Fi Extenders Comparison Table
What To Consider When Buying A Marine Wi-Fi Extender
The factors to consider before buying a marine wi-fi extender are:
- Type Of Material
- Price
- Range
Type Of Material
The wi-fi extender will need to be made of material that can withstand harsh seawater and bad weather environments. It's important to choose a marine-grade wi-fi extender as these will be constructed of a material that can operate on a boat.
Price
The price is an important factor to consider when buying a marine wi-fi extender.
Different boat owners have different budgets and wi-fi extenders come in various prices. Some boat owners can afford more high-spec wi-fi extenders whereas others cannot.
Range
The wi-fi range of a wi-fi extender is an important factor to consider. Some boat owners will need to buy a wi-fi extender with a high wi-fi range whereas others may not need a very large wi-fi range.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Marine Wi-Fi Extenders
Below are commonly asked questions about marine wi-fi extenders.
What Are The Best Marine Wi-Fi Extender Brands?
The best marine wi-fi extender brands are:
- C. Crane
- Alfa Networks
- BearExtender
- RedPort
- Winegard Company
How Much Do Top Marine Wi-Fi Extenders Cost?
Top marine wi-fi extenders cost between $60 to $680.
How Much Does The Cheapest Top Marine Wi-Fi Extender Cost?
The cheapest top marine wi-fi extender is the Bearifi Outdoor 802.11ac Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender which costs between $60 and $70.
How Much Does The Most Expensive Top Marine Wi-Fi Extender Cost?
The most expensive top marine wi-fi extender is the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System which costs between $650 and $680.