Best Marine Wi-Fi Extenders of 2020 

‍Written by Paul

Our editors independently researched & tested all of the wi-fi extenders mentioned in this article & we only recommend what we believe are the best. We may receive a commission on purchases made through our links (at no extra cost to you) More details

In a rush & just want to see the top picks?

Best Overall: Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System

Best For Features: Winegard Connect 4G1xT

Best For Price: Bearifi BearExtender Wi-Fi Extender

Worth Mentioning: Alfa Long Range WiFi Repeater

Finding the best marine wi-fi extenders can be tricky especially in 2020 with so many options available. And let's face it, there is nothing more annoying than a spotty wi-fi internet connection when you are trying to do online work or trying to stream a movie while out boating on the sea waters.

So we've tested a bunch of wi-fi extenders to see which are the best on the market. And most importantly, which ones don't constantly jump in an out of connection.

Luckily our community members have different models so we were able to test them on their boats. (it saved us some cash by not having to buy them all so thank you to those that participated)

Our selection comes in all ranges of prices so their is something for most budgets.

Before we get into it, it's very important to note that these extenders are not the providers of wi-fi but rather will help you connect to a nearby signal. (i.e. a marinas wi-fi or if you are on a lake and want to connect to a nearby wi-fi access point) 

Here's a visual idea of how it works:

wifi extender
Image courtesy of redportglobal.com

Before connecting to any wi-fi or internet connection, make sure you have their permission first and also obtain the password if it's password protected.

The main purpose of a wi-fi extender is to increase the range, (the distance from where you are to the wi-fi itself)

No matter what you use, you'll never get internet connection as fast as a connected Ethernet cable. But there are some great options to ensure you have the all important wi-fi on your boat.

Now, let's take a look at the best marine wifi boosters of 2020. Ideally, we wanted to find the strongest wi-fi extenders with the best range that can stand the test of time.

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Bearifi Outdoor Marine Wi-Fi Extender

repeater
photo:bearifi outdoor marine


The Bearifi Outdoor Marine  Wi-Fi Extender is the first on our list. This extender is one of the cheaper options and can be powered through a USB connection. Some of the features include:

  • 2.4 GHZ boost
  • 3 Mounting Options
  • IP65 Certified water resistant
  • Anti UV & Anti Corrosion protective coating.
  • 16ft USB cable

Please note that this is only compatible with Microsoft Computers and will only work on one device at a time.

Pros

  • Price friendly
  • Waterproof & UV protection
  • 2-4 times a normal desktop wi fi range
  • Easy to install
  • No drilling required when setting up
  • Great for boats moored in a marina or small lake

Cons

  • Can only be used on ONE computer
  • Only compatible with Microsoft

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Check Price On Amazon →

Winegard Connect 4G1xT (WF-200T)


booster
photo:winegard

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The next on the list is the Winegard Connect 4G1xT (WF-200T). Originally built with trucking in mind, this can also be a great option for boating

Some features of this extender include;

A great option with this wi-fi extender is you can opt in for 4g lte internet service plans which can have you connected in many places around the country.

Pros

  • Works with multiple devices
  • Excellent quality
  • Easy to install
  • Internet service provider option available
  • Secure connection
  • 2 year parts warranty
  • Increase wi-fi range

Cons

  • More expensive option

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Check Price On Amazon →

Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System


marine wifi
photo: Halo

Next on the list is the Halo Long Range Marine Wi-Fi Extender System. Some features included:

This is one of our top options on the market with a nice long range to extend that internet connection.

The halo brand also offers pretty good technical support with both a contact number and email address provided should you need assistance with setting it up correctly.

We'd like to thank Simon for giving us access to his wi- fi extender for this one.

Pros

  • Great range
  • 1 year limited warranty
  • Comes with app
  • Easy installation
  • Multiple devices compatible (phones, computers, tablets, smart tv's)

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Cons

  • Works best with no obstruction between boat and wi-fi spot

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Check Price On Amazon →

C Crane CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi System

good wifi extender
photo: cc vector

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The CC Vector Long Range Wi-Fi extender is the next on the list. It works with a range of up to 1 mile.

Features include: 

Stream Netflix and play games online simultaneously and enjoy all the benefits of internet without connectivity issues.

Pros

  • Max range up to 1 mile
  • 1 year limited warranty
  • Easy install
  • Tech support to help with anything
  • Works with multiple devices
  • Multiple people using wi-fi simultaneously

Cons

  • Sensitive to obstruction between wifi access point & boat
Check Price On Amazon →

Alfa WiFi Camp Pro 2 Long Range WiFi Repeater

bear extender
photo: Alfa

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The next on the list is the Alfa  Long Range WiFi Repeater. Features include:

  • Alfa R36A (NEW FAST VERSION) USB router/repeater
  • Alfa Tube-U(N) outdoor Wi-Fi receiver with 9 dBi fiberglass encased outdoor Wi-Fi antenna
  • Improved 1-page setup process for quicker and easier setup

We didn't know whether to put this on the list but figured it should be put into our worth mentioning. When it works, it's great but the wi-fi was sometimes spotty.

If you only need something closer range, then this could be the option for you.

Pros

  • Relatively easy install
  • Good quality material
  • Cheaper than other options
  • Compatible with multiple devices

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Cons

  • Can be quite spotty wifi connection
  • Better for closer range
  • Weather really affected it's performance

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Check Price On Amazon →

Shakespeare 5239 Galaxy World Band Cellular/Wi-Fi Antenna


marine extender booster
photo: Shakespeare

The final on the list is the Shakespeare 5239 Galaxy World Band Cellular/Wi-Fi Antenna. Features include:

  • Designed for marine use
  • 2G/3G/4G and WLAN systems
  • Wi-Fi 802.11n compatible
  • Omni-directional antenna 3-4 dB Gain
  • Fitted with a stainless steel ferrule and N connector

The WindRider jacket is a waterproof, breathable foul weather gear with size range of Small to 3X-Large.

Pros

  • Easy to install
  • 5 year limited warranty
  • Good tech support
  • Works in harsh conditions (-22 to +176)

Cons

  • Fibreglass sometimes can crack after a lot of use

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Check Price On Amazon →

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WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE PURCHASING A  Wi-Fi Extender

TYPE OF MATERIAL‍

This might not seem important but it most definitely is. When you are out fishing, boating or having general fun on the sea waters, you need to ensure that the material for your wi-fi extender is of top quality to withstand those harsh climates.

Ideally, the systems will be waterproof and have protection against UV when the weather is hot and sunny.

Easy To Install

Let's face it, most people don't want to spend hours trying to install these systems. That's why the list above are the easiest to install, some with a simple USB cable connected to your computer.

Comes With A Warranty

Ideally, you want a wi-fi extender system that comes with a warranty or at the very least a refund policy. All the extenders in our list come with one or both of these options to ensure further peace of mind.

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Conclusion

So there you have it, a list of the best boat wifi systems of 2020. Whether you are out fishing, swimming or having general fun on the waters, you will most likely want and need a good wi-fi connection.

Hopefully, you find what you're looking for through our list. Remember to double check the wi-fi extender is compatible with your specific devices.

Happy boating! 

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