PORTLAND — Casco Bay Lines passengers now have Wi-Fi Internet access while waiting for and riding ferries, the ferry service announced today.

The ferry service spent several months exploring technologies that would provide a steady Internet connection on a moving ferry, according to a news release.

The chosen technology created an instant broadband “hotspot” using a wireless router, similar to those commonly found in homes. The router is connected to the Internet via an air card supplied by a wireless telecom carrier.

Wi-Fi access is available on the Maquoit, Aucocisco and Machigonne ferries, as well as in the ferry terminal waiting area.