Making calls on a Cruise Ship | Cruise internet plans explained (Money Saving Tips!) Detailed Guide

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the best practices for making calls and using internet services on a cruise ship. We will explore how to avoid unexpected cell phone bills, understand cruise line internet plans, and find out about ship-to-shore calling options. Whether you're cruising with Royal Caribbean or Carnival, this guide will help you stay connected while saving money.

Step 1: Understand Your Cellular Plan

• Check with your provider: Before your cruise, contact your mobile carrier to understand your international roaming charges. Some plans may include options for cruise travel.
• Consider a temporary plan: If your current plan is expensive for international use, look into a temporary international plan offered by your carrier.

Step 2: Explore Cruise Line Internet Plans

• Research options: Each cruise line has different internet plans. Visit the official websites of Royal Caribbean and Carnival to compare plans.
• Choose the right plan for your needs:
  • Basic plans may allow messaging and browsing but not streaming.
  • Premium plans often offer faster speeds and more data.
• Family plans: If traveling with multiple devices, check if family plans are available, which may save you money.

Step 3: Tips for Using Internet on Board

• Connect to ship Wi-Fi: Once on board, connect to the ship's Wi-Fi. This is usually available for purchase and can be used on multiple devices.
• Limit data usage: Avoid streaming videos or downloading large files to keep costs down.
• Use messaging apps: Consider using messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to communicate when connected to Wi-Fi, as these can be more cost-effective.

Step 4: Making Ship-to-Shore Calls

• Understand the costs: Ship-to-shore calls can be expensive. Check the rates with your cruise line before making a call.
• Emergency contacts: If you need to be contacted in case of an emergency, provide your family with the ship's contact number and your cabin number.

Step 5: Avoiding Unexpected Charges

• Turn off roaming: Set your phone to airplane mode and turn off cellular data to avoid unwanted roaming charges when the ship is out of range.
• Use Wi-Fi calling: If your phone supports it, use Wi-Fi calling to make calls over the ship’s internet connection, which may be cheaper.

Conclusion

By understanding your cellular options, exploring cruise internet plans, and following these practical tips, you can stay connected on your cruise without breaking the bank. Before you set sail, ensure you have a plan that suits your needs, and remember to use the ship’s resources wisely. Enjoy your cruise while staying connected!