Do cruise ships have WiFi and data roaming?

Getting ready to leave the UK for a bit and go on a cruise? No wonder, since cruises are one of the best ways to disconnect from your everyday life and focus on relaxing.

However, you’ll probably still want to be able to chat with your loved ones or post updates from your trip. That’s why we’ve prepared a guide to cruise WiFi, data roaming and everything else you need to know about staying connected on the high seas.

Do cruise ships have WiFi?

Can you access WiFi on a cruise ship? The answer is yes, all modern day cruise ships provide WiFi connectivity to their passengers. However, each cruise operator has their own way of distributing internet access to their passengers.

How does internet access work on a cruise ship?

Cruise ship WiFi relies on satellite technology, as this is the only way to connect while at sea. This means it might not be as good as the equivalent connection you’ll get on land.

Some cruise lines offer unlimited WiFi access to all passengers, but that’s not always the case. You’ll usually be able to choose between different packages, based on your online activities¹.

For example, Crystal Cruises provides WiFi to all passengers during the cruise, both in their rooms and throughout the ship². On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises has two available packages - Basic and Premium. Video calls, posting and streaming are only available with the Premium package³.

How much does it cost to have Wi-Fi on a cruise ship?

Here’s how much WiFi access costs on some well-known cruise ships. The prices are listed in the official onboard currency:

Note: all prices correct at the time of writing.

Is it cheaper to buy Wi-Fi before a cruise?

Some cruise lines offer discounts when you buy their WiFi packages before boarding. For example, you can save up to 10% when you pre-purchase a Celebrity Cruises WiFi plan¹⁰.

Can you share Wi-Fi on a cruise ship?

This depends on the cruise provider. WiFi packages are often limited to one device, but sometimes you’ll be able to connect multiple. For instance, Princess Cruises offers 4-device onboard WiFi plans¹¹.

Will I get a phone signal at sea?

It’s not guaranteed that you’ll be able to have a phone signal throughout your cruise¹². If you manage to get it, it will be from a provider operated by your cruise line.

It might be better to use apps that rely on WiFi calling such as WhatsApp, just be mindful of how much of your onboard cruise Wi-Fi data this uses.

What is maritime roaming?

Maritime roaming is essentially your phone connecting to another network while you’re at sea. Some providers offer specialised maritime plans and bundles. With most cruise ships using Wireless Maritime Services or Cellular at Sea to provide signal onboard¹².

Can I use roaming on a cruise ship?

Phone signals can dip in and out while at sea. If you manage to get a phone signal, you can also use roaming during the cruise. Some providers have packages with inclusive or global roaming, but this can get very expensive, so be careful and do your research beforehand.

How can I avoid data roaming charges at sea?

It’s best to put your phone on aeroplane or airplane mode during the cruise to avoid high roaming fees. This is because when you arrive at a new port your signal will switch to a network carrier from the country you're visiting¹.

How to prepare your phone for a cruise: 6 tips

1. Make sure your phone OS is up to date before you travel
2. Download necessary apps before embarking
3. Download any books, movies, TV shows or music to enjoy offline in case the service dips
4. Turn on airplane mode for the duration of your trip
5. Turn on the WiFi setting on your phone
6. Check out your cruise provider WiFi plans in advance

Save on holiday spending with the Wise card

Nowadays, it’s easy to stay connected even while at sea. Cruise lines offer different WiFi packages to their passengers or in some cases, even provide free WiFi coverage.

While you’re exploring WiFi plans for your upcoming cruise, you’ll also want to check out options for holiday spending too. One option is the Wise card, which will help you avoid hefty fees and bad exchange rates around the world. It automatically converts your pounds with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

Pack a Wise card on your next voyage and you can spend like a local in 150+ countries worldwide.

Your Wise card awaits 💳

You can also withdraw cash at ATMs with your Wise card, whether onboard or on land, all at the mid-market rate and only a small conversion fee*.

If you already have the currency in your account, there is no fee at all*.

Even better, with your Wise card, you can make 2 free withdrawals each month up to 200 GBP, so you can enjoy a hassle-free holiday on the high seas.

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

Cruise wifi and data roaming FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about cruise WiFi and data roaming at sea:

Can I use my unlimited data on a cruise ship?

Most likely no, but check with your provider beforehand.

Does WhatsApp work on a cruise ship?

Yes, but some cruise lines only allow data heavy video calls with their premium WiFi packages.

Can I text on a cruise ship?

You can, but extra charges may apply due to international roaming charges.

For more information on international roaming charges while on holiday, why not check out our article on the best international roaming plans.

Do SIM cards work on cruise ships?

In general yes, but you might not always have service.

Will my 5G work on a cruise ship?

It depends. There are some cruise ships which provide passengers with 5G connectivity, such as the Carnival Jubilee ship¹³.

What plug adaptor will I need to charge my devices?

This depends on the cruise line. You can find out which adapter to bring by heading to your cruise provider website or logging onto your app before you travel. But it's worth noting that most cruise ships will have an onboard shop in case you forget!

Sources used for this article:

Sources last checked on date: 20-May-2024