This is the cheapest way to get internet on a cruise ship
Unless you're specifically going on a cruise to take a digital detox or embrace mindfulness, you're probably going to want to make sure you have an internet connection while you're on board the ship.
But what's the best way to do it? Buy a WiFi package? Turn on roaming? Install an eSIM?
Here's everything you need to know about using your phone on a cruise.
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You're going to want to stay connected. Getty
Can I use my phone internet on a cruise ship?
If you're cruising around Australia, stopping in at domestic ports only, you can use your phone internet while in port and when close to land. But once you're in international waters, if your phone switches to satellite coverage, you could be hit with huge roaming charges.
The best thing to do is either purchase on-board WiFi, or turn off the internet access on your phone (or just put it in airplane mode) when you're not in port.
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Can you get Wi-Fi on a cruise without paying?
Most cruise lines charge you for WiFi access, with different options for basic or premium connection. Some companies, like Norwegian, offer daily free minutes, depending on the journey.
Cruise WiFi can be expensive. Getty
The only way to get internet access without paying is to keep an eye out for sales that include free WiFi packages when booking, or allow you to redeem loyalty points.
Don't wait until you board! Most lines offer discounts for purchasing cruise ship WiFi plans before set sail.
Can you text on a cruise ship without WiFi?
A lot of the time, when you're out in the ocean, you won't have a signal to be able to send text messages.
If you don't want to buy a WiFi package, many cruise line apps allow you to send messages to other passengers with their app, no internet connection needed.
Many cruise lines have apps to keep passengers connected, even without WiFi. Getty
How does internet work on a cruise ship?
Internet on a cruise ship primarily works through satellite technology. There's a huge satellite on the ship, which connects with orbiting satellites to maintain connection even when in the middle of the ocean.
Data is beamed from the ship's dishes to a satellite, which then relays it to a ground station on Earth. From there, it connects to the global internet. The process is reversed to send data back to the ship.
It's a long way to travel, which is why internet on board can often be slower than what you're used to on land, especially when making video calls.
Many major cruise lines are now partnering with Starlink, which has low-orbit satellites that greatly improve internet speeds.
Some cruise lines are partnering with Starlink for faster internet. RSSC
Using an esim for cruise ships
eSIMs have become a popular choice for travellers who still want to stay connected while moving around.
Cruisers can use eSIMs when the ship docks at port, so long as your plan covers the country you are visiting. If you're visiting five European countries on one cruise, you'll need to make sure your plan covers every single one.
For the most part, standard eSIM plans will not work when your cruise ship is in open water. This is because these plans rely on connecting to land-based cell towers.
Some eSIM providers have specific products for cruisers, that use maritime cell networks to provide your phone with connectivity even when at sea. However, these are still pretty pricey.
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Most eSIMs will only work on land. Getty
How do I avoid roaming charges on a cruise?
Keep your phone on airplane mode. If you need an internet connection, purchase the ship's WiFi package, or organise an eSIM before you go.
Cheapest way to get internet on a cruise
It depends where you're going and how much internet you'll need.
If you need to stay connected even while at sea, your best option is to purchase onboard WiFi. Prices vary but can hover around $20-$30 a day.
Say you're doing an Aussie cruise, but you have two full days at sea. Many cruise lines will let you purchase WiFi just for the days while you're at sea - on land you can use your regular phone network.
Doing a cruise overseas? If you're happy to stay disconnected on board, but want internet access while you're in port, a global eSIM is a cheaper alternative.
A maritime eSIM will keep you connected, but can get pretty expensive - up to $170 for 10GB.
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