The reason iMessage works (sometimes) is because it uses the same network ports as the RC app that allows messaging. Blocking the ports to disable iMessage would also nuke the messaging functionality in the app, so most of the ships don't bother.
People Also Ask
Do cell phones work on cruise ships? It's a common question with varying answers. Guests are free to utilize their cellular data or connect to our onboard Wi-Fi on any ship. But, please be aware that cellular data used on the ship or in certain ports of call will result in charges from your cell phone provider.
Social Plan: Gives access to social media sites like Twitter and Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat, along with airline websites. However, it doesn't include most websites (including email), streaming, or wi-fi calling, FaceTime or iMessage.
Prepare Your Loved Ones if Texting Is LimitedMost cruisers tell their family that regular text will not work at sea and will use airplane mode. They can use a messaging app if they need to contact you. Cruise lines usually have a designated phone number to be used in emergencies.
If you're not able to wait for ports of call (or don't have international data on your phone), it might be worthwhile to pay for a Wi-Fi package. Although prices have decreased over the years, it can still be pretty costly to purchase Wi-Fi for your cruise.
It's possible to send and receive text messages at sea on a cellular signal, as long as you have a signal through your ship's roaming network. (Just make sure you turn on data roaming in your settings.) Texting costs a lot less than a voice call -- usually in line with standard, international pay as you go rates.
If the ship provides free wifi and internet, then iMessage and FaceTime would be free. Those services are always free from Apple, and you only pay something if you are charged for the internet connection you are using.
To use your cell phone on your cruise, you have two options — either connect to the ship's cellular service or connect to the ship's wi-fi. Both will cost you extra. For traditional cell service, today's modern cruise ships use providers such as “Cellular at Sea” or “Wireless Maritime Services”.
When you connect to an access point (Hotspot or Wi-Fi) you don't know if it's a legitimate hospitality wireless network, or one that is set up to steal your information. Even legitimate Wi-Fi networks (as mentioned in the 2021 EOS Report for NCLH) may be collecting information about you.
Use onboard credit to pay for a Wi-Fi packageYou can use your credit to pay for onboard internet access, thereby getting Wi-Fi on your cruise for free! On most cruise lines, you'll need a minimum of $100 in onboard credit per device for a week's worth of free basic Wi-Fi.
Is WhatsApp free on a cruise ship? By default, WhatsApp is not free on a cruise ship. You need to be online, and most cruise lines charge for internet access, unless you have a special fare that includes WiFi access.
Using your cell on the shipFor most people, the best piece of advice is to put your phone on airplane mode before your ship sets sail out of port. This prevents your cell from trying to stay connected, thereby eliminating roaming charges.
Upper decks should be avoided if you have motion sickness as you will feel the ship's rocking more. If you do suffer from this, the lower and central decks would be best suited to you.
For a small additional fee of $5 USD per user, for the voyage, you can chat with family and friends on board all cruise long from the comfort of your deck chair using the Carnival HUB App. This feature is currently limited to ages 13+. The App is free to download and use on board - to download the App, click here.
When you arrive at the Port Authority Security in the cruise terminal, you will pass a security checkpoint where all carry-on luggage goes through X-rays and other baggage is checked in. All checked bags on cruise ships are scanned.