Do US cell phones work on cruise ships?


Do US cell phones work on cruise ships? 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”.


Does texting on a cruise cost money?

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.


Do I need WhatsApp when traveling internationally?

Even traveling abroad, you can use WhatsApp to text and call others. Of course, you'll need an internet connection and even though there are plenty, one that we recommend is the eSIM. Use WhatsApp internationally with an eSIM!


How can I text for free on a cruise?

If you use WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or WeChat, you may be able to use them whenever you have a Wi-Fi connection. Other suggestions are dependent on the cruise line you are traveling. Guests can use the following apps for texting: Shipmate (available in Apple and Google Play Stores)


Should I turn off roaming when on a cruise?

Traveling on cruise ships and ferries One tip to avoid higher charges: We recommend that you turn off roaming while the ship is docked in a U.S. port. Otherwise, your phone may pick up the ship's network and you'll be charged cruise ship roaming charges for any usage.


Can I use a SIM card on a cruise ship?

I just really wanted to avoid the cost of the cruise package but I'm afraid it's a necessary evil. No Sim Card will cover you at sea, as connections are via satellites, which is why it costs the earth. The only time you will get cell service is when you are within land reach.


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

The price of Wi-Fi on a cruise ship can range from $15 to $30 and more per device per day. On luxury cruise lines or even some premium lines there is free Wi-Fi included in the cost of the cruise fare.


What do you put your phone on when you go on a cruise?

Set Your Phone To avoid unwanted charges, your safest bet onboard your cruise ship is to switch to airplane mode, reactivate your wireless feature and log in to the ship's Wi-Fi network. (Note: Switching to airplane mode will turn off wireless until you manually reactivate it.)


Should I get a SIM card for a cruise?

Consider buying a prepaid International SIM card When travelling on a cruise ship, taking full advantage of this highly cost-effective alternative can save a lot of money on roaming, especially high international rates.


Can I use my phone on a cruise without WiFi?

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”.


Is WiFi free on cruise ships?

Most cruise lines these days have options for onboard internet, but you'll need to pay for access, and not all types of internet service are equal. When you book a cruise, you'll generally be given the opportunity to purchase Wi-Fi before boarding. Doing so can save you money versus buying on board.


Can I use my cell phone on a cruise ship?

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.


How do I avoid roaming charges on a cruise?

How to prevent roaming charges while at sea
  1. Turn off your phone. The easiest, but by no means the nicest, is to turn off your phone. ...
  2. Use airplane mode. Many of us can't go more than a few hours without our phones, so it's more likely you will opt for these other options such as using airplane mode. ...
  3. Use the ship's wifi.


Can you still text while on a cruise?

Out at sea, there are no cell towers. That's why cruise ships utilize at-sea providers like Wireless Maritime Services or Cellular at Sea. Guests can use their mobile devices and ship-to-shore services. However, sending and receiving texts and using your phone can be very expensive using these services.


Can I use WhatsApp on a cruise?

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.


Does it cost money to call someone on a cruise ship?

Ship-to-Shore Communication The rate is $1.99 per minute, and charges are billed to the guest's on board Sail and Sign Card. Since all communication is via satellite, the charges apply to all calls including calling cards, credit cards, 800 toll-free numbers and collect calls.