Can you use your cell phone on a cruise ship in port?

Can you use your cell phone on a cruise ship in port? 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.

Will my cell phone work on a cruise ship?

Service for voice calls, texting (SMS) and data is available onboard while the ship is at sea. Once the WMS network is switched on, while roaming on our cruise ships, you will see a distinct display on your handset that differs from your home carrier.

Do you get charged for cellular at sea?

All billing is handled by your cell phone carrier and you will be billed for any charges incurred while onboard a ship on your next monthly cell phone bill directly from your carrier.

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.

Is Wi-Fi 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.

What happens if I take my phone off airplane mode on a cruise?

Make sure to put your phone on airplane mode to avoid expensive roaming charges. Cellular rates at sea can sneak up on you, and you can easily rack up a $500 roaming bill. Even if you're not actively on your phone, most are still using data, so make sure to set yours on airplane mode to avoid roaming charges.

What do you have to do before going on a cruise?

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.)

Do you get charged for texting on a cruise ship?

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 much does it cost to make a cell phone call on a cruise ship?

How much will it cost to make calls? Making calls on-board a cruise ship is a luxury service and the costs associated with it reflect that ranging from $2.50 – $10/minute, however it is often cheaper to make calls once you arrive at port using the local networks.

Do you get searched before going on a cruise?

Passengers must pass through an airport-style detector and they will have a digital photo taken. Most cruise lines employ former police or military personnel to process boarding checks, and scent dogs may be present to check for drugs, which are among many items prohibited on board.

Can I watch Netflix on a cruise?

In general, you can expect streaming to be allowed if you purchase the top-tier wi-fi package. But even though Netflix is largely allowed, it's no guarantee that it will work well. While the technology has advanced, Internet on a cruise can still be spotty.

Can I text with my phone on a cruise ship?

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.

How long does it take to get off a cruise ship at port?

The entire timeline can take 30 to 45 minutes after arrival. Just because your cruise ship is at the dock doesn't mean that people get off immediately. Once you are cleared to go ashore, you may experience a rush of people, but lines tend to decrease quickly.

Do you have to turn off your phone on a cruise ship?

Of course, that doesn't mean you have to keep your cell phone off the entire time. If you choose to use your cell phone while on a cruise ship, it is important that you keep it on airplane mode, regardless of whether or not you're purchasing an internet package.

How can I avoid cell phone charges on a cruise?

To ensure you are not charged by your phone company on your cruise, you have two choices: Turn off your phone as soon as your cruise ship leaves port, or, if you want to use offline applications, put your phone into airplane mode.