Making calls on a Cruise Ship | Cruise internet plans explained (Money Saving Tips!) Detailed Guide

[@brown-eyedgirl226]

I am so glad I found your video. My husband and I are going on a cruise in September and this info was extremely helpful. Thanks a lot!!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Fantastic! Enjoy your cruise.

[@angelarogers7029]

Thanks for the updated info too! My girls group is going on Royal Caribbean in a few weeks & this really helps! We were actually encouraged not to get the internet plan and just wait till we were in ports to communicate with family! But ur info helps out a lot! 😄

[@tenacious1]

It was actually a blessing that my Internet didn't work on the ship bc I was able to detach for a week from social media etc. I took advantage of the mental time away.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Love this!! I know that felt good.

[@76ers]

12:10 - The dog is not making noises, he's clapping for the wonderful tips 🙂

[@CruiseSavvy]

🥰 that’s very sweet

[@NancySettles]

Thank you , On my last Carnival Cruise I took an 8 day cruise and bought the Internet package. I thought just because it said Cellular At Sea I was good to go. Little did I know when I got back home my Cell Phone Bill was $400 evidently xfinity said I called Iceland, Canada and Mexico, lol. They only gave me a $25 credit. Lesson Learned, going on MSC Seascape next week, so hopefully , it will be a better outcome with my cell phone.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Wow!! I am sorry that happened to you!! Airplane Mode next time. 😊 Let me know how you like MSC! Enjoy 🚢

[@sabrinathomas9065]

Thank you!

[@mickeyluv3357]

Thanks for all of your tips, especially for the VOOM internet plan tip!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Glad it was helpful and thank you for watching!! :) Enjoy your next cruise.

[@HKYMOM8]

Unplugging is great! ❤ Wish I could more often.

[@CruiseSavvy]

It really is! Hopefully saving some money on these plans help.

[@ramongutierrez5585]

I started to buy the top of the line WiFi . Since I have a I phone I make my calls on FaceTime or audio & my calls are not charged to my phone bill. Yes make sure phone is on airplane mode👍

[@CruiseSavvy]

Let me know if that works for you. It maybe dependent on which Carnival ship you are on, but I had Premium plan and still couldn’t use my WiFi calling or FaceTime. Carnivals website does state this- Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and FaceTime services are also not supported.

[@darlenejames2163]

@@ramongutierrez5585 yes . I didn’t purchase a plan but was able to text to other iPhones while in airplane mode and I wasn’t charged

[@liinaladon]

Thanks! I will share this video with my senior cruisers. I formed a "cruise club" at my senior living campus.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you, I appreciate that!

[@maqureshi3567]

Thank you for de-mystifying this for us with the extremely simple and easy to understand video. God bless.

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are very welcome! I have spent the last 34 yrs in telecom. But it is STILL confusing and many people end up with these crazy high bills. I am glad it helped you and I hope you enjoy your cruise! - Barb

[@annaguzman996]

Visual/ Kinesthetic learner here. Loved the animated explanation and the clarity throughout. I watched 6 videos regarding this and yours was the clearest explanation. We are heading out this month and this was one of my greatest concerns as I am traveling with my three daughters. They live connected and I wanted to assure we would have a happy ending at the end of the cruise.😉 Thank you for your clear explanations! Blessings🌺

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you! I am so happy it helped you. You and your daughters will have a wonderful time. Enjoy your cruise.

[@mannerspleasecaninetrainin1007]

Yes! This was so helpful!

[@julieb7882]

I learned to use internet calling in West Virginia. Cell reception is poor in the quiet zone. I was a little surprised to get a call at sea from my brother in law.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Wow! Amazing the technology we have now. Funny, I remember going on cruises and just saying "See ya when we get back". No way to call home at all. haha

[@julieb7882]

@@CruiseSavvy we even left our non smart phone at home on our first cruise.

[@lamquach9147]

Thanks you for the tips!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Happy to help!

[@wendysoulliere1305]

I wish I would have know this while traveling from Canada to Fort Lauderdale.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Ohhh no! Did you get an unwanted bill?

[@cynthiasmith4875]

I love how you simplify it for some of us that really need that extra explanation. Glad I found you. 😊 Thank you.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Awe I am glad it helped you. 🥰 Thank you for being part of our channel!

[@markkubert8572]

We just finished a 9 day cruise on Celebrity. We figured that we would either be in port or cruising near shore much of the time. So, we bought a SIM card for $18 thru Amazon. While we didn't do any calls from Europe to the US, we were on the internet checking emails and other things at least a couple hours per day. We used our phone as a hot spot for a laptop. Worked great, so we were never tempted to use the ships wi-fi plan.

[@CruiseSavvy]

That sounds great! What Celebrity ship?

[@markkubert8572]

@@CruiseSavvy Ascent. We went Barcelona and then several stops in Italy. Last stop Naples and then back to BCN. Very nice ship. They are doing several small variations on that trip over the season.

[@juliecamarena4126]

@@markkubert8572 question so if I use the hot spot on my cell to go on my iPad there is no charge?

[@markkubert8572]

@@juliecamarena4126 I just looked at Amazon and the 10 GB sim card I used from mewfi is $21 and is good for 30 days in the EU once it is activated. I wouldn't expect to watch movies but for email and KZbin, 10 GB is a lot. So, you use your phone as a hotspot for your laptop or tablet. BTW, I use old Apple phones that use physical sims. Newer phones can sometimes use esims which means no physical sim card to switch in and out (a minor annoyance).

[@TonyaNicole7]

I video I needed!!!!!!!! So detail! Before this video I couldn’t find the info I needed!! Quick and to the point

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you so much, Tonya. I appreciate it. Hope to see you around the channel. :)

[@jimbsjaunts5352]

What about Alaska? Do I need to purchase WiFi package or will phone work through my carrier (ATT)? Love your dogs. I’m a dachshund fan

[@CruiseSavvy]

Hi, Jim. Yes, unfortunately as soon as you are about 3 miles out you will need to be connected to the ships WiFi to avoid those roaming charges. If you have a US carrier you’re good to go in the ports of Alaska. Doxies are the best! 🐶

[@TJ-22]

Purchasing the cruise Wi-Fi package will probably be more expensive, but will also provide more data usage. Although, you could purchased the AT&T basic cruise package for $60. Currently, that plan provides 100 MB of data (the overage fee is $10 per 100 MB). It’s a one time fee and lasts for up to 30 days. AT&T has more premium plan, which is the AT&T cruise plus plan and that costs $100 per month. It provides 1GB of data. It’s good for up to 30 days (the overage fee is $10 per 100 MB). *A cruise package doesn't cover you: When you're on land or at any port. So keep that in mind if you are traveling to international destinations. To stay connected with your device when you're at port or on land, you'll want to add AT&T International Day Pass to your line.*

[@Ludmila-b2w]

Thank you, really appreciate your advice 🙏🙏🙂

[@CruiseSavvy]

You’re very welcome! 😊

[@bluehannah8696]

Thanks for the information. Even if I could disconnect, it would be more stressful for me than “being connected”. Finding information about my port is important to me., as well as other things. I like being able to able to see where we are in the ocean. In port, maps is important. So it’s not about being online all day, but having access to the internet improves my experience.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Totally understand. I used to disconnect but the last several years I have had to be available during my trip. 🩵

[@monikaliebold4225]

Regarding streaming: You can avoid ship's plan for streaming. At home just download shows/films, you would like to watch, to your device. Whilst cruising just log out of your ship's WiFi account, but still stay on airplane mode. Then you can watch all your downloads whenever you like, you can stop them, everything works like being home. When being logged in at ship's WiFi (even if you have no streaming option) you cannot watch downloads, because streaming apps are always looking in background for connection within WiFi. It works, I did this several times when cruising - for example watching Titanic ❤ at observation lounge 🚢with direct view on ocean 🌊, just unbeatable. 🤩

[@CruiseSavvy]

Great call out! I know my husband downloads movies to watch for himself. ;). I am too busy running around to watch. haha But, the Titanic. That is gutsy. haha

[@susana.videos]

You were really watching the Titanic in the middle of nowhere hehehehe

[@monikaliebold4225]

No problem for me at all. When were once travelling to New York (translantic crossing) with QE2, Captain announced, that we will be delayed in New York because he has to change ship's direction due to iceberg 🧊🧊warning. That was really terrifying.😮😮

[@CruiseSavvy]

😮 Yah that would be a pause for concern.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

I do the same when I am traveling. I spend time watching the movies and shows at the airport while I wait for flight.

[@SerenityInGrace]

Thank You Barb! 😊

[@CruiseSavvy]

You're welcome! Thank you for watching.

[@kimtrinh4811]

I went on Alaska Cruise last Sept with Holland America bought the internet from the Ship $14 / day x 7 days , use the on board credit pay part of this , it’s work good

[@CruiseSavvy]

Smart thinking!!

[@berhaneb7932]

Hi there I'm going next week i want to do the same as you is that unlimited $14 a day please reply thanks

[@madonnacj]

THANK YOU!

[@tmoore1144]

I am sailing on Carnival soon. I love watching KZbin videos during my down time. It sounds like I can't watch even with the best plan. Correct?

[@CruiseSavvy]

The Premium plan supports some streaming, like Netflix, but they do not specifically say they support KZbin. I have seen on SOME ships and based on the ships position, KZbin work. But it does have a lot of buffering etc and can be frustrating. So, not sure it's worth the money or effort. If you know someone that is getting the Premium plan, maybe have them test it before you dive in and pay for it. Enjoy your Cruise! Thank you for watching.

[@diamondpearlgem7589]

It supports KZbin

[@herpderp5222]

Just got off Carnival Vista. It supports KZbin

[@xyz2007123]

Thanks, 1 person and 2 devise selections saved us 72 dollars in Royal Caribbean.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Absolutely 👍🩵

[@willisbelton8397]

Great stuff! What about the new Verizon cruise at sea package?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Here’s what I know, but I suggest checking with Verizon for more details. The Verizon cruise pass is only available on select ships. It is a daily pass. $30 per device per day. Limited to 0.5gb of data if you run out of data in the 24 hr period it’s an extra $20 for .5gb more. Plus 50 minutes of talk to any destination ($1.99/minute is charged thereafter) and Unlimited texts.

[@ronh8662]

Thank you for posting this. A lot of good information in this video! I’m cruising Carnival soon. Would you know if I need to install Carnival the “Hub” app on both my iPhone and iPad to use my wifi package? This time I’d like to use the internet on the iPad as well as iPhone . Thanks.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Glad you enjoyed the video content. You shouldn’t have to download it for both devices. Just connect to the ships WiFi and login with your username and password.

[@bnmimi4ever]

Thanks so much for all your advice & great tips. 4 generations will be sailing. Myself, my daughter, granddaughter & her hubby & my great granddaughter.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Fun! Nothing better than cruising with family. Enjoy 🚢

[@alisaphillips9233]

Can you do this for Norwegian Cruise line as well?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, you still need to go on Airplane mode to connect to their WiFi. Here is a link to their internet plans so you can review www.ncl.com/onboard-packages/internet-packages

[@MBvideos553]

ATT offers two types of Cruise Packages. $100 and $60 for 30 days both are unlimited text and talk, 1 GB of media on the $100 plan.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Ahh that’s good to know. Thank you 😊

[@TravelingTheWorld1993]

I have never been on a cruise yet. But when I travel International , I never purchase any international plans packages. Because I just put my cellphone on airplane mode and use wifi to text , call and video chat for free anywhere in the world with WhatsApp. Also you can text while you are on the air with WhatsApp if you are flying with Delta , SouthWest and United Airlines.

[@CruiseSavvy]

That is the best!!! 🤩

[@KingsMama1231]

So, as long as my husband and I have WhatsApp on our iPhones and put the phones in airplane mode, we can text each other on the ship without charges?

[@critterrunranch]

what about the plans from the carriers like Verizon

[@CruiseSavvy]

Call Verizon for specifics here is what is shown online for their cruise plan - Talk: $2.99 per minute Text: $0.50 per text sent, $0.05 per text received PLUS $20 you can get 50MB of data. on select cruise ships if the ship has data service. Any data used over the 50MB mark will be charged at another $20 per 50MB of use.

[@maries7058]

Great video, also, AT&T has 2 cellular at sea plans that I usually use.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Good to know! Thanks!!

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

I’m going to find out about those too.

[@ZiagTsabChannel]

How?

[@MrWatlow]

We don’t like how carnival cruise line has changed their Internet plan to block all Wi-Fi calls. We will probably only sell three more times with carnival just to get to platinum status and then do a status match with MSC.

[@gigih4965]

Thank you Barb!🌺❤️

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you for watching! 🩵-Barb

[@carlaramon2434]

Thank you so much for this info. I have talked to several different people and no one explained as well as you did.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you @carlaramon2434 🩵🛳️ I am glad it helped you.

[@margaretk9351]

Thank you for the info reminder about Airplane card. Do you have any information about NCL? A friend told me that she had a plan under NCL for $10 a day to access WhatsApp.

[@avoid666]

Learn something everyday, thank you 🎉

[@CruiseSavvy]

You bet! Thanks for watching!

[@kirareed1865]

🎉great info, especially for those pals who are slaves to their phone and afraid to disconnect. So sick of hearing the conversations at dinners about phone use.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you 😊

[@kathleenlalonde3037]

Thank you for your informative video. I haven’t cruised in 50 years and my husband is a newbie so this is invaluable information.

[@CruiseSavvy]

You’re so welcome! I am glad to hear it is helpful. Hopefully you all get back out there soon! 🛳️

[@timothytan6874]

Have you tried the Samsung Wi-Fi sharing? Many Samsung phones have it. I have used mobile hotspot while connecting to WiFi while having cecular data off. As long as that person is with you.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Oh nice! I have not. But iMessage on iPhone is similar. Yes, as long as you’re connected to the ships WiFi. I have found on some ships it works and some it doesn’t.

[@dianerosum4306]

Does an international plan work at ports?? Can I make phone calls

[@blair7484]

Do you mean sharing phone to laptops and vice versa for example? So if I get wifi on my phone I can use the phone as a hotspot to connect my computer?

[@CruiseSavvy]

@@dianerosum4306 If you have an international plan it will work just like normal, while your in that country. It will not work on the ship once you set sail.

[@CruiseSavvy]

@@blair7484 Yes. If you have a laptop that has a data plan be sure to turn that off and strictly use the Wifi hotspot from your phone. Or log off your phone and onto the laptop using the same wifi login information.

[@richardnone5644]

when you are in a USA port your phone works just like at home NO charges . Miami, fort Lauderdale Key west so on

[@CruiseSavvy]

Correct 👍. Once you hit international waters it changes. I recommend going on airplane mode once you get on the ship because with all the excitement most people forget.😊

[@seastheday956]

Only if you are American.

[@whistlebloer8254]

When you are in the US ports, you are basically covered as you are at home. It's about 5 miles offshore before your cellular signal starts to fade and eventually go.

[@rgruenhaus]

I'm still wondering if both phones are on WiFi on the ship can you text each other through the ship's router you are both connected to?

[@whistlebloer8254]

​@@rgruenhaustexting can only work with cell tower. But you can use apps to text or call one another.

[@debbigerard4863]

Love the visuals thank you

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks 😊 glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching.

[@-22766]

Thanks for all the great info 👍like button smashed!!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Much appreciated! Thank you.

[@cynthiawilliams9324]

Wow this was great information! Can you do similar for other cruise lines? MSC Norwegian Celebrity? Thanks

[@CruiseSavvy]

I will add it to my list. Thank you for the suggestion.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

Celebrity will be like RCCL. Premium access is $35.99 pp per day for one device or $46.99 for 2 devices.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

NCL: Internet Packages ; 1 Device · 29.99. USD per day. 1 Device · 39.99. USD per day ; Add a 2nd device for an additional $15.99 USD per day/$25.99 US.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

MSC: The Browse Package for a single device costs $68.32 per device, or $9.76 per night. If I want two devices to be able to be connected through the basic package, I'd pay $6.21 more per night, totaling $111.79.

[@CruiseSavvy]

@pookerwesley

[@lisawright-minter9247]

Love this video thanks for sharing and your fur babies are adorable!

[@CruiseSavvy]

They are my sidekicks 🐶

[@nuvamusic]

Thank you! 🤗

[@CruiseSavvy]

You’re welcome 😊

[@gloria-pk2pk]

Thank you Barb:) and thank you for the sketch. It was very helpful as I am also a visual learner.

[@CruiseSavvy]

🙂 Glad it was helpful!! I am also a visual learner.

[@brendalogan6281]

I was hoping you were going to cover MSC cruises... I'm looking to see if you have another video. That may cover that cruise line, but this information was also helpful

[@CruiseSavvy]

Brenda, I have to do these videos a few cruises at a time or the video would be too long. I have not done MSC yet, but it is on the list. But, the basic rules apply no matter what cruise line you're going on, the plan prices and what they include or block are what you wanna look for. You can go directly to their website until I am able to get something out. :) www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/internet-apps Thank you so much for watching! ~ Barb

[@rhondataylor9843]

The premium does support WhatsApp calling. I’ve done it several times from the ship to land & received calls from people on the ship to me

[@CruiseSavvy]

Oh yes it does support WhatsApp it does not support Wi-Fi calling. 😊

[@lynnh4923]

Can you use WhatsApp while on the ship to call home? I did use it while we were on our last cruise to text my son. I did not know if I could have actually called him..

[@victorsatter4275]

How good is the Wi-Fi on Norwegian?

[@CruiseSavvy]

@@lynnh4923 I haven't personally tried this. Depends on the Cruise line/ship. But you can test it before you leave. Turn off your data and try calling via WhatsApp using Wifi only. If it works then you should be able to do it. Maybe someone here has tried it and can provide some more insight.

[@CruiseSavvy]

@@victorsatter4275 Hey Victor I have not sailed Norwegian yet. I have heard mixed reviews about their internet service. Some say it was bad at the beginning of their trip and got better as they went. That probably had to do with the ships location.

[@DonnaBlackburn-b4t]

Thank you this video was very helpful. I am that type of friend you were talking about.

[@CruiseSavvy]

🤣😂 it’s okay!! I am sure you know things that I don’t. You know that saying, two brains are better than one. It’s true! Thanks for watching 💙🚢

[@lauralanetaylor4731]

Question 0 so if we have the wifi plan, do we need the cruise plan from our carrier (AT&T)?

[@CruiseSavvy]

If you bought the wifi (internet) plan from the cruise line, NO you do not need another plan from AT&T. Unless you need to make calls on land in another country, then you may want an international plan. That will ONLY cover calls while in that country though, not on the ship.

[@amynguyen9360]

well done, very details, thank you for the tips !

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks!! Glad you enjoyed.

[@eegleman]

Good video! We're going on NCL in a few months. They gave each of us 300 "free minutes" of internet. Recommendation please for us using email and texting. We don't plan on making calls. Thank you

[@CruiseSavvy]

If it’s based on minutes vs days for wifi or amount of data I would try to draft several emails at a time, then send all at once. This will allow you to log on and off quickly vs being online while drafting your emails. Texting is a little more difficult because you need to be online to receive a text. Continued use would eat up your free mins very quickly.

[@eegleman]

@@CruiseSavvy Thank you so much. Very appreciated!

[@TamPredicts]

thanks for this!

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are welcome!! Have a wonderful cruise.

[@kathydavis6048]

Thank you Barb :)

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are so welcome! Glad you enjoyed.

[@maggisduron6067]

Thank you for all the info Barb, just one question with the premium package we are able to log off from one decive and log in on other one? Thanks in advance

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, you can! If you just get one device, it just means you can be on one device at a time. So log off one log into another log off that one log onto another and so on.

[@andreageorge8346]

Thank you, Barb.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks for watching!! Hope you join our channel for more.

[@frankmicallef2613]

This was a great video!!! Thank you.

[@CruiseSavvy]

You’re welcome ☺️

[@randburg3014]

WoW!!! GREAT INFO(HEADS UP); THANK YOU

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks! Enjoy your cruise 🚢

[@sct4040]

This is exactly the topic I was looking for my trip in 2 months on Princess.

[@CruiseSavvy]

I am glad it was helpful to you. 🩵🛳️

[@karanallen2528]

Thank you Barb!

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are so welcome! Appreciate the support.

[@karaholm4250]

Great information Barb, thank you!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you, appreciate the feedback. Hope to see you around the channel.

[@yvonnerivera9995]

Can we use our Starbucks gift cards on board the ship? In the Starbucks area. Thank you

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, you can use the gift cards at the Starbucks kiosk but not at Starbucks in the Royal Promenade.

[@yvonnerivera9995]

@@CruiseSavvy thank you

[@GDaEssence]

THANK YOU!! 🙏🏾 Thank you so much for the internet hack!! I saved over $100! 🙌🏾

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yah!! Glad it worked out for you 🥰

[@GDaEssence]

@@CruiseSavvy I had been using a different “hack” for the excursions by keeping watch of the prices as they got reduced, fluctuating up and down over the past few months of booking! Saved some money there too!

[@wesmorrison1211]

One thing you did not mention is that some plans include free calls in Mexico and Canada, I have T- Mobile and I have this option. Just check with your cell phone provider.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Correct, for international calling plans. These won’t work on the ship though. Those plans also include Puerto Rica.

[@ZEROOOOOOOOOOOOOOO00]

Great if you're cruising RC or CC but what about Princess lines?????

[@CruiseSavvy]

Check out comments believe we posted princess information but it works the same way. Only difference is the package Princess offers which is available on their website.

[@kellylee514]

Great info! We have a cruise coming up on Paul Gauguin in Tahiti. The ship has WiFi included , it sounds like I still need to keep my cell on airplane mode? Also should I buy the Verizon international plan for $100? We will be away 15 days. Also we have 5 days in land and WiFi is not included at hotels.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, on the ship stay on airplane mode. On land, you will need to use an international plan as you mentioned unless you find a free wifi connection. Then stay in airplane mode. Check with your cell carrier on the international plan rates just so you know what the charge will be. Sometimes it varies by country unless you have an unlimited international plan. Have a great cruise. It sounds amazing!!

[@hillrg1]

On Royal - my laptop let me setup a hotspot and use my phone connected to that. Would not let me set up the other way around - using my phone as the hotspot. Let me use 2 devices for buying 1.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Glad it worked :)

[@KevinLeigh]

Thanks for the cost saving ideas

[@CruiseSavvy]

You’re very welcome. 😊

[@Itsme-vo4fx]

How do you use your iPhone to get the onboard information and list of activities or booking restaurants without subscribing to a paid internet service?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Put your phone on airplane mode and your connect to the ships WiFi. You will be able to use their app for information, activities etc. 🛳️

[@thomascirignano]

I was hoping to hear about the NCL plans and tips. Do you talk about those elsewhere?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Not in this video but I am working on one now so stay tuned. 😊 there is some information in our comments here about NCL if you wanna look through.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Just posted new video which includes NCL. 😊

[@luxurytravelspotlight]

I put my phone in airplane mode before boarding a flight to London for a cruise. I took it off airplane mode upon returning to the USA. Verizon billed me for their international plan for one day anyway. It took 2 months for them to correct the error.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Wow! Glad you were paying attention to your bill and got credit back.

[@jjschereriv]

Loved the graphics!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks!! Glad you enjoyed it. 🫶🏻

[@sct4040]

I found out, you can book and make reservations on the TV in your cabin on Princess. Therefore, no need for wifi smart phone. I plan to call to check on my husband while i am on land only. This is my 3rd cruise, never used the iphone, but I never put it on Airplane Mode 😳. It could have been a disaster.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Oh wow! You did get lucky. Very cool about Princess. It is so nice to just unplug for a week. 😊

[@easy288]

Viking provides wifi on their river cruises. Of course, they are close to cell towers. I used an app based voip solution to make any calls. I mostly texted.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you for sharing 🥰

[@kmcbride2988]

Whats app allowed us to make FaceTime and voice calls to family back home when connected to the resort internet when in port. And we downloaded movies for my daughter prior to sailing. This allowed her to watch movies right before bedtime or while we were getting dressed. Otherwise we disconnected from social media,work etc but my family back home had the emergency number for the ship if they needed us while at sea.

[@CruiseSavvy]

This is the perfect scenario and the best way to do things!! 🥰

[@fairygril69]

I but verizon travel pass or international calling for a cruise and also use the shops wifi.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Make sure you have the plan that covers calls while at sea. Verizon has two different plans.

[@jpeachy61]

When in port, if you aren’t leaving the ship, will WFI still work say if you want to use your audible out at the pool.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes 😃

[@lifewithpugwinkle]

If using the cruse line phone in the stateroom, how do they know who is making the call, therefore, how do they know who's seapass to charge?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Great question. Seapass cards have a unique identifier (number) so when you’re making a call from your cabin you must provide that information. Check with Guest Service as it may vary by cruise line. (Just like the rates!)

[@leeann5442]

Thank you so much - this is exactly what I needed .... going on a cruise in August and your tips are super helpful from start to finish

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you. I am so glad it was helpful. Enjoy your cruise 🚢

[@BernieHarden]

​@@CruiseSavvy❤😂ßs

[@godsonteixeira6435]

What great tips..thanks for sharing

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thanks for watching! Your welcome 🤗

[@donchen199]

Great info, thanks! Is it possible to subscribe one device, then turn on hotspot on iPhone and let another device use the hotspot and save more? I suppose the phone cannot be in airplane mode in that case, so the solution for iPhone can be turn off cellular data instead from setting. Is that feasible?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Hi Don, I have tried it. I could not get it to work plus you need to be sitting right on top of your phone that your hotspotting into so if you wanna share with somebody that’s in another cabin or another deck it doesn’t tend to work because you’re too far away. I did have somebody tell me they logged in on their laptop and use their laptops hotspot for their phone and it worked, but he didn’t say if they were sitting in the same room or not. I guess it’s worth trying, but if it doesn’t work, then you’re paying more money because you’re buying the Internet on the ship pay. Also, it probably depends on the ship, if you decide to try it and it works, please let us know.

[@donchen199]

@@CruiseSavvy yeah I’ll try that next time I cruise. Believe it or not the last time we did cruise was 18 years ago as I got bad sea sick. Now I’ve decided to check my heart and other new tech therapy. Thanks and cheers😀

[@kimduncan8603]

Trying to figure this out. Been years since I’ve sailed and trying to get away for a few days. But my mother is older and she’s in an assisted living facility so I need to stay connected 24/7. Thanks most helpful. 😊

[@CruiseSavvy]

Glad it helped! Enjoy your cruise!! 🚢 Which ship are you sailing?

[@kimduncan8603]

@@CruiseSavvy sorry for not replying earlier. Just been busy and just now saw your reply. We’re going in October and have not decided yet which ship. Looking at going out of the cape at Allure of the Seas or maybe one of the MSC SHIP Seashore. I’ve never done MSC. I’m not a big Carnival fan any more. I’ve heard they are mostly pot filled booze party ships now. So, being in my late 50s I’m just not into that. I’m looking for fun and relaxation with an excellent phone connection. I can also just fly to Miami or Fort Lauderdale and go out of those areas. Any ideas on the best cruise ship for five or six days with excellent phone connections? That is really my main priority. I have to be able to fly back if my mom needs me and I don’t feel comfortable if I can’t at least check in with her and her caregivers every day. Thanks.🤗

[@CruiseSavvy]

@@kimduncan8603 Personally I would suggest Royal Caribbean over MSC. For many reasons. Their ships have Starlink Street so when you purchase the Voom package for internet you have access to the best wifi at sea. I have never had any issues with their Wi-Fi. I’ve also been a caregiver in the past and have traveled with Royal needing to communicate back home. I know the situation that you’re in and you also deserve a nice break. 🙂🙂

[@dianerosum4306]

Does an international plan work at ports. Can I make a phone call

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, if you have an international plan you can take yourself off of airplane mode and utilize your plan in port. Just remember to turn airplane mode back on once you return to the ship. 🚢

[@pookerwesley]

Any tips or info for Norwegian WiFi plans. 1st cruise to Mediterranean next year. ❤

[@CruiseSavvy]

www.ncl.com/onboard-packages/internet-packages

[@timothylee8552]

Excellent information 👍

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you! 😊 Hope it helps.

[@dchen4649]

May I use starlink on cruise ships? Thank you

[@CruiseSavvy]

Most cruise ships Wi-Fi packages are going through Starlink. You cannot bring your own mini satellite with you if that’s what you’re asking. That is not allowed.

[@Nitalou755]

Im cruising in Aug on carnival Valor for 4 days. I just want to keep in touch with person im with on ship. Can I just use ship wifi without buying internet service?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Hi, unfortunately No. Carnival restricts their WiFi to their HUB app. One option would be to connect to the free Wifi, log into the Carnival Hub and pay $5 per day to use Carnival's messenger. The problem with that is if you're not logged into their HUB you have no way of knowing you received a message. The Social Plan would be your best option. Other old school option is to use take a small white/erase board and leave it in your room so you can leave notes etc. But I get what you're saying... enjoy your cruise!!

[@djapoz5280]

Hi do walkie talkie radios work on ship to contact others?

[@gloriabailey7874]

Great info. 👍🏾

[@CruiseSavvy]

Thank you!!

[@Johnny-wo7rc]

Hi adding 4 devices to one plan do i have to pay extra or one play cover up to 4 devices?

[@CruiseSavvy]

If you purchase one device, you can log off that one device and log onto another one, you can log off of that device and log onto another one. In other words, you can log onto any device you want but only one at a time. If you need to be on multiple devices at the same time, that’s when you need to purchase multiple devices. So if you have a laptop and a cell phone you would purchase two devices if you need to be on them both at the same time. Hope that helps.

[@Johnny-wo7rc]

@@CruiseSavvy o great thank you , appreciate it.

[@skowp1]

How about Celebrity Cruise lines. Headed to Alaska this week.

[@CruiseSavvy]

All the same rules apply. Just check on their internet plans.

[@Joan-b1x]

Great informations! Thanks!

[@CruiseSavvy]

Our pleasure!

[@Funfun_d]

I heard you can turn off roaming on some phones. Is this true? I have iPhone 15.

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes , go to settings - cellular - cellular data options. You can turn roaming off here.

[@anita5572]

1 quick question, do Carnival does not have any plans that include calling? Only internet correct? Then you can use WiFi calling & airplane mode to make calls.

[@CruiseSavvy]

No, they do not. Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and FaceTime services are not supported.

[@herpderp5222]

I just got off Carnival Vista. Carnival intentionally blocks wifi calling. Had to use Whatsapp to keep in communication with everyone. Do not buy the $5 chat plan either! It worked about 2 days out of 8.

[@Newmama2142]

Do you know if carnival still lets you buy internet by day instead of buying for the whole trip?

[@CruiseSavvy]

I don’t. I know online it’s only the package for the entire cruise.

[@KK-jx2ms]

Do you stay on airplane mode while using the ship’s WiFi plan on Royal Caribbean?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes! This prevents data roaming charges.

[@crmiralles]

Yes! Super important. If you get off at a destination and do need your phone turn it off BUT do remember to turn it back on

[@jjaimegg1]

Thank you for explaining

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are very welcome 🤗

[@ridefast88]

Great idea, thank you!

[@CruiseSavvy]

You bet!

[@wallst4fun1]

Do you recommend a VPN for security while using internet at sea?

[@CruiseSavvy]

Yes, if you’re able. Many cruise ships do not allow passengers to use a VPN while on board (an exception is Norwegian, with it’s premium plan).

[@carneymelarky]

Have you done this kind of video for NCL?

[@CruiseSavvy]

@carneymelarky Today is your lucky day! I will be posting Using your Cell phone on a cruise ship 2 today. You must have spidey senses. haha

[@montgomeryclark7531]

Does Carnivals Premium allow for KZbin??? I don't know if that's considered streaming or not but I spend 80% of onlime time on YT. Thanks for your assistance.

[@CruiseSavvy]

I was able to connect to KZbin with the Premium package. It maybe ship dependent though, so if that is the only reason you would buy the plan I would give Carnival a call and verify. Here is what their website states: The Premium Supports apps like Zoom, Skype and Team video calling, where coverage allows. Supports video and music streaming (i.e. Hulu, Spotify, Pandora). Netflix can be viewed through your Netflix account/app. Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and FaceTime services are also not supported.

[@Busybee0804]

I think premium supports WhatsApp calling which includes FaceTime.

[@herpderp5222]

On Carnival Vista Premium, Whatsapp: Calling/Texting - Working Wifi calling: Blocked by Carnival KZbin: Working

[@joellbury2834]

Thank you barb ❤️

[@CruiseSavvy]

You are very welcome 🤗