While the idea of disconnecting and unwinding is appealing, staying in touch or accessing essential information can still be a priority. Fear not, fellow travelers! Angie from Trips with Angie is here to navigate the often-confusing waters of cell phone use on cruise ships, ensuring you stay connected smartly and avoid any unexpected bill shock.

This week's burning question revolves around how to effectively use your smartphone while cruising. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time cruiser, understanding the nuances of cruise ship Wi-Fi, airplane mode, and international roaming is crucial for a stress-free voyage. Let's dive into the essential steps to keep you connected at sea and in port!



Step 1: Mastering Airplane Mode - Your First Line of Defense

The moment you step onboard your magnificent cruise liner, your first action should be to engage airplane mode on your cell phone. This simple step is your primary shield against hefty international roaming charges that can quickly accumulate as your phone searches for cellular networks at sea.

Not sure how to activate it? Don't worry! Here's a quick guide using a Google Pixel as an example:

  1. Open your phone's internet settings.
  2. Look for the airplane mode toggle and click to turn it on.

Once in airplane mode, your phone's cellular capabilities are disabled, preventing it from connecting to potentially expensive maritime networks.

Step 2: Connecting to the Ship's Wi-Fi - Accessing Essential Services (and More!)

Even in airplane mode, you can still connect to the ship's Wi-Fi network. This is essential for accessing valuable onboard resources, often without needing to purchase an internet package. Let's take Princess Cruises as an example:

  1. In your phone's internet settings, ensure Wi-Fi is turned on.
  2. Select the Wi-Fi network that corresponds to your cruise ship.

Connecting to the ship's Wi-Fi grants you access to the Cruise Line app. Angie highly recommends downloading your specific Cruise Line app before you even leave for your trip. These apps are packed with useful information, including daily schedules, deck maps, dining reservations, and importantly, communication tools. You can often chat with guest services and even book shore excursions directly through the app, potentially bypassing long lines at the shore excursion desk. Best of all, accessing the Cruise Line app via the ship's Wi-Fi is typically free of charge – you don't need to buy a separate internet package for this functionality!

Unlocking Full Connectivity: Wi-Fi Packages for Email and Apps

While the ship's Wi-Fi allows free access to the Cruise Line app, using your email, social media, and other apps requires purchasing a Wi-Fi package. On Princess Cruises, this service is called Medallion Net. Here's how to access it through the app:

  1. Open your Cruise Line app.
  2. Look for an internet link (often found in the upper right corner on the Princess app).
  3. Navigate to Medallion Net.
  4. Click "browse the internet" to connect and choose a package or activate pre-purchased internet.

You might have already included a Wi-Fi package in your cruise booking. If so, you'll simply need to activate it within the app. You can also purchase Wi-Fi packages once you're onboard. If you encounter any difficulties connecting, don't hesitate to seek assistance from the designated help desks located throughout the ship.

Step 3: Navigating Port Days - Utilizing International Travel Plans

What happens when your cruise ship docks in an exciting new port? Many travelers are eager to use their phones for navigation, communication, and sharing their adventures. Before you simply turn off airplane mode, consider the potential for international roaming charges.

Fortunately, major phone companies like Verizon and AT&T often offer international travel plans. These plans typically allow you to use your phone in other countries for a daily fee, often ranging between $10 and $15. It's worth noting that many American plans include coverage in Canada and Mexico without any extra daily charges, so you can often use your phone there just as you would at home.

Here's your port day action plan:

  1. Before your cruise departs, contact your phone company to inquire about their international travel plan options.
  2. Sign up for a plan that suits your needs and the destinations on your itinerary in advance.
  3. Once you arrive in port, you can safely turn off airplane mode (using the same method you used to turn it on).
  4. Enjoy using your phone as you normally would within the coverage of your international plan.
  5. Crucially, remember to turn airplane mode back on as soon as you re-board the ship and reconnect to the ship's Wi-Fi if needed.

Stay Connected, Cruise Confidently!

Navigating cell phone use on a cruise ship doesn't have to be a daunting task. By understanding the importance of airplane mode, how to utilize the ship's Wi-Fi (especially for your Cruise Line app), and the benefits of researching and activating international travel plans for port days, you can stay connected seamlessly throughout your cruise vacation without the worry of unexpected charges. Follow these simple steps from Angie's expert advice, and enjoy smooth sailing and connected cruising!