carnival cruise line wifi

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Carnival cruise wi-fi: plans, access, and sharing.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Carnival offers three different Wi-Fi plans: Social Plan, Value Plan, and Premium Plan.
• The cost of Wi-Fi access on Carnival depends on when it is purchased and the length of access, with discounts available for pre-purchasing.
• To access the internet on Carnival, passengers need to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network and then log in using their folio number and birthdate.
• The speed of Carnival’s Wi-Fi service can vary, but the Premium plan offers speeds ranging from 6-12 Mbps. However, web browsing may be sluggish and video and image loading times may be delayed.

Wi-Fi Plans on Carnival

Accessing Wi-Fi on Carnival

Cost of wi-fi access on carnival.

Speed of Carnival’s Wi-Fi Service

Sharing wi-fi access on carnival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i use wi-fi calling on carnival’s premium plan, are there any time restrictions for using wi-fi on carnival cruises, can i stream videos from hulu on carnival’s premium plan, is there a limit to the number of devices i can connect to carnival’s wi-fi network, can i access wi-fi in my stateroom or is it only available in public areas.

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Meet Asra, a talented and adventurous writer who infuses her passion for exploration into every word she writes. Asra’s love for storytelling and her insatiable curiosity about the world make her an invaluable asset to the Voyager Info team. From a young age, Asra was drawn to the power of words and their ability to transport readers to far-off lands and magical realms. Her fascination with travel and cultures from around the globe fueled her desire to become a travel writer, and she set out on a journey to turn her dreams into reality.

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Wonder of the Seas: A Spectacular Inaugural Voyage

• The Wonder of the Seas has a maximum guest capacity of 6,988 and is 1,188 feet long.
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• The first night of the cruise offers exciting activities and there are attractions on Deck 5 promenade and in the Boardwalk Neighborhood.
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Carnival Cruise WiFi: Ultimate Guide To Carnival WiFi Plans

Imagine Cruising without the internet. No media uploading and no calling. Sounds weird, right? It’s totally abnormal for me as I strongly believe that “Life without the internet is like paralysis.”

But don’t worry. Carnival Cruises offers onboard Internet packages of different prices and quality. Depending on your preferences, these include social media, value, and premium packages.

But hold on! These packages are expensive and unsuitable for streaming videos or other high-bandwidth activities. So, before purchasing, knowing what you’re getting and what you need is important. 

So hang on, my fellow cruisers. I’ve covered all your questions regarding Carnival Cruise WiFi in this article.

Also, at the end, I’ve shared my tips and tricks related to Carnival WiFi that will offer convenience and help you save on your budget.

So, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

How Much Do Carnival Wifi Packages Cost?

Carnival offers different WiFi packages based on your needs and preferences. Each package has its charges and speeds.

The packages range from $12.75 per day to $30 per day. Prices may vary depending on the type of cruise and the duration of the cruise.

But you can also opt for the full vacation WiFi package, which costs less. I highly recommend this option as I’ve personally used it.

Amazingly, there’s also a bonus from Carnival: if you buy any package before boarding, you’ll get a 15% discount as a gift. Remember, you must purchase before getting on board to avail of this offer.

What Are The Available Carnival Wifi Packages?

Carnival WiFi offers three different internet packages depending on your needs. These are social, value, and premium.

1- The Social Plan

If you’re someone like me and love constantly uploading on social media, there’s a specific plan just for your needs: the “social” plan.

With this option, you’ll have access to various social media platforms, enabling you to stay connected with friends and share your cruise experiences.

Keep in mind that you can’t make video calls on this plan. I faced a major misunderstanding, but now I’m sharing this insight with you so that you can stay informed.

The popular social package also allows access to popular airline sites, enabling you to check in for your flight towards the end of your cruise.

The price of this social plan is $15 per day. But if you purchase it before boarding, it will cost you $12.75 per day.

The entire cruise costs $89.25 (pre-purchase). Most importantly, buying a 24-hour pass for the Social Wi-fi plan is impossible.

• Allow usage for Snapchat, FaceBook Messenger, WhatsApp, and other platforms

2- The Value Plan

The Value Plan is for people who enjoy browsing their favorite websites while accessing social media during the cruise.

So, if you’re someone needing to check Linkedin, emails, or handle other important stuff on websites, the Value Plan is your go-to. Its cost after boarding is $20, but if purchased beforehand, it’s only $17. For a 7-day cruise, it totals $119.

It’s also available as a 24-hour pass, priced at $22 per day. Unfortunately, video or music streaming is not supported by this plan.

• Decent Speed
• Allow surfing
• Don’t allow video calling and streaming

3- The Premium Plan

The Premium Plan is the top tier offering from Carnival Cruise, providing faster and broader service compared to the Social and Value packages.

Its major advantage lies in access to video and music streaming. It also supports video calling on platforms like Skype and Zoom, wherever coverage allows.

This package is available before boarding for $18.70 per person per day. However, if you purchase it after boarding, the price increases to $22 daily. For a seven-day trip, the total cost would amount to $130.90

For the 24-hour pass, the daily costs rise to $30. This could save you money if you only need access on specific days.

• Support Skype, Zoom, etc, for video calling
• Allow streaming

Are There Different Speed Options With Carnival WiFi Packages?

Yes. Each Carnival Cruise WiFi package offers different speeds. The Premium plan stands out as the fastest service, providing speeds up to three times faster than the Social and Value plans.

I opted for the Premium plan during my cruise, and its speed was truly impressive. I experienced no connection problems while video and music streaming or conducting video calls. It delivered an excellent performance overall.

While the Value Plan does offer decent speed, it doesn’t come closer to the Premium plan. Also, the Value Plan doesn’t support video calls and streaming due to its lower bandwidth.

How Fast Is The Internet On Carnival Cruise?

The internet speed on Carnival Cruise ships can vary. It depends on where the ship is, how many people are using it, and the internet plan you bought. 

You might not get super-fast speeds like at home, but it works okay for basic things like social media or emails. 

Newer ships have better Internet, up to 1-2 mbps on older ones and 8-10 mbps on newer ones, especially those with Starlink.

The problem isn’t just speed; it’s also about “latency.” This is around 40-60 milliseconds at home, but on regular ship Wi-Fi, it’s slower at about 700 milliseconds. This causes buffering and frustration.

On Starlink-equipped ships, I tested and found faster speeds of around 35 milliseconds. This made watching Netflix and Amazon Prime smooth without any issues.

If your room is on a lower deck, like Cove Balconies , you might have a slower internet speed compared to upper decks because of better satellite communication. So, consider that when choosing your cabin if you and yours care about internet speed.

Can You Call Home?

If you have the Premium Plan, you can make calls to your love ones and home using apps like FaceTime audio, Skype, or WhatsApp. 

If your phone can make calls over WiFi, you can use that feature with the Premium Plan. I use T-Mobile, and I put my phone on airplane mode when I get on the ship. 

Then, I turn on the T-Mobile WiFi so my phone works like a normal phone using the ship’s Internet. WiFi calling doesn’t use your cell data, just the Internet. AT&T also has WiFi calling.

Can I Purchase Carnival WiFi Packages Before the Cruise?

Yes. Purchasing a Carnival WiFi package before the cruise is the best time, as you get a 15% discount on every plan.

I also purchased the Premium Plan before boarding, which costs me $18.70 per day instead of $22.

Is There a Carnival WiFi Device Limit?

Carnival Cruise WiFi typically has a restriction on the number of devices connected to a single WiFi package at a time. However, this limit depends on the specific package purchased.

Some packages are to be connected at a time, while others could allow multi-device to be connected concurrently. 

The package I purchased only provides Internet to a single device at a time. If someone else was using my package, I could disconnect their access when I logged in. With this feature, I could control the device linked to my WiFi package.

Can You Use a VPN On Carnival Cruise WiFi?

I know many people are concerned about VPN usage, especially on using public Wi-Fi. So that’s something really important to know on cruise ships. But Carnival Cruise line does say that they are safe and secure. 

However, most cruise ships do not allow you to use a VPN on cruise ship WiFi. 

However, Norwegian Cruise Line allows VPN usage on their WiFi. However, I’m unsure whether it works for all their plans or the only premium one.

Are There Any Free Wifi Access Points Onboard A Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line typically offers internet access through their WiFi packages, but there are several tricks you can use to access free WiFi points.

During my cruise, a lot of people were searching for a free WiFi spot, and some of my fellows were asking me to turn on my WiFi hotspot.

From all these experiences, I’ve compiled a list of ways to access free WiFi without purchasing it. 

• Ask your fellow cruiser to share device WiFi (If he has purchased the package)
• Search for the local restaurant with a free WiFi spot
• Take help from Crew members
• Walk up to the open decks to pick up a signal from the local area or port
• Look for the Bars with Free WiFi in Port

The Alternative Of Carnival Cruise Line Wi-Fi: Carnival Hub App

Back in 2015, Carnival Cruise Line introduced the HUB app. At first, it lets guests do simple stuff like reading a digital Fun Times, checking account balances, and seeing the weather at ports.

Spend $5 for the whole cruise on the Carnival Hub app for chatting with onboard friends and family.

Now, the app does a lot more:

• Complete cruise check-in
• Begin the mandatory muster drill
• Order food for delivery to most spots on the ship
• Read restaurant menus and make dining reservations
• View ship maps
• Chat with cruise companions
• Purchase things such as shore excursions, drink packages, and wifi packages

You can grab the app from the Google Play Store or iTunes. Getting it before you board to dodge hefty fees from your cell phone provider is a good idea.

You don’t have to buy the Internet to use the app.

How Do You Avoid Mobile Phone Charges At Sea?

The simplest way is to put your phone in “airplane mode.” Then, go to your device settings and turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This way, your smartphone can still connect with your other devices. 

It’s a good idea to tell your friends and family that you’re doing this. Just in case they need to reach you while you’re away.

How To Join Carnival Wi-Fi Packages?

Getting Wi-Fi on the ship is easy. 

Just check your laptop or personal device’s Wi-Fi settings. You’ll see a list of available networks. Look for “Carnival Vista Wi-Fi” or “Carnival Guest Wi-Fi.” 

Choose that network. Once connected, a window will pop up asking for your folio number and date of birth. Enter those, then click login. 

After that, click confirm, and you’re online. If you’re using a laptop and don’t see the prompts, open your browser and go to carnivalwifi.com. If you have trouble connecting, Guest Services can help you out.

Does Carnival Use Starlink, And Why Should I Care?

Carnival is rolling out Starlink Internet across its ships, offering a better onboard Internet experience.

Starlink, Elon Musk’s project, provides faster Internet using satellite technology at lower costs and higher speeds.

Many cruise lines, including Carnival, upgrade their onboard Internet using Starlink. It theoretically offers faster speeds than older cruise ship Internet. However, cruise IT departments manage speeds to ensure stability when many passengers are online.

On my recent cruise, the onboard Internet was upgraded to Starlink. For the first time, I stopped complaining about slow download speeds. It wasn’t lightning-fast, but it was more stable and less frustrating. Upload speed had also improved.

If you’ve had issues with cruise Wi-Fi before, check if your ship has switched to Starlink before purchasing Wi-Fi.

Which Carnival Ships Have Starlink?

• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista
• Carnival Jubilee (future ship to be equipped with Starlink)

Can I Upgrade Or Change My Carnival Wi-fi Plan During The Cruise?

You can upgrade or change your Carnival WiFi package during the cruise. Visit the Guest Services desk onboard the ship, and they’ll assist you in switching to a different WiFi package if needed.

Tips For Maximizing The Usage Of Carnival Internet Plan

Here are my tips for making the most of your Carnival WiFi package:

• Purchase the WiFi Package before boarding
• Choose package wisely
• Manage devices
• Optimize usage
• Access WiFi during less crowded hours
• Look for ships with improved internet networks like Starlink

Expert Tips And Hints When Using Carnival Cruise WiFi

Here are some simple tips for using Carnival Cruise WiFi:

• Plan for Savings: Buy your WiFi plan before your cruise to save around 15% and ensure full coverage.
• Save Money on Port Days: Consider getting WiFi only on sea days. Use free WiFi in ports to save money.
• Share Connection Wisely: Share WiFi with friends but agree on times to avoid disconnecting each other.
• Affordable Chat Service: Spend $5 for the whole cruise on the Carnival Hub app to chat with onboard friends and family.
• Device Usage Limit: One device at a time on the plan, but multiple devices can use it. You might have to kick someone off if they’re already using it.
• Streaming Services Use: Some say no, but I used Amazon Music without issues. Download Netflix shows before the cruise for smoother watching.
• Easy Chat Purchase: Pay $5 onboard for the chat feature, billed directly to your Sail & Sign account.
• Guest Services Help: If internet issues arise, go to Guest Services. They might refund charges if your device isn’t connecting.

Is Carnival WiFi Worth It?

Simply put, no. But the real answer depends on you! Carnival WiFi is pricier than what we’re used to at home. Whether it’s worth it depends on your needs.

Is Carnival’s WiFi Ever On Sale Or Discounted?

No, Carnival’s WiFi isn’t on sale or discounted regularly. However, they offer a 15% discount if you purchase the WiFi package before boarding.

How Reliable Is The WiFi Connection Provided By Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line claims its WiFi is safe and secure, but its reliability can vary. It’s generally okay for basic tasks, but streaming might not be smooth. Remember that it might not be as secure or consistent as you’re used to at home.

Final Words

Hopefully, you should be clear about the Carnival Cruise WiFi questions.

In conclusion, if you really need internet on a cruise, go with any of the packages depending on your needs. Otherwise, just throw your mobile in a safe and enjoy a cruise vacation.

However, if you’re considering the Carnival WiFi package, buy it before boarding, as it will cost 15% less than onboard pricing.

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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• Cruise Advice

Carnival Cruise Line WiFi Prices and Plans Detailed

Doug Parker

• July 10, 2018

The folks at Carnival Cruise Line know that many passengers need the internet, whether on vacation or not.

It might be great if we could all disconnect when we set sail, but some of us can’t… and most of us won’t. So, every ship in the fleet is outfitted with wireless internet, which can be purchased.

But how much will it cost and what are the various packages? That’s what nearly every cruiser wants to know, and that’s what we’re here today to answer.

When the internet was first rolled out on cruise ships in the early 2000s, guests had to go to a workstation — usually, a bank of computers set just off the atrium — in order to access the web.

Back then, there was almost always a full-time employee of the satellite company, which provided internet access to assist you with getting online and any billing discrepancies.

READ MORE: 11 Reasons to Download Carnival’s Hub App

These days, connecting to the internet is far simpler, and it’s almost hard to imagine a time when we couldn’t just pop open our laptop on the balcony of our stateroom and check our email or use our smartphone to make everyone back home jealous with a few great selfies.

So let’s dive in and discuss what you need to know about accessing the web — and how much it will cost — during your next cruise on a Carnival ship.

Note: This article was originally published in July 2018. It was updated in December 2023.

Carnival Cruise Internet Pricing and Packages

There are three different internet packages for you to choose from while onboard. Which one is best for you will depend entirely on what you’re looking to do. Some people just want to check Facebook and send out tweets, while others want to watch movies or Skype with the office.

Remember that all internet plans are offered at a reduced rate if you purchase them before your cruise. In order to do so, all you need to do is sign onto your account at Carnival.com and click on the Cruise Manager page.

You can also head to Carnival.com/FunShops and find information on internet packages there. If you’d rather wait to buy until you’re on board — which will cost you more than you’ll pay if you pre-purchase — you can do so through the HUB app.

As we discuss the various programs and pricing options, note that all prices are listed in US dollars. The pricing we discuss here will be the pre-cruise cost.

Breakdown of Carnival WiFi Plans

As of December 8, 2023, the Social Plan is $15.30 per day, allowing unlimited access to the most popular social networking sites. This is for people who want to use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Messenger, Snapchat, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and similar websites/apps.

You’re also able to access airline apps to check in for your flight. Some of the airline applications currently supported are American, Delta, Southwest, United, Spirit, Southwest, Air Canada, Allegiant, Hawaii Airlines, and West Jet.

This plan is good for the basic internet user. It can be used on multiple devices, but only by signing out on one before signing in on another. But if little Johnny and Susie are both going to want to be on their phones at the same time, you’ll need separate plans.

As of December 8, 2023, the Value Plan is $19.95 per day and gives you access to all the social sites mentioned above, plus email, online banking, news, lifestyle, sports, and weather websites. Neither the value nor social plans provide access to streaming of any kind.

This plan is good for the moderate internet user looking to stay connected via social media while also perusing the web.

The Premium Plan starts at $21.25 per day and offers social and value plans and internet streaming. Carnival boasts that this plan is three times faster than the value plan and lets you use Skype, Zoom, and Teams video calling.

I’ve also used Facebook Video and FaceTime with this plan, and it worked well when not many people were on. 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. seemed the optimal time for video streaming. This plan is a good choice for someone who needs to be fully connected or has to work on vacation.

How strong a signal you get on the various plans can vary greatly from ship to ship. For instance, Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon have upgraded bandwidth to allow more people to surf and stream video.

When I sailed Carnival Magic in early 2018, the WiFi was awful. Even on the Premium Plan, it was pulling only around .04 Mbps. (For those of you who aren’t technically minded, suffice it to say it was really slow.)

All about the Carnival HUB App

In 2015, Carnival Cruise Line launched the HUB app, which allowed guests to get online and do basic things like read an electronic version of the Fun Times, check their account balance, and see what the weather was like in their ports of call.

Now, however, the functionality of the app has been vastly approved, allowing guests to do things such as:

• Complete cruise check-in
• Begin the mandatory muster drill
• Order food for delivery to most spots on the ship
• Read restaurant menus and make dining reservations
• View ship maps
• Chat with cruise companions
• Purchase things such as shore excursions, drink packages, and wifi packages

READ MORE: Review: Does Carnival Mardi Gras Live Up To The Hype?

The app is currently available to download from the Google Play Store and iTunes. It is suggested that guests download the app before they get on the ship in order to avoid being charged huge fees by their cell phone service provider during their sailing.

Passengers do not need to purchase internet to use the app.

How fast is the internet?

Right off the bat, know this: the cruise ship is receiving the internet signal via satellite. What does that mean? Well, the ship is constantly moving, so the signal is being transmitted to a moving target.

How fast the internet is while you’re on board will depend on several factors, including the ship’s itinerary, how many of your fellow passengers are also trying to access the signal, and — perhaps most importantly — which plan you purchased.

It’s safe to say that you won’t usually enjoy the same internet speeds you have back home. (Unless, of course, you have a crappy provider back home.)

However, if you’re trying to do everyday things like check Facebook, send an email (without a lot of attachments), or load a weather app, you’ll be fine. Heavier-loading websites and smartphone apps may require a bit of patience.

Can I call home?

If you have the Premium Plan, you will be able to call home using a voice or video app such as FaceTime audio, Skype, or WhatsApp. If your phone has a WiFi-enabled calling and texting feature, you can also use that if you have purchased the Premium Plan.

I use T-Mobile, and the first thing I do when I get onto the ship is put my phone on airplane mode.

I then turn on the T-Mobile WiFi so that when my phone is connected to the ship’s internet system, it will essentially function as a regular phone. WiFi calling does not use cell phone data, merely the internet. AT&T also offers WiFi calling.

Carnival WiFi Tips and Tricks

• Purchase the plan before you leave to save money (around 15%).
• Each plan will allow you to use as many devices as you like, but only one at a time. So, if several people share the plan, only one can be logged onto a device at any time.
• If you go to log in and someone else is already on the plan, it will ask you if you’d like to kick them off in order to gain access. On the plus side, if Mom or Dad wants to use the internet, they can easily boot their Twitter-obsessed kids off.
• The website says that streaming services such as Netflix and Spotify aren’t able to be accessed, but I was able to use Amazon Music during my workouts without any issues.
• If you figure a cruise is the perfect time to binge-watch something from Netflix, download the series before you leave home. Even if, by some chance, you were able to get it to work on board, the streaming would be as slow as molasses.
• The $5 chat feature is a super-affordable way to stay connected with your travel companions during the cruise. You can purchase it once you’re onboard, and it will be billed directly to your Sail & Sign account.
• If you’re having internet issues of any kind, take your device to guest services and dispute the charges. They’ll usually refund your money if you can prove that your device is not connecting.

READ NEXT: 10 Secrets And Money-Saving Tips The Cruise Lines Don’t Usually Tell You

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Carnival Cruise WiFi Internet Packages Prices

Read our review about Carnival cruise Internet Access prices and Carnival Cruise Line's new WiFi rates, unlimited Internet package and WiFi cost. All Carnival Cruise Lines ships provide the Internet via a satellite connection. Onboard access is facilitated through Internet Cafe and shipwide WiFi coverage. Passengers can use (without any restrictions) their personal laptops, iPhones, smartphones and other WiFi-equipped devices on the Fun Ships.

In late-December 2018 was signed a contract with Speedcast (the world's largest global satellite comm provider) to improve fleet connectivity at sea. By this contract, Carnival increased the fleet's bandwidth in order to provide the highest-quality Internet at sea. Utilizing a total of 40 mini-satellites, Carnival now has the world's largest maritime satellite network. Specifically for Carnival, Speedcast developed the TrueBeam system, which constantly looks for weaknesses that would impact the satellite signal and instantly reroutes it to avoid interruptions. Such interruptions could be weather (“rain fade”), overcrowded networks and line-of-sight blockage.

Carnival cruise WiFi rates, Unlimited Internet

Carnival ship's Wireless Internet Service is a Wireless 802.11b card compatible (standard). Onboard, VPN access is restricted to connections of types different then IPsec or PPTP connections.

Unlimited Internet package

Since July 2015, Carnival offers “massively popular, faster, cheaper and all-round brilliant Internet packages” that initially cost just US$5 per day. The “Social” Internet plan allows connecting only to social networks - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat and other similar websites. Discounted plans are available for the entire voyage.

• Carnival's unlimited Internet access plans (connected 24/7) are now available fleetwide. These plans can be used on all personal devices (and the ship's Internet Cafe) anytime throughout the voyage - until debarkation. Once purchased there are no refunds.
• In May 2016, Carnival Australia introduced faster and cheaper Internet and social media Internet packages on the Australia-based ships Legend and Spirit . The improved internet access offers increased bandwidth and speed. The “value package” (cost AUD 30 per day) offers unlimited Internet. The faster “premium package” (cost AUD 50 per day) allows Skype video calls. The new "social media package" (cost AUD 15 per day) offers unlimited access to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter.
• Additional discounted plans for Internet access are available for the entire voyage. The new packages follow the company's 2015-launched "Selfies at Sea" phone app. Available for download (free of charge) at Android and Apple stores, the new mobile app collates a series of photos taken on the ship into a mini-movie which can be shared on social media channels.

NEW Carnival cruise ship Wi-Fi plans

In 2017, Carnival updated the cruise ship WiFi service fleetwide, introducing the option to pre-purchase both WiFi and Internet packages online.

Starting April 19, 2017, the company offers pre-purchasing internet plans (first introduced on Carnival Fascination and Carnival Vista , fleetwide rollout by mid-summer 2017). The option is available via "Manage My Booking’ (tab at Carnival.com) where customers can select a package for the itinerary duration.

Carnival's new Wi-Fi plans can be purchased (at discounted rates) by fully booked customers for either the entire itinerary or for a day (24-hour period). Daily packages are also available for shipboard purchasing.

In December 2023, CCL increased the Social Plan's onboard price from US$15 to $18 per person per day. The Value Plan now costs US$23 (up from $20), while the Premium Plan is priced at US$25 (from $22).

With pPre-purchasing Wi-Fi prior to boarding, the Social Plan costs $15.30 (previously $12.75), the Value Plan costs US$19.55 (up from $17), and the Premium Plan costs US$21.25 (up from $18.70).

NOTE : On November 2, 2018, Carnival raised the price of its basic internet plan by 60%. The new price for the "social media package" was US$8 per day ($6,80 per day if pre-purchased prior departure). Day plans for this package are not available - must be purchased cruise-long package. The old price for the social media package was US$5 per day ($4 per day if pre-purchased).

WiFi package cost USD 12 per day, with a discount price of US$10,25 (if pre-purchased prior departure). Premium WiFi package cost USD 17.70 per day ($14,88 if pre-purchased).

For both WiFi plans are available 24-hour / daily rates, respectively, $16 and $25.

• "Social Package" (cost US$8 per day) offers access to the most popular applications and websites, including Facebook (and Facebook Messenger), Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Linkedin, WhatsApp, plus the most popular airline websites. The Social plan doesn't include Snapchat, Facetime, iMessage, in-app calling or access to any other apps or websites.
• "Value Package" (cost US$12 per day, or US$10.25 if pre-purchased) offers access to all websites and apps, including e-mail, news, banking, sports, weather, all social media. The Value plan doesn't support music and video streaming or Skype calling (bandwidth-intensive services).
• "Premium Package (cost US$17.70 per day, or US$14.88 if pre-purchased) offers the fastest possible Internet connection. Depending on the coverage, speeds can be up to 3 times faster compared to the "Value Package". The Premium plan includes all apps and websites, plus streaming services and Skype video calling.

Booked passengers can upgrade from one plan to another and are also allowed to use multiple devices per plan (including the ship's onboard computers), but only on one device at a time. All the new Carnival WiFi plans do not include video streaming (Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime) and don't support WiFi Calling (voice calls via the ship's Wi-Fi network) and Facetime (Apple's video telephony) services. Printing services on the ship are provided at no charge.

Cruise Internet package prices

Note: The above-listed Internet package plans are currently offered not on all ships in the fleet, but only on Dream, Glory, and Magic. The Breeze was excluded from this indeed small list. The line's official excuse is the slow satellite connection speeds at sea.

Carnival cruise Internet access, packages

All Carnival Internet access charges are billed directly to the guest's onboard S&S account. These packages are transferable between the terminals in the Internet Cafe and guests' personal Internet devices. Carnival Internet packages are called "Time Plans" and can be used anytime throughout the sailing until debarkation. Instructions on creating an account and pricing information will be provided (Internet Cafe/ personal device) once you connect to the ship's Wi-Fi network.

• IMPORTANT: All minutes don't have to be used in a single session. All unused minutes will be lost. Plan upgrade for a pre-selected package is not available.
• activation fee (one-time charge) US $3,95 (applied to each user on her/his first login only).
• 480 min package $159 ($0,33 per minute)
• 240 min package $89 ($0,37/min)
• 120 min package price $59 ($0,49/min)
• 45 min package $29 ($0,64/min)
• Internet per minute cost ("Pay As You Go") $0,75/min.
• the cost of printing (per page in the Internet Cafe) $0,50.
• (additional) CruisE-mail® cost $3,95 for each sent message (no additional charges for received messages). This is the Carnival's personalized e-mail service for guests who either don't have or are unable to access their own e-mail.
• The above Internet prices are for all the Carnival cruise fleet.
• Internet account information (instructions and pricing) are present on-screen in the Internet Cafe, and also on your personal Internet device once you connect to the Carnival WiFi on the ship. Carnival Internet prices are identical, whether the guest uses the Internet on the Cafe's terminals or on their own laptops or other WiFi devices. All Internet access charges are billed directly to the guest's "Sail & Sign" accounts.
• Carnival Internet Time Plans are transferable between the Internet Cafe's computers and the guests' personal devices. There is no refund for unused minutes. Upgrading a pre-selected cruise Internet package is not permitted.

iPhones/Blackberries Internet access - either by using the cellular network (at the international data rates of their carrier) or the Carnival WiFi access (at the same time plan rates).

Cruise ship laptop rentals are available on Dream, Magic, Breeze, and Vista - a limited number of laptops for rent for $9/day or complimentary with the 480 or 240 min plans. A $50 deposit will be charged on your S&S card (refunded upon returning the device, optional insurance for $10/day). On all other ships in the fleet, laptops are also available for rent - $10/day, complimentary with Time Plans, $50 deposit, optional insurance $10/day.

Carnival cruise Internet cost-cutting tips

• before the sailing convert your email settings to basic (less graphic intense)
• if you're planning to work online while sailing, discuss VPN limitations with your firm's IT specialist (Carnival will not be able to change settings onboard).
• packing checklist: WiFi-enabled laptop/mobile devices, power supply (for each of your devices), data cables, headphones.
• You can connect to a free WiFi when the ship is at call ports - ask some from the crew where. There's also free WiFi on the ship, but it's relatively slow (public areas offer much better connection / stronger signals than cabins).
• phone calls from a Carnival ship cost $2 per minute (the charge through "Cellular at Sea" is $2,50 per minute). And remember:
• 1 - the satellite Internet is a lot slower than the high-speed connection onshore (your data must be transmitted over a slow signal to a satellite 22000 ml above you, then the satellite bounces your data back down to the exchange). Tip: the onboard Internet speed is much better in the early morning (5 to 8 AM) and also around dinner times (6 to 10 PM).
• 2 - the onboard Internet access is not guaranteed at all times (satellite communications are subject to disruptions due to weather patterns/location)
• 3 - (some excerpts from forum reviews) "extremely slow", "slower than dial-up", "minutes are eaten pretty quickly", "because of the connection sometimes not everything is sent".
• 4 - Verizon text message prices on cruise ships (international messaging): sent ($0,25 text, $0,50 data) and received ($0,20 text & $0,25 data).

Carnival's WiFi Internet technology

The line's owner Carnival Corporation started rolling out the WiFi@Sea Internet across technology not exclusively to Carnival Cruise Lines ships, but to all its brand lines fleets. The new technology features a hybrid connectivity (satellite and land-based data) system. It combines bandwidth with several available for pre-purchasing Internet plans, different levels of pricing and also new Internet packages.

The process of implementing the new system started in 2014. Carnival Corp's largest brand - the Carnival cruise line - was the first that moved from the traditional pay-as-you-go Internet (USD 0,75 per minute, or discounted Internet packages) to pay-per-day packages. The cheapest is the "social" package priced US$5 per-day allowing access to popular websites and apps. Next is the "value" package US$16 per day (with restrictions for some intensive websites). The third "premium" package costs US$25 per day (with full web access and guaranteed fast speeds).

The new Carnival "cruise WiFi" system is first-of-its-kind in the passenger shipping industry It's an enhanced (high-speed) hybrid wireless network service to be rolled out to all ships in the fleets of all 9 Carnival brand lines. The new system is expected to encourage the interest in ship cruising among the new tech-savvy generation. The new plans already show better penetration and higher usage rates. The new system allows a greater number of mobile devices, while the new Internet pricing is easier to understand.

This unique system integrates land-based, strategically located antennas (installed along the cruise itinerary routes), advanced satellites (over 31 satellite systems) and cruise port Wi-Fi connections, forming the Carnival's "smart hybrid" network. The system gives cruise passengers the highest possible strength of signal and bandwidth capacity. The new network provides Internet connectivity speeds 10 times faster than previously offered by Carnival.

All system upgrades, hardware changes, and new Internet equipment installations were done during the ships' dry-dock refurbishments .

In February 2018, Carnival Corporation partnered with SES Networks to provide the industry's biggest bandwidth to a mobile shipboard platform (first introduced on Regal Princess ). The new technology broke all previous myths about connectivity limitations at sea. The fastest cruise ship internet remained affordable (priced at USD 10 per day). The technology combines the SES Networks satellites with the MedallionNet and provides bandwidth of minimum 1,5 gigabits per second to the vessel. The tests were done on February 26, 2018, while Regal Princess was docked at the private island Princess Cays Bahamas . During the tests was reached Internet speed of 2,6 gigabits per second. Regal Princess is one of the "Medallion-class" Carnival Corporation ships linked to the company's MedallionNet.

Carnival cruise ship Internet Cafe

The Internet Cafe is open 24-hours, as a venue, it features private PC terminals (Windows XP) for web browsing, chat, and e-mail services. For guests convenience, there is an Internet Cafe Manager for assistance. Here passengers can browse through the following Carnival's "free of charge websites": Carnival.com, GoCCL.com, JohnHealdsBlog.com, CellularAtSea.com, and BarclayCardus.com (Carnival World MasterCard).

All these websites can be accessed without purchasing an Internet plan. At the PC terminals, you can't edit MS Office documents, but most files can be viewed (in their "read-only" mode).

Carnival WIFI, Fun Hub website and HUB app

The Fun Hub Carnival website can be accessed through Wi-Fi enabled devices. Guests must connect to the Carnival WiFi network and open an Internet browser. Fun Hub is also accessible at the complimentary Internet café locations with 24-hour access. Currently available on Carnival Breeze, Dream, Magic, Sunshine and Vista, the Fun Hub locations allow passengers free access to informative websites updated daily.

The Fun Hub site details ship’s numerous activities, including:

• daily events, youth programs, entertainment options
• food and beverage offerings, venue descriptions, sample menus
• itinerary and weather information
• latest news, sports scores
• key shipboard personnel' biographies
• ship announcements
• deck plans and maps
• frequently asked questions.

A filtering option assists in planning guests' day. FunHub is available free of charge on any Internet Café Fun Hub computer or Wi-Fi device. Internet access to sites that are outside the Fun Hub is also available wirelessly and through all Fun Hub locations. Charges will apply.

In August 2015, Carnival announced that the HUB app, offering passengers free access to onboard account balances, daily schedules, deck plans, dining info, and an innovative “chat” feature, had been so well received (following the successful trial period on Carnival Breeze) that it was scheduled to debut on all Carnival vessels by summer of 2016. Next in line, ready to welcome the HUB app, are Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Pride, and Carnival Sunshine, by the end of 2015.

The new HUB mobile app provides guests with an at-a-glance, convenient view of ship’s features and facilities along with updates on events taking place onboard, all free of charge. The app is available for download at Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Its innovative “chat” feature allows passengers to exchange messages with their companions using their mobile devices. A flat fee of $5 is applied for the entire cruise.

The HUB app also includes precise day-by-day schedules of hundreds of onboard events, info on beverage and food venues, Sail & Sign account balance, itinerary details, searchable deck plans and more. Recently added options provide the ability to pre-purchase Carnival’s Bottomless Bubbles and Cheers! beverage programs and upload photos displayed on the 270-sq.foot Seaside Theatre during the cruise. Additional features are to be added in the future.

Carnival Corporation launched a new WiFi@Sea system on all cruise ships sailing in the Caribbean. The global fleet roll-out continued with Alaska (2015 summer) and in 2016 extended to Europe (Baltic, Mediterranean, Western Europe) and Asia.

At the following CruiseMapper link, you can compare the onboard Internet package pricing on Royal Caribbean and NCL vessels.

Booking Procedures

• Carnival Vacation Protection (CVP)
• Deposit and Final Payment Guidelines | Forms of Payment
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• Passenger Vessel Service Act - Jones Act
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• Ship Class Guide
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Have Fun. Be Safe

• Health Protocols and Requirements for Sailing

Travel Documentation and Online Check-in

• Travel Documents
• Online Check-In

Getting There

• Cruise Terminal Information and Parking
• Airport and Pier Transportation
• Air Information

Before You Board

• Embarkation Day Check-In

Youth and Family

• Youth Programs (Under 2 and 2-11 years old)
• Teen Programs (12-17 years old)
• Carnival's Seuss at Sea
• Age Policies

Things to Know

Onboard experiences.

• Fun Ship Features Quick Reference
• Shore - Excursions
• Spa and Fitness
• Outdoor Fun
• Entertainment and Activities
• For Your Convenience
• Onboard Guidelines and Policies
• Past Guest Recognition Programs

Onboard Celebrations

• The Fun Shops
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Dining and Beverages

• Dining and Snacking Options
• Dining Rooms
• Beverage Options
• CHEERS! Beverage Program
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• Liquor and Beverage Policy

Onboard Communication

• WI FI Service and Carnivals HUB App
• Staying Connected

Money and Gratuities

• Gratuities (Tips)
• Sail & Sign Onboard Account
• Forms of Payment
• Cruise Cash/Bar/Photo
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Shipboard Health and Safety

• Passenger Bill of Rights
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• Tech Support
• Early Saver Promotion
• Minors / Infants / Pregnancy
• Making changes to your booking
• Carnival EasyPay
• Financing Powered by Uplift
• US Department of State Travel Tips
• And more things to know....

Debarkation - After Your Cruise

• Preparing to Go Home
• Post Cruise Inquiries
• View All Deck Plans

Carnival's Wi-Fi Service

To keep you connected while at sea, every one of our ships provides satellite Internet access bow-to-stern. 

As part of our focus to provide guests and crew with the best available Wi-Fi experience at sea, we have rolled out SpaceX's Starlink high-speed internet fleetwide (with the exception of Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras which will be completed by June 2024). 

What plans are offered? Guests can upgrade from one plan to another and can use multiple devices per plan, including their smart phone, laptop or publically accessible shipboard computers. Please note that only one device can be connected to your WiFi plan at a time. Our ships feature awesome internet plans.

Social Wi-Fi Plan    Access the most popular social websites and applications including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Linkedin, Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp, SnapChat and the most popular airline sites. Does not include access to most websites and email. Does not support Skype or access to video and music streaming (such as Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, Pandora). Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and Facetime services are also not supported.  Value Wi-Fi Plan   Access popular social websites, email and applications including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Linkedin, Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp, SnapChat and the most popular airline sites as well as news, entertainment (not including streaming sites), sports, weather, banking and finance. Post pictures of your trip and make your friends jealous. Faster speeds than the Social Plan. Does not support Skype or access to video and music streaming (such as Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, Pandora). Cellular-network-dependent Wi-Fi calling and Facetime services are also not supported. 

Premium Wi-Fi Plan Our Premium Wi-Fi plan provides you access to all sites under the Social and Value Plans at the fastest possible connection on board (3 times faster than the Value Plan). Our Premium Plan also supports apps like Zoom, Skype and Teams video calling, where coverage allows. Does not support access to video and music streaming (such as 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.

How to purchase a plan?

Before Your Cruise : We offer guests the opportunity to pre-purchase Internet plans at a discounted rate online via the 'Manage My Booking' tab on carnival.com, send as a gift to family and friends through The Fun Shops  or call our Fun Shops department at 1-800-522-7648, Monday through Sunday, 9:00am-9:00pm ET. When pre-purchasing, guests must purchase a plan that covers the entire duration of their cruise. Plans may be pre-purchased online up to 11:59pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure (or up to 9:00pm ET, the evening prior to the cruise departure, if calling our Fun Shops department).  Daily plans are available for purchase on board.

What restrictions are there?

Please note that as our services are carried via satellite; there are a few limitations compared to your home network.

• Only one device at a time can connect to Wi-Fi.
• Satellite internet speed may vary depending on location and time of day.
• Access to certain sites such as mature or violent content is blocked.
• VPN connections are not supported - discuss your VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings onboard.
• Pricing for plans purchased pre-cruise vary from plans purchased at time of sailing.
• No refunds after plan is activated on board.

What are some tips to improve the experience?

• Once you board, turn Airplane Mode ‘On’ and connect to Carnival Wi-Fi. By using Airplane Mode, you avoid roaming fees charged by your carrier. Airplane Mode is typically found in your phone’s Settings.
• To benefit from faster speeds, turn off background app data services and updates
• Discuss VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings onboard.
• Wi-Fi enabled laptop and mobile devices
• Power supply for each of the devices you are bringing with you
• Data cables to transfer pictures

Do you have public computers onboard? All of our ships feature areas with publicly accessible computers, which are available 24/7. You may use your existing internet plan with them, if you have one. These are Microsoft Windows based PCs with standard internet browsers. They do not offer MS Office or other specific software. You may not install your own software on them. Printing is offered at no charge.

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Carnival WiFi Packages: Cost & FAQs

While a cruise is often a great time to disconnect from modern life, there are some times when you may need to have an internet connection, or it could just be that you don’t want to give up access to your social media for the duration of your cruise. Those photo uploads can’t always wait!

Unfortunately, your mobile data plan won’t work while you’re at sea – you won’t be close enough to a mast – and there may be roaming charges anyway. So taking advantage of the onboard WiFi is the best way to stay connected if you want to.

Let’s take a look at Carnival’s WiFi offering, which is pretty unique among the cruise lines since it’s tailored to certain apps and services.

Carnival WiFi Cost

How much is wifi on a carnival cruise.

WiFi packages on a Carnival cruise vary from $12.75 to $22 per day. The cost depends on your choice of package, whether you want it for the whole cruise or just a day, and whether you pre-book your internet before you sail (this entitles you to a discount of 15%).

There are three WiFi packages you can choose from.

Here are the prices for Carnival wifi:

In 2024, If you want to use the internet on your Carnival cruise, then you must buy a Carnival internet package for your whole cruise. It used to be the case that you could buy it just for certain days while on board, but you cannot do that any more.

The cost of Carnival WiFi packages has increased quite a lot over the past year. Before May 2022 you could buy WiFi for as little as $6.80 per day. But now, the current starting price is $12.75 per day – that’s almost double!

Depending on where you cruise to and your cell phone data plan, you may be able to use 5G or 4G in many ports of call for free. So think carefully about whether you actually need a WiFi package, or whether you might only wish to buy it for the sea days.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the various Carnival internet plans…

Social WiFi Plan

The social package limits what you can access to the most popular social media apps and websites. These include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Linkedin, Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp , TikTok and Snapchat . You can also access major airline websites, but other sites and apps are blocked.

Carnival’s social WiFi package is the most basic WiFi plan available, and it costs $15 per day when purchased on the ship. If you book your internet package before you sail then you’ll save 15% on that price, taking it down to $12.75 per day.

For a 7-day cruise, that means you’re paying $105 for the week, or $89.25 if you book in advance.

Value WiFi Plan

This package allows you unrestricted access to most of your favourite websites, letting you browse your email, catch up with the news and sports headlines, or do your online banking. It doesn’t let you do anything too intensive though, so services like Skype or Zoom, or streaming apps like Netflix and even Spotify are excluded.

The mid-range Value WiFi plan is a faster service that costs $23.00 per day, although again you can save 15% if you book your internet package before you set sail, taking the price down to $19.55 per day.

For a typical week-long cruise that means you’re paying $161 if you buy your internet while you’re on board, or $137 if you pay for it in advance.

Premium WiFi Plan

This plan allows you to access any of your favourite sites and includes streaming apps as well as video call services such as Skype, Zoom and Teams. However, the reliability of these services can vary, and there’s no refund if you have a weak connection, providing it works.

The best internet package you can get on a Carnival cruise, the Premium plan offers speeds of up to 3 times that of the Value plan. For the privilege, you’ll be paying $25 per day, which is reduced to $21.25 if you pre-book your internet for your cruise.

Over the course of a full week, that means you’re paying $75, which again is reduced by 15% to $148.75 if you’ve paid for your internet access before you set sail.

Blocked Websites

Even when you pay for the Premium internet package, there are some websites that you won’t be able to access. Generally, gambling websites are blocked due to the international laws on where you can and can’t gamble (it’d be too difficult to keep turning the filter on and off), while adult websites are also blocked too. 

The internet packages are available to guests of all ages, and Carnival has to make sure that young guests don’t access something they shouldn’t while using their internet. Also, they likely don’t want guests to have the option of watching naughty videos sitting by the pool, which could make other guests pretty uncomfortable.

Carnival WiFi FAQs

How to purchase a carnival internet plan, before your cruise.

If you want to be able to access the internet throughout your cruise, the best time to buy a wifi plan is before you cruise. To do this, just head to carnival.com , click on the ‘Manage’ tab and then click on ‘My Booking’.

You have until midnight Eastern Time on the day before your cruise departs to make your purchase.

On Board Your Cruise

If you’ve left it too late to pre-purchase your internet package, then you can buy an internet plan on the ship.

To access Carnival’s WiFi service on board, simply turn on WiFi on your device and access the WiFi settings. Your screen will then give you instructions on how to purchase an internet package.

How Many Devices Can You Use Your Internet Package With?

You can use your Carnival WiFi package with one device at a time, but you are able to move it between devices if you want to. It’s not locked to a single device, but you won’t be able to use it on more than one at once.

This is handy if you have some important things to do on your laptop in your cabin, but you want to keep the WiFi with you on your smartphone as you spend the day exploring the ship.

Is There Free WiFi on Carnival Cruise Ships?

Onboard Carnival cruise ships you can use the WiFi for free, but only to access the Hub app. This app lets you see the deck plans, view drinks and dining menus, check your account balance and book dining reservations, spa treatments and other services.

When you’re in port, you will be able to access WiFi for free by heading to the nearest WiFi hotspot. The crew will be able to help you to find this.

Is Carnival WiFi Worth It?

Whether Carnival WiFi is worth it depends on how much you intend to use your internet-connected devices while you’re at sea. When the ship is in port, you’ll likely be able to get a 4G or 5G connection on your phone anyway, though you should check your roaming charges with your mobile provider.

Many ports also have places where you can enjoy free WiFi, and the crew are a good bet to ask about this, as they’ll often visit the same places when a ship is docked – crew don’t get free WiFi on board!

How To Connect to Carnival WiFi

Connecting to Carnival WiFi is pretty easy. On your device, open your WiFi settings and you’ll likely see a network named either “Carnival WiFi” or it may be named after your ship, e.g. “Carnival Vista WiFi”. Click on that network, and your device should direct you to a webpage to fill in your details and get connected.

If that doesn’t work, just try navigating to carnivalwifi.com which should take you to the same page, and if you’re still having problems then you can head to Guest Services and they should be able to get you set up.

Just try to avoid visiting Guest Services as soon as you board the ship as the line will likely be very long.

More Carnival WiFi FAQs

Sending SMS messages doesn’t use the internet, and while at sea you likely won’t have service. With Carnival’s WiFi packages you will be able to use apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to stay in touch with friends and family.

You can use WhatsApp on a Carnival cruise ship as long as you’ve paid for an internet package. You only need the basic Social package to be able to use WhatsApp, though sending and receiving images might be slow.

iMessage is classified as a social app and so you only need the basic Social WiFi package on your cruise to be able to use it. If you’re planning on sending images or video clips via iMessage, it may struggle if you don’t pay for the Premium tier package.

You can use FaceTime on a Carnival cruise, as long as you’ve paid for the Premium tier WiFi package. Any video call app requires you to have the fastest WiFi, which costs $25 per day (though a discount is applied if booked before your cruise).

As it is a video calling app, you’ll need the Premium tier WiFi package if you want to use Zoom on your Carnival cruise. Anything which involves streaming video – including Zoom, Skype and similar – will only work on that top tier, otherwise it is blocked from the network.

TikTok is considered a social app, and due to the short nature of videos, you can enjoy this app on the basic Social WiFi package. Apps that use longer videos – like YouTube – require a higher tier package due to the demand they place on the network.

The Bottom Line

On a typical Carnival cruise, you’re probably going to be so busy having fun that constantly checking your social media feeds isn’t going to be a priority, and you’ll likely have enough time in port to be able to catch up without buying a Carnival Cruise WiFi package if you want to save money.

But if you’re someone who needs to stay connected, then the WiFi packages aren’t super expensive, and the choice of different tiers means you can find one that works best for you. Just make sure you book in advance if you think you will need WiFi, as that 15% saving ends up being a decent amount over the course of a week’s cruise.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

See the latest Carnival cruise offers…

Related Posts:

• How to Avoid Roaming Charges on a Cruise
• 12 Ways to Use Your Carnival Onboard Credit Like a Pro
• Carnival Cruise Drink Packages Guide
• Are Carnival Cruises All Inclusive?

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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5 thoughts on “Carnival WiFi Packages: Cost & FAQs”

If you buy internet after a few days at sea, does Carnival still charge you since day 1 or only for the remaining days?

You can only buy the whole cruise package before your cruise or on the first day. After that, you can but the daily package.

Wondering if you can just purchase wifi on the last day of the cruise to do airline checkin? We like to disconnect on our holidays. Thanks

Yes, you can get it by the day. Or you can use 4G in port to do your airline check in.

You can most certainly buy internet for just some days, just not the social media plan.

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Internet Cafe / Wireless Internet Services (Wi-Fi)

Yes! Satellite Internet access is available via WiFi throughout the vessel (including your cabin) and in the Internet Café.

Internet Café

The Internet Café is open 24-hours and features individual terminals for your privacy. For your convenience, the Internet Café Manager is available for assistance during posted hours.

Internet Café terminals run on Windows XP and are limited to Internet communication. Terminals are equipped with Microsoft Office readers only, not full versions of these programs (WORD, EXCEL, etc); most files can be accessed as “read only” for viewing purposes but cannot be edited or saved. Please note, on your personal laptop you can read, edit and save files without restrictions according to the programs installed.

Wireless Users – Laptops and other WiFi equipped devices

Got a laptop, an iPad, or a netbook? Got 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless capability (that's just geek speak for WiFi)? The Wireless Internet Service is compatible with a Wireless 802.11b card, which is the industry standard. You may use your personal laptop while onboard, your iPhone and all other WiFi equipped devices and most software installed on them without restrictions. VPN access on the other hand is restricted to connections of the type, which are not IPSec or PPTP connections. Kindly discuss your VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings onboard.

Pricing plans vary by ship based on itinerary. Some ships offer pay as you go per minute rates and bundled time plans. Others have daily and per cruise plans. The full list of available pricing options are available online before you go via Cruise Manager or via the HUB App once on board the ship. Please consult the internet login screen or request information at Guest Services. Internet plans can be used on multiple devices (only a single device can be logged on at any one time). Instructions on how to create an account and pricing details are present on-screen in the Internet Café or on your laptop once you connect to Carnival WiFi. Internet pricing is identical, whether you are using the Internet Café terminals, your own laptop or other wireless devices. All Internet charges will be billed directly to your onboard “Sail & Sign” account.

Before You Go

Get the most from your cruise Internet time and your trip — make sure you're powered up and prepared before you board the ship with this handy pre-cruise checklist. Here are a few things you want to remember to pack for your cruise:

• WiFi enabled laptop and mobile devices

• Power supply for each of the devices you are bringing with you

• A charged battery for your trip to the ship

• Data cables to transfer pictures

• Headphones

• Laptop privacy screens

Best Practices

• Email – Convert your email settings to basic; you will have a better experience with less graphic intense content. Most email providers have a lite version of their service optimized for low-bandwidth users.

• Mobile websites – most websites nowadays offer a mobile interface; they are leaner, less graphic intense alternatives to their main page. Mobile pages load quicker via the leaner bandwidth available onboard and can be accessed regardless of your device: laptop, smart phone, tablet etc. A few examples:

- www.M.Facebook.com

- www.Touch.Facebook.com

- www.M.Yahoo.com

• Apps – consider using apps; they are tailored for your device and will improve your online experience

• Browsers – Experiment with alternate browsers for a faster experience: Chrome, Opera, Safari, Mozilla, Firefox

• Remember to log out

• Disconnect from WiFi - develop the habit of disconnecting from WiFi when ending your Internet session; leaving your device connected may slow other users’ Internet speed

• Words associated with leaner content = faster loading time: mobile, text only, lite, no media, low resolution

• Discuss VPN limitations with your company’s IT department prior to cruising; onboard personnel are not able to change your settings onboard.

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Complete Guide to Using Your Phone on a Cruise (Carnival, Royal Caribbean & More)

At this point, it’s beyond the debate of taking a cruise without bringing a phone. Phones are so much more than a simple device to call or text. Now they are our social lives, our entertainment devices, our cameras, and more.

And on the cruise ship they do all that, plus they are useful for the cruise line’s app, which features schedules, maps, and more, all right on your phone.

Of course, while it’s a good idea to put the phone down for a while and enjoy your vacation, it’s also reasonable to wonder if your cell phone will work on a cruise.

The good news? Yes, you can use your phone on a cruise . This includes major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian and more.

The bad news? It might be expensive, and there are several details you need to know about how your phone uses cell service at sea — or the shipboard wi-fi — before you get started.

Below, we’ve outlined what you need to know about using your phone to call, text, and browse the web. In addition, we’ve added some specifics for certain cruise lines.

One thing to keep in mind is that internet and cell phone service are regularly being updated on modern cruise ships . As time goes on, you can expect your access to improve.

In This Article...

How to Use Your Phone on a Cruise

First things first, you have to understand that there are no cell towers in the middle of the sea. Meanwhile, even the strongest cell towers with the best range in perfect conditions can only extend about 30-45 miles. In other words, after the first hour or two of your cruise, you’ll be too far away to pick up any reliable cell signal.

So what do you do in the middle of the water?

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.

Cellular Service on Ships For traditional cell service, today’s modern cruise ships use providers such as “Cellular at Sea” or “Wireless Maritime Services”.

For the vast majority of plans, these services are considered international roaming plans by your cell phone company, and you will be charged accordingly for use. That said, if you want to (or need to), you can simply make a phone call or send a text as you would back home — you’ll just be charged significantly more than usual.

Keep in mind that sometimes data service isn’t available through this method. For data, you’re better off using a wi-fi plan (discussed below).

Cell providers offer packages you help cruisers better budget. For example, AT&T offers a couple of cruise ship packages, starting at $50 for a package of minutes and texting. Other carriers will have something similar.

Just be warned of high prices. On AT&T’s $60 plan, it includes only 100 minutes of phone calls, and a $1 per minute overage cost.

In other words, if you use the ship’s cellular service, it’s considered international roaming and will cost you quite a bit of money. This applies to any carrier you have.

Luckily, there is a cheaper way to use your cell phone on the ship — wi-fi.

Cruise ships have cellular service that you can connect to. However, it’s usually considered international roaming and means you’ll be charged high rates to access.

Wi-Fi Service to Use Your Phone on Ships (Recommended) You likely know that instead of using a cell signal, you can hook your phone up to wi-fi and use the internet to make calls, send texts, and surf the web. Some apps like WhatsApp also let you make calls, chat, and even chat via video. You can use these features while a cruise ship.

Today’s cruise ships all come equipped with wi-fi, but there is a charge for passengers to use it. For example, Carnival offers three levels of service — Social (~$15 per day), Value (~$20 per day), and Premium (~$21 per day) — which all offer different speeds and access.

Wi-fi allows you to connect just like you were at home. This includes doing things like making calls from within communication apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, texting, and surfing the web.

Just like at home, you can hook up to the ship’s wi-fi and use your phone as normal. Just keep in mind that you will want to ensure any calls you make are over wi-fi or else they will be considered international roaming calls if connected over the ship’s cellular service. (For that reason, we suggest setting your phone to airplane mode once you get on the ship and then just connect through wi-fi.)

One other thing to know is that different cruise lines and even different ships within a cruise line may offer different online experiences. Some ships are updated with the latest technology while others can have slower service or more limited options of what you can do regarding video calling or streaming.

More details on specific ship wi-fi plans are featured later in this article.

• Read more about using internet/wi-fi on a cruise

We’d recommend accessing the ship’s wi-fi with your phone to use it as you would back home. This gives you the ability to access the internet, send messages, use apps, and even make calls with some plans/cruise lines.

Using Your Phone in a Port of Call

While most of your time is spent on the ship, there will be large chunks of the day spent in port. You might wondering about using your phone during this portion of your cruise.

Cellular Service in Ports of Call In port (and off of the ship’s cellular or wi-fi service), you phone will work just as if you had taken a flight to another country. That is to say you will be reliant on international cellular services.

The good news? Cell phone companies offer short-term international plans that are surprisingly affordable and provide calls, texts, and data.

In addition, many companies — such as T-Mobile — include calling in Mexico and Canada (home to several popular cruise ports) automatically in their plans. You can use the phone exactly as you would at home for no extra charge.

Below, we’ve charted out the cost for some international plans offered by cell phone companies. Remember that these prices could change, so you’ll want to contact your provider before heading out on your cruise.

You can read more about international service from the major carriers below:

• https://www.att.com/international/day-pass/
• https://www.verizon.com/plans/international/international-travel/travel-pass/
• https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans

Understand that this is only for service while onshore in a port. When you are on the ship and in the middle of the ocean, you will need to use the ship’s wi-fi or cellular service. It may be worth it to use just one service or another instead of paying for both during your cruise.

When in port, you’ll be connecting to international towers. Phone companies have international plans (sometimes you can simply pay for a single day pass) that allow you access just as you would have at home.

Wi-Fi Service to Use Your Phone in Port Want to save some money? Then you may be able to skip dealing with international plans altogether and just connect to wi-fi hotspots in port. In fact, it may even be free.

To be sure, your wi-fi plan from the ship won’t work in port (unless you are at a private island; sometimes ships extend service to their islands.) But many ports of call offer wi-fi service.

Sometimes there is service sold that will cover the port area. Other times spots like restaurants or shops will offer free wi-fi service to customers as a perk for shopping there.

Either way, it’s a cheaper and easier way of using your phone in port if you are fine with having access on a more limited basis.

Many ports have wi-fi service at shops or restaurants that can get you access while you’re there. It’s an easy way to check in back home if you don’t need constant access.

Using Your Phone on a Carnival Cruise

As mentioned above, we recommend using the ship’s wi-fi to use your phone . This will allow you to make calls (you may have to use an app like WhatsApp to do so), send messages, email, and browse the web.

To access Carnival’s wi-fi, you’ll have to sign up for one of three packages :

Social (~$15 per day) — Offers access to social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and more. It also provides access to airline sites. However, it doesn’t include access to most of the web, nor does it support in-app calling, streaming services (Netflix, Spotify, YouTube), or Skype.

Value ($20 per day) — Offers everything in the Social package, with the addition of popular news, weather, banking, finance, and entertainment sites. However, it still doesn’t allow streaming or Skype/FaceTime calling.

Premium (~$21 per day) — Offers the fastest speeds on the ship and full web access. While Carnival’s website says this plan doesn’t support video streaming (outside Netflix) or FaceTime calls, we’ve personally done both with this plan. If you are a heavy phone user on your cruise or want to make video calls, then you’ll likely want the Premium package.

You can purchase a plan at a discount before your cruise starts or you can simply purchase when you are on the ship. Note that shipboard prices are higher than what’s shown here.

Read more about Carnival’s internet service here .

Using Your Phone on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Just like with Carnival and other major cruise lines, we think you’ll be best off connecting to the ship’s wi-fi in order to use your phone on a Royal Caribbean ship.

The cruise line offers VOOM internet access across its fleet, which is touted as one of the fastest wi-fi services of any major cruise line. With it, you can hook up your phone to wi-fi and make calls (via wi-fi), text, use apps, and browse the web.

Prices are not set in stone, but vary between around $15-25 a day. Discounts are available for ordering online ahead of time.

Read more about Royal Caribbean’s Internet service here .

Using Your Phone on a Norwegian Cruise

Norwegian offers two different levels of wi-fi access on their ships that allow you to connect with your phone. From there, you can use wi-fi to send messages, talk, and send email to keep in touch.

First is the Unlimited Wi-Fi Package ($30 per day) that includes access to things like Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat, along with the rest of the web. This includes apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, and FaceTime, allowing you to keep in touch. However, it doesn’t allow streaming services.

Second, there is the Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package ($40 per day), giving you full access to the web and streaming services — including YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix. With this level of service, making calls, sending texts, and video chats are no issue.

You can read more about NCL’s internet service here .

Using Your Phone on Other Cruise Lines (Disney, Celebrity, Princess, and Others)

As you can see, the easiest way to use your phone on a cruise is to use it to connect to the ship’s wi-fi. While we’ve spelled out more details for Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line, this method will work on any ship you sail.

Through the wi-fi offered on your cruise ship, you should be able to connect and use your phone just as you would on land. This includes web browsing, messaging, and calls through wi-fi. Just keep in mind that you might have to upgrade to the highest-tier service in order to get full benefits of the internet like streaming and video calls. In our experience, lower-tier wi-fi plans are slower, meaning choppier connections on things like video calls.

Have more questions about using your phone on a cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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Hey Tanner: Thanks for the great article. We are going on Norwegian to the Panama Canal. My cruise buddy has Verizon and wants to make a voice call to her husband. He does not know how to use WhatsApp or FaceTime. Can they make regular voice calls using the ships Wi-fi? We understand that she can call him from ports with her Verizon Travel Pass, but she is concerned about sea days. Thanks!

Typically phones have a “call over wi-fi” setting. I’ve used it before and it worked well, but usually I use Facetime to call back home.

Tanner – I will going on a Norwegian cruise and would like to use WhatsApp for audit calls. I don’t need to make any viedo calls. Can I get by with the Unlimited plan or do I need the Unlimited Plus?

My advice is to always go with the fastest plan just because in general speeds are slower on cruises (getting better in some cases with Starlink).

But it looks like voice calls don’t require that much bandwidth. My suggestion is if you only want access for these calls, then opt for the cheaper plan and test it out. If it’s not enough, then you can always upgrade.

Tanner, my brother in – law just started his job on a cruise ship – they are provided only 5 gigabytes per month for phone use – he uses what’s app – what can advise him to do to get more gigabytes ? Approximate cost ?

I’ll be perfectly honest: the Royal Caribbean cruise was fantastic except for the beverage package issue, gratuity, and the cell service/internet packages. For the price of the cruise, surely you could include water, tea, coffee, and fountain soda. Those are cheap! I did know ahead of time that 18% gratuity was added to everything, yet for some reason I bought the gratuity package. Then would forget and add tip above the 18% plus the gratuity package. I know I’m responsible, but still felt taken advantage of. AT&T charged me 100.00 within 3-4 hours (started before we even left port). Then cut off service to “protect” me. So I pay another 100.00 for their “international data plan”- which is NOT 10.00 a day. Then I pay 75.00 for better internet speed through Royal. Guess what- 275.00 and I STILL couldn’t use my phone half of the time. I felt nickeled and dimed to death between just getting a bottle of water and checking my work email. And now that I’m home, my phone has ZERO internet. Sigh. FYI: This was my first cruise, but I did research the best I could ahead of time. I didn’t even think about the cell issue. But really- RC is first class.

Do you know if you can get reception on the ship from an island nearby if you are docked at a tender port, or is that still too far away? I have a virtual doctor visit the day I’m in Grand Cayman that I really don’t want to cancel and I would rather use my international phone plan then waste my limited ship wifi minutes.

We’re traveling on Cunard next month. Their website says that even if a phone is in airplane mode but connected to the ship wifi, voice call charges will still be incurred by the cell provider. That doesn’t make sense. Are they just saying that to protect their “assests”?

Never heard that before. I’d likely just take them at their word and plan around it.

If I purchase the cruise plan through AT&Tfor 100$ Do I still have to purchase the wifi on princess as well?

Does regular wi-fi calling (Not WhatsApp) work on Carnival social plan?

That I don’t know. I haven’t personally tested it.

I have straight talk, would I still be able to call or txt since it’s a pay as I go an each month. We will be on Carnival Horizon in October.

Well at sea you won’t have service, but you can hook up to the wi-fi and use your phone that way.

If I purchase the International Plan on Verizon, will it connect to the ship’s tower? I am going on Carnival Horizon in March 2023 to the southern Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire, Dominican Republic). If I’m signing up and paying for this plan, I want to make sure I actually have coverage my entire cruise (on and off the ship). Can you help?

I’m not sure how the service works on the ship (I personally use wi-fi). You’ll need to contact your carrier to ask as it’s their plan.

GOING TO BAHAMAS AND ORLANDO FLORIDA. WHEN IN FLORIDA AND I AM OFF THE SHIP CAN I USE THE PHONE TO CALL AND TEXT WITHOUT BEING CHARGED MORE THAN MY NORMAL BILL. I WONT BE ON THE SHIP USING THE PHONE ONLY FOR PICTURES. I AM GOING ON NCL AND I AM A VERIZON CUSTOMER

Depends on your plan, but likely not. Most of the time, however, you can get a short-term international plan for cheap:

https://www.verizonwireless.com/solutions-and-services/international-travel/

everyone gives info for making calls, etc. what about getting calls???? have a disabled son and I need contact with him each morning around 6 am Central. how do I arrange that?

The best idea we can suggest is to sign up for the Internet package and use a program like WhatsApp to talk.

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How can I get Wi-Fi on a cruise for free?

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

If you want to cruise while staying connected, you usually must fork over some serious cash for onboard Wi-Fi access.

How much are we talking? If you're a family of four with two teens addicted to their cell phones, it would cost $380 to get Royal Caribbean's cheapest Wi-Fi package on four devices on a weeklong cruise if you book in advance; prices onboard are 20% higher.

If you're wondering how to avoid this expense and get free cruise Wi-Fi, you'll be relieved to know you do have options. Here are some tips and tricks for getting onboard internet with no charge.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Book a cruise with inclusive fares

The rule of thumb for getting free Wi-Fi on a cruise is the opposite of getting Wi-Fi free when you stay in a hotel. On land, low to mid-priced hotels often include Wi-Fi for free, while premium and luxury brands are more likely to charge for internet. At sea, mainstream cruise lines usually do not include Wi-Fi in their cruise fares, but premium and luxury lines almost always do.

Cruise lines that include free Wi-Fi for all passengers are luxury lines like Seabourn , Silversea and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, along with upscale cruise lines Oceania Cruises and Viking .

Among the big-ship lines, Celebrity Cruises , adds Wi-Fi as part of their "Always Included" program that also includes drinks and tips, but you should know that they offer lower-priced cruise-only base fares for those who don't want those add-ons. The newest North American cruise line, Virgin Voyages , rounds out the list of cruise lines offering Wi-Fi for no additional charge.

Book a suite that comes with free Wi-Fi

Some cruise lines offer free Wi-Fi to guests sailing in their top suites. With Star and Sky Suite Class perks, suite guests onboard Royal Caribbean 's Oasis and Quantum class ships get free premium Voom Wi-Fi. The free Wi-Fi perk applies to Grand Suites and above.

Passengers who choose to sail in MSC Cruises ' Yacht Club suites, an exclusive luxury cruise area within each ship, get free premium unlimited Wi-Fi for the duration of their cruise.

Related: 7 reasons you should splurge for a suite on your next cruise

Choose free Wi-Fi as a booking perk

Certain cruise lines choose to offer free perks instead of price discounts as booking incentives, and a common add-on is free cruise Wi-Fi.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line has frequent (almost perpetual) sale deals known as "Free at Sea," that allow you to pick from among a menu of perks. One of those perks is free Wi-Fi. Just beware, the line's lowest fares, designated as "Sail Away" fares are cruise-only fares and typically do not include complimentary internet regardless of the deal being offered for standard fares.

Other cruise lines occasionally offer deals that include Wi-Fi as a perk, especially during "wave season," which runs between January and March. Holland America 's "Ultimate Upgrade Event" is a good example; book during the promotion and you can score free Wi-Fi.

Related: The best cruise booking perks -- and which ones are actually free

Use onboard credit to pay for a Wi-Fi package

Many cruise lines offer onboard credit as a booking perk; it's a credit to your onboard spending account that results in free money you can only spend onboard the ship. You 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. On lines that offer premium plans designed for streaming, you'll need around $20 per day per device.

How do you acquire this onboard credit? You have several options. The most common is taking advantage of limited-time cruise sales offering onboard credit You can find these directly through the cruise line, but also cruise-specific travel agent sites, which may have access to onboard credit offers not found anywhere else. The same holds true for airline and credit card travel planning sites such as United Cruises, Delta Vacations and Cruises or the Amex Cruise Privileges program.

You can also earn this free spending money by booking your next sailing while onboard a ship at the future cruise desk. Even owning a cruise line's stock can get you onboard credit each time you cruise with the line.

One caveat: When looking at booking bonuses to cover your Wi-Fi costs, be sure to compare prices and perks across sites.

For example, The Points Guy did a recent sampling of fares on the Amex site, checking them against Holland America's and found that the fares were quite similar, but the bonuses were not. Amex was offering onboard credit of $150 on a seven-night Alaska sailing in a balcony cabin, with no mention of any other specials or perks. The same fare on Holland America's website included four perks with a total value well over $150. One of the perks the cruise line offered was free Wi-Fi for the cruise.

Join a cruise line loyalty program

Cruise line loyalty programs would seem to be a good fit for free Wi-Fi for frequent cruisers, but historically, these programs have leaned more toward discounts than freebies. Only Cunard offers genuine free Wi-Fi, starting at two free hours after two voyages or 20 nights onboard. The free time online increases to four hours at the Platinum level and eight complimentary hours at the Diamond level.

Celebrity Cruises does have a free Wi-Fi perk in its Captain's Club loyalty program , but only the top Zenith tier. You can get unlimited free internet (the faster plan since everyone gets the basic) but you have to earn 3,000 points first, a feat that requires you to first spend 1,000 days at sea with the cruise line.

Internet discounts in the mainstream programs top out around 25% off packages if they offer a discount at all. Only Princess Cruises was better with a 50% discount on the line's MedallionNet Wi-Fi packages after only five cruises.

You can turn a discount into free Wi-Fi by combining two perks. For example, you could use onboard credit to cover the remaining cost of Internet after your loyalty program Wi-Fi discount.

Use cruise line credit card points to buy Wi-Fi

Cruise line credit cards vary in their rewards programs, especially when you are looking at how to earn and redeem enough points for a free cruise. What they all have in common, however, is the ability to redeem smaller batches of points for either onboard credit or a statement credit for your onboard purchases, including Wi-Fi packages.

Related: Best credit cards for booking cruises

Carnival Corporation brands each have their own branded card, but fall under the same Barclays rewards program, sharing points you earn across the brands. That means you can pay for your Carnival Cruise Line cruise with a Princess Cruises credit card and still receive double points. You can redeem those points for statement credit for the Wi-Fi you paid for onboard your cruise.

Similarly, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity each have branded Bank of America cards, but share a points program administered by My Cruise Points. Points are then redeemed for everything from onboard credit to free cruises. The Disney® Premier Visa® Card by Chase earns points which can be redeemed for Disney reward dollars to use on your Disney Cruise Line cruise, including for Wi-Fi.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Starlink on cruise ships: Which lines have faster internet connections on board?

N o matter how far your cruise roams, staying connected to the internet can be as important for some cruisers as oxygen and water. Whether you're keen on live-streaming penguins from your balcony on an Antarctica cruise, catching up on your favorite TV series or hopping on a Zoom call in the middle of the Pacific, connectivity and high-speed access are now considered essentials when cruising.

In the past, cruise lines struggled to keep up with the demand for seamless connectivity at sea. In the middle of an ocean, ships had to rely on satellite systems that could be unreliable, prohibitively expensive and maddeningly slow. Satellite systems allotted only so much broadband for each ship, and every ship carried thousands of people, each with multiple devices.

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A better solution was required. Enter Starlink, the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet. Part of Elon Musk's SpaceX program, Starlink now provides many cruise ships with bandwidth that can support streaming, online gaming, video calls and more worldwide. Starlink debuted in 2019 and has quickly revolutionized how hundreds of cruise ships provide internet access, boosting connectivity and capacity as ships roam the world.

Will your next cruise offer landlike Wi-Fi speeds? Here is everything you need to know about Starlink on cruise ships.

How does Starlink work?

Compared to standard communications satellites, which orbit from 22,000 miles away, Starlink's thousands of satellites orbit the atmosphere from about 340 miles above the Earth's surface. With much closer proximity to Earth, Starlink's data connections offer stronger and faster connections and provide the opportunity for more bandwidth on cruise ships.

The coverage of the Starlink satellites is extensive and growing, with more than 5,400 satellites currently in orbit and plans in future years to reach up to 42,000 satellites in orbit at once. Traditional satellite networks have a much more limited fleet and reach, especially in some of the ocean's most remote areas. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation, with near-complete coverage of all the world's oceans and waterways.

The Starlink system is affixed to ships as a series of flat panels positioned on upper decks, replacing the now antiquated domes often placed near the ship's funnel and radar masts.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

How fast is Starlink internet access?

Starlink's website estimates download speeds that range from 40 to over 200 Mbps and upload speeds that come in at 8 to more than 25 Mbps, with a latency of less than 99 milliseconds. These are wide-ranging estimates that don't factor in cruise ship-based throttling, cruise ship capacity, global positioning and the costs and challenges of outfitting a cruise ship with bow-to-stern Wi-Fi connectivity.

The industrial-strength steel frames and fireproof materials used throughout the ship make a strong, consistent signal throughout a cruise ship an industry-wide challenge. There will be patches on a ship, regardless of which line you're sailing, where you'll find a weaker signal. Signals are often at their strongest in the main public gathering areas.

Similar to traditional satellites, severe weather can be a factor in Starlink connections while at sea. Intense storms can bring temporary service interruptions or reduced speeds, while heavy rain or snowfall can cause signal attenuation, which might cause a brief loss of connectivity.

Cruises with Starlink

Here's a full rundown of all the major cruise lines sailing with the new Starlink technology. How much will the connectivity cost you? Check TPG's guide to Wi-Fi access on cruise ships.

Note: Starlink on cruises can be a white label service, depending on the line. While the cruise line might not advertise that it uses the new Wi-Fi technology, the list below will help to identify which lines are sailing with Starlink.

Azamara 's fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are three levels of bandwidth available: Social Wi-Fi (with access only to popular social media and airline websites), Value Wi-Fi (for email, news, weather, banking and other basic websites) and Premium Wi-Fi (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Basic Wi-Fi (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium Wi-Fi (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Cunard 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Essential (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line does not currently use Starlink Wi-Fi.

Holland America

Holland America offers fleetwide Starlink Wi-Fi. There are three levels of bandwidth available: Surf (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging), Premium (for Wi-Fi audio and video calls) and Stream (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Lindblad Expedition offers complimentary, basic Starlink Wi-Fi to all guests aboard their ships, with the exception of Delfin II. There are two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: Enhanced (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is currently rolling out Starlink throughout its fleet, with two-thirds of the line's ships currently sailing with the upgraded service. The ships in the fleet that do not have the service include MSC Opera and MSC World Europa (both will receive Starlink in the coming weeks) and MSC Armonia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Musica, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Splendida (scheduled to receive Starlink before the summer 2024 season.)

There are two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: the Browse Internet Cruise Package (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and the Browse & Stream Cruise Package (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is currently rolling out Starlink throughout its fleet this year, with select ships presently sailing with the upgraded service. Currently, the ships with upgraded internet include Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Pearl.

NCL offers two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: the Unlimited Wi-Fi Package and the Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package. As part of the line's Free at Sea promotion , guests can receive a limited number of Wi-Fi minutes for free.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is rolling out Starlink Wi-Fi on all its ships and will have its entire fleet outfitted with the service by the end of 2024. Oceania Cruises offers fleetwide basic complimentary internet with a premium option available for streaming.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises ' fleet features MedallionNet, the only Wi-Fi network in the cruise industry that combines multi-orbit satellites — Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Mid-Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO/Starlink) with 5G terrestrial networks to deliver a strong connection regardless of ship location. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Starlink Wi-Fi can currently be found on two Regent Seven Seas ships, Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Grandeur. The entire Regent Seven Seas fleet will be equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi by the end of 2024. There are two levels of bandwidth available on Regent Seven Seas: A complimentary basic package for emails and news and an upgraded package for streaming services and high-bandwidth usage that's available for a fee.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Seabourn offers fleetwide complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Standard Internet (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium Internet (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage). Your suite and ship class determine which option you receive at no extra charge. Upgrades in service are available for an additional fee.

Viking 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at no additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth, though the line advises users that it can limit heavy-bandwidth usage to ensure all have equal access.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at no additional cost. The included plan allows for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging. There is an upgraded Premium bandwidth option available for streaming and high-bandwidth usage for an additional fee.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

These Are Our Favorite Cruise Ship Innovations from the Past Two Decades

The cruise industry continues to change and evolve with each passing year, and cruise lines continue to roll out innovations aboard their biggest and newest ships – and sometimes even their smallest and oldest ones, too.

Few periods have seen as much innovation as the past two decades have for the cruise industry. From relaxed dress codes and increased dining options to movies under the stars , roller coasters , faster internet and more personalized service , the cruise industry is on a roll.

Here are our favorite cruise ship innovations from the past two decades.

On This Page

• Starlink Internet Access Has Changed the Way We Cruise
• A Move Toward Better Cruise Ship Cabin Bathrooms
• Controlling Your Cruise from Your App Has Proven to be a Win
• Freestyle Cruising Has Spread Across the Industry – and We’re Better Off For It
• Cruise Ship Design Continues to Revolutionize the Vacation Experience
• Cruise Lines Have Stepped Up Their Efforts to Cater to People from All Walks of Life

1. Starlink Internet Access Has Changed the Way We Cruise

One of the biggest and most-recent innovations to hit the cruise industry is the addition of Starlink Internet access .

The first internet café was installed aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’ s Norwegian Sky in 1999. Before that, internet on ships just wasn’t a thing. You could send a Telex, if you were so inclined, or make an expensive ship-to-shore phone call. Other than that, when you were at sea, you were out of reach.

Internet became a common feature on cruise ships in the early- to mid-2000s, but it had its problems. Slow and expensive, it was barely suited for sending emails back to family and friends. Simply pulling up an email could take several painful minutes, all while your expensive internet credit slowly burned down to nothing.

That’s all changed now. While still a little slower than on land, Starlink internet is fast enough that it has enabled another radical shift, due in part to the global health pandemic: the idea of working from a cruise ship.

The editorial staff at Cruise Critic work from cruise ships all the time, and our jobs have begun to benefit from Starlink. The days of rushing off a ship to find an internet café to upload photos or attend a virtual meeting are long gone, replaced instead with blazingly fast internet that makes being on a video call from mid-ocean a realty.

How much has Starlink benefitted the cruise industry? The technology is now at the point where Virgin Voyages decided to offer a “work from sea” package , offering passengers the chance to stay aboard the line’s ships for a month at a time – all while never being out of reach.

2. A Move Toward Better Cruise Ship Cabin Bathrooms

This is the innovation that’s going to put dozens of cruise ship comedians out of work: the small, modular cruise ship cabin bathrooms , with their cylindrical shower stalls and clingy curtains, are going the way of the dodo.

Cabin bathrooms have become a serious point of innovation for cruise lines when designing their newest ships. Gone are the modular, one-size-fits all approach, replaced instead by cruise ship cabin bathrooms that feature niceties that can include heated bathroom floors, anti-fog mirrors, glass shower doors, rainforest shower heads, ledges for guests to shave their legs, better lighting and better toiletries.

In short, cabin bathrooms have transitioned from functional to aspirational – and while we have nothing against the bathrooms of the days of old, progress, in this case, is definitely a good thing.

3. Controlling Your Cruise from Your App Has Proven to be a Win

Cruise lines started developing their own smartphone apps just before the global pandemic of 2020 – and that turned out to be a real blessing in disguise. COVID-era protocols pushed cruise lines to further develop and hone their apps to perform a variety of functions to limit person-to-person contact, and passengers have seen the benefits since the return to service began in 2021.

Pre-pandemic, we weren’t sure we loved the idea of controlling our cruise from an app. Now, we’re firm believers: Many cruise line apps, like those developed by Carnival , MSC, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean , to name a few, allow passengers to make a variety of changes to their cruise before and while onboard. Things like viewing your current onboard account balance, making reservations for shore excursions and specialty dining venues, and even ordering room service can be done with the touch of a button.

Some cruise lines, like Princess , take things a step further: the line’s Medallion technology allows passengers to ditch the traditional key card entirely in favor of a small wearable disk that will open your stateroom door, allow staff to better find your location to deliver food and beverages to you, and even allow you to touchlessly charge items purchased ashore at select retailers to your linked credit cards.

And while apps aren’t perfect, they do cut down on trips to the Guest Relations desk – and we’re all for that!

4. Freestyle Cruising Has Spread Across the Industry – and We’re Better Off For It

In 2000, Norwegian Cruise Line decided that the style in which we cruised had to change. Before then, set dining times for lunch and dinner were common; dress codes were regulated and strictly adhered to. The concept of any kind of open-seating dining was largely absent, save for breakfast in the dining room or meals at the buffet – which not every cruise ship had.

When it introduced what it called “ Freestyle Cruising ," NCL ripped off the Band-Aid: It got rid of dining times. It scrapped mandatory formal nights in favor of more relaxed dress codes and more flexible "Formal Optional" evenings. It allowed passengers to dine where they wanted, with whom they wanted, when they wanted. It also began to up its game in the specialty dining venue department, creating alternative restaurants available for a small upcharge.

The move was controversial: Nearly every cruise line said it would not follow Norwegian Cruise Line’s lead.

Yet, 24 years later, nearly every cruise line has followed NCL’s lead, implementing relaxed dining options (along with for-fee specialty dining venues), relaxing dress codes and generally making cruising more, well, fun.

And while we love a good formal night, we’re not unhappy to see the industry as a whole take a page from Norwegian Cruise Line’s book. It is part of the reason cruising has become so popular, and accessible, for families and multigenerational travelers.

5. Cruise Ship Design Continues to Revolutionize the Vacation Experience

Over the past two decades, cruise ships have consistently pushed the envelope with what can be achieved at sea. From the introduction of the Royal Promenade and the first ice-skating rink at sea aboard Royal Caribbean’s Voyager of the Seas in 1999 to the debut of the first pool deck Movies Under the Stars screen on Princess Cruises’ Caribbean Princess in 2004, cruise lines have been consistently rethinking the cruise experience – and nowhere is that more apparent than aboard Royal Caribbean’s recently launched Icon of the Seas.

Some of these innovations are big and obvious: Things like surfing simulators, roller coasters and increasingly elaborate waterslides have immediate mass appeal, especially for families and multigenerational cruisers.

Other shipboard innovations can be less obvious but no less important when it comes to passenger impact. Things like water bottle filling stations throughout the ship speak to the more eco-minded passenger, while innovations like Norwegian Cruise Line's Sustainability Bar at Sea -- which uses ingredients that would otherwise be discarded, like pineapple cores and coffee pods -- show just how much cruise lines are willing to push boundaries.

Our favorite innovation is one that’s not new at all: Cruise lines have begun to re-implement once-eliminated features because of passenger feedback. This was something Holland America Line just did when it brought onboard libraries back to its ships, starting aboard the new Rotterdam in 2021 and continuing with a scheduled refit for Eurodam.

Behind the scenes, cruise ships now have a bevy of below-deck technologies that turn waste into energy to heat the ship or run electric engines; to compress and cube nonorganic materials for easy offload; to turn waste energy into heat for the vessel’s hot water supply; and even systems that can treat black (waste) water into the equivalent of drinking water.

Innovation happens above and below deck on today’s modern cruise ships – and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.

6. Cruise Lines Have Stepped Up Their Efforts to Cater to People from All Walks of Life

Let’s face it: Cruising, not too long ago, was a pretty homogenous affair. Passengers were predominantly white, well-off, and “of a certain age.” Cruises – initially a holdover from the days of transatlantic passenger travel – were expensive and long.

Between the 1980s and present-day, that’s begun to change for the better. Cruise lines, particularly mainstream ones like Carnival, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, cater to families, multigenerational groups, couples, singles and everyone in between.

There are now cruises designed specifically for passengers who identify as LGBTQ+ . There are cruises designed specifically for black guests and people of color. And even if you’re not booked on a cruise that targets specific groups of people, there is more welcoming variety among cruise passengers now than ever before.

River cruise lines have innovated, too: AmaWaterways’ introduced new Soulful Journeys in 2023 that cater to black cruisers interested in seeing Europe through a different lens. The initiative was so popular the line has made these Soulful Journeys sailings a staple of its European river lineup.

Lines like Carnival, Disney and Royal Caribbean have options for families with neurodivergent children. Royal Caribbean, for example, trains its Adventure Ocean kids club staff specifically to ensure they are autism-friendly, and the line offers sensory-friendly films, toys, dietary menu options and other initiatives. The line also partners up with Autism on the Seas to offer voyages that cater to adults and families living with autism, down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.

Out of all the innovations the cruise industry has pioneered, its welcoming, non-judgmental stance toward travelers from all walks of life and backgrounds might very well be its most enduring legacy. It's an ongoing process that continues to this day, and one we're excited to see.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Princess Cruises is taking a page out of the ultra-luxury cruise industry with new all-inclusive, $3,000 cabins

• Princess Cruises says its new Sun Princess and upcoming Star Princess will have all-inclusive cabins.
• Guests who've booked the new Sanctuary Collection category would get an inclusive package and private lounge.
• It's a move that could appeal to ultra-luxury cruisers .

If you want to go on an all-inclusive vacation at sea, you no longer need to book an ultra-luxury, ultra-expensive cruise line .

Just sail on Princess Cruises' new ship instead.

In October, Princess says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US with the company's first-ever Sanctuary Collection, an adult-only lounge exclusive to guests who've booked one of the collection's high-end cabins. These luxurious accommodations comprise 10% of the ship's 2,157 staterooms, including all its suites.

But the Sanctuary's biggest perk arguably isn't the lounge's private pool and restaurant — it's the all-inclusiveness , a rarity among mass-market cruise lines.

It's the Carnival Corp. brand's latest appeal to ultra-luxury cruisers

Mass-market cruise lines like Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian typically follow the " budget airline " strategy: charge a cheap base fare and offer plenty of irresistible up-charged amenities (like specialty restaurants, as is the case of Sun Princess).

It's a stark contrast to the high-end cruise industry, where all-inclusivity is often considered the standard.

For example, luxury cruise line Explora Journey's fare includes alcoholic beverages, WiFi, and access to the spa — amenities that would typically cost extra on ships like Sun Princess. On Regent Seven Seas , all this, plus excursions, pre-cruise hotels, and roundtrip flights are also included in the cost to sail.

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Over the last few years, Princess has begun following in these high-end cruise lines' foosteps.

In 2022, it launched Princess Premier, an optional inclusive package covering amenities like WiFi, drinks, some upcharged restaurants, and workout classes. It's the same package Sanctuary Collection guests would get, along with the private restaurant and adult-only lounge with cabanas, a pool, and private events.

The exclusive lounge concept is nothing new. Royal Caribbean's two largest cruise liners have a "neighborhood" exclusive to suite guests. The same applies to Norwegian, Celebrity, and MSC Cruises' vessels.

However, while these competing retreats offer perks like drink packages, WiFi, or private restaurants, none are as "inclusive" as Princess'.

In 2024, Sun Princess' Sanctuary cabins start at more than $3,000 per person for a weeklong Caribbean cruise in mid-December. To compare, the cheapest interior cabin for the same itinerary starts shy of $700 per person.

The cruise line says its next ship, Star Princess, which will debut in late September 2025, will also carry the Sanctuary Collection.

Following in the footsteps of high-end, all-inclusive cruise lines could be a wise decision for Princess. These luxury vacations at sea have become increasingly popular as travelers continue to spend big on their trips.

Like Princess, expedition cruise company HX recently shifted to an all-inclusive model as well.

Back on dry land, hotel giants like Hyatt and Marriott have also seen a boom in these "everything free" resorts .

Apparently, every vacationer — whether on water or solid ground — just wants one thing: stress-free poolside lounging with bottomless drinks.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

• Main content

Premium Wi-Fi Plan

From e-mail to video calls, our Premium plan promises the fastest possible connection, at speeds up to 3 times faster than our Value Plan. Supports Skype, Zoom and Teams video calling, where coverage allows.

Save up to 15%  when booked prior to sailing versus onboard pricing. WI-FI packages purchased prior to sailing can only be purchased online.

Cut-off for pre-purchase is 11:59PM two days before embarkation. Additional restrictions apply.

Carnival Cruise Line sets its sights on new Bahamas port of call

Carnival to open grand bahama celebration key in summer of 2025.

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Carnival Cruise Line has released another round of updates on what travelers can expect when its new private destination Grand Bahama Celebration Key opens.

Debuting in summer 2025, the port of call will welcome ships from Florida ports Port Canaveral, PortMiami, Tampa and Jacksonville, as well as six other U.S. ports.

The 369-acre site less than 20 miles east of Freeport will be the first dedicated to Carnival Cruise Line, although Carnival ships have used sister line destinations Princess Cays and Half Moon Cay for years.

The largest port construction project in the line’s history will be carved into five segments the company calls portals. Carnival released details about the third one tied to retail, an artisan village called Lokono Cove. (“Lokono” means “the people” in the native Lucayan language.)

The name was the winning selection from Grand Bahamas resident Deidre Rahming, who was on hand in Miami Beach with an entourage from the Bahamian government on Tuesday at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference.

She received a check for $5,000 from Carnival and a future day pass for the resort, which won’t normally be open to visitors from the island. The line says at least 300 jobs will be generated for locals serving the cruise guests.

Lokono Cove will have kiosks and stores alongside “an authentic Bahamian artisan market” showcasing local craftsmanship, according to Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy. Beyond the items for sale, the space will have music and murals to enhance the space, and local food.

“Lokono Cove will be a treasure trove — a place for our guests to immerse themselves in the spirit of the Bahamas and find locally inspired keepsakes, symbols of paradise they can share with loved ones or cherish for themselves for years to come,” Duffy said. “Honoring the beauty and culture of the Bahamas is integral to our plans for Celebration Key, and that will be on display throughout Lokono Cove.”

The space also will be the gateway for visitors to explore Grand Bahama.

It’s the third name drop by Carnival following the reveal of welcome area Paradise Plaza and adult-friendly area Calypso Lagoon. The final two space names and details, which will be a family-friendly area and an adults-only private area, will be revealed later.

The site will also have a south-facing, mile-long beachfront expanse and a massive freshwater inland lagoon that the line says is the largest in the Bahamas and Caribbean.

Paradise Plaza features a rainbow-colored walkway through a sunshine entranceway with a 10-story “Suncastle” as a centerpiece. The welcome area is the place to book the day’s activities, including cabanas, water sports and shore excursions. The area will also feature a Bahamian-themed fountain and ice cream shop.

Calypso Cove is the name of an adult-friendly area coming to Carnival’s Celebration Key on Grand Bahama island when it opens in summer 2026.

Calypso Lagoon, just to the west, is home to the sport court, the freshwater lagoon and lounging options galore. It’s home to a bar with 50 swings that let visitors dip their feet into the water, and just one of many bars serving the space and two full-service restaurants and other casual snack shacks. The adults-only area of the portal will feature a swim-up bar with a DJ, food trucks and more lounging options.

Future expansion will build beyond the five portals, including the construction of a water park.

The port of call will open with one dock capable of handling Carnival’s largest ships, the 6,000-passenger Excel class.

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