Can you use your cellphone on a cruise?
Most travelers depend on their cellphones for directions, photos, recommendations, wake-up alarms and ride hailing, not to mention calls and texts. But if your vacation plans involve a cruise, you will need to consider rethink your phone use. Simply put, you can't use a cellphone on a cruise the way you can on land without incurring outrageous roaming charges.
What’s the smartest way to use your smartphone at sea without racking up a bill that costs more than your inside cabin? Will a cellphone even get reception in the middle of the ocean?
Here’s your guide to using cellphones on cruise ships and avoiding high fees while you sail the high seas.
Do cellphones work on cruise ships?
Yes, you can make calls, text, and even video chat from a cruise ship. In port, you can connect to local roaming networks. At sea, you can either make calls via a satellite connection or pay for the ship’s Wi-Fi (also via satellite) and make Wi-Fi calls, text or video chat via the internet.
Bandwidth and connection speed can be an issue at sea. You may experience lag time on calls or slow connection speeds. Depending on where your ship is in the world and whether anything (like a mountain range) is blocking the connection to the satellite, your phone may not work temporarily for calls or Wi-Fi access.
Any part of your phone that does not require a network (downloads, photo apps, alarm clocks) will function as normal on board.
How can I avoid cellphone charges on a cruise?
Once you’ve drifted away from the nearest land-based cell tower, however, your phone will go into roaming mode. That’s when hefty charges can start to accrue. We’re not talking about your average international roaming charges, but extra-expensive satellite roaming charges.
Surfing the internet, using social media, reading emails or checking the weather will all use data charged at a premium rate. Phone calls and messages, regardless if they are incoming or outgoing, will also be charged at a premium.
If you want to avoid extra charges from your mobile phone service provider, put your smartphone on “airplane mode” sometime between boarding and when the ship sets sail. Even if you’re not actively using your phone, your smartphone is constantly utilizing data in the background, racking up charges you’re not even aware of. Better to keep cellular service off.
Airplane mode will switch off your phone’s transmitters for cell signal (calls and text messages) and data (browsing the web, using apps) ensuring you will not be privy to unwanted charges. But don’t worry: Your smartphone won’t be completely useless for the trip. Toggle on the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features and make use of your phone in other ways.
Related: 7 extra-charge items on cruise ships that are worth the cost (and 7 that aren’t)
What if I accidentally use roaming services while on board?
It’s up to you to make sure your phone settings are adjusted to keep you from roaming at sea. Expect an alert via SMS text that you’re headed into roaming territory, but beyond that, service providers won’t necessarily notify you of overages and fees — you’ll just be surprised with a large charge on your next bill.
Keep a watchful eye on your “airplane mode” setting, ensuring it’s always on when you’re on board your cruise ship. If you forget, you won’t be charged for incoming calls you don’t accept, but some service providers will charge for unread text messages that arrive while your phone is roaming.
Use the ship’s Wi-Fi to monitor usage on your service provider’s app. If something seems off, contact the service provider’s customer service.
Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on ships
Can I access cruise-specific phone plans and costs?
If you plan on using your phone at sea, some service providers have cruise-specific plans available for when you’re at sea. These plans charge a premium for use through the ship’s satellite connection.
Once you’re in port, double-check whether your phone is connecting via the ship or the local land-based cell tower. Depending on the port, there might not be land-based reception. Cruise versus land-based roaming charges differ, with land-based reception often the less-expensive option.
These are the major US carrier’s cruise plans. Note the difference between SMS (text only, up to 160 characters long) and MMS (a message that contains media including photos, videos and audio files).
Verizon: Verizon’s “Pay As You Go” cruise rates are $0.99-$2.99 per minute for voice calls, depending on your destination and the country you’re calling. Data rates are $2.05/MB, 25 cents for a sent SMS, 5 cents for a received SMS and 25 cents for a sent or received MMS, available on most cruises. If you’re on one of the 400 ships that host Verizon (check the list here), Verizon will send you a text message alert offering you a $20 monthly plan with 50MB of data. Be careful, because 50MB will go quickly on a modern smartphone and overage fees start at $20 for 50MB.
AT&T: AT&T’s two cruise packages are both one-time charges that don’t recur. AT&T Cruise Talk & Text ($50) includes 50 minutes, overage at $2 per minute. AT&T Cruise Talk, Text & Data ($100) offers unlimited talk, text and 200MB of data with $2/MB overage fees.
T-Mobile (and now Sprint): T-Mobile doesn’t feature cruise-specific packages. The provider’s rates on cruises are considered international roaming and charged accordingly with no data option. It costs 50 cents to send a text; received texts are taken from your domestic texting plan’s allotment, and a pricey $5.99 per minute applies to voice calls. Check specific ship availability and pricing here: T-Mobile on cruises.
US Cellular: US Cellular features roaming coverage on select cruise ships only with recurring plans. Prepaid plans are not eligible to connect while at sea. Rates are $4 per minute for voice calls made and received while at sea, 80 cents per sent text, 25 cents per text received, and $20/MB of data.
Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile: There is currently no cruise ship roaming access for Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile customers. Consider buying a prepaid International SIM card that has coverage on cruise ships and in international ports to avoid outages and manage costs.
Can I use my phone in port?
Once you’ve arrived in port, be wary of international roaming charges that might differ from your at-sea rates and change by country. Check your provider’s international plans and rates for each port you plan to visit on your itinerary.
Consider opting for an international SIM card that can keep you connected while in foreign countries and help with budgeting and allotting usage. International SIM cards offer the benefit of choice and variety, with an open market of plans that fit your budget and usage needs. You’ll be using a different phone number with that new SIM card, but you’ll still be able to access your web-based apps, email, and internet messaging like WhatsApp and Apple’s iMessage.
Pro tip: Pack a paper clip to easily eject and swap out SIM cards.
Can I use the ship’s Wi-Fi on my cellphone?
Nearly all major cruise lines sailing today have ship-wide Wi-Fi available. It’s pricey and can be slow or finicky, even on the cruise lines that bill their internet as the “fastest at sea.” However, you can definitely access the ship’s Wi-Fi on your phone if you purchase a plan.
Because the internet connection comes via satellite, passengers cannot rely on the same high-speed access as land-based, wired providers offer. Activities like video conferencing, high-definition streaming and online gaming are going to be more of a challenge on your phone at sea. Plan for spotty coverage.
Related: How can I get Wi-Fi on a cruise for free?
However, depending on the plan you choose, you will be able to text, voice call, video call, check email, and stream music and video. Make sure you have enabled your smartphone’s Wi-Fi calling, texting and video call options, or have downloaded apps to do these things pre-cruise.
Download your cruise line's app prior to boarding, and you’ll be able to browse onboard internet packages available through the ship’s satellite internet service. Most cruise lines offer a few basic web-based services for free via their cruise app, including viewing activity schedules and deck plans, ordering food delivery and making reservations for shows or restaurants. Some even offer in-app texting (sometimes for a minimal fee).
Related: The ultimate guide to international smartphone use
What are the best ways to use my cellphone on a cruise?
There are plenty of ways to use your phone on board without incurring unwanted charges and fees.
Depending on your cruise line’s app, your smartphone might have the ability to unlock your cabin door, help you make dinner reservations, or even order a burger and cocktail to be delivered to you poolside. Just as we’ve seen landside, cruise ships have begun to use QR codes to replace physical bar and restaurant menus.
Smartphones make great cameras for capturing the many fun moments on board and in port. Consider a waterproof case or a plastic waterproof pouch to have the freedom and fun of bringing your phone with you in the ship’s pool and to the beaches at port.
Use your phone as an alarm clock to make sure you’re up at the right time for excursions, pool parties and dinner reservations.
Prior to boarding, always download media (movies, TV shows, music, books, podcasts, etc.) via your fast and cheaper home internet so you will have free entertainment at the ready on your vacation.
But remember, your cellphone won’t be useful to you if you run out of battery life. Double-check that you have packed the right chargers and outlet plugs, especially for accessories like Bluetooth earphones.
Consider bringing a travel power strip (one without surge protection) if your cabin’s electronic devices will all need to be charged overnight at the same time. Power brick chargers are essential for topping up power anywhere else on the ship or exploring a port.
Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board
Bottom line
Your smartphone will likely go everywhere you go on board a cruise ship, so plan ahead to make sure any and all fees are managed and expected. Cellphone roaming costs can add up quickly, but you can keep costs manageable by opting into a service provider’s package deal, buying international SIM cards or using onboard Wi-Fi for calling and web browsing.
Even on a cruise, your cellphone will be your number one travel accessory. Rove freely around the world, phone in hand — just don’t roam without understanding the costs first.
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
- The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
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There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
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- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
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- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
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Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.