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For more information on using WhatsApp on cruise ships, you can visit the official WhatsApp website at While cruise ships are designed to minimize obstructions as much as possible, there may still be instances where the signal is affected. In such cases, moving to an open area on the ship or adjusting the position of your device may help improve the signal reception.
Bring Your Smartphone Accessories
I recently sailed with Royal Caribbean onboard their ship Mariner of the Seas from January 2nd to January 6th, 2023. While on this trip I traveled with fellow Royal Caribbean Blog and Cruise.Blog writer, Allie. We enjoyed testing out the new complimentary version of Royal Caribbean’s messaging system.
Be Smart About What Networks and Sites You Access
When sending messages, most of the time it appeared that once a guest hit ‘send’, the message would send twice in the app. However, only one message was actually received by the recipients, and when the messaging system was opened again later on, the double message seemed to go away. If you experience this, be assured that your message was only sent once, not twice. The messaging feature can only be used when a guest is connected to the onboard ship wifi, through the Royal Caribbean app. The Royal Caribbean app can be found in the app store for most smart phones. For many frequent cruise travelers, the first step to planning any voyage is downloading the cruise line’s app.
Using Your Phone in a Port of Call
While these are just a few alternatives to WhatsApp for cruisers, there are many other messaging apps available that may suit your needs. Remember to check the availability of internet connectivity on the cruise ship and choose an app that works best for you and your loved ones. It is always a good idea to check with your cruise line before your trip to get information about the availability and cost of internet access on board. They can provide you with details about any restrictions or limitations on using WhatsApp or other messaging apps while at sea. Additionally, the availability and coverage of satellite internet may vary depending on the region you are sailing in. While most cruise ships provide internet access throughout the duration of the cruise, there may be areas where the signal is weaker or unavailable.
What are the best apps to use for texting on a cruise ship?
Internet packages on board ships can vary in price and bandwidth, so it’s important to research and compare options before purchasing. Another key factor in the future of shipboard messaging is the allocation of higher onboard bandwidth. Cruise lines are recognizing the importance of fast and reliable internet access for their passengers and are investing in infrastructure upgrades to meet these demands. As technology continues to advance, so does the availability and quality of shipboard messaging options. Gone are the days when cruise ship passengers were cut off from the outside world once they set sail.
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Will I get phone signal on a cruise?
Depending on where your ship is at any given moment, you might or might not have a phone signal through your own carrier. When you do have one, it's coming through an at-sea provider (Cellular At Sea for many cruise lines) and is considered a roaming charge by your cell carrier. This expanded coverage allows passengers to use messaging apps like WhatsApp to stay in touch with loved ones back home or communicate with their fellow travelers on the ship. Facebook Messenger is a great alternative to WhatsApp for cruisers.
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Satellite Internet Allows Basic Messaging Functions
But sometimes it’s necessary to keep in touch with people back home, even while on vacation. This can prove tricky when cell service ceases to be an (affordable) option while sailing out at sea. If you are wondering how to text on a cruise ship for free, you may realize that it is not easy and can be expensive. Sometimes, it is a matter of finding hotspots you can use while using messenger apps. Another important step is to download any offline maps or travel guides that you might need during the cruise.
It’s important to keep in mind that the reliability of WhatsApp on a cruise ship can vary depending on these factors. It’s always a good idea to check with your cruise ship operator and understand their internet and communication services before relying heavily on WhatsApp during your cruise. 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. Social (~$15 per day) — Offers access to social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Snapchat and more. 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.
It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the pricing structure and consider purchasing an internet package that suits your communication needs. Disney passengers can use the Navigator app on all ships to send free text messages to other people on the same ship also using Navigator. Though the app does connect to the onboard Wi-Fi, there is no charge to app users for access.
If those around you are used to receiving an instant reply, you may want to prepare them for when you are taking your cruise. If they have never been on a cruise, they may be unaware that you may not be receiving their texts if you aren’t connected. While you may feel like paying is the inevitable conclusion, there are ways to be able to use your device for free.
As a cruise ship travels through different regions and distances from the coast, the availability and strength of the Wi-Fi signal may vary. This means that you may find areas onboard where the Wi-Fi signal is weak or non-existent, making it challenging to send or receive texts. You can use it to add contacts, chat with other passengers in real time and even share photos. The web app is only available on MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica and MSC Preziosa. When on a cruise, Wi-Fi availability may vary and some internet packages may not allow video/audio calls on WhatsApp.
Don’t take your phone out of airplane mode unless you are within your data coverage. The modern convenience of using a smartphone on a cruise ship is truly a great improvement and welcomed luxury. But, you are still on vacation to explore new destinations, meet new people, and have some fun and relaxation.
Features of the app include a personalized calendar, access to the daily program, reservation reminders, port and ship maps and more. This will allow you to make reservations, book appointments, see your daily onboard program, and more, depending on each app’s features. Many cruise line apps even have onboard messaging capabilities, but these only extend to the ship and not to home. I know that you can sometimes iMessage on ship’s wifi, but the problem with that is the bandwidth it takes to send the text out.
You will be able to send text messages on WhatsApp only if your cell phone has an internet connection. Some cruise lines offer free WiFi, while others charge per minute or per day. WiFi packages may be for the whole cruise or for a certain number of minutes or data usage. If you’re planning on setting sail and embarking on a cruise, you may be wondering how you can stay connected with your loved ones back home.
When you're in port, your cell signal will typically switch to a carrier from the country or island you're visiting. And even if they aren’t covered, the charges may still be lower than what you would pay onboard the ship. Technically you can use your cell phone on a cruise, but it's not always possible.
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