The short answer: at sea, switch your phone to airplane mode and turn Wi-Fi back on. Use the ship's Wi-Fi package or the cruise line's app for messages, and use your normal mobile data in port, where local networks and your usual roaming rules apply.
Why roaming at sea is different
Out at sea there are no land masts. Many ships run their own mobile network via satellite, and your phone may connect to it automatically. That network is not part of your country's roaming deals — inside the EU, for example, the "roam like at home" rules do not apply at sea. A few minutes of data can cost more than the Wi-Fi package for the whole cruise.
Settings before you leave
- Airplane mode at sea, then switch Wi-Fi back on separately.
- Turn off data roaming as a second safety net.
- Turn off automatic app updates and photo backups on mobile data.
- Download maps, translation languages and films at home.
- Install the cruise line's app before the trip: on many ships it works on the ship's network without buying internet.
Your options on board
| Option | Good for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Ship's Wi-Fi package | Messaging, email, social media; on newer ships even video calls | Paid, usually per device; packages for messaging only are cheaper |
| Cruise line app | Programme, bookings, chat with other guests on board | Chat works only on board and only with that app |
| Mobile data in port | Everything, at your usual roaming conditions | Check that the country is covered by your plan; switch back to airplane mode before the ship leaves |
| Café Wi-Fi in port | Large downloads and video calls | Public networks are not secure for banking |
Staying in touch with family at home
Agree in advance on a time to message, for example in the evening when the ship is in port. Give your family the cruise line's emergency contact number and the ship's name: in a real emergency they can reach you through the line even if you are offline.
Common questions
Does my roaming plan work on a cruise ship?
Usually not at sea. The ship's mobile network works via satellite and is outside normal roaming deals, including the EU's "roam like at home". In port, your normal roaming conditions apply.
Is Wi-Fi free on a cruise?
Usually not. Most lines sell packages per device; some fares or cabin categories include it. Check what your booking includes.
How do I avoid a high phone bill?
Airplane mode at sea, Wi-Fi switched back on, data roaming off, and apps and maps downloaded before you leave.
Can my family reach me in an emergency?
Yes. Give them the ship's name and the cruise line's emergency number; the line can pass on a message to the ship.
How the club fits in
For any sailing, the club's familiar ways of paying apply: the member price (INsider Pricing), about 17% below the retail price, or your Reward Points, which can cover up to half of the price of qualifying bookings. They do not add up in one booking. Not every cruise line can be booked through the club: check the specific sailing in the club's search. More about booking with points.
General information; charges and internet options differ by cruise line, ship and mobile provider. Check with both before you sail. Percentages describe the club's rules and are indicative. Reislite is an independent information site run by partners, not a website of inCruises.