Cruise Ship WiFi is Expensive: How to Stay Connected for Less

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This is a sponsored post for GigSky.

While a lot of people love the idea of disconnecting from reality for their cruise holiday, that’s not an opinion everyone shares.

Some people are forced to have an internet connection on a cruise, whether that’s for work or because they need to keep in touch with family.

For others, it’s a choice thing. We’re all used to social media and instant news access, and we don’t want to give that up.

But cruise ship WiFi can be pretty darn expensive, and it’s not always the most reliable service either.

There are alternatives, though.

Cruise WiFi packages – not much bang, for a lot of bucks

Most cruise lines offer WiFi packages that can cost, on average, around £20-25 per day, depending on the type of package.

Some even offer tiered services, where basic browsing and messaging come at a lower price, but if you want to stream Netflix or make video calls, you’ll pay a premium.

In recent years, cruise lines have begun upgrading their systems to use Starlink, a satellite-based internet service from SpaceX.

Starlink is faster than the traditional satellite systems cruises have relied on for years, and in many cases, it can handle video streaming and video calls. However, even with Starlink, speeds can still be slow compared to what you’re used to at home.

That’s because thousands of passengers are often connecting to the same network at once, which creates congestion and slower speeds, especially during peak times when everyone’s trying to get online.

Another downside is that with most cruise lines, you’re locked into paying for WiFi for the full duration of your cruise. Whether it’s a 3-day trip or a 14-day voyage, they typically sell WiFi packages as “whole trip” deals.

That means even if you only need internet for a few days, you’ll be stuck paying for the entire cruise. This can make already high prices seem even more expensive, especially if you don’t need WiFi every single day.

If you’re looking for more affordable, flexible alternatives, you’ll want to explore options like eSIMs.

The advantages an eSIM offers

eSIMs are a great option for staying connected while travelling.

Unlike traditional SIM cards, which need to be physically inserted into your phone, an eSIM is a digital SIM that you activate through your phone’s settings.

This makes it incredibly convenient, as you can switch between data plans without having to swap out a physical card.

eSIMs let you choose data plans that suit your needs – whether it’s a small amount of data for light usage or a larger plan for more extensive browsing and streaming.

Plus, you’re not locked into a lengthy contract like with traditional roaming options. If you run out of data, topping up is easy, and you can manage everything directly from your phone.

Just one small caveat – you’ll need to check that your devices work with eSIMs.

GigSky’s cruise-specific eSIM deals

GigSky is a provider of cruise & land eSIMs that are the only data plan of their kind – something that’ll cover you throughout your entire cruise journey (if you want it to).

GigSky internet

You can get a single data plan that gives you the fastest and most reliable data service whether you’re exploring ports ashore, or relaxing by the pool on the ship.

It’s really easy to get started too – just a download of the GigSky app and you can be on your way.

Check out GigSky’s Cruise + Land eSIM packages here

With deals starting from just $19.99!

And it works with almost every major cruise line too, so you’ll be able to use the service on pretty much any cruise you take!

All you need to do is choose the right package for your destination (Americas/Caribbean, Asia Pacific, Europe, or World cruises) and then decide on a data level – from 512 MB for 1 day, up to 5 GB for 30 days.

With availability in over 200 countries (and while sailing between them), and live customer support 24/7, you’ll have no trouble getting online with a GigSky plan.

Making the most of your data allowance

With GigSky, you choose the package that’s right for you. Packages last for different lengths of time and include a set amount of data, meaning if you just want to get online as a one-off to check in with your emails, you aren’t overpaying.

Here’s a guide to the different options – bear in mind these are averages, so will vary!

PlanNumber of daysAverage hours of social media use* / web browsingAverage emails / messages without any media
512 MB16-10 hours2,500
1 GB712-20 hours5,000
3 GB1525-40 hours15,000
5 GB3060-100 hours25,000

*Average social media use would reduce if you watched a lot of videos.

Other options for cheaper/free WiFi

There are some other options for cheaper WiFi than paying for cruise packages, which are worth looking into – but don’t expect the same level of reliability as a GigSky eSIM.

Onboard libraries/computer centres

Some cruise lines still have libraries or computer centres with machines available for guests to use. And sometimes, these will allow you to get online for free.

However, this is becoming rarer, as cruise lines push people to pay for internet packages.

And even where they are available, you’re often limited in what you can browse – sometimes it’s just for using the cruise line’s own website to book excursions or pay for other optional extras!

It’s a lot more inconvenient too, so most people prefer to get online on their own devices instead.

Free WiFi in port

A top tip if you’re on a tight budget is to look for free WiFi options when you’re in port.

There may be restaurants or bars, or other public spaces, with a free WiFi connection available.

However, this also has its drawbacks.

Number one, it’s only an option when you’re in port – and you might not be there for too long. If you want to get online while at sea, you’re either going to need an eSIM or pay for the cruise line’s WiFi package.

And it’ll eat into your time ashore too. If it’s a port where you’re far from the main town or city area, your tour bus might only give you enough time for a short exploration – you don’t want to be rushing around trying to get online and miss out on the sights.

Getting a GigSky eSIM will instead give you the freedom to relax and enjoy each destination.

Tech tips for using WiFi at sea

Staying connected on a cruise while keeping your data usage in check can be tricky, but there are some simple tech tips that can help you stretch your allowance and avoid surprise charges. Here’s how to make the most of your WiFi or mobile data while at sea:

1. Turn Off Automatic Updates

One of the biggest hidden data drains is automatic app updates. Both iOS and Android devices can download app updates in the background without you even realising it, which can quickly eat into your data allowance.

Before your cruise, make sure to turn off automatic updates for apps and your operating system.

2. Use Data-Saving Modes in Apps

Many popular apps have built-in data-saving modes, which reduce the amount of data they use while still giving you access to essential features.

Apps like YouTube, Instagram, and Spotify offer ways to limit video quality or reduce the size of files you’re streaming or uploading.

3. Download Content Before You Board

One of the best ways to avoid using up data is to download as much content as possible before you board the ship.

This is especially helpful for entertainment like Netflix shows, YouTube videos, or Spotify playlists, all of which offer offline download options.

You can also download offline maps from Google Maps or CityMaps2Go for navigating at ports without needing a live connection.

4. Limit Background Data Usage

Even when you’re not actively using your phone, some apps run in the background and use small amounts of data for updates, notifications, and syncing.

To prevent unnecessary data use, turn off background data for non-essential apps, or enable a “data saver” mode on your phone.

Final word

If you’re someone who wants or needs to be online during your cruise, it’s always worth exploring your options instead of just relying on the sometimes-slow and often-expensive cruise line packages available.

A GigSky eSIM will make sense for a lot of people looking to connect when they need to, and can offer great savings and much more reliability.

Make sure you check them out before your next cruise – after all, you could make big savings to put towards a few more drinks or a fancy meal onboard!

Check out GigSky’s Cruise + Land eSIM packages here

With deals starting from just $19.99!

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Cruise Mummy

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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