Can You Text on a Cruise Ship?

By Robert Palmer

The answer is yes, but with some caveats.

Cruise ships have their own cellular networks, so passengers can use their phones to make and receive calls and send and receive SMS/MMS messages. However, the signal is not always reliable and there can be significant costs associated with using your phone while on board.

The best way to stay connected on a cruise ship is to use the ship’s Wi-Fi network. Most cruise lines offer an internet package which allows passengers to access the internet from their own devices.

Passengers can also purchase Wi-Fi cards or packages which allow them to stay connected for a period of time during the cruise. This is usually the most cost-effective way to stay in touch while on board.

Some cruise ships also offer telephone services which allow passengers to make international calls at discounted rates. These services are available at a surcharge, depending on the cruise line and destination. In addition, some ships have kiosks where passengers can purchase prepaid calling cards for international calls.

Bottom Line:

So, while it is possible to text on a cruise ship, it may not be the most reliable or cost-effective way of staying in touch with family and friends back home. Instead, it’s probably best to take advantage of any Wi-Fi packages or telephone services that are available aboard your ship.