Is Wi-Fi Expensive on Cruise Ships?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning a cruise trip and wondering if the Wi-Fi on board will cost you a fortune? Well, the answer is not straightforward as it depends on various factors such as the cruise line, package type, and duration of your trip. Let’s dive deeper into this topic to understand how much you can expect to spend on Wi-Fi during your cruise.

Cruise Line

Different cruise lines offer different Wi-Fi packages. Some may include Wi-Fi in their standard packages while others may charge extra for it.

The cost also varies based on the quality of the connection and speed offered by each line. Therefore, it’s essential to research and compare prices before booking your cruise.

Package Type

Cruise lines usually offer different Wi-Fi packages based on data usage, time limits, or both. For example, Royal Caribbean offers three different plans: surf (1 device with a limited data plan), surf+stream (up to 4 devices with unlimited browsing and streaming), and stream (up to 4 devices with high-speed streaming). Prices for these packages range from $12.99 to $17.99 per device per day.

Data Usage Packages

If you plan on using Wi-Fi only for checking emails and social media updates occasionally, then a data usage package might be suitable for you. These packages usually come with a fixed amount of data ranging from 100MB to 1GB per day or for the entire trip. Prices for these packages range from $10 to $50 per day or $50 to $200 per trip.

Time Limit Packages

If you intend to use Wi-Fi frequently during your trip, then time limit packages might be more suitable for you. These plans usually come with time limits ranging from 1 hour to unlimited access for the entire trip. Prices for these plans range from $5 to $30 per hour or $100 to $300 per trip.

Duration of the Trip

The duration of your cruise can also impact the cost of Wi-Fi. Most cruise lines offer discounts on Wi-Fi packages for longer trips. For example, a 7-day trip might cost you $17.99 per day for a surf+stream package, but a 14-day trip might cost you $16.99 per day for the same package.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of Wi-Fi on a cruise ship depends on factors such as the cruise line, package type, and duration of your trip. It’s crucial to research and compare prices before booking your cruise to avoid any surprises. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi on board might not be as fast or reliable as what you’re used to on land due to limited satellite coverage and high demand from other passengers.

  • Tip: Consider disconnecting from the internet during your trip and enjoy your vacation without screens.