Cruise travelers are being advised to carefully check their mobile phones before embarking on their vacation to avoid potential surprises on their next phone bill. While on a cruise ship, phone signal is often weak or non-existent, prompting many vacationers to adjust their data roaming settings when they reach port to avoid hefty network charges while abroad.
Despite the common practice of turning off data roaming when on land, a travel expert warns that passengers often forget to disable it while at sea. Even without a strong signal or access to the internet unless using the cruise line’s Wi-Fi, phones can sporadically connect to maritime networks and satellites, resulting in unexpected roaming charges.
Audrey Sheridan, a travel expert at eSIM provider Sim Local, emphasizes the importance of checking mobile settings before boarding the ship. She highlights the misconception that normal roaming plans apply at sea, cautioning that satellite data can be notably costly. She suggests using Wi-Fi packages offered on most cruise ships as a safer option, although prices can vary depending on the cruise line.
For those opting out of the cruise Wi-Fi, Audrey advises turning off data roaming upon departing from port to prevent unintentional satellite connections while at sea. Enabling airplane mode can further prevent background mobile data usage, especially during inactive periods. Travelers unsure about their contract’s roaming charges are encouraged to contact their network provider for information on potential fees abroad.
To ensure a seamless cruise experience, Audrey recommends activating a Global eSIM plan that covers all holiday destinations, enabling mobile data and data roaming while deactivating data switching. By taking these precautions, travelers can avoid unexpected charges and enjoy a worry-free vacation at sea.
