Ship-To-Shore-To-Shore-To-Ship Mesh Communications
How can ship to shore communications be made so affordable?
Cruise Hikers Club | Day Trip Excursions |
When docked in international ports, cruise ship passengers communicate with people on land without using personal cell phones or cellular plans by using the following methods:
Ship-to-Shore Communication
- Stateroom Phones: Every cabin is equipped with a phone that can place calls to land-based numbers. Be aware that these “ship-to-shore” calls are typically very expensive, with rates sometimes reaching $8.00 per minute.
- Internet Cafes: Most midsize and large cruise ships have an onboard Internet Cafe with desktop computers available 24/7. Passengers can use these to send emails or use web-based messaging services.
- Satellite Internet Packages: By purchasing a ship Wi-Fi package, you can use a laptop or tablet to communicate via email, social media, or VoIP services like Skype. [3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Land-Based Options in Port [8]
- Port Terminal Wi-Fi: Many international cruise terminals offer free or low-cost Wi-Fi that can be accessed with a laptop or tablet once you disembark.
- Local Internet Cafes: In many international ports, you can find local internet cafes near the pier that provide hourly computer and internet rentals.
- Wi-Fi Hotspots: Some passengers carry portable Wi-Fi hotspots that can be used on land to connect multiple non-cellular devices (like tablets or laptops) to the internet. [3, 9, 10]
Low-Tech & Specialized Gear
- Two-Way Radios (Walkie-Talkies): Passengers often use high-power walkie-talkies (such as GMRS or UHF models) to stay in touch with others who are also on land in the immediate port area. However, their range may be limited by local terrain.
- Satellite Messengers: Dedicated satellite devices (like a Garmin inReach) allow for two-way texting and SOS signals without a cellular connection, though they require a separate subscription.
- Pre-Planned Check-ins: A common “old-school” method is to establish fixed meeting times and locations (e.g., “meet at the port fountain at 2:00 PM”) before leaving the ship. [4, 11, 12, 13]
Would you like more details on the specific Wi-Fi pricing for a particular cruise line?
[3] https://www.cruisecritic.com
[8] https://www.travelweekly.com
[9] https://www.cruisecritic.com