Although people typically go on cruises to disconnect from life on land, the cruise industry wants you to know: Despite perceptions that cruise ships lack Internet access, you can reconnect any time you want thanks to a variety of Wi-Fi options available at sea.
"In our increasingly connected world, it has become incredibly important for travelers to stay connected," said Thomas P. Ostebo, president and CEO of Cruise Lines Association International (CLIA). "Cruise lines globally have made major technological strides to offer our travelers the chance to stay connected while enjoying a cruise vacation."
According to CLIA, examples of Internet accessibility on cruise ships include:
• Minutes vs. Data: "Wi-Fi is more available on cruise lines than ever and the costs to travelers are steadily declining," CLIA reports. "More cruise lines are offering Internet services at reasonable prices. Disney Cruise Lines, for example, offer guests Connect@Sea a service that charges based on data use instead of by the minute."
• Social Media Packages: "Travelers looking to text and tweet while at sea have never had so many options for connectivity," CLIA explains. "In addition to Internet packages, many cruise ships are offering social media specialty packages. Half the Carnival Cruise Line fleet now offers a social media package that allows guests to access popular sites like Facebook and Twitter for a flat fee of $5 per day."
• Internet Café: "Almost all cruise lines offer an Internet Café complete with pay-as-you-use options for guests to stay connected," CLIA says. "These Wi-Fi hubs are available on major lines, including Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, who offer a variety of other packages as well."
• Loyalty Member Services: "Some cruise lines also offer Internet access for loyalty program members," according to CLIA. "Members of Royal Caribbean International's Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program get discounts on internet packages while cruising. Silversea guests sailing in select suites enjoy unlimited free Wi-Fi and every guest receives at least one free hour of Wi-Fi per day."
Concluded Ostebo, "There are common misconceptions that Wi-Fi capabilities on cruise ships are expensive, unreliable, or nonexistent. We are happy to dispel this myth and prove that connectivity and cruising are not mutually exclusive."
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