How to Text on a Cruise Ship for Free

When you’re at sea, staying in touch with people back home—or even just finding your travel companions—can get surprisingly complicated. On land, texting is quick, easy and cheap. But mobile signals vanish once your ship sails away from the coast, and that simple message might cost more than your favourite cocktail.

Some cruisers enjoy switching off completely. Others want to keep tabs on their kids, check in with family, or share a quick update (“yes Mum, we’ve arrived—and no, I haven’t been seasick!”). If that sounds like you, don’t worry—we’ve rounded up the best ways to stay connected at sea without racking up a massive bill.

A photo of someone holding a phone, with scam phone calls logged.

Can You Text on a Cruise Ship?

Yes, but it depends on how you’re connected. If you’re close to land, your phone might still pick up a regular cell signal. But once you’re about 20–30 miles offshore, that signal fades, and your phone may switch to a maritime network instead.

At this point, texting can quickly become expensive. That’s where Wi-Fi, messaging apps, and cruise-specific tools can help.

Why Using Your Cell Phone Normally Can Cost a Fortune

Once you’re out at sea, your phone might connect to a satellite-based provider like Telenor Maritime or Cellular at Sea. These networks use satellites, and your mobile carrier will likely treat any usage as international roaming, often at extortionate rates.

Even if you’re not actively using your phone, background data (like email checks or app notifications) could be quietly racking up charges. That innocent scroll could cost more than you expect.

Close-up of a person texting on a cell phone, wearing a green overshirt and white T-shirt, with focus on their hands and the smartphone in a green case. The image captures a casual moment of cell phone texting in a modern, everyday setting.

Avoid Bill Shock: Switch to Airplane Mode

To protect your wallet, the best thing you can do when boarding the ship is to switch your phone to airplane mode. This disables cellular signals and roaming, stopping surprise charges before they start.

You can still use Wi-Fi in airplane mode—just turn Wi-Fi back on manually. This setup keeps you connected to the internet (if needed) without the risk of satellite roaming charges.

Switch early and cruise stress-free.

Four Smart Ways to Text at Sea

Smiling woman lounging on a deck chair while texting on a cruise ship, with panoramic ocean views through glass railings under clear skies. The relaxed setting captures the ease and connectivity of texting on a cruise ship during vacation.

Some texting options cost nothing, others come with a fee, but they’re all safer than simply turning on your phone and hoping for the best.

1. Use a Maritime Network (Expensive!)

Your phone might connect to Cellular at Sea or another satellite network, allowing you to send standard SMS messages. But beware—this can be incredibly pricey.

Here are the typical prices (as of the last time I checked):

AT&T: $3.00 per minute for calls, $0.50 per text sent, $1.30 for photo/video messages, and $2.05 per MB of data. Cruise packages (like AT&T Cruise Basic or Plus) can help reduce these costs.
Verizon: $1.99 per minute, $0.50 per text sent, $0.05 per text received. Pay-as-you-go data is not available at sea.
T-Mobile: $5.99 per minute for calls (data not available).

Even just having your phone connected in the background could lead to charges, so this method is best avoided unless absolutely necessary.

2. Use Messaging Apps via Cruise Ship Wi-Fi

With a Wi-Fi package, you can use apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, Facebook Messenger or Telegram to send texts, images, and even voice notes.

Most cruise lines offer tiered Wi-Fi packages, and basic ones are usually fine for messaging. Just remember to stay in airplane mode and only use Wi-Fi.

3. Message Friends Onboard Using the Cruise Line App

Many cruise lines offer their own app that lets you message fellow guests onboard—no full Wi-Fi package required. Sometimes there’s a one-time activation fee, but it’s usually a fraction of the cost of a full plan.

Here are the key apps:

Carnival – Carnival HUB app
Royal Caribbean – Royal Caribbean International app
Princess Cruises – Princess MedallionClass app
MSC Cruises – MSC for Me app
Norwegian Cruise Line – Cruise Norwegian app
Disney Cruise Line – Disney Navigator app
Holland America Line – Navigator app

App functionality may vary by ship and region, so check ahead of time.

4. Wait Until You’re in Port

When you’re docked, you have two great options:

Free Wi-Fi – Many cruise terminals and local cafes offer complimentary hotspots.
Local data – For US travelers, international roaming packages may apply depending on your plan. Be sure to check rates before you sail.

It’s a great time to check in, share photos, or catch up with loved ones.

What About Emails?

If you need to send longer messages or contact work, email is your go-to. You’ll need Wi-Fi to do it, even with basic packages.

Cruise Wi-Fi speeds can be hit or miss, but emails generally go through without issue. Just avoid trying to send large attachments or hosting video calls unless you’ve paid for a premium package.

Tips for Free or Cheap Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi doesn’t have to blow the budget. Here are some smart ways to save:

Booking bonuses – Some deals include free Wi-Fi, especially in suites or during promos.
Use onboard credit – Got free credit? Use it to buy a Wi-Fi plan before you splurge elsewhere.
Share the connection – Some plans allow multiple devices (just not always at the same time).
Try the Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi trick – Some cruisers have accessed limited sites for free. It’s not guaranteed, but worth a go. [Insert link to your guide.]

When in doubt, just ask a crew member where the best free Wi-Fi is in port.

Final Thoughts

Texting on a cruise doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Plan ahead, switch to airplane mode, and pick the method that works best for you.

For basic updates, a cruise app or messaging service over Wi-Fi is usually all you need. And if you’re in port, take advantage of free hotspots or local roaming.

Stay in touch without losing touch with your bank account.