Need WiFi on Your Carnival Cruise? Here’s What to Expect

Going on a cruise offers a delightful escape from everyday life, yet in our digitally connected world, staying in touch with friends, family, or even work can be crucial.

Whether you’re sharing those stunning ocean views on social media, catching up on emails, or simply browsing the internet to plan what you’re going to do in your next port, having access to WiFi on board a Carnival Cruise can be handy.

Unlike your regular mobile data plan, which may not work in the middle of the ocean and potentially incur hefty roaming fees, onboard WiFi provides a seamless and convenient way to stay connected.

Carnival Cruise’s internet service stands out in the cruising world, offering tailored packages that cater to different needs – from basic social media browsing to more comprehensive web access.

In this article, I’ll go into the specifics of Carnival’s WiFi options, detailing the costs and what each package entails.

Overview of Carnival Cruise WiFi Costs

WiFi plans on Carnival cruises range from $12.75 to $22 per day, depending on the package you choose and whether you pre-book it before you set sail. Purchase your plan before the cruise to enjoy a 15% discount.

Note that you must buy an internet package for the entire duration of your cruise. This means you can’t just purchase WiFi for specific days while onboard.

Breaking Down Carnival’s WiFi Costs

Let’s break down the cost of WiFi on a Carnival cruise. The Social WiFi plan costs $12.75 daily if you purchase it before your cruise. The price increases to $15 if you buy it later. The Value WiFi plan is $17 per day when bought before the cruise and $20 per day when purchased onboard.

The Premium WiFi plan will cost you $18.70 per day if you buy it before your cruise and $22 per day if you purchase it onboard. Therefore, if you’re planning a 7-day cruise, your total cost for a pre-purchased Carnival WiFi package can range from $89.25 to $126.

Package	Buy Before Cruise	Buy Onboard
Social	$12.75 per day	$15 per day
Value	$17.00 per day	$20 per day
Premium	$18.70 per day	$22 per day

The Social WiFi Plan

The Social WiFi plan is designed for those mainly using social media apps and websites. With this plan, you can access popular platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, Linkedin, Messenger, WhatsApp, Pinterest, TikTok, and Snapchat. You can also use major airline websites to check your flight statuses. However, you should know that other sites and apps are blocked under this plan.

The Value WiFi Plan

The Value WiFi plan offers unrestricted access to most websites. You can use the package to check your email, keep up with the news headlines, and do online banking.

This plan won’t let you stream music or videos or make WiFi calls on platforms like Skype or Zoom. So, this plan will not allow you to use streaming apps like Netflix and Spotify or engage in video conferencing on apps like Zoom and Teams.

The Premium WiFi Plan

If you’re looking for the highest tier of internet access on your Carnival Cruise, the Premium WiFi Plan is your best bet. This plan offers high-speed internet access, perfect for video or music streaming. It even supports video call services like Skype, Zoom, and Teams, allowing you to stay connected with loved ones or attend essential meetings from the sea.

It’s important to note that connection speeds and reliability vary across select ships. And remember, there’s no refund for weak connections as long as the service is accessible.

Deciding on the Most Suitable Internet Plan

Selecting the ideal internet plan for your cruise may appear challenging, but the right information can make this easier. Evaluate your requirements. Do you need a constant connection, or is occasional access okay? Technically, you could buy an internet package for every device, but it can get very expensive quickly.

However, sharing internet access across multiple devices is a way to save money. This way, when one person is done using the internet, another person can log in using their device. This method requires coordination, but it can be a cost-effective way of managing internet usage on your cruise.

Purchasing Carnival Internet Plans

You can purchase your plan before your cruise or once you’re on board. If you buy the package in advance, you can enjoy a 15% discount off the regular price, so consider your internet needs and budget before deciding on the right plan for you.

How to Access the Internet on a Cruise Ship

For seamless internet access during your cruise, consider purchasing a WiFi plan in advance. This can easily be done through Carnival’s website. Simply visit c, navigate to the ‘Manage’ tab, and select ‘My Booking’. Remember to complete your purchase by midnight Eastern Time the day before your departure to ensure you’re all set for your trip.

Once on board, connecting is straightforward. Open the WiFi settings on your device, select “Carnival WiFi” or a network name that resembles the ship’s name, and sign in using your folio number and birthdate.

Useful Information About the Carnival Hub App

The Carnival Hub App is a handy tool that provides helpful information for your cruise journey. You can access it via WiFi-enabled devices. Just connect to the Carnival WiFi network and open an Internet browser.

The Hub app details the ship’s numerous activities, food and beverage offerings, entertainment options, and more.

Speed and Reliability of Internet on Carnival Cruises

Manage your expectations when it comes to the speed and reliability of the internet on Carnival Cruises. While the cruise line aims to provide the best possible internet speeds, the ship’s location and the number of users can affect the connection. Despite these factors, many passengers find the internet access adequate for their needs, especially with the Premium WiFi Plan.

Blocked Websites on Carnival WiFi

On a Carnival Cruise, you must know that not all websites are accessible via their WiFi service. Even with the premium package plans, certain websites are blocked. It’s because of legal and ethical considerations.

For example, adult websites are blocked on all plans. Carnival Cruise is committed to maintaining a family-friendly environment. Blocking such sites ensures that no children accidentally stumble upon inappropriate content. It also helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere for all passengers.

Furthermore, certain gambling sites are also blocked. This is because gambling isn’t legal in all jurisdictions, making navigating international waters tricky. Instead of dealing with these complications, Carnival Cruise has opted to block these sites altogether. Remember these restrictions when planning your online activities aboard the ship.

Sharing Your Internet Plan

You can share your internet plan across devices on a Carnival Cruise. You can only connect one device at a time. If you want to switch devices, you’ll need to disconnect whatever’s connected before connecting the other device. Use that to optimise your internet usage without purchasing additional plans for each device.

Is Carnival WiFi Worth the Cost?

Whether Carnival’s WiFi service is worth the cost depends on your needs and usage. If you plan on spending most of your time exploring the ship or participating in onboard activities, you may not need much internet access. However, if you know you’ll want to stay connected with friends and family back home, then it might be worthwhile.

Also, consider the internet connection’s availability when the ship is docked. Sometimes, you can get a 4G or 5G connection on your phone, but check for roaming charges. Some ports also offer free WiFi, which could offset the cruise’s internet service cost.

Related reading: Do cell phones work on Carnival Cruise ships?

Concluding Thoughts

While Carnival’s WiFi may not be as fast as your home internet, it’s reliable enough for basic browsing, using apps like WhatsApp, and even video chatting. Plus, the ability to purchase a plan that suits your needs adds flexibility and convenience.

The cruise industry continues to evolve, and Carnival Cruise Line’s onboard WiFi offerings are a testament to that. So, weigh the costs and benefits, consider these cruise tips, and make an informed decision that best suits your needs.