does carnival vista cruise have wifi

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Reviewed: Carnival Cruise Wi-Fi Service (Speed, Reliability, Cost, and More)

Not that long ago, Internet on a cruise was largely a luxury. While someone might buy access to be able to work remotely from the ship or buy a few minutes to check email, broad access by many people on the ship wasn’t common.

What a difference a few years can make. Now, having wi-fi access is nearly a necessity. Not only does it give you a chance to check in back home and keep tabs on your email or the office while you’re away, but it also allows you to post those nice pictures of yourself having fun onto social media, watch movies in the cabin, listen to music, and even check-in for flights when heading home after the trip.

It’s no exaggeration that Internet access has gone from a luxury to a must-have.

The good news is that cruise lines — including Carnival — offer wi-fi access across their fleets. Whether you want to hook up to the Internet with your laptop or post to Facebook from your phone, you can get service anywhere on the ship on any device.

That said, wi-fi access is not free, nor is it as quick as you are used to back on land. It is still a challenge to get access while hundreds of miles in the middle of the water. So what can you expect? We recently put Carnival’s Internet access through the paces to give you all the details on what we experienced with the service.

In This Article...

What Wi-Fi Packages Are Available on Carnival?

Like other cruise lines, Carnival offers different tiers of service, all at different price points. Each tier offers different access, from just being able to login to social media, all the way to full web access at faster speeds. Here’s a run-down of what’s offered:

Social Plan: Gives access to social media sites like Twitter and Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat, along with airline websites. However, it doesn’t include most websites (including email), streaming, or wi-fi calling, FaceTime or iMessage.

Value Plan: Gives email access, what’s included in the social plan, as well as broad access to the rest of the web — all at faster speeds than the Social plan. However, Carnival says it still doesn’t support video/music streaming, FaceTime, or wi-fi calling.

Premium Plan: Carnival’s highest tier of service, it offers everything in the other two tiers, with faster speeds (Carnival says up to three times faster than the value plan). It also allows Netflix, giving you the ability to stream shows. However, the cruise line says it doesn’t support video or music streaming with other services like Hulu. (See below for more details — including our experience — on streaming).

How Much Does Wi-Fi Access Cost on Carnival?

What you pay for access will depend on when you purchase and how long you want access. Typically, Internet access is sold for the length of the entire cruise based on a per-day cost. There is a discount if you buy service before the cruise compared to the onboard price . 

The prices below are what’s seen on Carnival’s website as of now:

How Do You Access the Internet Once on the Ship?

The sign-in process is fairly straightforward, but there were some hiccups here and there. Sometimes logging in took a few tries to gain access.

• Open up your wi-fi connection settings and connect to the ship’s service. In our case, it was named “Carnival Celebration Wi-Fi” or something similar.
• Open up a browser and go to “CarnivalWiFi.com”
• Enter your folio number and birthdate, and click “Log In”
• Click “Confirm” on the next screen to enable access.

At this point you should be connected and can then surf the web as normal.

How Fast Is Carnival’s Wi-Fi Service?

For our cruises, we’ve tested the fastest Premium plan of service. Doing multiple speed tests across cruises, it seems to show speeds between 6-12 Mbps. On this specific test, it returned a ping of 680 ms, a download speed of 9.09 Mbps, and an upload speed of 2.64 Mbps: 

Those numbers likely mean little to most people, but for a cruise ship, they are pretty good. (Keep in mind, however, that speed will vary. We’ve been on other ships with slower speeds or in locations where speeds are slower.)

In layman’s terms, surfing the web did seem sluggish. There were times when the connection seemed faster than others, but you wouldn’t confuse the speed with broadband you have at home or the office. Sites would load, but took their time.

For instance, visiting YouTube took about 10 seconds before video thumbnails started to load. A visit to CNN.com brought up the text headlines relatively quickly, but images were delayed.

If you had to use the connection every day to surf, it would be slow by modern standards. It definitely took some time to load images onto posts for Cruzely.com when we live-blogged the cruise. Using the wi-fi here and there to check the news or email, however, was just fine.

Do I Have to Buy Access For Every Device? Can I Share Access?

It’s likely you’re traveling with other people that want access to the Internet. In that case you have two options. First, you can buy more than one package, giving access to multiple devices at once. Or, you can simply share access on different devices.

Carnival allows you to login to the wi-fi from separate devices, but you can only use one device at a time. So one person could connect with the wi-fi on a laptop and when finished, another person could login to have access on their phone. If you don’t need access every moment of the day, it’s an easy way to save some money by sharing.

To transfer access between devices, you simply follow the login procedures as normal. It will notify you that the account is already in use and ask if you want to switch devices. Simply confirm the switch and you’re good to go on the second device.

Can I Stream Movies/TV on Carnival’s Wi-Fi?

Whether you can stream on your cruise may be hard to say. Here’s the issue: Carnival says that its fastest Premium plan supports Netflix, but not other video/music streaming services. 

Our experience, however, is that you can actually stream at least some of those services that are supposedly no supported.

During one cruise aboard Carnival Vista, for instance, we were able to access and watch YouTube videos. We also streamed Amazon Prime videos multiple times with no issues. The picture was nice, and there was minimal buffering. When trying to stream Showtime, however, we encountered an error and weren’t able to watch.

Bottom line is that yes, you can stream in at least some cases. The better option, however, is to go ahead and download any shows you want to watch ahead of time. That way you don’t have to worry about wi-fi service at all. Even if you are able to stream, there might be points where a slow connection makes the show appear choppy or pixelated. Downloading before boarding makes this a non-issue.

Can I Make FaceTime Calls on the Wi-Fi?

Yes. On our trip we tested FaceTime calls from an iPhone with the Premium plan. There were no issues connecting. The call quality itself was so-so. We were able to talk, but there were some times where the image was blurry or froze for a few seconds. Audio had no issues.

Bottom line: FaceTime was able to be used, even though Carnival says on its website that it’s not supported.

Can I Text Message Over Carnival’s Wi-Fi?

For most of us, we message a lot more than we actually make calls on our phone. In this case, during our tests we noticed that texting iPhone to iPhone seemed to work with no problems. We were able to send and receive messages when connected to wi-fi, including messages with pictures.

However, when messaging to an Android phone, our messages had trouble going through. In the end, we ended up just emailing the person we were trying to text as we couldn’t send the text. (This might also have been due to settings on our phone, which is possible.)

In that case, messaging apps like WhatsApp might be a better option. We didn’t test any messaging apps on our cruise, but they are specifically mentioned by Carnival as being supported on its wi-fi service.

Do I Have to Buy Wi-Fi Access to Use Carnival’s HUB App?

If you’re about to sail, you’ve likely seen mention of downloading the HUB app to use on the ship. This app is extremely useful on the cruise, and you can use it to access everything from dinner menus to ship maps to tracking your onboard spending account.

The good news if that you don’t have to purchase wi-fi access to use the app. All the features can be used without buying an Internet plan. You are able to connect and get data from the app at no cost.

Can I Use a VPN?

Some people need to use a virtual private network (VPN) when working or simply use one for more privacy online. While we didn’t specifically test out a VPN while sailing, Carnival says they do not support VPNs on their ships.

According to the FAQ on their website: “VPN connections are not supported. Discuss your VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings on board.”

Can I Work or Do School Work With the Wi-Fi?

Of course, one major reason to sign up for Internet is to be able to work from the ship. These days, many people opt to take a “working cruise” and enjoy themselves while also being able to complete work back home. So is that possible on a Carnival cruise?

In our opinion, it depends on the type of work or school work you’re doing. Have something where you need to be live on Zoom with perfect clarity and reception? That might be tough to manage. Need to make an informal video call? That should be fine. Simply need Internet access to access documents, submit an assignment, or send some emails? That’s no issue at all.

In other words, access to work that requires a reliably fast and solid connection could have issues (you are at sea, after all). However, less-intensive tasks should be perfectly feasible.

Is Carnival’s Wi-Fi Worth It?

For a 7-day cruise, you’ll pay about $150 for the Premium plan — or nearly $22 a day. That’s a sharp price to pay for online access. So is it worth it?

In our eyes, it depends on what you need access for. If you simply want to stay connected, check email occasionally and text some friends, then paying that much seems too high to us (that’s where the cheaper Social and Value plans are nice). However, if you have work obligations or things going on back home that you simply can’t miss, then by all means, hop online.

One thing to note is that many ports of calls offer wi-fi service in some shape or form . There may be restaurants that offer wi-fi to customers or ports of call that offer access for a cheaper fee than what’s on the ship. You can also access the Internet with a day-pass so you don’t have to pay for access the entire week.

This way, you can still stay in touch back home without spending as much money.

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Would the premium service allow you to play games on your phone?

Yes, that should be no issue.

does wireless travel router work on carnival ?

i was on rcl’s symphony and worked just fine. all my fam were able to connect

Never tried.

My work laptop doesn’t connect directly to cruise wifi but if I don’t through a router or create my own wifi hotspot through phone then it works. Google pixel phones can turn cruise and airplane wifi into hotspot similar to travel wifi. I have shared plane wifi with family member by turning hotspot on and same can be done on cruises.

If you want to share internet with other devices you can either hotspot your phone or bring a travel router

I’ve personally tried the hotspot and it didn’t work.

It works with certain phone. My Google pixel can turn wifi into hotspot but my Motorola can’t. I don’t know about iphone however.r

This response is solely related to internet on Carnival cruise ships…

I suspect Tanner has taken one Carnival cruise and thinks his experience is the norm for all Carnival ships. The article is missing a fleetwide perspective. Some of the information is useful, but some of it is not so good.

Yes, Carnival has invested in improving its internet experience on its newer ships, however the older ships still have the worst in the industry bandwidth. The Carnival Vista is one of their newer ships, so it will have faster internet. I have had decent internet on the Carnival Vista, Horizon, and Mardi Gras. I expect the same on the Celebration when I sail in 2023. These are all newer ships. My experience on 14 other Carnival ships was less than enjoyable. Granted some of my earlier cruises were before smartphones were a thing. And as mentioned, they are making improvements. Those improvements are obviously a work in progress.

That said, I must concur with Jon about the Carnival Paradise. I have been on that ship 4 times in 2022, and internet is dismal. Don’t expect to be able to stream video. Lily didn’t mention which ship she was on, but I suspect it was one of the smaller and older ships.

The most useful advice I can share is about when to purchase an internet plan for an upcoming Carnival cruise. If it is a newer ship, I suggest buying in advance to save 10% or 20% (depending on the current offer). If it is a older ship, wait until you are on the boat. Yes, you will pay full price. If the internet is usable, you will soon forget about the higher cost. However, if internet is unusable, head to the guest services midway through the cruise (or whenever you see short lines). Make your complaint, and it is very likely they will refund a portion of your internet plan, in my experience typically 50%. This is only an option if purchase the plan while on the ship. If you prepaid for the plan, you will need to complain to customer service when back on land. Getting any type of refund from in this case is hit or miss, usually miss.

One final piece of advice on internet. Based on where you are at on the boat can affect the signal you have. The closer you are to a wifi access point, the better the signal. On the smaller boats, the closer you are to the middle of the ship, the better signal strength. Larger boats have more wifi access points. Don’t confused signal strength with bandwidth. I try to book aft view balcony rooms, signal strength is not very good there.

The nice thing about cruise ships is there are lots of places to sit and do your surfing. That is, if there is sufficient bandwidth to do so. Just bring a headset so you don’t annoy others.

“I suspect Tanner has taken one Carnival cruise and thinks his experience is the norm for all Carnival ships.”

Incorrect. In the past few months, I’ve sailed both the oldest (Ecstasy before it was retired) and newest (Celebration) Carnival ships. Celebration did have faster internet ~10-12 Mbps, but Ecstasy was still a solid 5-7 Mbps during my test. Vista, covered in the article was ~9 Mbps. So yes, there seems to be a correlation between faster service on newer ships, but I still found the service on the oldest ship to be solid.

My experience on a recent Falll 2022 Western Caribbean cruise on the Carnival Paradise was vastly different than yours. For most of the cruise, the Internet was not available. Wifi and their internal Mobile App worked and I could check in to restaurants etc; just couldn’t access the Internet. One time while in Port at Roatan I experienced 10MBS Down and 2MB Up for a few hours then Internet disappeared again from their WiFi. A few times while cruising when Internet access did work, I was experiencing 178KBPS Down!! Small Pic uploads to facebook either took 20 minutes or longer or would often time-out. I had the so-called “Premium Plan”. I called Guest services 4 times and hung up after 25 minute wait/hold times. I transferred my WiFi to another device thinking there could have been an issue with one of my devices but I experienced the same sad performance. I used the Post-Cruise Survey to relay my sad WiFi experience. I will never again purchase their expensive WiFi again.

I just got off a Carnival cruise, had “premium” internet – and on the first night, they changed their network configuration and I was suddenly unable to connect to my work. I begged them for five days to please fix their network – it was definitely their network, as I got the same error from three different clients on two machines we had with us – and the error would have been easy for them to correct – but they refused to even discuss it. I was told by guest services “I’ll check into it” but nothing happened. All they would have had to do is look at their server logs and they’d see what they had done. I was unable to do my work for the entire week. I have been cruising Carnival for years and never had this issue (well, once but they fixed it in 3 hours), but this was a nightmare. All they had to do was look at their server logs, and most likely update their digital certificate/time clock, but instead they kept asking me “which URL is not working, we will see if we can connect”. I told them half a dozen times its not a URL, its a *program*. I hope this turns out to be an isolated incident – if it happens again, my cruising days are over.

I feel your pain as I experienced similar sad performance on the Carnival Paradise but it won’t end my cruise days, it will just end my purchase of any of their WiFi plan packages.

With a 680millisecond ping time for the “premium” service, that means there’s such a huge latency (delay/lag), that anyone you’re with on a Teams or Zoom call will already be on the next sentence or paragraph before the video catches up with you. Disgraceful, Carnival to charge so much money for such subpar performance.

Do you have to have the premium to access YouTube? Or will one of the other plans work?

We’d suggest the highest level plan to offer the best experience in streaming anything.

Good idea. The social plan doesnt even allow email access.. 🙁

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Wifi on Carnival Vista - worth buying a package?

By kjpfmm , November 13, 2017 in Carnival Cruise Lines

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We are cruising on the Vista in January and I've read many reviews about the wifi not being very good. I just want to be able to keep in touch with my family at home.

If you purchased a package, what was your experience with the wifi? I was thinking of just doing the value package but wasn't sure if anyone had better luck with the more expensive ones.

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We are cruising on the Vista in January and I've read many reviews about the wifi not being very good. I just want to be able to keep in touch with my family at home.   If you purchased a package, what was your experience with the wifi? I was thinking of just doing the value package but wasn't sure if anyone had better luck with the more expensive ones.   Thanks!

Can't answer for Carnival. I have found WiFi/Internet good enough for email. Fater than dial up but lslower than most high speeds.

Heard its extremely slow,,, I don't plan on purchasing. Instead use wifi spots on port of calls. I'll be on Vista next week and i'll ask some fellow cruisers what they think if they are using it.

firemanbobswife

Vista had the fastest out of my last the cruises. I had the Value and it worked like a champ. The other ships’ internet weren’t worth a damn and totally frustrating.

The social plan is very economical and I think worth the risk of slow internet to keep in touch with social media if that's your thing. We used to manage just fine for a week without any internet and you still can if you are strategic. If you stop in an American port (San Juan, St. Thomas, Alaska) then your carrier may treat you as in network and you can email all you want. If you take an excursion to a beach usually there will be wifi available. Also, you can just look for all the ships crew parked outside of Margaritaville or similar with their laptops & devices and enjoy "free internet" as they do in ports. So, I think it comes down to how "in touch" you need to be and what you are willing to spend.

Social plan worked very well. Needed it for what’s app and had zero issues. Pre-buy before you sail and it’s around 20% less expensive than buying it when onboard.

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Social plan worked very well. Needed it for what’s app and had zero issues. Pre-buy before you sail and it’s around 20% less expensive than buying it when onboard.     Sent from my iPhone using Forums

Did the social plan work for FB phone calls and FB messenger there? Thanks

I didn’t try a FB phone call but it does work with Messenger. That’s how I kept in touch with my family back at the house.

Yup, this is what we always get. Very reasonable, although slow at times if you're uploading pics. Only one in the cabin needs to purchase, but only one can be logged in at a time.

Thanks! That’s what I need it for, to stay in touch with my sons and grandsons. I do most of my posting late at night after I have turned in for the night. It should probably be less people using it then.

Yes. It was quicker when people were off the ship or sleeping.

• 1 month later...

Excellent - thank you everyone for the insight. It's greatly appreciated!

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Carnival cruise wi-fi: plans, access, and sharing.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Carnival offers three different Wi-Fi plans: Social Plan, Value Plan, and Premium Plan.
• The cost of Wi-Fi access on Carnival depends on when it is purchased and the length of access, with discounts available for pre-purchasing.
• To access the internet on Carnival, passengers need to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network and then log in using their folio number and birthdate.
• The speed of Carnival’s Wi-Fi service can vary, but the Premium plan offers speeds ranging from 6-12 Mbps. However, web browsing may be sluggish and video and image loading times may be delayed.

Wi-Fi Plans on Carnival

Accessing Wi-Fi on Carnival

Cost of wi-fi access on carnival.

Speed of Carnival’s Wi-Fi Service

Sharing wi-fi access on carnival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i use wi-fi calling on carnival’s premium plan, are there any time restrictions for using wi-fi on carnival cruises, can i stream videos from hulu on carnival’s premium plan, is there a limit to the number of devices i can connect to carnival’s wi-fi network, can i access wi-fi in my stateroom or is it only available in public areas.

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Carnival Cruise WiFi: Ultimate Guide To Carnival WiFi Plans

Imagine Cruising without the internet. No media uploading and no calling. Sounds weird, right? It’s totally abnormal for me as I strongly believe that “Life without the internet is like paralysis.”

But don’t worry. Carnival Cruises offers onboard Internet packages of different prices and quality. Depending on your preferences, these include social media, value, and premium packages.

But hold on! These packages are expensive and unsuitable for streaming videos or other high-bandwidth activities. So, before purchasing, knowing what you’re getting and what you need is important. 

So hang on, my fellow cruisers. I’ve covered all your questions regarding Carnival Cruise WiFi in this article.

Also, at the end, I’ve shared my tips and tricks related to Carnival WiFi that will offer convenience and help you save on your budget.

So, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

How Much Do Carnival Wifi Packages Cost?

Carnival offers different WiFi packages based on your needs and preferences. Each package has its charges and speeds.

The packages range from $12.75 per day to $30 per day. Prices may vary depending on the type of cruise and the duration of the cruise.

But you can also opt for the full vacation WiFi package, which costs less. I highly recommend this option as I’ve personally used it.

Amazingly, there’s also a bonus from Carnival: if you buy any package before boarding, you’ll get a 15% discount as a gift. Remember, you must purchase before getting on board to avail of this offer.

What Are The Available Carnival Wifi Packages?

Carnival WiFi offers three different internet packages depending on your needs. These are social, value, and premium.

1- The Social Plan

If you’re someone like me and love constantly uploading on social media, there’s a specific plan just for your needs: the “social” plan.

With this option, you’ll have access to various social media platforms, enabling you to stay connected with friends and share your cruise experiences.

Keep in mind that you can’t make video calls on this plan. I faced a major misunderstanding, but now I’m sharing this insight with you so that you can stay informed.

The popular social package also allows access to popular airline sites, enabling you to check in for your flight towards the end of your cruise.

The price of this social plan is $15 per day. But if you purchase it before boarding, it will cost you $12.75 per day.

The entire cruise costs $89.25 (pre-purchase). Most importantly, buying a 24-hour pass for the Social Wi-fi plan is impossible.

• Allow usage for Snapchat, FaceBook Messenger, WhatsApp, and other platforms

2- The Value Plan

The Value Plan is for people who enjoy browsing their favorite websites while accessing social media during the cruise.

So, if you’re someone needing to check Linkedin, emails, or handle other important stuff on websites, the Value Plan is your go-to. Its cost after boarding is $20, but if purchased beforehand, it’s only $17. For a 7-day cruise, it totals $119.

It’s also available as a 24-hour pass, priced at $22 per day. Unfortunately, video or music streaming is not supported by this plan.

• Decent Speed
• Allow surfing
• Don’t allow video calling and streaming

3- The Premium Plan

The Premium Plan is the top tier offering from Carnival Cruise, providing faster and broader service compared to the Social and Value packages.

Its major advantage lies in access to video and music streaming. It also supports video calling on platforms like Skype and Zoom, wherever coverage allows.

This package is available before boarding for $18.70 per person per day. However, if you purchase it after boarding, the price increases to $22 daily. For a seven-day trip, the total cost would amount to $130.90

For the 24-hour pass, the daily costs rise to $30. This could save you money if you only need access on specific days.

• Support Skype, Zoom, etc, for video calling
• Allow streaming

Are There Different Speed Options With Carnival WiFi Packages?

Yes. Each Carnival Cruise WiFi package offers different speeds. The Premium plan stands out as the fastest service, providing speeds up to three times faster than the Social and Value plans.

I opted for the Premium plan during my cruise, and its speed was truly impressive. I experienced no connection problems while video and music streaming or conducting video calls. It delivered an excellent performance overall.

While the Value Plan does offer decent speed, it doesn’t come closer to the Premium plan. Also, the Value Plan doesn’t support video calls and streaming due to its lower bandwidth.

How Fast Is The Internet On Carnival Cruise?

The internet speed on Carnival Cruise ships can vary. It depends on where the ship is, how many people are using it, and the internet plan you bought. 

You might not get super-fast speeds like at home, but it works okay for basic things like social media or emails. 

Newer ships have better Internet, up to 1-2 mbps on older ones and 8-10 mbps on newer ones, especially those with Starlink.

The problem isn’t just speed; it’s also about “latency.” This is around 40-60 milliseconds at home, but on regular ship Wi-Fi, it’s slower at about 700 milliseconds. This causes buffering and frustration.

On Starlink-equipped ships, I tested and found faster speeds of around 35 milliseconds. This made watching Netflix and Amazon Prime smooth without any issues.

If your room is on a lower deck, like Cove Balconies , you might have a slower internet speed compared to upper decks because of better satellite communication. So, consider that when choosing your cabin if you and yours care about internet speed.

Can You Call Home?

If you have the Premium Plan, you can make calls to your love ones and home using apps like FaceTime audio, Skype, or WhatsApp. 

If your phone can make calls over WiFi, you can use that feature with the Premium Plan. I use T-Mobile, and I put my phone on airplane mode when I get on the ship. 

Then, I turn on the T-Mobile WiFi so my phone works like a normal phone using the ship’s Internet. WiFi calling doesn’t use your cell data, just the Internet. AT&T also has WiFi calling.

Can I Purchase Carnival WiFi Packages Before the Cruise?

Yes. Purchasing a Carnival WiFi package before the cruise is the best time, as you get a 15% discount on every plan.

I also purchased the Premium Plan before boarding, which costs me $18.70 per day instead of $22.

Is There a Carnival WiFi Device Limit?

Carnival Cruise WiFi typically has a restriction on the number of devices connected to a single WiFi package at a time. However, this limit depends on the specific package purchased.

Some packages are to be connected at a time, while others could allow multi-device to be connected concurrently. 

The package I purchased only provides Internet to a single device at a time. If someone else was using my package, I could disconnect their access when I logged in. With this feature, I could control the device linked to my WiFi package.

Can You Use a VPN On Carnival Cruise WiFi?

I know many people are concerned about VPN usage, especially on using public Wi-Fi. So that’s something really important to know on cruise ships. But Carnival Cruise line does say that they are safe and secure. 

However, most cruise ships do not allow you to use a VPN on cruise ship WiFi. 

However, Norwegian Cruise Line allows VPN usage on their WiFi. However, I’m unsure whether it works for all their plans or the only premium one.

Are There Any Free Wifi Access Points Onboard A Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line typically offers internet access through their WiFi packages, but there are several tricks you can use to access free WiFi points.

During my cruise, a lot of people were searching for a free WiFi spot, and some of my fellows were asking me to turn on my WiFi hotspot.

From all these experiences, I’ve compiled a list of ways to access free WiFi without purchasing it. 

• Ask your fellow cruiser to share device WiFi (If he has purchased the package)
• Search for the local restaurant with a free WiFi spot
• Take help from Crew members
• Walk up to the open decks to pick up a signal from the local area or port
• Look for the Bars with Free WiFi in Port

The Alternative Of Carnival Cruise Line Wi-Fi: Carnival Hub App

Back in 2015, Carnival Cruise Line introduced the HUB app. At first, it lets guests do simple stuff like reading a digital Fun Times, checking account balances, and seeing the weather at ports.

Spend $5 for the whole cruise on the Carnival Hub app for chatting with onboard friends and family.

Now, the app does a lot more:

• Complete cruise check-in
• Begin the mandatory muster drill
• Order food for delivery to most spots on the ship
• Read restaurant menus and make dining reservations
• View ship maps
• Chat with cruise companions
• Purchase things such as shore excursions, drink packages, and wifi packages

You can grab the app from the Google Play Store or iTunes. Getting it before you board to dodge hefty fees from your cell phone provider is a good idea.

You don’t have to buy the Internet to use the app.

How Do You Avoid Mobile Phone Charges At Sea?

The simplest way is to put your phone in “airplane mode.” Then, go to your device settings and turn on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This way, your smartphone can still connect with your other devices. 

It’s a good idea to tell your friends and family that you’re doing this. Just in case they need to reach you while you’re away.

How To Join Carnival Wi-Fi Packages?

Getting Wi-Fi on the ship is easy. 

Just check your laptop or personal device’s Wi-Fi settings. You’ll see a list of available networks. Look for “Carnival Vista Wi-Fi” or “Carnival Guest Wi-Fi.” 

Choose that network. Once connected, a window will pop up asking for your folio number and date of birth. Enter those, then click login. 

After that, click confirm, and you’re online. If you’re using a laptop and don’t see the prompts, open your browser and go to carnivalwifi.com. If you have trouble connecting, Guest Services can help you out.

Does Carnival Use Starlink, And Why Should I Care?

Carnival is rolling out Starlink Internet across its ships, offering a better onboard Internet experience.

Starlink, Elon Musk’s project, provides faster Internet using satellite technology at lower costs and higher speeds.

Many cruise lines, including Carnival, upgrade their onboard Internet using Starlink. It theoretically offers faster speeds than older cruise ship Internet. However, cruise IT departments manage speeds to ensure stability when many passengers are online.

On my recent cruise, the onboard Internet was upgraded to Starlink. For the first time, I stopped complaining about slow download speeds. It wasn’t lightning-fast, but it was more stable and less frustrating. Upload speed had also improved.

If you’ve had issues with cruise Wi-Fi before, check if your ship has switched to Starlink before purchasing Wi-Fi.

Which Carnival Ships Have Starlink?

• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Elation
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Venezia
• Carnival Vista
• Carnival Jubilee (future ship to be equipped with Starlink)

Can I Upgrade Or Change My Carnival Wi-fi Plan During The Cruise?

You can upgrade or change your Carnival WiFi package during the cruise. Visit the Guest Services desk onboard the ship, and they’ll assist you in switching to a different WiFi package if needed.

Tips For Maximizing The Usage Of Carnival Internet Plan

Here are my tips for making the most of your Carnival WiFi package:

• Purchase the WiFi Package before boarding
• Choose package wisely
• Manage devices
• Optimize usage
• Access WiFi during less crowded hours
• Look for ships with improved internet networks like Starlink

Expert Tips And Hints When Using Carnival Cruise WiFi

Here are some simple tips for using Carnival Cruise WiFi:

• Plan for Savings: Buy your WiFi plan before your cruise to save around 15% and ensure full coverage.
• Save Money on Port Days: Consider getting WiFi only on sea days. Use free WiFi in ports to save money.
• Share Connection Wisely: Share WiFi with friends but agree on times to avoid disconnecting each other.
• Affordable Chat Service: Spend $5 for the whole cruise on the Carnival Hub app to chat with onboard friends and family.
• Device Usage Limit: One device at a time on the plan, but multiple devices can use it. You might have to kick someone off if they’re already using it.
• Streaming Services Use: Some say no, but I used Amazon Music without issues. Download Netflix shows before the cruise for smoother watching.
• Easy Chat Purchase: Pay $5 onboard for the chat feature, billed directly to your Sail & Sign account.
• Guest Services Help: If internet issues arise, go to Guest Services. They might refund charges if your device isn’t connecting.

Is Carnival WiFi Worth It?

Simply put, no. But the real answer depends on you! Carnival WiFi is pricier than what we’re used to at home. Whether it’s worth it depends on your needs.

Is Carnival’s WiFi Ever On Sale Or Discounted?

No, Carnival’s WiFi isn’t on sale or discounted regularly. However, they offer a 15% discount if you purchase the WiFi package before boarding.

How Reliable Is The WiFi Connection Provided By Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line claims its WiFi is safe and secure, but its reliability can vary. It’s generally okay for basic tasks, but streaming might not be smooth. Remember that it might not be as secure or consistent as you’re used to at home.

Final Words

Hopefully, you should be clear about the Carnival Cruise WiFi questions.

In conclusion, if you really need internet on a cruise, go with any of the packages depending on your needs. Otherwise, just throw your mobile in a safe and enjoy a cruise vacation.

However, if you’re considering the Carnival WiFi package, buy it before boarding, as it will cost 15% less than onboard pricing.

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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Carnival Cruise WiFi Internet Packages Prices

Read our review about Carnival cruise Internet Access prices and Carnival Cruise Line's new WiFi rates, unlimited Internet package and WiFi cost. All Carnival Cruise Lines ships provide the Internet via a satellite connection. Onboard access is facilitated through Internet Cafe and shipwide WiFi coverage. Passengers can use (without any restrictions) their personal laptops, iPhones, smartphones and other WiFi-equipped devices on the Fun Ships.

In late-December 2018 was signed a contract with Speedcast (the world's largest global satellite comm provider) to improve fleet connectivity at sea. By this contract, Carnival increased the fleet's bandwidth in order to provide the highest-quality Internet at sea. Utilizing a total of 40 mini-satellites, Carnival now has the world's largest maritime satellite network. Specifically for Carnival, Speedcast developed the TrueBeam system, which constantly looks for weaknesses that would impact the satellite signal and instantly reroutes it to avoid interruptions. Such interruptions could be weather (“rain fade”), overcrowded networks and line-of-sight blockage.

Carnival cruise WiFi rates, Unlimited Internet

Carnival ship's Wireless Internet Service is a Wireless 802.11b card compatible (standard). Onboard, VPN access is restricted to connections of types different then IPsec or PPTP connections.

Unlimited Internet package

Since July 2015, Carnival offers “massively popular, faster, cheaper and all-round brilliant Internet packages” that initially cost just US$5 per day. The “Social” Internet plan allows connecting only to social networks - Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Snapchat and other similar websites. Discounted plans are available for the entire voyage.

• Carnival's unlimited Internet access plans (connected 24/7) are now available fleetwide. These plans can be used on all personal devices (and the ship's Internet Cafe) anytime throughout the voyage - until debarkation. Once purchased there are no refunds.
• In May 2016, Carnival Australia introduced faster and cheaper Internet and social media Internet packages on the Australia-based ships Legend and Spirit . The improved internet access offers increased bandwidth and speed. The “value package” (cost AUD 30 per day) offers unlimited Internet. The faster “premium package” (cost AUD 50 per day) allows Skype video calls. The new "social media package" (cost AUD 15 per day) offers unlimited access to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter.
• Additional discounted plans for Internet access are available for the entire voyage. The new packages follow the company's 2015-launched "Selfies at Sea" phone app. Available for download (free of charge) at Android and Apple stores, the new mobile app collates a series of photos taken on the ship into a mini-movie which can be shared on social media channels.

NEW Carnival cruise ship Wi-Fi plans

In 2017, Carnival updated the cruise ship WiFi service fleetwide, introducing the option to pre-purchase both WiFi and Internet packages online.

Starting April 19, 2017, the company offers pre-purchasing internet plans (first introduced on Carnival Fascination and Carnival Vista , fleetwide rollout by mid-summer 2017). The option is available via "Manage My Booking’ (tab at Carnival.com) where customers can select a package for the itinerary duration.

Carnival's new Wi-Fi plans can be purchased (at discounted rates) by fully booked customers for either the entire itinerary or for a day (24-hour period). Daily packages are also available for shipboard purchasing.

In December 2023, CCL increased the Social Plan's onboard price from US$15 to $18 per person per day. The Value Plan now costs US$23 (up from $20), while the Premium Plan is priced at US$25 (from $22).

With pPre-purchasing Wi-Fi prior to boarding, the Social Plan costs $15.30 (previously $12.75), the Value Plan costs US$19.55 (up from $17), and the Premium Plan costs US$21.25 (up from $18.70).

NOTE : On November 2, 2018, Carnival raised the price of its basic internet plan by 60%. The new price for the "social media package" was US$8 per day ($6,80 per day if pre-purchased prior departure). Day plans for this package are not available - must be purchased cruise-long package. The old price for the social media package was US$5 per day ($4 per day if pre-purchased).

WiFi package cost USD 12 per day, with a discount price of US$10,25 (if pre-purchased prior departure). Premium WiFi package cost USD 17.70 per day ($14,88 if pre-purchased).

For both WiFi plans are available 24-hour / daily rates, respectively, $16 and $25.

• "Social Package" (cost US$8 per day) offers access to the most popular applications and websites, including Facebook (and Facebook Messenger), Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Linkedin, WhatsApp, plus the most popular airline websites. The Social plan doesn't include Snapchat, Facetime, iMessage, in-app calling or access to any other apps or websites.
• "Value Package" (cost US$12 per day, or US$10.25 if pre-purchased) offers access to all websites and apps, including e-mail, news, banking, sports, weather, all social media. The Value plan doesn't support music and video streaming or Skype calling (bandwidth-intensive services).
• "Premium Package (cost US$17.70 per day, or US$14.88 if pre-purchased) offers the fastest possible Internet connection. Depending on the coverage, speeds can be up to 3 times faster compared to the "Value Package". The Premium plan includes all apps and websites, plus streaming services and Skype video calling.

Booked passengers can upgrade from one plan to another and are also allowed to use multiple devices per plan (including the ship's onboard computers), but only on one device at a time. All the new Carnival WiFi plans do not include video streaming (Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime) and don't support WiFi Calling (voice calls via the ship's Wi-Fi network) and Facetime (Apple's video telephony) services. Printing services on the ship are provided at no charge.

Cruise Internet package prices

Note: The above-listed Internet package plans are currently offered not on all ships in the fleet, but only on Dream, Glory, and Magic. The Breeze was excluded from this indeed small list. The line's official excuse is the slow satellite connection speeds at sea.

Carnival cruise Internet access, packages

All Carnival Internet access charges are billed directly to the guest's onboard S&S account. These packages are transferable between the terminals in the Internet Cafe and guests' personal Internet devices. Carnival Internet packages are called "Time Plans" and can be used anytime throughout the sailing until debarkation. Instructions on creating an account and pricing information will be provided (Internet Cafe/ personal device) once you connect to the ship's Wi-Fi network.

• IMPORTANT: All minutes don't have to be used in a single session. All unused minutes will be lost. Plan upgrade for a pre-selected package is not available.
• activation fee (one-time charge) US $3,95 (applied to each user on her/his first login only).
• 480 min package $159 ($0,33 per minute)
• 240 min package $89 ($0,37/min)
• 120 min package price $59 ($0,49/min)
• 45 min package $29 ($0,64/min)
• Internet per minute cost ("Pay As You Go") $0,75/min.
• the cost of printing (per page in the Internet Cafe) $0,50.
• (additional) CruisE-mail® cost $3,95 for each sent message (no additional charges for received messages). This is the Carnival's personalized e-mail service for guests who either don't have or are unable to access their own e-mail.
• The above Internet prices are for all the Carnival cruise fleet.
• Internet account information (instructions and pricing) are present on-screen in the Internet Cafe, and also on your personal Internet device once you connect to the Carnival WiFi on the ship. Carnival Internet prices are identical, whether the guest uses the Internet on the Cafe's terminals or on their own laptops or other WiFi devices. All Internet access charges are billed directly to the guest's "Sail & Sign" accounts.
• Carnival Internet Time Plans are transferable between the Internet Cafe's computers and the guests' personal devices. There is no refund for unused minutes. Upgrading a pre-selected cruise Internet package is not permitted.

iPhones/Blackberries Internet access - either by using the cellular network (at the international data rates of their carrier) or the Carnival WiFi access (at the same time plan rates).

Cruise ship laptop rentals are available on Dream, Magic, Breeze, and Vista - a limited number of laptops for rent for $9/day or complimentary with the 480 or 240 min plans. A $50 deposit will be charged on your S&S card (refunded upon returning the device, optional insurance for $10/day). On all other ships in the fleet, laptops are also available for rent - $10/day, complimentary with Time Plans, $50 deposit, optional insurance $10/day.

Carnival cruise Internet cost-cutting tips

• before the sailing convert your email settings to basic (less graphic intense)
• if you're planning to work online while sailing, discuss VPN limitations with your firm's IT specialist (Carnival will not be able to change settings onboard).
• packing checklist: WiFi-enabled laptop/mobile devices, power supply (for each of your devices), data cables, headphones.
• You can connect to a free WiFi when the ship is at call ports - ask some from the crew where. There's also free WiFi on the ship, but it's relatively slow (public areas offer much better connection / stronger signals than cabins).
• phone calls from a Carnival ship cost $2 per minute (the charge through "Cellular at Sea" is $2,50 per minute). And remember:
• 1 - the satellite Internet is a lot slower than the high-speed connection onshore (your data must be transmitted over a slow signal to a satellite 22000 ml above you, then the satellite bounces your data back down to the exchange). Tip: the onboard Internet speed is much better in the early morning (5 to 8 AM) and also around dinner times (6 to 10 PM).
• 2 - the onboard Internet access is not guaranteed at all times (satellite communications are subject to disruptions due to weather patterns/location)
• 3 - (some excerpts from forum reviews) "extremely slow", "slower than dial-up", "minutes are eaten pretty quickly", "because of the connection sometimes not everything is sent".
• 4 - Verizon text message prices on cruise ships (international messaging): sent ($0,25 text, $0,50 data) and received ($0,20 text & $0,25 data).

Carnival's WiFi Internet technology

The line's owner Carnival Corporation started rolling out the WiFi@Sea Internet across technology not exclusively to Carnival Cruise Lines ships, but to all its brand lines fleets. The new technology features a hybrid connectivity (satellite and land-based data) system. It combines bandwidth with several available for pre-purchasing Internet plans, different levels of pricing and also new Internet packages.

The process of implementing the new system started in 2014. Carnival Corp's largest brand - the Carnival cruise line - was the first that moved from the traditional pay-as-you-go Internet (USD 0,75 per minute, or discounted Internet packages) to pay-per-day packages. The cheapest is the "social" package priced US$5 per-day allowing access to popular websites and apps. Next is the "value" package US$16 per day (with restrictions for some intensive websites). The third "premium" package costs US$25 per day (with full web access and guaranteed fast speeds).

The new Carnival "cruise WiFi" system is first-of-its-kind in the passenger shipping industry It's an enhanced (high-speed) hybrid wireless network service to be rolled out to all ships in the fleets of all 9 Carnival brand lines. The new system is expected to encourage the interest in ship cruising among the new tech-savvy generation. The new plans already show better penetration and higher usage rates. The new system allows a greater number of mobile devices, while the new Internet pricing is easier to understand.

This unique system integrates land-based, strategically located antennas (installed along the cruise itinerary routes), advanced satellites (over 31 satellite systems) and cruise port Wi-Fi connections, forming the Carnival's "smart hybrid" network. The system gives cruise passengers the highest possible strength of signal and bandwidth capacity. The new network provides Internet connectivity speeds 10 times faster than previously offered by Carnival.

All system upgrades, hardware changes, and new Internet equipment installations were done during the ships' dry-dock refurbishments .

In February 2018, Carnival Corporation partnered with SES Networks to provide the industry's biggest bandwidth to a mobile shipboard platform (first introduced on Regal Princess ). The new technology broke all previous myths about connectivity limitations at sea. The fastest cruise ship internet remained affordable (priced at USD 10 per day). The technology combines the SES Networks satellites with the MedallionNet and provides bandwidth of minimum 1,5 gigabits per second to the vessel. The tests were done on February 26, 2018, while Regal Princess was docked at the private island Princess Cays Bahamas . During the tests was reached Internet speed of 2,6 gigabits per second. Regal Princess is one of the "Medallion-class" Carnival Corporation ships linked to the company's MedallionNet.

Carnival cruise ship Internet Cafe

The Internet Cafe is open 24-hours, as a venue, it features private PC terminals (Windows XP) for web browsing, chat, and e-mail services. For guests convenience, there is an Internet Cafe Manager for assistance. Here passengers can browse through the following Carnival's "free of charge websites": Carnival.com, GoCCL.com, JohnHealdsBlog.com, CellularAtSea.com, and BarclayCardus.com (Carnival World MasterCard).

All these websites can be accessed without purchasing an Internet plan. At the PC terminals, you can't edit MS Office documents, but most files can be viewed (in their "read-only" mode).

Carnival WIFI, Fun Hub website and HUB app

The Fun Hub Carnival website can be accessed through Wi-Fi enabled devices. Guests must connect to the Carnival WiFi network and open an Internet browser. Fun Hub is also accessible at the complimentary Internet café locations with 24-hour access. Currently available on Carnival Breeze, Dream, Magic, Sunshine and Vista, the Fun Hub locations allow passengers free access to informative websites updated daily.

The Fun Hub site details ship’s numerous activities, including:

• daily events, youth programs, entertainment options
• food and beverage offerings, venue descriptions, sample menus
• itinerary and weather information
• latest news, sports scores
• key shipboard personnel' biographies
• ship announcements
• deck plans and maps
• frequently asked questions.

A filtering option assists in planning guests' day. FunHub is available free of charge on any Internet Café Fun Hub computer or Wi-Fi device. Internet access to sites that are outside the Fun Hub is also available wirelessly and through all Fun Hub locations. Charges will apply.

In August 2015, Carnival announced that the HUB app, offering passengers free access to onboard account balances, daily schedules, deck plans, dining info, and an innovative “chat” feature, had been so well received (following the successful trial period on Carnival Breeze) that it was scheduled to debut on all Carnival vessels by summer of 2016. Next in line, ready to welcome the HUB app, are Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Pride, and Carnival Sunshine, by the end of 2015.

The new HUB mobile app provides guests with an at-a-glance, convenient view of ship’s features and facilities along with updates on events taking place onboard, all free of charge. The app is available for download at Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Its innovative “chat” feature allows passengers to exchange messages with their companions using their mobile devices. A flat fee of $5 is applied for the entire cruise.

The HUB app also includes precise day-by-day schedules of hundreds of onboard events, info on beverage and food venues, Sail & Sign account balance, itinerary details, searchable deck plans and more. Recently added options provide the ability to pre-purchase Carnival’s Bottomless Bubbles and Cheers! beverage programs and upload photos displayed on the 270-sq.foot Seaside Theatre during the cruise. Additional features are to be added in the future.

Carnival Corporation launched a new WiFi@Sea system on all cruise ships sailing in the Caribbean. The global fleet roll-out continued with Alaska (2015 summer) and in 2016 extended to Europe (Baltic, Mediterranean, Western Europe) and Asia.

At the following CruiseMapper link, you can compare the onboard Internet package pricing on Royal Caribbean and NCL vessels.

• Cruise Advice

Carnival Cruise Line WiFi Prices and Plans Detailed

Doug Parker

• July 10, 2018

The folks at Carnival Cruise Line know that many passengers need the internet, whether on vacation or not.

It might be great if we could all disconnect when we set sail, but some of us can’t… and most of us won’t. So, every ship in the fleet is outfitted with wireless internet, which can be purchased.

But how much will it cost and what are the various packages? That’s what nearly every cruiser wants to know, and that’s what we’re here today to answer.

When the internet was first rolled out on cruise ships in the early 2000s, guests had to go to a workstation — usually, a bank of computers set just off the atrium — in order to access the web.

Back then, there was almost always a full-time employee of the satellite company, which provided internet access to assist you with getting online and any billing discrepancies.

READ MORE: 11 Reasons to Download Carnival’s Hub App

These days, connecting to the internet is far simpler, and it’s almost hard to imagine a time when we couldn’t just pop open our laptop on the balcony of our stateroom and check our email or use our smartphone to make everyone back home jealous with a few great selfies.

So let’s dive in and discuss what you need to know about accessing the web — and how much it will cost — during your next cruise on a Carnival ship.

Note: This article was originally published in July 2018. It was updated in December 2023.

Carnival Cruise Internet Pricing and Packages

There are three different internet packages for you to choose from while onboard. Which one is best for you will depend entirely on what you’re looking to do. Some people just want to check Facebook and send out tweets, while others want to watch movies or Skype with the office.

Remember that all internet plans are offered at a reduced rate if you purchase them before your cruise. In order to do so, all you need to do is sign onto your account at Carnival.com and click on the Cruise Manager page.

You can also head to Carnival.com/FunShops and find information on internet packages there. If you’d rather wait to buy until you’re on board — which will cost you more than you’ll pay if you pre-purchase — you can do so through the HUB app.

As we discuss the various programs and pricing options, note that all prices are listed in US dollars. The pricing we discuss here will be the pre-cruise cost.

Breakdown of Carnival WiFi Plans

As of December 8, 2023, the Social Plan is $15.30 per day, allowing unlimited access to the most popular social networking sites. This is for people who want to use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Messenger, Snapchat, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, and similar websites/apps.

You’re also able to access airline apps to check in for your flight. Some of the airline applications currently supported are American, Delta, Southwest, United, Spirit, Southwest, Air Canada, Allegiant, Hawaii Airlines, and West Jet.

This plan is good for the basic internet user. It can be used on multiple devices, but only by signing out on one before signing in on another. But if little Johnny and Susie are both going to want to be on their phones at the same time, you’ll need separate plans.

As of December 8, 2023, the Value Plan is $19.95 per day and gives you access to all the social sites mentioned above, plus email, online banking, news, lifestyle, sports, and weather websites. Neither the value nor social plans provide access to streaming of any kind.

This plan is good for the moderate internet user looking to stay connected via social media while also perusing the web.

The Premium Plan starts at $21.25 per day and offers social and value plans and internet streaming. Carnival boasts that this plan is three times faster than the value plan and lets you use Skype, Zoom, and Teams video calling.

I’ve also used Facebook Video and FaceTime with this plan, and it worked well when not many people were on. 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. seemed the optimal time for video streaming. This plan is a good choice for someone who needs to be fully connected or has to work on vacation.

How strong a signal you get on the various plans can vary greatly from ship to ship. For instance, Carnival Vista and Carnival Horizon have upgraded bandwidth to allow more people to surf and stream video.

When I sailed Carnival Magic in early 2018, the WiFi was awful. Even on the Premium Plan, it was pulling only around .04 Mbps. (For those of you who aren’t technically minded, suffice it to say it was really slow.)

All about the Carnival HUB App

In 2015, Carnival Cruise Line launched the HUB app, which allowed guests to get online and do basic things like read an electronic version of the Fun Times, check their account balance, and see what the weather was like in their ports of call.

Now, however, the functionality of the app has been vastly approved, allowing guests to do things such as:

• Complete cruise check-in
• Begin the mandatory muster drill
• Order food for delivery to most spots on the ship
• Read restaurant menus and make dining reservations
• View ship maps
• Chat with cruise companions
• Purchase things such as shore excursions, drink packages, and wifi packages

READ MORE: Review: Does Carnival Mardi Gras Live Up To The Hype?

The app is currently available to download from the Google Play Store and iTunes. It is suggested that guests download the app before they get on the ship in order to avoid being charged huge fees by their cell phone service provider during their sailing.

Passengers do not need to purchase internet to use the app.

How fast is the internet?

Right off the bat, know this: the cruise ship is receiving the internet signal via satellite. What does that mean? Well, the ship is constantly moving, so the signal is being transmitted to a moving target.

How fast the internet is while you’re on board will depend on several factors, including the ship’s itinerary, how many of your fellow passengers are also trying to access the signal, and — perhaps most importantly — which plan you purchased.

It’s safe to say that you won’t usually enjoy the same internet speeds you have back home. (Unless, of course, you have a crappy provider back home.)

However, if you’re trying to do everyday things like check Facebook, send an email (without a lot of attachments), or load a weather app, you’ll be fine. Heavier-loading websites and smartphone apps may require a bit of patience.

Can I call home?

If you have the Premium Plan, you will be able to call home using a voice or video app such as FaceTime audio, Skype, or WhatsApp. If your phone has a WiFi-enabled calling and texting feature, you can also use that if you have purchased the Premium Plan.

I use T-Mobile, and the first thing I do when I get onto the ship is put my phone on airplane mode.

I then turn on the T-Mobile WiFi so that when my phone is connected to the ship’s internet system, it will essentially function as a regular phone. WiFi calling does not use cell phone data, merely the internet. AT&T also offers WiFi calling.

Carnival WiFi Tips and Tricks

• Purchase the plan before you leave to save money (around 15%).
• Each plan will allow you to use as many devices as you like, but only one at a time. So, if several people share the plan, only one can be logged onto a device at any time.
• If you go to log in and someone else is already on the plan, it will ask you if you’d like to kick them off in order to gain access. On the plus side, if Mom or Dad wants to use the internet, they can easily boot their Twitter-obsessed kids off.
• The website says that streaming services such as Netflix and Spotify aren’t able to be accessed, but I was able to use Amazon Music during my workouts without any issues.
• If you figure a cruise is the perfect time to binge-watch something from Netflix, download the series before you leave home. Even if, by some chance, you were able to get it to work on board, the streaming would be as slow as molasses.
• The $5 chat feature is a super-affordable way to stay connected with your travel companions during the cruise. You can purchase it once you’re onboard, and it will be billed directly to your Sail & Sign account.
• If you’re having internet issues of any kind, take your device to guest services and dispute the charges. They’ll usually refund your money if you can prove that your device is not connecting.

READ NEXT: 10 Secrets And Money-Saving Tips The Cruise Lines Don’t Usually Tell You

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Internet Cafe / Wireless Internet Services (Wi-Fi)

Yes! Satellite Internet access is available via WiFi throughout the vessel (including your cabin) and in the Internet Café.

Internet Café

The Internet Café is open 24-hours and features individual terminals for your privacy. For your convenience, the Internet Café Manager is available for assistance during posted hours.

Internet Café terminals run on Windows XP and are limited to Internet communication. Terminals are equipped with Microsoft Office readers only, not full versions of these programs (WORD, EXCEL, etc); most files can be accessed as “read only” for viewing purposes but cannot be edited or saved. Please note, on your personal laptop you can read, edit and save files without restrictions according to the programs installed.

Wireless Users – Laptops and other WiFi equipped devices

Got a laptop, an iPad, or a netbook? Got 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless capability (that's just geek speak for WiFi)? The Wireless Internet Service is compatible with a Wireless 802.11b card, which is the industry standard. You may use your personal laptop while onboard, your iPhone and all other WiFi equipped devices and most software installed on them without restrictions. VPN access on the other hand is restricted to connections of the type, which are not IPSec or PPTP connections. Kindly discuss your VPN limitations with your company’s IT department if you are planning to work while sailing. We are not able to change your settings onboard.

Pricing plans vary by ship based on itinerary. Some ships offer pay as you go per minute rates and bundled time plans. Others have daily and per cruise plans. The full list of available pricing options are available online before you go via Cruise Manager or via the HUB App once on board the ship. Please consult the internet login screen or request information at Guest Services. Internet plans can be used on multiple devices (only a single device can be logged on at any one time). Instructions on how to create an account and pricing details are present on-screen in the Internet Café or on your laptop once you connect to Carnival WiFi. Internet pricing is identical, whether you are using the Internet Café terminals, your own laptop or other wireless devices. All Internet charges will be billed directly to your onboard “Sail & Sign” account.

Before You Go

Get the most from your cruise Internet time and your trip — make sure you're powered up and prepared before you board the ship with this handy pre-cruise checklist. Here are a few things you want to remember to pack for your cruise:

• WiFi enabled laptop and mobile devices

• Power supply for each of the devices you are bringing with you

• A charged battery for your trip to the ship

• Data cables to transfer pictures

• Headphones

• Laptop privacy screens

Best Practices

• Email – Convert your email settings to basic; you will have a better experience with less graphic intense content. Most email providers have a lite version of their service optimized for low-bandwidth users.

• Mobile websites – most websites nowadays offer a mobile interface; they are leaner, less graphic intense alternatives to their main page. Mobile pages load quicker via the leaner bandwidth available onboard and can be accessed regardless of your device: laptop, smart phone, tablet etc. A few examples:

- www.M.Facebook.com

- www.Touch.Facebook.com

- www.M.Yahoo.com

• Apps – consider using apps; they are tailored for your device and will improve your online experience

• Browsers – Experiment with alternate browsers for a faster experience: Chrome, Opera, Safari, Mozilla, Firefox

• Remember to log out

• Disconnect from WiFi - develop the habit of disconnecting from WiFi when ending your Internet session; leaving your device connected may slow other users’ Internet speed

• Words associated with leaner content = faster loading time: mobile, text only, lite, no media, low resolution

• Discuss VPN limitations with your company’s IT department prior to cruising; onboard personnel are not able to change your settings onboard.

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Carnival Cruise Line warns passengers about a pricey mistake

W hile a cruise ship seems like a floating hotel, it's much more than that. It's also transportation that takes passengers to different countries where the laws may not match the ones Americans are used to.

It's illegal, for example, in parts of the Caribbean to wear camouflage. Not knowing that and not listening to cruise-line warnings about acceptable attire in each port can lead to fines or even jail time.

Related: Carnival Cruise Line has a new gift for passengers

In general, cruise lines try to warn passengers about what to expect in every port. Before passengers get off, warnings are made clear via the daily newsletter and through the captain's announcements.

The problem is that many passengers don't listen or don't take the warnings seriously. In addition, cruise lines including the various Royal Caribbean RCL and Carnival Cruise Line brands don't do a great job communicating one key piece of information before passengers get on ships.

It's not that they don't have this key information on their website, but they generally don't communicate it well to upcoming passengers. That can lead to some very angry people when they get hit with a massive bill after their cruise ends.

Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald addressed this issue as a way of warning upcoming passengers.

Do this as soon as you get on board a cruise ship

Cruise-line passengers need to be aware that they are leaving the U.S. This can affect everything involving your phone and other connected devices.

If you buy an internet plan, some streaming services may not allow access based on where you are. Phone service may be offered when you're in port, but that varies by plan and phone carrier.

Some carriers, including T-Mobile, TMUS send a text detailing costs and what's included when you dock in each port. That lets customers know exactly what to expect and what will cost extra.

T-Mobile also issues a warning when customers are at sea but have not set their phones to airplane mode. If they do not do that, they can be charged data fees even when they're not using their phones. So when you board your cruise ship, set your phone to airplane mode.

Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next cruise.

If you are not in airplane mode, your phone may connect to partners of your carrier that charge for that privilege. This can lead to some large and unexpected bills. Heald shared some info on a passenger who faced this situation after a recent cruise.

Carnival shares a phone warning    

Even if you purchase a ship WiFi package, it's important to put your phone on airplane mode unless you have purchased a specific cruise plan from your carrier. AT&T T does offer plans, but they're offered only on select ships.

Heald shared the story of a passenger who did not heed this warning.

"I have been dealing with a guest who had a very, very large phone bill after their eight-day cruise. They had been using the phone for internet and calling, etc. I feel terribly sorry for them, but I’m afraid there is nothing I can do to refund the almost $400," he posted.

Heald can't help because Carnival is not billing the passenger; the customer's phone carrier is.

If you don't put your phone in airplane mode, which is found under settings, you will almost certainly run up extra charges.

"When my daughter was young, a friend of hers gave ship tours to all his friends while at sea. $2000 bill. We’ve always put phones on airplane mode and just used WiFi. I have Mexico included in our plan so in Mexico I’ll turn it off airplane mode but otherwise, no," Sandy Latour shared.

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Horror stories like this are fairly common.

"As soon as I step foot in my home (the ship) I immediately switch to airplane mode. I know someone who cruised in February and their daughter racked up an $800 phone bill," Akila ZenZone Mason added.

Value Wi-Fi Plan

Surf all your favorite sites, including e-mail, news, sports, weather, banking and finance. Note: Does not support Skype calling or music/video streaming (such as Spotify or Netflix).

Save up to 15%  when booked prior to sailing versus onboard pricing.

Cut-off for pre-purchase is 11:59PM two days before embarkation. Additional restrictions apply.

Travel | Travel: Carnival Firenze, now sailing out of…

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Subscriber only, travel | travel: carnival firenze, now sailing out of long beach, offers ‘fun, italian style’.

Leave it to California’s market-leading cruise line to make the list of commonalities between Italy and Mexico even longer — 1,061 feet longer, to be exact. Stretching nearly three football fields, the lengthiest and latest ship currently homeported in California has added a Carnival atmosphere to the many things these two countries share. Just back from her inaugural cruise to the Mexican Riviera, the 4,960-passenger Carnival Firenze brings “Fun, Italian Style” to the Pacific, and in a word, this multicultural mixture of oregano and tajin is fantastico and fantástico. See, even that well-deserved adjective is similar in Italian and Spanish.

Offering three- to seven-day sailings from Long Beach to Mexico — with a stopover on Catalina Island on shorter runs — Carnival Firenze, the whopping fifth ship added to the fleet in the past 18 months, is an exciting disrupter in the highly competitive Southern California cruise market. Inside and out, Firenze is different from your standard “Fun Ship.” Where’s the signature whale tail funnel? Does the “C” on the stack stand for “Carnival?” Where’s the red, white and blue livery (cruise ship lingo for the specific design and paint scheme)?

As sure as the “C” does not stand for “Carnival,” when Firenze pulled away from Carnival’s busy berth next to the Queen Mary on April 25, sailing at 86% capacity, a new style of cruising to Mexico was ushered in.

“Fun, Italian Style.” That’s what Carnival Cruise Line ( www.carnival.com ) calls the marriage of fun, a company signature, and the Italian ambiance sister brand, Costa Cruises, is known for. This combination of corporate and ethnic cultures is the result of Carnival’s need for more guest capacity coinciding with Costa’s unfortunate timing of COVID-19 impacting the early going of two ships originally designed for the Chinese market. Costa Venezia, completed in February 2019, sailed for the Genoa-based cruise line out of Shanghai until the pandemic caused an industry pause. In December 2020, Costa Firenze was a ship without a country, pretty much, getting her sea legs not in Asia as planned, but in Europe and the Middle East.

It certainly was rough seas for these twin ships even in favorable weather conditions. To the rescue came Carnival, which adopted, refitted, rebranded and redeployed the Vista-class vessels, and showed the industry — and would-be vacationers — that when Costa hands you lemons, you make limoncellos.

Not that the Venetian-veneered Venezia, the OG steward of “Fun, Italian Style,” and Florence-festooned Firenze were poorly built when Carnival brought them over to the fun side of the parent company; quite the opposite, and take it from someone who’s even seen Firenze’s state-of-the-art advanced wastewater treatment system. It’s just that these ships had an undeserved sour start and now have a sweet life sending sunseekers off on adventure. Venezia is scheduled to sail to the Caribbean and Bermuda from New York City or Port Canaveral (Orlando area) for the next couple of years; Firenze will make runs south of the border from Long Beach through at least May 2026.

Back to those limoncellos. On Firenze’s just-concluded, seven-day inaugural cruise, the 20 guest and service bars reportedly served about 2,700 glasses of the Italian-rooted refresher. Early-adopting adult cruisers may have been motivated by the immersive Italian architecture that begins when the gangway ends — at the entrance of a three-deck, love-at-first-sight atrium modeled after Florence’s magnificent main public square. When the gorgeous Piazza del Duomo hits your eye like a big pizza pie, that’s amore.

More love, Italian style is found on the Lido deck that draws inspiration from the Italian Riviera. Ice carving, early-morning stretches and various Carnivalized fun are held at one of the prettiest pool decks on any ship. The place transforms into a street party atmosphere on every cruise for Festa Italiana, which, after it’s fine-tuned, will be a blast. Watching the action from a balcony above may not put you in the center of an audience-participation game or dance party, but the people-watching is excellent and you’re on the same deck as the yummy meatballs and sausages served at Il Mercato.

One level down is Guy’s Burger Joint, which on the two Italian-accented Fun Ships has a killer Pepperoni Pizza Burger that comes with fried mozzarella, pepperoni marinara, melted provolone, aged parmesan and a jacked-up secret mayo topping that its inventor, celebrity chef Guy Fieri, calls Donkey Sauce. It’s a winner, as are the frozen concoctions that help some hang on at Rococo on the other side of the pool. The slushy, $13 pistachio, bellini and margarita cocktails pair especially well with the ship’s theme and spicy itinerary. Steps away is Tomodoro, described by Carnival as a “Mexitalian fusion restaurant.” It’s basically Carnival’s popular BlueIguana Cantina only better, as the ingredients for the assembly line burritos and tacos seemed to be of higher quality than usual. And bravissimo to the bambinos on the menu: an Italian meatball hero and Sicilian chicken wrap.

Three of Firenze’s four sit-down specialty restaurants are familiar to past Carnival guests; the teppanyaki, sushi and steakhouse venues performed especially well for an inaugural cruise, genuinely friendly and well-trained staff included. The one new concept, Il Viaggio, offers a twist to fine Italian dining in that the menu showcases distinct culinary regions of Italy “one plate at a time.” The $42 per adult upcharge gets an antipasti plate (try the flavorful meatballs, skip the soggy and oily fritto misto); zuppa or insalate (the barley soup with smoked ham is sublime); a secondi (the beef striploin or pappardelle with pork ragu are solid entrée choices), and a meal-capping dolce (leave the tart, take the cannoli).

The Carnival WaterWorks park on Firenze is wetter and wilder than what was on the ship in her former Costa days. The multi-level slides are such good, clean fun. During the brand transformation, Carnival added two hot tubs to the premium digs for Terrazza guests, matching what is offered in the exclusive (read: pricier) Havana neighborhood on most other Vista-class ships. Recreation without chlorine includes a ropes course, jogging track, cornhole, mini-golf course, basketball court and a well-equipped fitness center that adjoins a full-service spa.

The onboard entertainment and activities are diverse with offerings for all ages and some for specific ages — from kid-centric Dr. Seuss programming to adults-only late-night comedy shows and the riotous, R-rated Carnival Quest scavenger hunt. Staged inside the large Theatro Rosso are song-and-dance shows featuring music from — shocker — the past 10 years (there’s just so many salutes to Motown, ‘60s and power ballads one can take), but “Color My World” is one production that gets dragged down by slow numbers that, at least on the inaugural cruise, seemed to fall flat with passengers who by 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. already had a full day of sun, outdoor fun, eating, drinking, game playing, eating, exploring, eating, eating and eating.

Carnival’s new Fun Ship on the dock joins two others with year-round cruises to Mexico from Long Beach. The cruise line projects that the 200-plus sailings scheduled at the port next year will draw more than 750,000 total passengers to Firenze, the 5,146-passenger Panorama and 3,873-capacity Radiance. That’s over 100,000 more compared to 2019, years before Firenze and Venezia were even a twinkle in Carnival’s eye.

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