costa cruises internet packages

Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

I have good news for those of you who assume the only way to stay in touch with home from a cruise ship is via a message in a bottle: Cruise ships come equipped with internet, and cruise Wi-Fi connections have been getting faster at a rapid rate — and cheaper, too.

While checking emails and surfing the web on some vessels still requires the patience of Job, onboard technological improvements on many ships combined with new satellite and direct ship-to-shore systems is making cruise internet access much more like what you find on land.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If you're a first-time cruiser, you're likely most concerned with the basics: Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi and how much does Wi-Fi cost on a cruise? Repeat cruisers who have paid the price for finicky service may be wondering the best way to access fast connection speeds across their devices while avoiding unnecessary charges.

I can guide you through the ins and outs of Wi-Fi on cruise ships. Here are five things to know about onboard internet before you set sail.

Wi-Fi on cruise ships will never be as fast (or reliable) as home

Yes, all cruise ships today offer an internet connection, but it might not be the seamless experience you've come to expect on land.

For most of the many years I've been writing about cruising, the typical internet connection at sea hasn't just been slow. It's been glacial. You'd click on a website only to experience many seconds of frustration. Maybe the page would come up. Maybe it wouldn't. Maybe the cruise would end while you were still sitting there.

Related: 16 mistakes cruise ship passengers make on disembarkation day

Why the slow speeds? To start, there is no Comcast cable wire running to your cruise ship. On cruise ships, every packet of data you are downloading onto your phone or computer, for the most part, is coming over a satellite, which is not a quick or inexpensive proposition.

The maritime communication companies that specialize in providing internet connections to ships have been trying to speed things up in recent years. Solutions have included adding more satellites and linking their systems to land-based towers that connect with ships as they near shore.

But, in the end, there are limits to just how well a satellite system can work. For starters, a ship needs a clear "line of sight" to a satellite to exchange data, something that isn't always the case. Cruise ships traveling through the famed Norwegian fjords, for instance, can lose their satellite signal due to the height of surrounding mountains.

And there are certain parts of the world where satellite coverage is too thin or nonexistent to allow for internet access on cruise ships. During a sailing in the Russian Arctic on a Hapag-Lloyd Cruises ship, I was forced to live without internet for a good part of a week due to a lack of satellite coverage in the area (something, I must say, was kind of wonderful).

So while onboard cruise Wi-Fi speeds are getting better, they'll never be as fast as at home, where a hard wire brings the signal straight to your router.

Onboard internet speed is getting much faster

On some cruise ships, the signal has become so much faster you now can stream Netflix from the comfort of your cabin — something that would have been unthinkable just a few years ago.

New satellite systems, paired with multimillion-dollar investments in shipboard technology, really are making things better in a big way. A turning point came in 2014, when cruise giant Royal Caribbean partnered with satellite company O3b Networks to create a new onboard internet system that it claimed was six times faster than anything else at sea. Called Voom, the system tapped into new Medium Earth Orbit satellites operated by O3b that can shoot their beams directly at ships as they move.

When I ran a speed test of Voom on Adventure of the Seas, I found the line's fastest option, the Surf + Stream service, usually offered download speeds of just around 3 megabits per second. I never found download speeds exceeding 4 Mbps, but I did see it drop as low as 1.5 Mbps. While still significantly slower than many home connections, that's fast enough to enjoy Netflix and other streaming video services, though I did experience grainy video and buffering issues on occasion.

Royal Caribbean still claims Voom is the fastest and best Wi-Fi option on cruise ships today. But we're a bit skeptical – not because the Wi-Fi is slower than stated, but because other cruise lines, like Carnival Cruise Line , are quickly catching up.

Carnival cruise Wi-Fi is also fast enough to support Netflix streaming on some ships, the company says. The cruise line uses a hybrid system that combines faster satellite connections at sea with a network of less-expensive land-based towers that take over as its vessels near coastal areas.

On a sailing on one of the Carnival ships outfitted for faster internet, Carnival Sunrise , I did notice a significant improvement in cruise Wi-Fi speed. But the promised access to Netflix streaming wasn't quite as smooth as I had hoped. Clicking on a favorite show, I only could watch for a few minutes before the connection inevitably froze.

Some lines in just the last year or so have begun partnering with Elon Musk's Starlink system for speedy internet.

Related: How fast is the internet on a Celebrity cruise? We put it to the test

Cruise internet costs have gone down

Just a few years back, you had to pay a small fortune for the privilege of accessing the internet on a cruise ship. The base rate for onboard Wi-Fi for years started around 75 cents a minute. That's $45 for a single hour online!

The old pay-by-the-minute system, which could leave even modest internet users with sky-high bills, is now giving way to simpler and more affordable "all you can browse" plans on many lines.

How much does Wi-Fi cost on a cruise today? Well, the highest-speed version of Royal Caribbean's Voom connection currently costs $26.99 per day for one device. In the old days of 75 cents-a-minute pricing, that same amount of money would have gotten you just 36 minutes of web time.

Royal Caribbean also offers a slower-speed version of Voom that can't support streaming for $19.99 per day for one device. For both cruise internet packages, there are discounts for adding more devices and purchasing a package online before your sailing.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

Another line bringing down internet costs dramatically is Carnival. At the very low end, it now offers a Social Wi-Fi plan that allows access to all the key social sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) as well as messaging services such as WhatsApp, for just $15.30 a day ($18 when purchased on board). A slightly more expensive Value Wi-Fi plan, at $19.55 per day when bought in advance ($23 per day when bought on board), adds access to email and most websites.

The line's top-tier Premium Wi-Fi plan, at $21.25 per day when bought in advance ($25 when bought onboard), triples the speed of the Value plan and adds access to VoIP calling on messaging apps and Skype (but not FaceTime). Note that you might be able to make Wi-Fi calls from an iPhone or via WhatsApp, even with the less expensive plan. Passengers who pay for a Carnival Cruise Wi-Fi plan in advance of sailing get a 15% discount.

But perhaps the biggest development in cruise internet costs in recent years is that many higher-end lines have begun offering internet access for — get this — free. Viking , Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises are among lines now including unlimited internet time in the base cost of a voyage. At some of these lines, such as Regent, you can pay extra for faster service.

Another way to get free or cheaper internet time on ships is to join cruise line loyalty programs . Many offer free cruise Wi-Fi or discounted package pricing to customers who hit mid- to upper-tier levels.

At Celebrity Cruises, for instance, the top Zenith tier in the line's Captain's Club loyalty program comes with unlimited free Premium-level internet (the fastest plan at the line). At Princess Cruises , customers can get 50 percent off MedallionNet internet packages after reaching the Platinum level in the line's Captain's Circle loyalty program (to qualify, you'll need to complete either five cruises, or 50 cruise days).

On Royal Caribbean, the path to free Internet on a cruise is through its high-end suites . Book a room in a Sky Class or Star Class suite (all suites above the junior suite level), and you'll receive free Voom.

Apps offer an alternative to paid cruise Wi-Fi

In recent years, a growing number of cruise lines have rolled out free apps for your phone that will let you make reservations for onboard restaurants, spa treatments and other services without ever leaving your pool deck lounge chair. On some ships operated by Carnival, you even can order beer and pizza to wherever you happen to be using an app.

Many of these apps also will show you a schedule of daily activities, offer ship deck plans and sometimes port maps to help you get around, and let you check your onboard account statement in real time. On Celebrity Edge and other Celebrity Cruises Edge-class ships, you can even use an app to remotely open your cabin door, change channels on the television and turn off the lights.

While all these apps work off cruise ship Wi-Fi, the good news is they don't require the purchase of a plan to use. Nor do they come with any other sort of fee — at least for most features.

At Carnival, you'll pay $5 per cruise to add a "chat" feature to the line's otherwise free HUB app that will let you communicate via text-like messages with other app-enabled passengers. Norwegian Cruise Line also requires passengers to pay a fee (currently $9.95 per cruise) to use a messaging and calling feature of its Cruise Norwegian app.

Cruise internet tip: Use airplane mode to avoid unwanted charges

Whether or not you're purchasing a Wi-Fi plan on a cruise ship, I have one very strong piece of advice: Put your phone in airplane mode the moment you step on board the vessel and leave it that way for the duration of the sailing.

This is the safest way to avoid unwanted data charges, which can be enormous. (Remember the story of a family that racked up $14,000 in data charges on a cruise?)

As many cruisers have found the hard way, international phone plans such as AT&T's $10-a-day International Day Pass do not apply to cruise ships at sea. If you let your AT&T phone roam while you're on a vessel, you'll pay $2.05 per megabyte of data — even if your base plan at home offers you unlimited data. You'll also pay $3 per minute to make a call, $0.50 per text and $1.30 to send a photo. All that adds up very quickly.

AT&T does offer a " Cruise Plus " plan for a flat fee of $100 that allows unlimited talk and text during sailings up to 30 days in duration. But it only comes with 1 gigabyte of data (which may seem like a lot until you start streaming movies), with any overage billing at a still-hefty $10 per 100 megabytes. It's also not available on every ship. More than 175 vessels are part of the program.

If you insist on leaving your cellular service on during a cruise, you should at least disable any apps running in the background (as they'll be eating up data, and running up your bill) and disable email auto-check.

Personally, I find it easier to just hit the airplane mode button. Once in airplane mode, I reactivate the Wi-Fi feature on my phone to access the cruise Wi-Fi, and sign up for a shipboard plan that will let me stay in touch by email or a VoIP service like WhatsApp.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

• Cruise News
• Cruise Tips
• All Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity cruises, disney cruise line, msc cruises, norwegian cruise line.

• Oceania Cruises

Princess Cruises

• Royal Caribbean
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Videos
• Port Webcams

• Advertiser Disclosure

Wi-Fi on a Cruise Ship: Cost of Internet for Each Cruise Line

Tips and ideas for getting the most out of a cruise ship internet package

Can you really get Wi-Fi on a cruise ship? Absolutely, yes. Is it as fast and reliable as it is at home? Not yet, but things are changing fast. Internet access on a cruise will soon be just as seamless as connecting from your living room.

On the many cruise ships I’ve sailed on, I’ve experienced both blazing fast internet and internet so slow it made me wish for dial-up speeds. (Forgive me if you’re too young to know what “dial-up” internet is. You can check out a local museum for details.)

Cruise lines realize how important it is for their passengers to stay connected at sea. Plus they know they can make a few extra dollars by offering it to passengers.

Uploading photos of your trip, using messaging apps with friends and family, and checking in on pets and loved ones back home is all easier than ever with most internet plans on a cruise ship. And now with streaming plans you can even keep up with your favorite shows through streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney Plus. Even video calls can be clear and lightning fast if conditions are right on a cruise.

Related: 10 Ways Rookies Waste Money on a Cruise

In this article we will cover everything you need to know about Wi-Fi internet on a cruise ship, including how much it costs for each major line. We’ll keep this post updated as changes take place.

How does Wi-Fi on a cruise ship work?

Cruise ships are equipped with a variety of technologies to provide passengers with reliable and convenient Wi-Fi access. In most cases, cruise ships get Wi-Fi through satellite technology. This type of internet connection uses satellites in space to connect the ship to the internet. Additionally, some cruise lines may also use cellular networks or land-based wireless networks to supplement the satellite connection.

Cruises often install multiple antennas on board that are able to receive signals from multiple sources. Passengers can then access the Wi-Fi network on their own devices, such as phones and tablets. The cost of Wi-Fi may vary depending on the cruise line and package purchased, but we’ll cover more on that later on.

What slows down internet speed on a cruise ship

The primary factor that can slow down internet speed on a cruise ship is the limited satellite bandwidth available to the ship. Cruise ships are often in remote areas and away from land-based networks, making their access to internet speeds more limited than on land.

This can cause websites and applications to load slowly, or even not at all. The spinning wheel of death is all too common on voyages in remote locations.

Additionally, cruise ships may also experience congestion due to multiple people attempting to access the same network simultaneously, leading to slower speeds. Other factors such as weather conditions and technical issues can also contribute to slower internet speeds. Even mountain ranges can limit the line of site needed for reliable internet connectivity.

Don’t forget, you’re on a moving vessel. This means connection to the internet can be spotty and is much more reliable when you’re in port.

Why is that? Some cruise line like Carnival will combine satellites with land-based towers for internet when the ships are close enough to use them. The reliability of land-based towers will be much better as well, and this is more cost-effective for cruise lines.

Starlink on Cruise Ships

Starlink could be a game-changer when it comes to internet on a cruise ship. Operated by SpaceX, this revolutionary satellite internet service that has the potential to bring high-speed internet access to millions of people around the world who currently do not have reliable connectivity. And now it’s being implemented by cruise lines. By using a network of low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink aims to provide fast and affordable internet to just about anywhere on the planet. On cruise ships sailing all around the world passengers will be able to get online with speeds never dreams of at sea before.

In an effort to improve their reputation for unreliable Wi-Fi, cruise lines are turning to Starlink, a high-speed broadband internet service developed by SpaceX. Hurtigruten Expeditions has already equipped its entire fleet with Starlink, and other cruise companies like Norwegian and Royal Caribbean are also adopting the technology. Even luxury line SeaDream Yacht Club has added Starlink to their ships.

These are the beginning stages of this technology on cruise ships, so stay tuned to see how this effects both price and performance of Wi-Fi at sea.

Using Wi-Fi on a ship without paying for a package

Whether you sign up for the paid Wi-Fi or not, you should still connect your phone or tablet to the ship’s Wi-Fi. This will allow you to see all of the relevant information about your cruise the the cruise line’s app. You will be able to see the program for the day, the shows and events scheduled, and even the menu for the restaurants on board.

In fact, one of the first things you should do when you get on the ship is to connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi so you can make any reservations for shows or check out your account for adding any additional amenities to your journey.

How much does it cost to get Wi-Fi on a cruise?

In the “old days” of cruising you would pay for internet access by the minute. Today you pay for unlimited internet by the day, but you still typically pay for only one device. If you want more than one device connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi you will have to upgrade or buy a different internet package.

The price of Wi-Fi on a cruise ship can range from $15 to $30 and more per device per day. On luxury cruise lines or even some premium lines there is free Wi-Fi included in the cost of the cruise fare. Some cruise lines that offer complimentary internet include Viking, Virgin Voyages, Silversea Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. You can also sometime buy a package combo that includes free internet access with some lines like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Princess.

We’ll have some tips for saving money when using Wi-Fi later on in this post.

Cost of Wi-Fi for Main Cruise Lines

Carnival offers three different internet packages that vary in speed in restrictions. Keep in mind that if you pre-pay for internet access before your cruise you will save money. The prices listed below are for pre-cruise prices. If you decide to wait and buy a Wi-Fi package after you get onboard the ship it will cost a few dollars above the listed price.

• Social Wi-Fi Plan ($12.75, per day) : As the name suggests this package only allows you to access social media websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. You can also use some of the most popular messaging apps such as Whatsapp and Facebook Messenger. While most websites will be inaccessible with the Social plan you will be able to access popular airline sites so you can check on your flights. What you can’t do with this plan is access any streaming services, most websites, email, Skype, and even Facetime services cannot be used. It really is only a good choice for updating your status or posting a photo on social media and not much else.
• Value Wi-Fi Plan ($17.00, per day) : The Value plan allows all of the above with social media sites and also allows passengers to access other websites such as news, finance, sports, weather etc. This plan is more suitable for surfing the internet. Speeds will be a little faster with this plan, allowing you to post pictures online faster than the Social plan, but services like Skype, Facetime, and streaming will not be accessible.
• Premium Wi-Fi Plan ($18.70, per day) : Carnival states that the Premium plan is up to 3 times faster than the value plan. With Premium you can access social sites, browse the web, and use services as Skype and Zoom. Streaming capabilities for services such as Netflix are only available on certain ships.

Carnival allows you to change your plan and upgrade if you need to. You can even use multiple devices per plan so you can switch back and forth between your cell phone and tablet with one plan. But with one plan you can only use one device at a time.

Celebrity now has “XCelerate” Internet at Sea, a cutting-edge Wi-Fi service that boasts faster speeds compared to typical internet access on cruise ships. This new service is now available on all ships in Celebrity’s fleet, except for those on Galapagos sailings.

Celebrity offers two internet packages for basic internet and streaming: Basic Wi-Fi and Premium Wi-Fi .

• With Basic for $20 per day you can use messaging apps, check your email, and browse the web. You cannot send large files via email nor can you upload photos and videos to social media accounts with this package.
• With Premium for $35 per day Wi-Fi passengers can use streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu and upload photos and videos to social media accounts. The unlimited Wi-Fi service allows users to use video chat apps as well like Skype and Zoom.

When you choose Celebrity’s “Always Included” fare option, your base fare will come with complimentary Basic Wi-Fi , gratuities, and the Classic Drinks Package included.

Costa Cruises

Costa offers internet packages in different sizes based on how much data you will be using and how you will be using it. There is a data package in which you pay for a set data amount and a social package where you pay a flat fee but can only access popular social media applications. There are three different amounts of data you can purchase with a data package: 250Mb, 500Mb, and 3GB.

Prices may vary but you can expect to spend about 35 euros for the 250Mb plan, 45 euros for the 500Mb plan and 110 euros for the 3GB plan. The social package can usually be purchased by the day and will cost about 5 euros for one 24-hour period.

For those just wanting to check something online and get right back off there is a Quick Check plan as well, in which you pay by the minute. Typical costs are .25 euros per minute.

Disney Cruise Line has different Internet plans for you to choose from on their ships through Connect@Sea. You can pick a plan that works best for you based on how often you want to use your phone or other devices while on the cruise.

Through the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App passengers can sign up for Wi-Fi service. With Disney you pay by the data you use. While you can use as many devices as you want on a single plan, all of the data accumulates and is charged against your account.

If you want to pay as you go rates can be around .25 cents per Mb of usage. Or you can buy larger amounts of data for less. A 100Mb package may cost $19 while a 1,000 Mb package can go for $89.

Concierge guest categories can get 100Mb of internet usage for free while others may get free unlimited internet for the duration of the cruise.

Holland America Line

Holland America has three different internet packages from which to choose. They call come with unlimited usage along with the restrictions of what apps or websites you can use with them. No video streaming services are supported with any of the packages below. So apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime video and Hulu will not be able to be used.

• Social, $10 per day : This package is mainly for using messaging apps only and keeping up with friends and family on popular social media sites. No audio or video features are supported on this plan.
• Surf, $15 per day : Along with what the Social package offers, Surf will let you browse the internet, check your email, and check on various sports apps. This package comes complimentary with the ‘Have It All’ fare.
• Premium, $20 per day : Audio and video streaming are supported with this package, including everything from the above two packages.

MSC offers both streaming and browsing internet services on their fleet of ships. There are two packages to choose from and you will save 20% off the price if you book before your cruise rather than waiting until you board the vessel. The pricing can vary depending on the number of days in the itinerary, the number of devices being used, and which package is selected.

• Browse Internet Cruise Package : This package allows you to browse the internet, send and receive emails (including attaching photos), and using popular chat messaging services like Whatsapp. You will not be able to use a video chatting app or streaming service like Netflix or Hulu with this package. The price starts around $12 per day .
• Browse & Stream Cruise Package : With this plan you can do all of the above, including use video streaming services, video chat, and live stream on social media websites. Prices start at $16 per day for this plan, but again, the itinerary and length of cruise may vary the price.

You will save about 15% off the price of Wi-Fi on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship if you buy the package before the cruise. There are basically two types of internet plans with Norwegian: one for browsing and one for streaming. You can determine how many devices you want to have access for those two types of packages and find a plan just right for you.

As you add on more devices you will save some money so let’s list all the packages and prices here.

The plans below are for browsing the internet, checking email, and checking social media sites. Video streaming services are not accessible with these plans.

• Unlimited Wi-Fi for 1 device: $25.50, per day .
• Unlimited Wi-Fi for 2 devices: $44.99, per day .
• Unlimited Wi-Fi for 4 devices: $84.99 per day .

The premium plans listed below allow for video streaming and video chatting. Services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Youtube can be used. The line states that a VPN may also be used with the premium packages.

• Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi for 1 device: $34.99, per day .
• Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi for 2 devices: $57.99, per day.
• Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi for 4 devices: $109.99, per day .

Princess claims to have some of the best Wi-Fi at sea, and you might be able to get it for free as well.  MedallionNet Wi-Fi is complimentary for those who book Princess Plus or Princess Premier.

Wi-Fi on a Princess ship will cost $15 per day for one device and $40 per day for a 4-device plan.

You will be able to post videos and photos, use streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu, browse the internet and FaceTime with friends and family back home.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean has been a pioneer of innovation in the cruise industry, and that is also the case with how the line has implemented Wi-Fi on their fleet of ships. VOOM is the name of their high-speed internet service that the company claims is 6 times faster than any other internet at sea. The technology allows for passengers to use the internet from just about anywhere on the ship as well, so even staterooms should get a great signal for connecting online.

The VOOM service uses a combination of satellites and cellular networks to provide guests with fast internet speeds and low latency, making it possible to do things like stream videos and make video calls while at sea.

Recently, Royal Caribbean announced that some ships will start using Starlink technology for internet as well. It is only on select ships right now but should be fleet wide in the near future.

There are two types of internet plans to choose from with Royal Caribbean: VOOM Surf and VOOM Surf & Stream. These packages are made available for up to 4 devices.

• VOOM Surf (Around $22 per day): This package allows you to browse the internet, send and receive emails, and chat on popular messaging apps like Whats app.
• VOOM Surf & Stream (Around $27 per day): This package allows you to stream from video services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, as well as live video chat, stream, and post videos and pictures on social media.

Royal Caribbean’s “ The Key ” program includes complimentary internet of surf & stream package for one device.

Virgin Voyages

Access to the internet is complimentary on Virgin cruise ships. With basic Wi-Fi included there is an option for “sailors” to upgrade for some faster download speeds if they’d like as well. For $10 extra you can get access to streaming services and carry out video chats with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Tips for getting better Wi-Fi speeds on the ship

• Use the Wi-Fi during non-peak hours. Early mornings and late nights can be the best times to use the Wi-Fi, but anytime you can get on the internet when most people are doing something else will allow for faster speeds. The more people on the network the slower it will be.
• Find areas of the ship that have a better signal . Whether you try the internet cafe or other public areas of the ship, there are always some parts of the ship with a better signal than others. You can even ask crew members about this since they will usually know where the best locations are.
• Try your stateroom balcony to see if there’s better signal. Even if your cabin gets a weak signal you might find that outside on the balcony you have a better connection.
• Disable background applications on your devices. This is always a good idea if bandwidth is limited. You don’t want all those background devices hogging the internet when you’re trying to check your email or send out a social media update. You can block these background apps in your settings.
• Turn off automatic updates of applications. In addition to turning off background apps it’s a good idea to make sure your phone will not start updating apps while you’re using the internet. Again, this will just slow down whatever you’re trying to do, and since Wi-Fi speeds can be unreliable you have to make every megabit count.
• Wait until you’re in port . As stated above, cruise ships will typically have a much better connection when in port because they can tap into some land-based towers for internet connections. Of course, if you’re in port you have some other options for connecting to the internet as well that we’ll talk about below.

Tips for saving money on Wi-Fi while on a cruise

• Check for promotional offers: Some cruise lines offer promotional deals on Wi-Fi packages, or even early bird specials if you buy a plan by a certain time.
• Use the Wi-Fi in port: If you are planning to spend time in port, you may be able to find free Wi-Fi in port towns. This can help you save on Wi-Fi costs while you’re on the ship. Some ports even have Wi-Fi for just $5 for the entire day so if you want to check all your email or download a few movies while in port you can save some cash.
• Use your phone’s data: If you have an international data plan, you may be able to use your phone’s data for internet access instead of purchasing a Wi-Fi package. I have T-mobile and love the free international data and texting. Just be sure to know what your plan covers so you don’t get a surprise bill when you get back home.
• Share a package: If you are traveling with friends or family, consider purchasing a larger Wi-Fi package and sharing the cost. This can help you save money on a per-person basis.
• Wait for deals: Some cruise lines and travel agencies offer different deals depending the period of the voyage and the advance you book it, look out for them.

FAQ on Wi-Fi on a Cruise Ship

Can i stream movies or music on a cruise.

Most cruise lines these days offer a streaming package that will allow you to stream with Netflix, Hulu, Youtube TV and other services. This plan will typically cost more than the basic package and keep in mind that the signal strength of the connection may not always allow for streaming. You should expect some buffering if you’re ship is out at sea. It’s usually best to download the movies you want to watch ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about signal strength during your cruise.

Can I use a VPN on the cruise ship?

It really depends on the cruise line and which VPN you are using. Some cruise lines state on their websites if they allow VPNs or not and others are more elusive. Here are a few things we know about cruise lines that mention using a VPN on their ships.

According to Carnival’s 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”.

Celebrity’s websiteclaims that VPN’s may not work on their ships, saying that any applications that use a lot of bandwidth or require a dedicated connection may not be supported.

Norwegian Cruise Line states on their Wi-fi package page that VPN support is only offered with the premium internet packages and not with the basic offerings.

On Royal Caribbean ships users have reported a mixed bag of results. While most are not able to connect to the Wi-Fi on Royal Caribbean ships others have had limited success. This may depend on the VPN you are using as well, but for now just assume you will not be able to use your VPN with this line.

Why is cruise ship Wi-Fi so expensive?

Wi-Fi on a cruise ship can be expensive for a few reasons. One reason is that the cost of setting up and maintaining the necessary infrastructure to provide internet access on a ship is quite high. The ship needs to have special equipment on board to connect to satellite networks, and this equipment is expensive to purchase and maintain.

Additionally, because the ship is constantly moving, it can be challenging to maintain a stable internet connection, which can add to the cost of providing Wi-Fi. It’s also a way for cruise lines to generate revenue, and with more people feeling like connecting to the internet is a necessity rather than a luxury it can bring in a substantial amount of money.

Can I bring my own Wi-Fi on a cruise?

I’ve traveled with my own hotspot on a cruise before. And while it’s nice to have another access point to the internet if the ship’s Wi-Fi is acting up, you have to keep a few things in mind. That hotspot is really only useful while you are near land or a port. Out at sea you probably won’t have much of a signal at all. When walking around a port of call, however, it can be nice to have that internet connection so you don’t have to find a coffee shop or internet cafe to check emails and post to social media. After all, the ship’s Wi-Fi is only good if you’re actually on or near the ship.

Are there computers on the ship I can use for internet access?

Some ships have done away with internet cafes for using the internet, so you will want to check with the specific cruise ship you will be sailing on. Many of the newer or refurbished ships have gotten rid of this feature since most passengers bring their own devices on board. That being said, if your ship does have computers onboard you can usually expect a pretty good Wi-Fi signal in that area.

What happens if you don t put your phone on airplane mode on a cruise?

If you don’t put your phone on airplane mode on a cruise, it will continue to try to connect to cellular networks, even though you are far out to sea. This can result in high roaming charges depending on your network in addition to a significant drain on your battery. Nothing wears out a phone batter faster than not having any bars.

Some cruise lines will let you connect your cell phone to their networks as well and even offer packages for this, but it’s usually very expensive and I don’t typically recommend it.

Can you text on a cruise ship without Wi-Fi?

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

Princess Cruises Offering Double Points for a Limited Time

Carnival cruise ship hosting the cruise line’s first brazilian carnival, 4 things cruise lines want you to ignore, cruise gym dispute: passenger told to “move out of the way” as influencer films, related articles, 10 ways your cell phone can either ruin or enhance your cruise, cell phone costs on a cruise, t-mobile and cruising, unlimited data/texting in port, how to keep track of your family on a cruise ship, recent popular posts.

Two brothers started Cruise Fever in 2011 when they decided they couldn't stop cruising so they might as well write about it. Do you have Cruise Fever too? Follow along on this incredible voyage!

© 2011-2024, Cruise Fever ®. All rights reserved

• Privacy Policy
• Cruise Newsletter

The Cost of Internet on Cruise Ships

By Polina Myagkov

Cruiseline.com

If you’re expecting the same speed of connectivity as you have at home, however, you’re out of luck. Satellite connections are spread pretty thin, and the result is an aggravatingly slow link (think dial-up era). Use Internet onboard to send a quick email home or browse your Facebook feed, but leave the heavy lifting (image uploads and streaming video) for your high-speed internet at home. Here’s the breakdown:

• All Regions
• Australia & South Pacific
• Caribbean & Atlantic
• Central & South America
• Middle East & Africa
• North America
• Washington, D.C.
• San Francisco
• New York City
• Los Angeles
• Arts & Culture
• Beach & Water Sports
• Local Experiences
• Food & Drink
• Outdoor & Adventure
• National Parks
• Winter Sports
• Travelers with Disabilities
• Family & Kids
• All Slideshows
• Hotel Deals
• Car Rentals
• Flight Alerts
• Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
• Cruise News
• Entry Requirements & Customs
• Car, Bus, Rail News
• Money & Fees
• Health, Insurance, Security
• Packing & Luggage
• -Arthur Frommer Online
• -Passportable
• Road Trip Guides
• Alaska Made Easy
• Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
• Best of the Caribbean
• Best of Mexico
• Cruise Inspiration
• Best Places to Go 2024

Home » Cruise Ships & Wifi (Free Internet on Cruise Ships?) Updated 2024

Cruise Ships & Wifi (Free Internet on Cruise Ships?) Updated 2024

Last updated on March 9th, 2024 at 08:40 pm

We live in a digital age where social media is prevalent in many aspects of our lives.

Whether we are chronicling our travels, advertising our business interests, getting remote work taken care of, sharing vlogs , or engaging with friends and family – few can go a day, much less extended time periods without Wi-Fi access or means of getting to their accounts.

Especially in this remote-work-driven world, business has become a work-from-anywhere endeavor where you can be cruising the world and still keeping a finger on the heartbeat of your other ventures.

Table of Contents

Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi?

The short answer is yes…but it differs from cruise line to cruise line.

What follows is a breakdown of the advertised services around Wi-Fi by the cruise line and previous cruiser insights on these services for many cruise lines sailing vacationers are considering.

Things to remember about the internet onboard cruise ships:

Ships offer internet via satellite, which will be slower than the internet you will find on land. This also means that weather can affect connectivity.

Ships also will deal with bandwidth and data issues, which means the more people that are using it at the same time, the slower it will generally be.

A common question people ask is if they will be able to work a bit from the ship, i.e. do a Zoom call, etc. The answer is usually “maybe,” but you won’t likely know until you go to actually use it.

It will depend on where in the world/ocean you are, where in the ship you are, how many other people are using at the same time, etc. It’s best not to bank on it.

Royal Caribbean WiFi Packages

After a successful trial of Starlink satellite internet on Freedom of the Seas, RCL says it will be rolling it out to the rest of the fleet soon (2022/2023). A timeline has been set that will see Starlink installed on all Royal Caribbean ships by the end of Q1 2023!

This should vastly improve the speed and reliability of the internet onboard, but for now, RCL’s internet is still touted as the “fastest internet at sea.”

From my own personal experience, I tested StarLink internet onboard the Brilliance of the Seas in January 2023. Download speed was 97.7Mbps while upload was 16.5Mbps. For most users, even heavy users, this speed is more than fast enough for streaming as well as work applications.

Royal Caribbean offers VOOM high speed internet you can add to your cruise to stream and stay connected, but costs will vary based on number of devices you wish to connect as well as your ship and sailing.

The VOOM Surf Voyage Package on average starts at $15.99/day for one device and allows you to surf the web and send emails.

If you want to be able to stream as well as browse the internet, the VOOM Surf and Stream package would be for you at an average of $22.99/day. Again, these prices vary based on ship, sailing and number of devices you wish to connect.

Watch for package deals prior to your cruise and check if your Crown and Anchor member level offers a discount on internet service.

Overall, users have good things to say about the service, though it does appear there can be some spotty coverage depending on your itinerary. You can also use Royal’s app without having to pay to connect to their Wi-Fi.

Celebrity Cruises WiFi Packages

**StarLink Internet has been installed on some Celebrity ships as of mid-2023.

With Celebrity, Premium Wi-Fi is the top-tier package you can add to your cruises on Celebrity for near-constant coverage while cruising. This package is great for those wishing to stream movies and such while underway and seems to have fairly good reviews from previous customers.

Basic Wi-Fi is for those needing some basic email and messaging services for a more value-added cost. This is included in Celebrity’s “ Always Included.”

Costs will vary based on ship, sailing and number of devices, but they do note that Wi-Fi packages are not available on ships sailing from the Galapagos.

Celebrity suggests if you book it in advance, you’ll save 10% than if you were to wait and purchase it on board, but often there will be additional deals when paired with other upgraded packages.

In 2023, Celebrity will be installing StarLink Satellite internet on its ships, which will provide a much faster experience. Stay tuned for more details as they roll out the system across all their ships.

MSC Cruises WiFi Packages

MSC Cruises, following suite with Virgin Voyages and other cruise lines,  will be rolling out Starlink across their vessels. Other major cruise operators including Norwegian, Royal Caribbean and Carnibal have also been making the switch to Starlink.

The satellite internet , called Browse (just surfing websites), or Browse & Stream (allows for streaming Netflix) packages on MSC Cruises offer the ability to bring your own devices for public area and café spot coverage.

When added to a cruising package, it is available 24/7 with no data caps, which is nice considering others throttle when available if you read the fine print. The packages vary in price based on the length of the cruise and number of devices you wish to connect, but you can expect to pay approximately $12/day per device for the Browse internet package for a week-long cruise.

They also have cafes with printers and full screens and keyboards to facilitate work or other activities.

You can get discounts on the packages if you purchase them before boarding, or when adding multiple devices because each package is attached to a certain device, so you’d need a separate package for each device you wish to access the internet.

They do advise that if you want to use the internet when it’s fastest, to avoid doing it first thing in the morning, or when the majority of passengers return from shore excursions .

Carnival Cruises WiFi Packages

Carnival is pretty transparent in the three levels of Wi-Fi offered:

Social Plan – $6.80/person per day (can save 15% if purchased online pre-cruise) – allows access to social sites/apps, and airline websites, presumably to allow the user to check in for their flight while aboard, but may not allow access to other websites/apps

Value Plan – 10.20/person per day (can save 15% if purchased online pre-cruise) – allows surfing on websites and access to email, but does not allow for streaming (i.e. Netflix or Spotify) or for video calls (i.e. Skype or Zoom)

Premium Plan – $13.60/person per day (can save 20% if purchased online pre-cruise).  boasts three times faster connection to allow for streaming and video calling (where coverage allows).

Check the fine print and ensure that you pick the right package as there are some pre-purchase restrictions that are enforced before embarking .

*Carnival Cruise Lines will be installing StarLink Satellite internet on their ships in 2023. This will be a much faster experience. Stay tuned for more info on when it will be installed on all ships in the fleet. 

Holland America WiFi Packages

HAL offers satellite internet through the ship’s Wi-Fi or at workstations in the Explorations Cafe. There are three packages available, all with varying levels of data available:

Social – allows you to access popular social sites and apps, but may not allow for streaming or audio/video calls – $14.99/day

Surf – the most popular option which allows for broader internet surfing including news and sports sites, accessing your e-mail, but also may not allow for streaming or audio/video calls – $24.99

Premium – this has the highest amount of data which allows for everything including streaming and video calls.

The caveats with their internet, however, are that it won’t be as fast as internet on land (and current customers agree), and because it’s provided via satellite, physical blockages will affect connectivity (i.e. inclement weather or mountains).  Also, they do have a select number of free sites under “Complementary Browsing.”

*As Holland America is part of Carnival, StarLink Internet will be coming to the fleet in 2023.

Princess Cruises WiFi Packages

MedallionNet is the Wi-Fi service of Princess cruise lines, and recently they announced some improvements to their service even to help accommodate those that might need to work while onboard.

They boast their services being “The Best Wi-Fi at Sea,” and they have several unlimited day packages for as little as $9.99 a day for a one device package. If you are a Platinum or Elite guest, you’ll get 50% off, or if you purchase Princess Plus , your Wi-Fi will be included.

It must be added that there is a lot of good reviews out there that might back this claim but again, read through all the data to make the best-informed decision.

*As Princess is part of Carnival, StarLink Internet will be coming to the fleet in 2023.

Norwegian Cruise Lines WiFi Packages

Norwegian’s services onboard are offered in internet cafes onboard , with some stateroom access on certain ships.

Laptop rentals, email access, and other items for this coverage can be found on their website, but for those needing streaming services or more robust coverage for work, you must take a hard look at this one before booking.

Unlimited  Wi-Fi Package – 1 device is $25.50/day when purchased prior to your cruise. This allows you to browse websites, use social media apps (except for TikTok), and access email (no VPN).

Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package – 1 device is 34.99/day when purchased prior to your cruise. This allows access to streaming sites, like YouTube, Netflix, etc. as well as if you need to use a VPN to access your email.

Unlimited Social Media Wi-Fi – 1 device – 12.50/day when purchased prior to your cruise allows access to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, but not TikTok.

Norwegian also has an option where you can purchase 250 minutes of internet for use any time during your cruise for the price of $105.00 if purchased in advance of your cruise. If you want to purchase it onboard, it will be $125 plus a $3.95 activation fee. It can be used only on one device at at time.

NCL offers different perks on different cruises, so many bookings come with some complimentary minutes of internet and it’s easy to upgrade your package once on board.

*Norwegian has experimented with StarLink internet on their ships so plan on upgrades coming in 2023. 

Disney Cruises WiFi Packages

Connect@Sea is the program covering all of Disney’s Internet packages at sea options. You will pay for the data you use, not by the minute, so if you’re looking to stream Netflix or just upload a few pictures to Instagram, you’ll be able to find the package right for you.

You can also share the package between devices simultaneously, as Disney’s technology will combine the amount of data. There is no discount for purchasing packages before your cruise, as Disney advises to look for a current price list in your cabin, or by talking to Guest Services.

There is free access to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app, which is also accessible to view other data packages.

Virgin Voyages WiFi Packages

Wanting to stay ahead of the game and to keep current with their innovative approach to cruising, Virgin Voyages will be the first cruise line to incorporate SES Cruise mPOWERED + Starlink PRO services.

SES is a global leader in satellite communications and Virgin will combine Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite coverage in their bid to deliver the fastest internet speeds for their cruise passengers.

The cruise line will be offering speeds up to 1.5 Gbps, well above the standard offerings. The pandemic changes the way the world does business, and has opened up remote working opportunities for many.

The world has also become acutely aware of the importance of connectivity. While most people don’t want to work on a vacation, the ability to remain connected, even for short periods, has made it apparent that combining business and pleasure can work out very well for all concerned.

Younger guests, such as those attracted to Virgin Voyages, tend to attract, feels that connectivity is paramount.  Having a reliable internet connection allows for cruisers to check in at work or home with confidence that those important connections will be ready and available when needed. 

Passengers will be able to keep up on messaging, emails and make video calls. This valuable service will help keep a cruiser current with business obligations and also give the peace of mind that being able to connect with home brings. 

Costa Cruises WiFi Packages

Costa features a Data and Social package for their internet, with access available in all public areas and cabins throughout their ships. They have an Internet Point area where you can use onboard devices or bring your full ship usage.

Additionally, their packages range from 250 MB to 3 GB. Their social package has a list of sites it allows access to in a more economical fashion – or you can pay as you go if you aren’t sure of your needs before sailing.

*As Costa Cruises is part of Carnival, StarLink Internet will be coming to the fleet in 2023.

Viking Ocean Cruises WiFi Packages

Internet access onboard is free , but there are some significant limitations on bandwidth for such activities as streaming. The ships do have a Business Center on board with computers or use your device, but the other amenities onboard are the draw – internet access due to itineraries, and locations along with onboard setup make access to the internet not as spectacular as on other cruise lines.

Oceania WiFi Packages

Wavenet is the internet service provided by Oceania, and the basic levels are free to all sailing with them. Additionally, a Prime option can be tacked for $9.99 a day to more robust access to allow for such things as streaming and the like.

Passengers in the premium Owners and Vista suites even get provided an iPad ensuite for the duration of the voyage for their use in accessing social media, email, and other internet options.

Azamara WiFi Packages

Azmara offers packages that start at $0.33/a minute with one-hour passes to one-day or full cruise packages. Several spelled out limitations to their services, such as Skype and others, so it’s important to go through their exceptionally detailed and transparent services listings before setting expectations for your cruise.

Silversea Cruises WiFi Packages

Silversea has unlimited complimentary internet for all those sailing. Speed limitations depend on the package level and ship, so checking to ensure you have the right service may include additional service level add-ons, but basic levels remain free.

They also feature onboard cafes where you may use their computers and other devices or bring your own and access the internet throughout their ships.

Seabourn WiFi Packages

Seabourn, the luxury cruise line is the newest cruise line to be equipped with Starlink internet . Expect fast internet speeds while you’re cruising to exotic locations offered by Seabourn. Learn more about complimentary WiFi on Seabourn .

A Word of Caution About Cruise Line Wi-Fi

Certain apps, a variety of service options, port of call , and destinations along your cruise can all impact the internet service on a ship.

If these services and having access to friends, coworkers, work, or even social media feeds are important to you, do your research before embarking as not all cruise lines have given their online services the same consideration.

Can you stream movies on a cruise ship?

Wi-Fi is getting better for certain and more readily available. While the speed of an individual cruise ship might be enough to stream movies, you might end up going through your available bandwidth quickly.

Additional charges in most cases will apply for streaming or higher/longer coverage periods and can have a significant impact on the cost of your cruise experience if not booked in advance.

That being said, it is not the same on every ship, and the costs are specific to each cruise line, so don’t make assumptions that just because you sail on one two years ago and want to pick a new line, the services may not be the same.

Why Is StarLink Internet a Game-changer for Cruise Ship Internet?

One of the primary advantages of Starlink Internet is its exceptional speed. Traditional satellite internet systems often suffer from latency issues due to the long distance signals must travel to reach the orbiting satellites and back to Earth.

However, Starlink employs a novel approach by deploying a constellation of thousands of small, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. These satellites are positioned much closer to the Earth’s surface, significantly reducing the latency and providing faster internet speeds.

Early tests and user reports have shown that Starlink offers download speeds ranging from 50 to 150 Mbps, with latency typically under 50 milliseconds. This makes it comparable to, and sometimes even surpassing, land-based broadband connections.

These innovations are good news for ALL cruise lines passengers. Cruise lines are striving to meet the need of cruisers to maintain a reliable connection with home and work. This will be a benefit for all. 

What’s the Verdict on Cruise Ship WiFi?

Depending on the destination, cruise ship capabilities, and even your stateroom location, the variances in coverage can be significant.

Look at the cruise line websites and reviewers on popular websites like the CruiseCritic Forums who can be brutally honest in reviewing such amenities. Real-life examples may help you from being frustrated mid-cruise and not enjoying a hard-earned vacation due to slow internet when you are already out to sea.

This page contains affiliate links for which we may receive financial compensation when a purchase has been made through one of our affiliate partners.

About Jonathon Hyjek

Jonathon is the tech guy behind CruiseportAdvisor.com. When he's not stuck in front of his computer, Jonathon enjoys travel & cruising (even after being on a cruise ship that caught fire - a story for another day!)

RECENT POSTS

Cruise news this week, what does it take to keep cruise passengers fed, royal caribbean cruise line loyalty programs: sailing to rewarding adventures, retirement home vs life at sea on a cruise ship, do i need travel insurance for a cruise, the pros and cons of cruising on a smaller cruise ship, grab your tour with cruise port advisor now, a short description introducing your business and the services to visitors..

© 2023 cruiseportadvisor All Rights Reserved.

• Book Excursions
• Anchorage, AK
• Baltimore, MD
• Cape Liberty, NJ
• Charleston, SC
• Ft Lauderdale, FL
• Galveston, TX
• Honolulu, HI
• Jacksonville, FL
• L.A. (San Pedro), CA
• Long Beach, CA
• Montreal, QC
• New Orleans, LA
• Norfolk, VA
• NYC – Brooklyn
• NYC – Manhattan
• Port Canaveral, FL
• Quebec City, QC
• San Diego, CA
• San Francisco, CA
• San Juan, PR
• Seattle, WA
• Vancouver, BC
• Whittier, AK
• Alaska & Pacific Northwest
• Central & South America
• Cruise Ports in Bermuda
• Dominican Republic
• Mexico & Mexican Riviera
• Eastern Canada & Quebec
• New England
• Los Angeles (San Pedro), CA
• Fort Lauderdale, FL
• Cruise Blog
• Cruise FAQ’s

Casino and Nightlife

Entertainment and activities to suit all tastes, day and night, are available in your floating resort. What other holiday can give you more? The entire ship is at your disposal, with its superb facilities and features. By day, you can choose from many different activities or get involved in sports competitions and dance classes. You can even learn to speak Italian! And at night, it's all bright lights and parties. Choose from piano bar, jazz, classical, Latin and ballroom dancing or hits from the '60s and '70s.

There are cocktail parties indoors and deck parties outdoors. You can get down on the dance floor in the disco or try your luck on the slot machines in the casino. The night is long and full of surprises…

• Live music & piano bar
• Great theatre shows
• Themed parties
•  Library and card room   
• Casino and Bingo (for an extra charge)

While the ship is sailing, there's time to have a go at everything, which includes placing a bet at the Casino. Slot machines, roulettes and poker tables await you, so why not try your luck, have fun with your friends and spend an evening that's out of the ordinary? Remember that you'll need cash in order to play, with the exception of a few ships where you'll be able to use your Costa Card as well. Entry to the Casino is restricted to people over the age of 18.

Surfing the Net is easier on Costa ships! From today, if you have a laptop, palmtop, smart phone or any other wireless enabled mobile phone you can bring it on holiday with you and stay connected to the world and your friends. All our ships have a Wi-Fi service providing you with a high speed wireless connection to the Internet at any time.

You'll be free to surf the Net in all the common areas, pool deck and cabins covered by the Wi-Fi service. Choose the offer most suited to your needs: either pay-per-use, for occasional connections, or one of the various pre-paid price plans we offer. The cost of the service will be charged directly to your Costa Card.

Fitness and Wellbeing

Discover all the benefits of exclusive relaxation treatments every day in the wellness centers on our ships. Enjoy the treatments provided for couples, like the therapeutic massages to relax and rebalance your body.

Some of us enjoy saunas while others prefer aerobics, some love swimming while others just like to relax in a Jacuzzi no worries, Costa ships allow you to keep fit in whatever way you want, and at any time of the day. Gym, dance lessons, jogging: you can get involved in any sport on your own or with your friends.

Samsara Spa

The sea is good for you. It's a feeling you recognize straight away, as soon as you breathe the air and its fragrance fills your body. It relaxes you. It regenerates you. This is why Costa Cruises has combined the pleasure of travel with the well-being provided by the best health and beauty treatments. Modern and sumptuous Wellness Centers await you on Costa's ships, especially the latest ones. Spacious and luxurious environments provide a range of the highest quality treatments, equal to the best and most renowned Spas in the world.

A Cruise Samsara: welcome in a world of privileges

A holiday dedicated to pleasure for the senses and the mind: pampering, relaxation, targeted treatments and lots of cosseting for an experience of total well-being that will envelope you throughout your cruise, day after day. Beginning with the special comforts of the Samsara Cabins and Suites, the Welcome Ritual reserved for Samsara Guests, to the exclusive pleasure of the Samsara Restaurant.

In Cabin and Suite Samsara: an exclusive experience to enjoy thoroughly

The Welcome Ritual is a series of privileges dedicated to people who choose the pleasure of a wellness cruise in a Samsara Cabin or Suite. An advisor will help you achieve well-being day after day, sunbathing and enjoying thalassotherapy baths, therapeutic massages and purification rituals. In fact the ritual includes unlimited access to the Spa areas, including use of the thalassotherapy pool, Tridosha Shrine and Temple of Peace, plus the opportunity to choose fitness and meditation treatments and lessons.

Treatments and lessons included in the Ritual: the best way to choose

When you start a wellness circuit it's not always easy to choose among all the treatments on offer: will a Balinese massage be more effective than the Samsara stone aromatherapy? Yoga or Pilates? For this reason, your privileges on a Samsara cruise include two tickets to the Solarium, two treatments and two lessons of your choice from a selection designed specifically for you!

Purification starts from inside

A delicate ayurvedic infusion awaits you in the Japanese Tea Room: another one of the little privileges offered to those who choose a Samsara cruise, like the daily opportunity to enjoy meals in the Samsara Restaurant, based on carefully selected healthy ingredients transformed into light and imaginative dishes to provide the right balance between well-being and Flavor every time. And for snacking between meals or in your cabin, the Samsara Cabin and Suites mini bar and room service provide low calorie products and menus plus a selection of teas to enjoy at any time of day.

A different pleasure every day

Many different forms of care are required to achieve well-being: movement, relaxation, beauty treatments, a healthy and balanced diet and purification of the skin. The Samsara experience will help you achieve perfect harmony, the ideal balance between all the elements that contribute to well-being.

All services and treatments that we offer can be booked directly on board.

• The Ayurvedic ritual: Ayurvedic massage originates from Indian medicine and is used to restore physical and mental balance and well-being. All areas of the body are massaged with reharmonizing movements, taking into account the different elements of which they consist: air, water and fire. On board you'll be able to choose between various ayurvedic rituals to achieve the inner balance and well-being most suited to you.
• Therapeutic massages: Brushing, vibration, pressure, friction. Massage is a therapeutic treatment known since antiquity. The essential requirement is to let go and relax completely. Each treatment - from Balinese massages to stone therapy, aromatherapy or four-handed massage – is an important stimulus to encourage the flow of energy and revitalize the body.
• Body care: A wellness holiday includes many different experiences: caring for your body, feeding it properly, toning and purifying the skin, are just some of the essential stages you must go through to achieve personal well-being. During the cruise you'll have all the time you need to choose the best beauty treatment for your skin.
• Face care: The skin on your face is affected by everything you do during the day, which is why it's so important to look after it. You need to protect and regenerate it with specific treatments and massages. Proper facial care immediately gives you a radiant and youthful appearance: and you won't be the only one to realize.
• Toning circuits: Fitness circuits in our well-equipped gym and balanced physical activities like Yoga and Pilates are not only enjoyable but will also help you stay healthy and tone your muscles. From dawn to dusk you can choose your ideal form of exercise, with the assistance of a personal trainer in the weights area or following organized circuits, as well as joining in our invigorating group cycling workouts.
• Hairstyling and beauty salon: Finally you can treat yourself to those little pleasures you have never had the time to enjoy: allowing expert hands to change or refresh your hairstyle. Caring for your image begins with a pedicure and ends with your hair. You can rely on the experience of our professionals for valuable make-up tips, suggestions for a new hairstyle and color and everything else you may desire.
• Barber Shop: Beauty for men: the best products and treatments dedicated to the new beauty requirements of men. Whether you're taking care of your appearance, enjoying a relaxing moment or looking for a perfect shave, without the hurry of your daily routine, the Barber Shop provides the opportunity to try effective creams and lotions to relax, revitalize and smooth your skin.
• Samsara Dream: If you've always dreamed of having a whole Spa at your disposal, Samsara Dream is the wellness package for you. Even if you haven't booked a Samsara Cabin or Suite, you can still experience the exclusive Samsara Spa services and transform your cruise into a total wellness holiday.

Onboard Shopping

Remember that perfume you've always wanted? Designer clothes for a special occasion, jewelry, watches, accessories, cosmetics, souvenirs: somehow the objects you buy on holiday always remind you of the pleasure you experienced at the time. Why not take the opportunity therefore to visit all the stores on the ship? They're open while the ship is sailing and offer attractive duty free deals.

Everyone always returns from a Costa cruise with a bag full of excitement and beautiful memories. Emilio Robba, an internationally renowned designer, has transformed these feelings into fascinating and distinctively designed objects and accessories. Inspired by nature, the selection you'll find on board offers all the best you can find for beautiful living: unusual and poetic gifts, table decorations, photography, the art of escapism, home fragrances: lots of exquisite ideas for people who appreciate the beautiful things in life, people who love to amaze and be amazed.

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise news
• Cruise Industry
• Costa Cruises installs Starlink High-Speed Internet on flagship...

Costa Cruises installs Starlink High-Speed Internet on flagship Costa Toscana

Costa Cruises has introduced advanced Wi-Fi connectivity on its flagship, Costa Toscana , through SpaceX's Starlink, a leading Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology provider. The new Wi-Fi service is already operational and offers an exceptional internet experience for guests as they explore the captivating destinations of the Western Mediterranean during one-week cruises.

Following the successful implementation on Costa Toscana, the innovative Starlink broadband service will be gradually extended to all other ships in the Costa fleet, beginning with Costa Smeralda , the sistership of Costa Toscana. The plan is to have all ships in the Costa fleet equipped with Starlink by December 2023.

Costa is committed to adopting cutting-edge solutions that elevate onboard services and exceed the expectations of guests and crew. The utilization of Starlink's low-orbit satellites enables high-speed and reliable internet connectivity that significantly enhances the overall cruise experience. This integration of various technologies, services, and broadband connections aims to revolutionize ship operations and improve the onboard experience.

With Starlink, guests will benefit from fast internet connections and global coverage, ensuring they can stay connected even in remote areas and enjoy seamless web surfing while onboard. The service also enhances the real-time sharing of experiences without any hassles. Moreover, Starlink will optimize communication between ships and shore offices, leading to more efficient cruise operations.

Crew members will also enjoy improved private internet access, allowing them to stay better connected with their loved ones back home and access social media platforms with greater reliability and speed.

On Costa Toscana and soon on other Costa ships, guests will have the option to purchase different packages, such as "Pay per Minute," "Whatsapp," "Social," and "Full," each of which includes internet connectivity with Starlink.

• Cruiseturtle
• Cruise News

Costa cruises with new internet offers

28.08.2015/2013/XNUMX - In June XNUMX we, the astonished public, learned from the mouth of the Chancellor that the Internet was "new territory". It took more than two more years to get there Costa cruises announced that it would be introducing new internet services for guests on board the ships.

The cruise company is offering three new WiFi tariffs. Different staggered packages are offered for individual surfing behavior. There are three categories:

Data packets: They are intended for guests who want to check their e-mails while on vacation and surf the Internet without a time limit. The packages are available in different sizes. The introductory package - Internet M - offers 250 MB. The price is 25,00 euros. The middle data packet - Internet L - corresponds to a data volume of 500 MB. The on-board account will be debited with 39,00 euros. For € 99,00, guests receive 3 GB volume. The package comes with Internet XL designated. According to the company, the option is offered to the selected tariff free of charge to expand to the next largest.

Social flat: The social media flat rate is intended for guests who want to use the social networks Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Twitter, WhatsApp, iMessage, Threema, Snapchat, Google+, Instagram, Tumblr, Xing and LinkedIn without limits. The 24-hour tariff Social 24 hours can be booked for 4,00 euros. The weekly rate Social 7 days is offered for a bearable 19,00 euros.

Quick check: The Quick Check tariff is recommended for guests with little surfing needs. Guests can surf the web for 0,19 euros per minute.

Since the technical requirements for using the Internet on board the Costa ships are not available overnight, the Costa Deliziosa began. From September 1, 2015, passengers can use the new Internet offers there. The improved technology is to be offered on all ships by the end of the year. The shipping company describes the technology as a WLAN connection via satellite that covers the public areas of the ship and the cabins. All ships have an "Internet Point" at which guests can use the PCs provided there online. As soon as the guest connects to the Costa WLAN at the Internet Points or with his own mobile device, the selected tariff and instructions for creating the user account are displayed on the device.

→  Overview of the Costa travel offers

Starlink on cruise ships: Which lines have faster internet connections on board?

N o matter how far your cruise roams, staying connected to the internet can be as important for some cruisers as oxygen and water. Whether you're keen on live-streaming penguins from your balcony on an Antarctica cruise, catching up on your favorite TV series or hopping on a Zoom call in the middle of the Pacific, connectivity and high-speed access are now considered essentials when cruising.

In the past, cruise lines struggled to keep up with the demand for seamless connectivity at sea. In the middle of an ocean, ships had to rely on satellite systems that could be unreliable, prohibitively expensive and maddeningly slow. Satellite systems allotted only so much broadband for each ship, and every ship carried thousands of people, each with multiple devices.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

A better solution was required. Enter Starlink, the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet. Part of Elon Musk's SpaceX program, Starlink now provides many cruise ships with bandwidth that can support streaming, online gaming, video calls and more worldwide. Starlink debuted in 2019 and has quickly revolutionized how hundreds of cruise ships provide internet access, boosting connectivity and capacity as ships roam the world.

Will your next cruise offer landlike Wi-Fi speeds? Here is everything you need to know about Starlink on cruise ships.

How does Starlink work?

Compared to standard communications satellites, which orbit from 22,000 miles away, Starlink's thousands of satellites orbit the atmosphere from about 340 miles above the Earth's surface. With much closer proximity to Earth, Starlink's data connections offer stronger and faster connections and provide the opportunity for more bandwidth on cruise ships.

The coverage of the Starlink satellites is extensive and growing, with more than 5,400 satellites currently in orbit and plans in future years to reach up to 42,000 satellites in orbit at once. Traditional satellite networks have a much more limited fleet and reach, especially in some of the ocean's most remote areas. Starlink is the world's largest satellite constellation, with near-complete coverage of all the world's oceans and waterways.

The Starlink system is affixed to ships as a series of flat panels positioned on upper decks, replacing the now antiquated domes often placed near the ship's funnel and radar masts.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

How fast is Starlink internet access?

Starlink's website estimates download speeds that range from 40 to over 200 Mbps and upload speeds that come in at 8 to more than 25 Mbps, with a latency of less than 99 milliseconds. These are wide-ranging estimates that don't factor in cruise ship-based throttling, cruise ship capacity, global positioning and the costs and challenges of outfitting a cruise ship with bow-to-stern Wi-Fi connectivity.

The industrial-strength steel frames and fireproof materials used throughout the ship make a strong, consistent signal throughout a cruise ship an industry-wide challenge. There will be patches on a ship, regardless of which line you're sailing, where you'll find a weaker signal. Signals are often at their strongest in the main public gathering areas.

Similar to traditional satellites, severe weather can be a factor in Starlink connections while at sea. Intense storms can bring temporary service interruptions or reduced speeds, while heavy rain or snowfall can cause signal attenuation, which might cause a brief loss of connectivity.

Cruises with Starlink

Here's a full rundown of all the major cruise lines sailing with the new Starlink technology. How much will the connectivity cost you? Check TPG's guide to Wi-Fi access on cruise ships.

Note: Starlink on cruises can be a white label service, depending on the line. While the cruise line might not advertise that it uses the new Wi-Fi technology, the list below will help to identify which lines are sailing with Starlink.

Azamara 's fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are three levels of bandwidth available: Social Wi-Fi (with access only to popular social media and airline websites), Value Wi-Fi (for email, news, weather, banking and other basic websites) and Premium Wi-Fi (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Basic Wi-Fi (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium Wi-Fi (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Cunard 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Essential (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line does not currently use Starlink Wi-Fi.

Holland America

Holland America offers fleetwide Starlink Wi-Fi. There are three levels of bandwidth available: Surf (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging), Premium (for Wi-Fi audio and video calls) and Stream (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

Lindblad Expedition offers complimentary, basic Starlink Wi-Fi to all guests aboard their ships, with the exception of Delfin II. There are two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: Enhanced (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is currently rolling out Starlink throughout its fleet, with two-thirds of the line's ships currently sailing with the upgraded service. The ships in the fleet that do not have the service include MSC Opera and MSC World Europa (both will receive Starlink in the coming weeks) and MSC Armonia, MSC Bellissima, MSC Musica, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Splendida (scheduled to receive Starlink before the summer 2024 season.)

There are two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: the Browse Internet Cruise Package (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and the Browse & Stream Cruise Package (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage).

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is currently rolling out Starlink throughout its fleet this year, with select ships presently sailing with the upgraded service. Currently, the ships with upgraded internet include Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Pearl.

NCL offers two levels of bandwidth available for purchase: the Unlimited Wi-Fi Package and the Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi Package. As part of the line's Free at Sea promotion , guests can receive a limited number of Wi-Fi minutes for free.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is rolling out Starlink Wi-Fi on all its ships and will have its entire fleet outfitted with the service by the end of 2024. Oceania Cruises offers fleetwide basic complimentary internet with a premium option available for streaming.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises ' fleet features MedallionNet, the only Wi-Fi network in the cruise industry that combines multi-orbit satellites — Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Mid-Earth Orbit (MEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO/Starlink) with 5G terrestrial networks to deliver a strong connection regardless of ship location. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Starlink Wi-Fi can currently be found on two Regent Seven Seas ships, Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Grandeur. The entire Regent Seven Seas fleet will be equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi by the end of 2024. There are two levels of bandwidth available on Regent Seven Seas: A complimentary basic package for emails and news and an upgraded package for streaming services and high-bandwidth usage that's available for a fee.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at an additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Seabourn offers fleetwide complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi. There is one level of bandwidth available.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi. There are two levels of bandwidth available: Standard Internet (for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging) and Premium Internet (for streaming and high-bandwidth usage). Your suite and ship class determine which option you receive at no extra charge. Upgrades in service are available for an additional fee.

Viking 's entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at no additional cost. There is one level of bandwidth, though the line advises users that it can limit heavy-bandwidth usage to ensure all have equal access.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages ' entire fleet features Starlink Wi-Fi at no additional cost. The included plan allows for social media, email, web browsing and internet-based messaging. There is an upgraded Premium bandwidth option available for streaming and high-bandwidth usage for an additional fee.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

• Costa Cruises

Internet Package Costa / on MyCosta

By Aeroplex , October 4, 2022 in Costa Cruises

Recommended Posts

unfortunately I can't find any rates or information about the internet package. Even on mycosta, there is no option to book. 

😉 Hope to find some help here.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

yes, can't find it anywhere either. Usually they will have a sale when you board, so don't worry too much. Hoping that pricing will only get better with some cruise companies now including unlimited use. I am staying positive 😄 😁 😄

kremerlorraine

It sometimes appears as an option to book in advance on MyCosta, but not for all cruises. On our recent cruise on the Fascinosa unlimited Internet access for 13 days cost 190 euros. Social packages (eg including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram etc) were something like 90 euros. For a week the price for full unlimited access is 100 euros and for social media it's 50 euros. Per minute is 30 cents. There were no discounts on board on any of our last five cruises this year.

1 hour ago, kremerlorraine said: It sometimes appears as an option to book in advance on MyCosta, but not for all cruises. On our recent cruise on the Fascinosa unlimited Internet access for 13 days cost 190 euros. Social packages (eg including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram etc) were something like 90 euros. For a week the price for full unlimited access is 100 euros and for social media it's 50 euros. Per minute is 30 cents. There were no discounts on board on any of our last five cruises this year.

You cruised 5 times with Costa this year haha?^^

On 10/6/2022 at 11:19 AM, Aeroplex said: You cruised 5 times with Costa this year haha?^^

What can I say?! We like them and as long as we have Platinum/Gold status they will be our first choice. But the lack of variation in the itineraries is becoming a problem.

My last cruise on Costa , pre-covid , I had their basic plan which lasted for 24 days.

It was fine for using WhatsApp and could be added to before it ran out.

Purchased on board.

Internet packages are available on the app when you board the ship. The cost depends on the number of nights you are on the ship, as is the cost of the beverage package. 

On 10/6/2022 at 8:52 AM, kremerlorraine said: It sometimes appears as an option to book in advance on MyCosta, but not for all cruises. On our recent cruise on the Fascinosa unlimited Internet access for 13 days cost 190 euros. Social packages (eg including WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram etc) were something like 90 euros. For a week the price for full unlimited access is 100 euros and for social media it's 50 euros. Per minute is 30 cents. There were no discounts on board on any of our last five cruises this year.

Yes, this is what we paid last July plus there was a €3 admin fee as well. I was able to log on and off from different devices which was a great help when doing my blog.

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail on Sun Princess®
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 21 hours ago

LauraS · Started 23 hours ago

LauraS · Started Yesterday at 02:12 PM

LauraS · Started Monday at 07:32 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

OGGI A BORDO

Follow me on Instagram for more - @oggiabordo

• May 7, 2023

Costa Cruises: beverage packages and drinks list and pricing (2024)

Updated: Mar 5

Undoubtedly, one of the most recurring topics when choosing and customizing our cruise is taking into account what is included or not. This is a guide to know how the drinks and packages work on Costa Cruises:

Bar menu - list and pricing

As with any cruise, the menu consists of all types of beverages such as water, juices, coffees, alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, and a wide variety of wines and beers. Something to keep in mind is that on Costa Cruises, no drinks are included . You only have access to machine water, juices, and coffee at the buffet and during breakfast (both buffet and à la carte). The ship does not have water fountains nor does it provide water in restaurants outside of breakfast. If you want a glass of bottled water, you will have to pay for it. Knowing this, here is the general drink menu in PDF format:

As you can see, the menu is divided into sections and the price of each beverage is listed next to it. However, there are several things to keep in mind. The first is that, as mentioned in the previous video, a 15% service charge is added to the price of the products . So, if you order a bottle of water for €3.50, you will be charged €4.03 after the service charge is added. This is important to note when calculating the cost of purchasing drinks separately.

You will also notice that some drinks (especially wine bottles) are marked with a discount for C|Club members . This applies to all members, meaning that you can access these types of discounts just by registering for the club for free before the cruise through the Costa website.

Finally, remember that the prices on the menu have increased in recent months. This is especially important for those who had calculated their beverage expenses on past cruises, as it will now be higher. For example, the price of water has increased from €2.90 to €3.40, coffee from €1.70 to €2.20, and a tropical cocktail from €8.20 to €9.30.

Specialty bars

The menu I provided is the general drink menu. What I mean by this is that there are bars on certain ships that have different menus. For example, pool bars usually do not have all the beverages available. Similarly, there are ships like the Costa Toscana that have exclusive bars such as the Campari Bar, Heineken Brewery, or Ferrari Bar. These spaces offer exclusive drinks from the location, some of which are also included in the beverage packages that we will discuss below. I don't have the updated menus right now, but I will try to share them as soon as I get them.

Unlimited packages

Like almost all cruise lines, Costa offers a range of unlimited beverage packages that we can book before boarding or once on board. If you book with an all-inclusive rate, you will have the My Drinks package (formerly known as Più Gusto ). It is the most popular package and includes a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages . These are the ones you will find on the menu marked with a yellow dot . Something to keep in mind is that this package includes drinks served in a glass, meaning you can order all the glasses of water you want but not all the bottles you want. In fact, it includes one 0.5l bottle per person per night . This means that if you take a 7-night cruise, you will have 7 small bottles to pick up at any bar, ideal for your room or excursions.

If you travel in a suite or decide to upgrade the package, you have My Drinks Plus (previously known as Intenditore ). This selection is much more extensive and includes specialty coffees, premium alcoholic brands, and unlimited water bottles . You will find all the drinks on the menu marked with a dark red dot .

You will also find the Brindiamo package (blue) , which includes a shorter selection of alcohol , mainly excluding cocktails with alcohol; and the My Soft Drinks package, which exclusively includes non-alcoholic beverages (red) .

The prices of the packages may vary, so check with Costa or your agency to get a price according to the number of nights you will be on board. As a reference, the My Drinks package on the Costa Toscana for 7 nights cost me around 250€.

If you feel like having something outside of your drink package once on board, you can request an upgrade or you can also choose to pay for drinks not included in the package. Additionally, in some bars, you can purchase certain drinks from the My Drinks Plus package by paying only a supplement if you already have the My Drinks package.

Drink packages cannot be shared and it is mandatory to contract them for all passengers in the same cabin. If you are traveling with children, they will have the non-alcoholic package.

Limited packages

You may be thinking that a package might be too much for you, and paying for drinks one by one may not seem like the best option. This is quite common among travelers who have a very specific selection of drinks or who consider paying, for example, 500€ for a couple in the same cabin excessive for what they are going to consume. In that case, there are packages known as limited.

These packages offer you a closed selection of drinks and a limited number of them , so you will pay a fixed price for, for example, 20 bottles of water, 40 coffees, or 30 beers. To learn more details, you can access myCosta.com with your booking number and see what each one offers. Something interesting is that these packages can be shared , and can be purchased by a single guest in the cabin. However, it will be charged to the card of the person who hires it.

I have contracted it on one occasion, where I took a package of 20 non-alcoholic cocktails for myself and my companion, which adapted to what we thought we would consume during the cruise.

All-inclusive?

Remember that traveling with the all-inclusive fare refers to daily tips and the drinks package. Nothing more. None of the drinks packages include ice cream, pizzas, or any other specialty restaurant. In fact, they inform that drinks packages cannot be used in specialty restaurants, although so far I have not found myself in a situation where I have been charged for water when eating in them.

So... is it worth it?

It's time to decide. Should I get a drinks package or not? The answer to this is completely personal and depends solely on each person's preferences. With this article, you can make an approximate calculation of what you will consume and compare the prices offered by the packages with those on the menu taking into account everything important. In my case, I have traveled with a package, without a package, and with a limited package as I mentioned before. On some occasions, the all-inclusive rate was better for me, and on others, I chose not to take it. I believe that if you have a package, you will end up taking advantage of it since you have no limits, just as if you travel without it, you will possibly restrain yourself more.

Extra: my favorites

Finally, I want to share my favorite selection of drink s if you are traveling with Costa, especially for those who are traveling for the first time and are all included in My Drinks :

Non-alcoholic cocktails: Pink Panther / Squok / Cosmopolitan

Alcoholic cocktails: Strawberry Daiquiri / Piña Colada / Margarita

Coffees: Macchiato / Cappuccino / Macchiato with Bailey's and ice

Specialty bar: Ferrari and its sparkling and strawberry or passion fruit cocktails

Don't forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel (Spanish) for free to not miss the best tips for your travels, and you can also follow me on Instagram to join me on my adventures .

• Life onboard

Recent Posts

Aboard Costa Toscana

Cruising aboard Costa Smeralda

All-inclusive? How to understand the price of your cruise