Does any one know if you can get a phone that works on the ship - like a prepaid cell phone?

Question

I went on a cruise last year with my sister and we met a guy who had a cell phone that he let us use to call back home while we were in the middle of nowhere - said he got it from his provider, but all I have available is Alltel - but could have access to others if I go to a bigger town to buy a prepaid one? Any thoughts would help. Thank you!

Answer 1

Not with pre-paid phones.. And it has to be specific cruise ships to get that service with our normal cell phones.

Answer 2

Most cruise lines are implementing onboard cellular service while at sea.  The service is compatible with all major US carriers.  The important thing to note is that your carrier will consider your phone to be on international roaming when using the network on the ship.  Before using your phone onboard talk with your carrier to ensure that they offer international roaming and what all the fees will be.

Your unlimited nights and weekends, free roaming, unlimited text messages etc... do not apply while onboard a cruise ship since your phone will be roaming internationally.

In addition, the ship's cellular system is only working while underway, it is shut down while the ship is in port.

Carnival, NCL, Silversea have completed the installation of cellular service fleet wide, many other lines are either in the process of completed or have recently completed their installation.  Check with your cruise line or your travel agent for the most up to date information regarding onboard cellular service.