Staying in Touch While Cruising

Most of todays cruise ships offer internet/wi-fi service in order for cruisers to stay in touch.

 On my last cruise, I paid in advance for the service, but found the internet connection extremely slow - which obviously subtracts from your time. 

Also you may have to wait to get a seat depending on how many passengers have the same idea in mind. Bottom line - it's very expensive to check and send e-mails while onboard.

A good money saving suggestion would be to wait until you get into port. You can investigate internet cafe's  prior to your cruise, and you will save a great deal. If you are still unsure where to go, ask one of the crew for directions.

Prior to leaving, get a free e-mail account, and use that account to e-mail friends and family back home. Using internet cafes can bring a lot of SPAM to your personal inbox.

Staying in touch by phone -you will need an international phone. Again you will be paying a premium via the cruise ship's satellite - and that's in addition to your calling plan. To avoid the extra charge, make calls while in port.