While I do enjoy unplugging a bit when I’m at sea, it’s challenging to completely disconnect. That’s especially true when I travel without my family. So, it’s always good to have some option for WiFi on a cruise.
When I first started cruising, WiFi was very unreliable and expensive. However, over the years, it has become more affordable.
When I first started cruising on Royal Caribbean, I was impressed by both the reliability and speed of Voom Surf + Stream, which is powered by Starlink.
Considering purchasing a Voom Surf + Stream package while you are on a Royal Caribbean cruise? Here’s our guide with what you need to know.
Disclosure: We’ve been on several Royal Caribbean media trips (with complimentary WiFi) as well as several trips at our own cost. All opinions are my own.
Guide to Royal Caribbean Cruise WiFi – VOOM Surf + Stream
Before you leave for your cruise, you’ll want to check with your cell phone service provider to see what your options are for service when on your cruise. Some cruise lines are starting to offer cruise plans. I haven’t used one of these personally, but it’s a good idea to be aware of the options.
Typically, you’ll want to put your phone on airplane mode when you are on the ship. That way, you aren’t accessing your cell phone service and using that data. Without a specific cruise plan, those charges will accumulate quickly.
If you are sailing out of your home country, you can keep the phone service on until your ship is about to depart. It’s a quick trip into international waters when the service switches to out-of-network.
Once you arrive on the ship, you’ll want to switch to the cruise WiFi to have access to the schedule and reservations on the app. It’s free to use WiFi for the Royal Caribbean app, even if you don’t purchase a package.
When using WiFi (either on a paid package or free), you’ll need to keep data off so that you don’t use it (or your calling/text plan). Royal Caribbean does have a Voom Surf + Stream help desk available if you have any issues. Just keep in mind that lines tend to be long at the very beginning of your sailing on embarkation day.
Royal Caribbean VOOM Surf + Stream packages also work on Perfect Day at CocoCay, although I’ve found the connection to be a bit less reliable than on the ship.
Purchasing a WiFi Package
You have different options for purchasing a WiFi package. Typically, before you sail, you’ll be able to see the option to buy a Voom Surf + Stream package in your cruise planner. There are frequent sales, so keep an eye out to see if you can get it at a good price.
You can also purchase it onboard if you forget or change your mind. However, you won’t be able to get it at the sale prices.
Royal Caribbean WiFi Packages
When you purchase your Royal Caribbean VOOM Surf + Stream WiFi package, you’ll have several options. Pricing is based on the number of devices you want to connect simultaneously.
If you don’t want to connect for the entire voyage, a 24-hour package is also offered. It’s more cost-effective to purchase a complete voyage package rather than individual 24-hour packages, however.
When is WiFi Free?
Looking for free WiFi? There are several situations where VOOM is complimentary for guests. If you are in the Sky or Star class, WiFi for one device per person is included. You don’t have to purchase the package – it will be available when you connect and log in.
Additionally, guests who purchase the Key also receive complimentary Wi-Fi. This free internet is for one device per guest who has the Key.
There are other opportunities to receive free or discounted WiFi. Crown and Anchor Society offers discounts to guests, although those can’t be combined with other deals. The % off varies by level.
If you are a Diamond member, you can get one free day, while Diamond Plus members get two free days. Pinnacle Club members get complimentary WiFi for one device for the length of the cruise.
What Can You Do Without a WiFi Package?
Don’t want to purchase a WiFi package? Your internet use will be limited, but you will be able to use the Royal Caribbean app without buying a package. We recommend downloading the app and logging in with your details before your sailing.
How to Connect to WiFi
Connecting to WiFi on Royal Caribbean is pretty straightforward. However, in the past, I’ve encountered some issues. Luckily, there are crew members available to help at the VOOM Surf + Stream desk onboard. The desk does get busy on the first day, so head there right away if you have an issue connecting.
You’ll want to put your phone in airplane mode and then connect to the “Guest” WiFi (it usually has the name of the ship in the network name. Your Wi-Fi purchase should be connected to your name and should provide access to the package you’ve purchased. Once you are connected to WiFi, don’t take your phone out of airplane mode unless you plan to access your cellular plan.
International Day Pass/TravelPass
When you talk to your cellular provider, you may find out that you have access to an international day pass or cruise pass for an additional fee. The international day pass (which is what AT&T calls it) is used in select foreign countries. For a flat daily fee, you can use your phone in another country just as you do at home. Purchase and get specific details (including the countries that it’s valid in), from your cellular provider.
Additionally, some cellular providers offer cruise packages. I haven’t personally used one, so you’ll want to get the specific details through your provider.
