I have stayed in touch using the ships computer center. You pay for the minutes, but if you are organized such as composing your e-mails in word, then cutting and pasteing or using the drafts, it is faster. Using the ships computer center also meant I did not have to bring my laptop. In addition ( I don't know if it is still in there), the coupon book repeat RCI passengers receive used to have a coupon for free minutes. About $5 worth