Internet Access

[vandutch]

Good Afternoon Everyone,

My question today is regarding internet access on the vessel's and on land.

I recently purchased an Apple iTouch that allows me to connect to wireless networks. I cruise a couple times a year on whatever line has the best itinery for me.

How does wireless internet connections work on the cruise ships? Do they just charge you per minute as if you were sitting in the internet cafe onboard?

and have any of you tried to access free wireless networks on various caribbean islands?

Thanks in advance.

[Mike M]

Wireless connections on ships are charged by the minute.

Here is Carnival's pricing. Other cruise lines pricing policies are similar.

• An initial one-time Activation Fee of $3.95 applies to each user.
• A basic time charge of $0.75 per minute ("Pay-As-You-Go") is available. Minutes are rounded to the next full minute.

Discounted Time Plans
Discounted Time Plans offer guests the opportunity to enjoy a lower per-minute rate. These Time Plans do not have to be used in a single session and can be used anytime throughout the cruise until debarkation. Please note that there is no refund for unused minutes on these Time Plans and upgrading selected pricing options is not available. Plans are subject to change.

Cruises less than six days in length:
• 30 minutes for $16.50 ($0.55 per minute)
• 60 minutes for $24.00 ($0.40 per minute)

Cruises six days in length and longer:
• 100 minutes for $55.00 ($0.55 per minute)
• 250 minutes for $100.00 ($0.40 per minute)

Take care,
Mike