can I make phone calls from the boat?

My husband and I are planning a cruise and will be leaving behind 2 children (Our first trip away!). Can we contact them from the boat?

See the previous post for all the advice you need on phone calls from ships!
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor
Family Cruise Editor

[Donna]

Hi Michelle,
You'll be better off and save tons of money, by calling from a port or e-mailing them. Calls onboard the ship are super expensive.

You sure can. It's cool to see the telephone line drag behind the ship.

[ssatterly]

you can but it costs about $10 a min

In the past, the average phone cost per minute from sea was $10/minute. However, I just returned this weekend from the Caribbean Princess and it cost $5/minute.
Smooth sailing,
Luisa Frey Gaynor
Family Cruise Editor

[Happy Cruiser]

Get on some instant messaging service -- like icq or aim --

some cell phones are local in st . thomas and san juan

[TinaBinaBoBina]

Wow, only 5.00 dollars, I was wondering which cruise line you were on?

Tina:
I was just on the Caribbean Princess and yes, it was "only" $5 per minute. I know because I did have to call home during the cruise.
Best,
Luisa

[Valentina1209]

definintely rely on email on the ship - hint: write the note out longhand first, and then type it into the email, to conserve minutes.

In port, to avoid roaming fees on the cell phone, use the calling card from Costco...it's the cheapest rate around.

If you are really worried, you can rent a global satellite cell phone for the week. Still pretty costy, but you will always be available.