eSIM for a cruise: how to avoid expensive sea charges
A cruise is wonderful, but staying connected is expensive: the onboard Wi-Fi often costs a lot, and at sea your phone sometimes picks up a satellite network at high rates. An eSIM for the ports of call is a smart, affordable solution. This guide explains how to go about it.
How does internet work on a cruise?
Out on the open sea there is no regular mobile network. Onboard there is Wi-Fi, but it is usually slow and pricey. In the ports of call, on the other hand, you pick up the local network, and that is where an eSIM comes in handy: in every port you have affordable data right away.
Important at sea: turn off your mobile data as soon as you leave port. Otherwise your phone may pick up an expensive satellite network. In the next port you turn the data back on.
Which eSIM do you choose for a cruise?
That depends on your route. If you sail around the Mediterranean past several countries, then a Europe eSIM or a regional bundle is handy, because it works in every port of call. If you sail within one country, a local eSIM is enough.
| Cruise route | Best choice |
|---|---|
| Several countries (e.g. Mediterranean) | Europe eSIM or regional bundle |
| One country or region | Local eSIM |
| Several continents | Global eSIM |
How much data and installing
You mainly use data during the excursions in the ports. Count on an average bundle, and more if you share a lot. Our guide how much data do you need when travelling helps you choose. Install at home over Wi-Fi, see iPhone and Android. Your home number stays active thanks to dual SIM.
Frequently asked questions
Does my eSIM work on the open sea?
No, at sea there is no regular network. In the ports of call it does. Turn off your data as soon as you leave.
Which eSIM for a Mediterranean cruise?
A Europe eSIM or regional bundle that works in every port of call.
What if I run out of data?
With many eSIMs you can easily top up.
Conclusion
On a cruise, an eSIM saves you the expensive onboard Wi-Fi: in every port of call you have affordable data right away, as long as you turn off your data at sea. Choose a regional bundle that covers your whole route. At esimzu you pay easily by card, receive your eSIM instantly by email, and benefit from a lowest-price guarantee.