Communication Ship to Shore

Cruise

Information Center

Communications – Ship to Shore

Cruise ships today are equipped with the latest in technology and satellite communications equipment to provide you with instant and clear communication, regardless of method and location in the world. Most cruise ships can be reached via direct-dial satellite telephone or fax along with older types of technology, such as telex or radiogram. On longer voyages, one can arrange to send and receive courier packages and regular mail via the cruise lines Port Agents, which will be delivered to the ship when you arrive at a port of call. A list of port agents and their mailing addresses will be sent with your final documentation before your leave on your cruise. It is advisable to pass this list on to relatives or a friend should the need arise for them to be in contact with you while you are on your cruise.

A large number of ships today can be reached via high-speed satellite link to the Internet so you can send and receive e-mail. On some ships, passengers are able to set a temporary e-mail address enabling them to send and receive e-mails to this temporary e-mail address. A number of cruise lines now have a dedicated area for the Internet or can provide you with Internet access in your cabin via a data port if you have brought a lap top computer with you.

Some ships are also equipped with Credit Card telephones that connect directly to satellite telephone system and are located in public areas onboard.

Regardless of method of communication while aboard, one should be aware that the cost of using such communication methods can be expensive.

If you have any problems or need assistance with communications at any time while you are aboard, you should contact the Radio Officer on Duty.

Sample of Charges in USD

Telephone calls - International worldwide satellite $5.00 to $15.00 per minute

Sending Faxes - International worldwide satellite $5.00 per page

Cabin Internet - access service via a data port - $35.00 for a continuous 24 hours period

Internet - $5.00 for the first 10 minutes & $3.00 for each additional 10 minutes

Please note that the charges above will vary from cruise line to cruise line and are provided only as a guide.

Satellite Telephone Codes

Zone Telephone/Fax Area Code

Atlantic / Mediterranean 871

Pacific Ocean 872

Indian Ocean 873

Caribbean 874