In today’s world, constant communication is important and being offline can make you anxious. But don’t worry, AT&T Cruise Package is here to help. It keeps you connected to the internet while you enjoy your cruise.
In this guide I’ll explain how AT&T Cruise Plan ensures reliable communication during cruise and compares it to traditional onboard WiFi options.
What is AT&T Cruise Package?
The AT&T Cruise Package is a service offered by AT&T (American Telegram & Telephone) that provides customers with affordable internet access and other communication services while on a cruise ship. This package ensures that users can make phone calls and send text messages while on a cruise ship without incurring international roaming charges.
The AT&T Cruise Package is a specialized cellular wireless plan designed specifically for individuals embarking on cruise vacations. AT&T has partnered with over 175 cruise ships across various renowned cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival Cruise Line, providing flawless communication coverage regardless of the cruise line you choose.
Users will receive a predetermined amount of data for browsing the internet depending on the package users select. They can access apps or share captivating photos from their memorable cruise adventures.
AT&T Cruise Packages – What Changed in 2025?
If you sailed before 2025, you may remember AT&T’s old cruise plans. These included Cruise Basic and Cruise Plus, and many travelers used them because they came with a one-time fee for 30 days. AT&T also offered a Cruise Day Pass for people who wanted flexibility and wanted to pay only on the days they used their phone at sea.
These old plans were made only for use at sea, not on land. They were valid for 30 days from the moment you activated them. As soon as your ship reached a port and your phone connected to a local network, the plan stopped working until you returned to the sea again.
The Big Change in 2025
In April 2025, AT&T removed the old Cruise Basic and Cruise Plus packages. They changed everything and introduced a single, easier option called the AT&T International Day Pass.
This new package is simple and costs $20 per day, not a one-time cruise fee.
What You Get for $20 Per Day
The new plan works both at sea and on land, so you don’t need two different roaming packages anymore.
You get:
- Unlimited talk
- Unlimited text
- 500 MB of high-speed data per day (Slower speeds after 500 MB, but data still works)
- Coverage on 400+ cruise ships
- Coverage in 210+ destinations
- Pay only for the days you use
How does AT&T Cruise Package Works?
The AT&T Cruise Package operates by utilizing the ship’s onboard “Cellular at Sea” network. When you embark on a cruise, your smartphone will automatically connect to this dedicated cellular network allowing you to use your device.
Once connected, you can make calls, send text messages, and utilize data, providing you with a convenient and reliable connection throughout your cruise.
The costs of using this network can be very high. To avoid extra charges, it’s recommended that passengers put their phones on Airplane Mode to prevent accidental connections.
If you don’t have the AT&T International Day Pass for both sea and land, or you are only using the cruise ship’s WiFi, AT&T also offers a separate International Day Pass for land use. This land pass costs an extra $12 per day and helps you stay connected during port stops.
If you don’t have AT&T International Day Pass for sea and land or not using cruise line wifi package. AT&T offers the International Day Pass which comes with an additional cost of $12 per day to address this issue, providing a convenient solution for connectivity during port visits.
How to Use AT&T Cruise Package?
To use the AT&T Cruise Package, you need to be an AT&T postpaid wireless customer with a data plan. Activate the package before your cruise by contacting AT&T customer service or logging into your online account. Bring your AT&T-compatible device on the cruise and connect to the ship’s network.
Turn off the package after the cruise to avoid extra charges by calling AT&T or using your online account.
It’s important to note that package details such as rates, data allotments, and coverage areas, may vary depending on your specific AT&T plan and the cruise line you’re traveling with. Be sure to review the package details and terms before activating to understand the costs and limitations.
AT&T Cruise Plan Vs Cruise Ship WiFi
Staying connected during a cruise vacation can be achieved through two distinct options: the AT&T Cruise Ship Plans and Cruise Ship WiFi, each offering unique advantages and considerations.
Connectivity
The AT&T Cruise Plan keeps you connected at sea by using the ship’s cellular network and switching to satellite connections when near the shore. This ensures a reliable network wherever you are.
Cruise Ship WiFi, on the other hand, can be slow when many guests use it at once because it relies mainly on satellite connections.
Starlink Collaboration
Advanced satellite networks like Starlink are improving the internet on cruise ships, making it faster and more reliable for guests. Starlink offers better WiFi at a lower cost for ships, but cruise companies may not reduce their WiFi prices. Guests will need to decide if the benefits are worth the cost.
Lower Cost
Starlink’s entry into the maritime connectivity market has introduced a more reliable WiFi connection at a reduced cost, ensuring consistent and predictable expenses for users. It’s important to note that the data allowance provided by the AT&T Cruise Ship Plan may be quite limited.
Streaming vs Calls
The AT&T Cruise Ship Plan is best suited for those who prioritize voice calls, text messaging, and occasional web browsing, while Cruise Ship WiFi is more suitable for users who heavily utilize streaming services for music and video consumption.
Both the ATT Cruise Ship Plan and Cruise Ship WiFi can help you stay connected during your cruise. They cater to different needs and preferences. Consider your requirements and budget to choose the best option for a smooth cruise experience.
Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise? Check my complete Royal Caribbean internet package guide to see which plan fits your needs best.
Reasons to Choose AT&T Cruise Plan
The ATT Cruise Plans are great for Adult travelers who want to stay connected while at sea. This plan is affordable and perfect for all your travel needs. Here are five reasons why it’s a great choice:
Data
The AT&T Cruise Plan gives you a daily data allowance that you can use as you need. This plan is good for people who use the internet for basic things like checking emails, posting photos on social media, and browsing the web casually.
Ease of Use
The AT&T Cruise Plan is easy to use for staying connected while on a cruise. Once you sign up, it starts working when you’re on the ship without you having to do anything. Plus, you can keep using your regular AT&T phone number without needing to change your contact details.
Flexibility
The AT&T Cruise Plan is very flexible and works on over 400+ cruise ships worldwide. This means you can stay connected wherever you go, making it a reliable companion for your trip. Whether you’re in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Alaska, the ATT Cruise Plan will keep you connected without any interruptions.
Cost Effectiveness
One big advantage of the AT&T Cruise Plan is that it helps you save money. It is a good choice for travelers who want to control their budget because it lowers the cost of international roaming. The plan has a simple fixed rate, and you only pay for the days you actually use it.
Unlimited Text and Talk
The AT&T Cruise Plans offers unlimited talk and text, so users can stay connected for personal or business reasons. Travelers can share updates or talk to colleagues without limits. This plan free users from worrying about running out of minutes or messages and can communicate freely.
Limitations of the AT&T Cruise Package
Here are the key limitations of the ATT Cruise Packages:
Limited High Speed Data
The AT&T Cruise Package keeps you connected at sea, but it does come with limited data. You get 500 MB of high-speed data each day, and after that your speed becomes slower, though basic browsing still works. Because of this cap, it’s best to use your data wisely and avoid heavy apps while on the ship.
Limited Streaming
Streaming apps use a lot of data very fast. Watching even one movie in standard quality can use around 1 GB of data in just one hour. With the AT&T International day pass, you only get 500 MB of high-speed data each day. After you use that amount, your speed drops to about 512 Kbps for the rest of the day. This slower speed is only good for simple tasks like basic messaging or checking emails, not for streaming or heavy browsing.
Tips to Reduce Data Usage
When you sign up for the AT&T cruise package, you’ll get a set amount of high speed data. To use your data wisely, follow these tips to save your data:
Avoid Streaming: Streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify can rapidly deplete your high speed data when you’re relying on an AT&T International Day Pass. These applications are data-intensive and continuous streaming can quickly exhaust your high speed data.
Disable Unused Apps: Many apps continue to operate in the background consuming data even when you’re not actively using them. To conserve your data, disable the functionality of apps that you rarely use or those that are not essential during your cruise.
Utilize WiFi When Available: If you have access to the cruise WiFi, make the most of it to reduce your cellular data usage. Some cruise lines offer complimentary WiFi in certain areas, so take advantage of these opportunities to stay connected without tapping into your AT&T data allowance.
Monitor Your Data Usage: Stay vigilant and regularly check your data usage to ensure you’re staying within your allotted high speed limits. iMessage will provide updates on your AT&T cruise Internet package status, so be attentive to these notifications and adjust your usage accordingly.
AT&T Cruise Package Coverage on Different Cruise Lines
ATT Cruise Package is available on many cruise lines. Some of the major cruise lines are mentioned below:
- TUI Cruises
- Star Cruises
- Virgin Voyages
- MSC Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Celestyal Cruises
- Dream Cruises
- Explora Journeys
- Oceania Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Windstar Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Sky Sea Cruise Line
- Silversea Cruise Line
- Holland America Line
- Azamara Club Cruises
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Royal Caribbean International
What is AT&T Pay-Per-Use Rates?
If you choose not to purchase the AT&T International Day Pass, you will be subject to AT&T’s standard pay-per-use rates, which can be significantly more expensive compared to other mobile networks. These rates apply when you use your AT&T service while traveling internationally or on cruise ships.
Talk Pay-Per-Use Rates
- Calls to Canada and Mexico: $1 per minute
- Calls to Europe: $2 per minute
- Calls to the rest of the world, as well as those made from cruise ships and airlines: $3 per minute
Text Pay-Per-Use Rates
- Standard text messages: $0.50 each
- Sending pictures and videos: $1.30 per message
Data Pay-Per-Use Rates
- Land, cruise ships, and Aero Mobile® (for select international flights): $2.05 per MB
- Airlines: $10.24 per MB
To avoid these high fees, consider buying an ATT Cruise Package or International Day Pass for more affordable and predictable prices while traveling or on a cruise. By understanding AT&T’s pay-per-use rates and how they can affect your expenses, you can make a smart choice that fits your budget and connectivity needs, ensuring a smooth travel experience without any surprises.
Is AT&T Cruise Plan Worth It?
If you are going on a cruise, staying connected can get expensive. Some cruise line Wi-Fi or international roaming plans can cost a lot for a whole week. On a week-long sailing, you might end up paying $150 or more, even if you don’t use your phone every day.
The AT&T International Day Pass works differently. It charges a flat daily rate instead of one big fee for the whole cruise. This means you only pay for the days you actually use your phone. If you skip a day, you don’t get charged, which can save you a lot of money on short trips or on days when you don’t need full connectivity.
The game changing point is that this plan gives you unlimited data, but only the first 500 MB is high speed. After you cross that limit, your speed drops to about 512 Kbps for the rest of the day. This slower speed is still fine for basic messaging and checking emails, but not for streaming or heavy use.
Another advantage is simplicity. You don’t need separate cruise and land packages anymore because one plan works everywhere on the ship and during port days. This makes it easier to stay connected without worrying about confusing roaming rules or extra charges.
Overall, for travelers who want an affordable, flexible, and simple way to use their phone at sea and on land, the AT&T International Day Pass is worth it. You get predictable costs and strong coverage in over 210 destinations and 400+ cruise ships, making it a reliable choice for cruise travel.
AT&T Cruise Package Reviews
The AT&T Cruise Package offers reliable connectivity even when you’re far out at sea. Many cruisers love its consistent speed, which makes it easy to browse the web, check emails, and upload photos to social media. For those who need to stay in touch with family or work remotely, the package delivers a dependable connection that keeps you connected throughout the trip.
Users also appreciate how well the service handles streaming and video calls. While it may not be as fast as land-based networks, the performance is surprisingly strong for ocean travel. It’s a great option for anyone who values staying connected and sharing their cruise moments in real time.
FAQs about AT&T Cruise Package
How Much is AT&T Cruise Package?
The AT&T Cruise Package costs $20 per day per device when you’re sailing at sea or using the combined sea + land option. This plan covers unlimited talk and text, plus data (500 MB high speed per 24 hours; then slower speed) for cruise travellers.
How Much is AT&T International Day Pass for Land?
The AT&T International Day Pass costs $12 per day and includes unlimited talk, text, and data. It is ideal for cruisers, providing connectivity on land during port visits while exploring different destinations.
Does AT&T International Day Pass Turn on Automatically?
The AT&T International Day Pass activates automatically when you use data, make a call, or send a text in one of the covered places. You don’t need to activate it manually. You’ll be charged per day only on the days you use your device abroad.