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All Disney Cruise Line ships are equipped with WiFi. When I boarded my first Disney Cruise, I was excited to disconnect from the daily grind, but I also wanted to stay in touch with friends and family and occasionally check my email. Knowing that WiFi on a cruise can be tricky, I decided to investigate my options before settling into vacation mode. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about using Disney Cruise WiFi. We will go through what it costs, the different internet packages available, and my personal recommendations to get the most out of your WiFi experience onboard.
Overview of Disney Cruise Line WiFi Options
What WiFi Options Are Available on Disney Cruise Ships?
Disney Cruise Line guests can connect to complimentary Wi-Fi using the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app on all of the ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, including the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Fantasy, Disney Dream, and Disney Wish. This gives cruisers access to all of the features found on the Navigator app, including viewing the daily schedule and restaurant menus, as well as messaging the other members of your party on board the ship. Guests can also text using iMessage and WhatsApp to keep in touch with those back home and can access a number of websites including:
- Disney Cruise Line
- Disney Cruise Line Photo
- Disney Vacation Club
- Walt Disney World Resorts
- Adventures By Disney
- Run Disney
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa
For those needing more internet connectivity, Disney Cruise Line offers three different paid WiFi packages, each catering to a specific type of user.
Understanding Disney Cruise WiFi Packages and Pricing
What are the Current Disney Cruise Line WiFi Plans and Prices?
Disney Cruise Line guests can pick between three different packages depending on what type of internet access they need. The plans are the Stay Connected plan, the Basic Surf plan, and the Premium Surf plan.
First is the Stay Connected plan: This is the most basic plan and allows guests to stay connected on social media sites. You can post text and pictures on social media platforms including Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Twitter, and Instagram. The package does not support surfing the web, accessing email, or video streaming.
The Stay Connected plan costs:
- $16/day when purchased for the entire voyage
- $18/day when purchased for a 24-hour period
The next tier is the Basic Surf plan: In addition to the benefits of the Stay Connected plan, the Basic Surf plan includes full web access. With Basic Surf, you can surf the internet, read the news, check the weather, and visit your favorite websites. It also allows you to send and receive emails and make voice calls. This plan does not support video streaming on platforms like Netflix and Hulu.
The Basic Surf plan costs:
- $24/day when purchased for the full voyage
- $28/day when purchased for a 24-hour period
The third option is the Premium Surf plan: Not only does the Premium Surf plan offer the most benefits compared to the other options, but it also gives guests faster connection speeds. This wi-fi package gives you all of the benefits of the Basic Surf plan. Plus, you are able to make video calls using platforms like FaceTime and Zoom, listen to streaming music on Spotify and Apple Music, view short-form videos on YouTube and TikTok, and more. However, this option also does not support long-form video streaming platforms, like Netflix and Hulu.
The Premium Surf plan costs:
- $34/day when purchased for the entire cruise
- $42/day when purchased for 24 hours
It is important to note that these prices can fluctuate, and I suggest checking the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app once you’re on board for the most current pricing.
How to Choose the Right WiFi Package for Your Needs
When I sail on Disney Cruise Line, I tend to opt for the Basic Surf package to keep up with my email inbox. When the need arises, I purchase the Premium Surf plan to make video calls for work. If you are only interested in checking social media or would like to disconnect on your cruise vacation for a few days, I’d suggest going with the more affordable Stay Connected plan or even using the free Wi-Fi option.
How to Connect to Disney Cruise WiFi
Connecting to Disney Cruise Line WiFi is straightforward but can be a little confusing if it’s your first time. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide that I’ve found helpful:
- Make sure your device’s WiFi is turned on.
- Open the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.
- Select “Connect to Internet” within the app.
- You’ll be redirected to a separate browser page where you can view the available plans.
- Choose the plan that suits you best and you’re all set! The charges will appear on your stateroom folio.
If you run into trouble, crew members at Guest Services are always ready to help.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Disney Cruise Line Wi-Fi
The Disney Cruise Line internet packages are based on a per-device cost, not per per-room cost. Each additional device comes at an extra cost.
If you’re like me and travel with a number of devices, including a smartphone, tablet, and laptop, you’ll want to prioritize which device to connect. You can manage multiple devices by logging in and out of different devices as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Disney Cruise WiFi
Is There Free WiFi on a Disney Cruise?
Disney Cruise Line’s complimentary WiFi allows access to the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app as well as a limited number of websites. Texting through iMessage and WhatsApp can also be done via the complimentary WiFi.
Can I Make Video Calls on Disney Cruise WiFi?
Yes, but only with the Premium Surf package. I found that video quality varied greatly depending on the time of day and location on the ship.
Can I Purchase a Plan Later on during the Sailing?
Yes, guests can purchase internet plans for 24 hour periods or the entire sea vacation. If you would like to purchase a full voyage plan midway through your voyage, you will only be charged for the remaining days.
Final Thoughts: Is Disney Cruise WiFi Worth It?
Overall, the WiFi packages are pricey, but if staying connected is important, they’re worth the investment. Just choose your package wisely. My recommendation? Go with the Basic Surf unless you need to be on video calls often.
