Cruise control: how Portsmouth travellers navigate connectivity challenges on international trips

Once out on the ocean, regular cruise enthusiasts and occasional sailors alike face a challenge when they want to connect with the wider world – connectivity.

Do they use the ship’s WiFi, wait until they arrive in a port and then try to work out ever-changing roaming charges, or is there a simpler way to stay in touch?

Portsmouth cruisers face challenging digital waters

WiFi costs onboard can be high – up to £30 a day in some cases, potentially adding hundreds of pounds to a two-week holiday. And, the WiFi is not always reliable so maybe best to use it only when necessary, such as to share photos, keep in touch with loved ones or to look at itineraries. Cruise ship connectivity packages can also sometimes catch out the unwary traveller, who maybe doesn’t realise the download limits and expense.

Maritime roaming charges are on another level, of between £5 to £10 per MB, meaning that even sending and downloading images can be a costly business.

When you are in port the costs can be equally tough to bear with roaming charges somewhere between £7 and £15 per day, and with ships visiting different countries, you have to contend with different rates and sign ups, depending on where you are.

If travelling from Portsmouth or Southampton this can be anywhere from Mediterranean cruises, Caribbean trips, the Northern European/Baltic countries or the Atlantic islands such as the Canaries or Madeira.

Why traditional connectivity solutions fall short at sea

There have been reports of passengers facing bills of more than £1,000 after a cruise, even when they have paid for the ship’s WiFi package – this is because their phones were still using data to update different apps in the background, and in some cases because younger members of the family were streaming videos.

And when in port things can get complicated on a multi-stop cruise. Starting in March this year, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU roaming agreement, meaning travellers using mobile networks in other nations face additional charges.

But most will want to access the internet, whether that is to use cruise line apps, share holiday photos on social media, make video calls back to Portsmouth or to check excursion information

eSim is one solution for ports, allowing you to access cheap connectivity. When at sea you can also limit your online presence to save money, knowing there is a great service when you arrive at your next destination.

eSim works simply by allowing you to activate a mobile plan without swapping a physical SIM card.

Yesim provides eSIMs which are activated by scanning a QR code or through a network provider's app – and you do not need to upgrade your phone.

Managing data is really simple. To activate a data plan, download the app, select your destination and pick a plan that meets your needs. There’s no need to visit a local store or call a support line — everything is done right from your phone. Once your plan is activated, you can use the data immediately

Yesim also offers comprehensive cruise region coverage across Mediterranean, Caribbean and Northern European ports.

Pre-activation is easily done before departure from Portsmouth and data packages are suitable for typical cruise durations.

Digital solutions for Portsmouth's cruise enthusiasts

The set-up with Yesim really is seamless:

1. Download the Yesim app from the App Store or Google Play.

2. Create an account using your email.

3. Choose a data plan for your destination.

4. After payment, scan the provided QR code in your phone’s settings to activate your eSIM.

Once installed, your phone will automatically connect to the best available network, ensuring smooth connectivity from the moment you land.

And, there is friendly customer support for those less comfortable with technology.

Understanding the limitations of cruise connectivity solutions

eSims, like traditional roaming, won’t always work in remote locations, or when a cruise is at sea for a number of continuous days.

You may then need to use the ship’s WiFi, but one top tip is to put your phone in aeroplane mode when not using it to avoid any hidden roaming charges.

But if you can, take advantage of the great offers from providers like Yesim, it can make travel so much smoother.

Smooth digital sailing for Portsmouth cruise travelers

An eSim can save travellers hundreds of pounds on a two-week cruise

So, before your next cruise adventure from Portsmouth or Southampton, compare connectivity options and consider installing an eSIM to save substantially while staying connected in ports.

Download the Yesim app today and find out how to make travel easier and more connected.