Celebrity Cruises Internet Packages: Which One to Choose?

Cruising with Celebrity Cruises offers endless opportunities to explore, relax, and enjoy world-class amenities. But staying connected at sea can be a challenge—and an expensive one at that. Cruise WiFi has become a key consideration for many travelers who want to stay in touch with family, check work emails, or share their adventures on social media. With several internet options available, understanding the costs and value of each is essential.

‍

This article breaks down the pricing and features of Celebrity cruise WiFi packages, compares them to GigSky's Cruise + Land eSIM plans, and provides practical tips for saving on connectivity during your voyage.

WiFi Pricing Options on Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers two WiFi packages to suit different levels of connectivity needs. 

‍

The Basic plan includes internet browsing, email access and access to social media apps. It does not include uploading or sharing content online, Wi-Fi calling, or video and music streaming. 

‍

The Premium plan includes all of the above plus uploading and sharing content online, Wi-Fi calling, and video and music streaming. 

‍

Here’s what you can expect in terms of options:

1. Basic Package 

• Cost: $20 per device per day
• Best for: Light or occasional internet use, ideal for checking emails or brief browsing
• Drawback: Costs can be significant for longer voyages.
  
  

2. Premium WiFi Package 

•   Cost: $35 per device per day
• Best for: Guests who need high bandwidth, like professionals on video calls or families streaming Netflix.
• Drawback: Premium prices may not appeal to cost-conscious travelers.

Celebrity WiFi Cost Analysis

At first glance, $20 to $35 per day might seem manageable. To get a sense of the above costs, we calculated the cost of one device for a 7-day cruise. This means needing seven days of connectivity. The following are the estimated costs per plan:

‍

• Basic: $140
• Premium: $245

‍

While Celebrity cruise WiFi is convenient, especially for staying connected on the go, it’s not always the most cost-effective option. Connectivity speeds can also be a mixed bag, especially when the ship is far from shore.

‍

This is where alternatives like eSIM plans come into play.

GigSky vs. Celebrity Cruise WiFi Pricing

‍

Many travelers are turning to GigSky, a global eSIM provider, for reliable and affordable connectivity at sea. Its Cruise + Land eSIM is specifically designed for cruise passengers, offering competitive pricing and coverage.

GigSky Cruise + Land eSIM

GigSky’s Cruise + Land eSIM works seamlessly on land and at sea, making it a versatile choice for travelers. Here are some of its key features:

‍

• Cost: Plans start at $19.99
• Coverage: Both onboard cruise ships and in port destinations
• Advantages:
  
  • Seamless connectivity between ship and shore
  • Global coverage in popular cruise regions
  • Cost-effective for frequent cruisers or data-savvy users
• No Hidden Fees:
  
  • Never worry about data roaming charges; you only pay for what you need.

Celebrity Cruise WiFi

While GigSky provides flexibility, Celebrity cruise WiFi offers the convenience of shipwide coverage without additional setup. However, it’s worth noting:

‍

• Cost: Starts at $20 per day
• Coverage: Only works onboard ships
• Advantages:
  
  • Integrated into the Celebrity Cruise experience
  • Frequently optimized for social media browsing
• Drawback:
  
  • Not usable off the ship; travelers will need an additional solution once docked.
  • Extremely expensive, especially when adding additional devices and opting for the premium plan.
  • Expect data throttling, regardless of the type of plan that you buy. 

Key Comparison 

• Costs: GigSky plans start lower and may overall cost less for light-to-moderate users. For heavy daily use, Celebrity’s unlimited package could be more predictable, albeit pricier. 
• Convenience: Celebrity WiFi is great for hassle-free access onboard, whereas GigSky offers the added advantage of port connectivity. 
• Speed: GigSky often provides faster speeds, while Celebrity’s package depends on satellite technology. 

‍

Considering your connectivity needs will help you choose between the two options—a one-size-fits-all answer doesn’t exist. If you're looking for flexibility and affordability, GigSky might be the better choice, particularly if you plan to stay connected both onboard and onshore.

Tips for Saving on Cruise WiFi

Connectivity doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some practical tips to save on cruise ship WiFi:

1. Pre-Purchase Discounts 

Sometimes discounts are offered for WiFi if purchased before boarding the ship. While Celebrity doesn’t currently advertise such discounts, it’s worth asking during booking.

2. Leverage Free WiFi Onshore 

Many ports of call feature free WiFi in cafes, restaurants, or public spaces. Save your onboard data for when you’re at sea.

3. Alternate Solutions like GigSky

If uninterrupted connectivity is non-negotiable, consider a service like the GigSky app that allows you to use your plan both at sea and onshore. This minimizes reliance on costly cruise ship WiFi.

4. Choose the Right Plan for Your Needs

Analyze your data usage beforehand. For example, if you primarily scroll social media, you can save by opting for Celebrity’s basic plan, rather than the premium plan.

5. Turn Off Auto-Updates

Prevent apps or devices from eating up bandwidth and data allowance by disabling background updates and syncing.

6. Download Content in Advance
   Save entertainment, maps, and other essentials ahead of your trip to reduce in-cruise data needs.

Final Thoughts: Which Connectivity Option is Right for You?

Choosing between Celebrity cruise WiFi and GigSky’s Cruise + Land eSIM depends on what matters most to you—cost, convenience, or functionality.

‍

If you value seamless onboard access and don’t mind spending a bit more, Celebrity's premium WiFi package might be your best bet. But if versatility and budget-conscious flexibility are priorities, GigSky’s Cruise + Land eSIM delivers excellent value while still keeping you connected at sea and on land.

‍

Take the time to evaluate your cruise itinerary, daily internet needs, and budget when deciding. Whether you're sharing memories on social media or staying in touch with loved ones, there's a connectivity solution tailored just for you. Bon voyage!