In 2023, around 31.7 million people joined cruise travel, according to CLIA’s 2024 Cruise Industry Report [1]. For people going on a cruise, using mobile internet while visiting different destinations has become an important part of cruise travel, helping with access to online maps, reservation details, and staying in touch with family and friends.

A global eSIM helps simplify that process by providing access to mobile data in multiple countries without the need to switch SIM cards. This is especially useful when visiting multiple ports during a single trip. This post explains how eSIMs work on cruise ships, when they’re useful, and what to keep in mind before your travel.

Does eSIM Work on Cruise Ships?

Yes, an eSIM can work on cruise ships, but only under certain conditions. When the vessel is docked or sailing near the coast, most eSIM plans connect to local mobile networks without problems. This makes it a useful option for accessing the internet while visiting port cities. Once the ship moves farther from land, standard eSIM plans usually stop working because they rely on land-based networks. Unless a plan specifically includes maritime coverage, internet access is not available while at sea.

Does International Roaming Work on Cruise Ships?

Only in certain areas. While international roaming may work when your cruise ship is near the coast or docked, it often doesn’t function at sea. Cruise ships are treated as special roaming zones by many mobile carriers, which can result in unexpectedly high charges. Relying on your physical SIM abroad may lead to significant costs, especially at sea. To help you avoid unexpected fees, follow these steps before and during your cruise trip:

1. Turn off mobile data roaming before departure

2. Disable your primary SIM if needed

3. Use an eSIM for data access in ports

4. Avoid using mobile networks at sea unless you have a maritime-enabled plan

For more information, you can also check out our post on How to avoid roaming charges.

How to Use an eSIM on a Cruise?

Using an eSIM on a cruise requires different steps depending on where the ship is. In port, your eSIM can work like it would in any city. At sea, things are more limited. Here’s how to manage your connection during each part of the trip:

1. Using the Ship’s Wi-Fi

   While sailing far from land, most eSIM plans stop working. In this case, switch your phone to airplane mode and connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network if available. Ship Wi-Fi is usually a paid service and may have slower speeds or limited data compared to land-based connections. Make sure mobile data and roaming are turned off to avoid extra charges through your physical SIM. 

2. In Port

   When your ship docks, your eSIM should automatically connect to a local network, as long as the destination is covered by your data plan. Before traveling, install your eSIM and check that mobile data is enabled. If you have a physical SIM, it’s a good idea to disable it to prevent roaming fees.

3. At Sea Without Maritime Coverage

   Most eSIM data options don’t work in the open sea because they rely on land-based networks. Once the ship leaves port, your connection will drop until you reach the next destination. To avoid background apps trying to reconnect, turn on airplane mode and use offline tools or the ship’s Wi-Fi until you're back in range.

How to Choose the Best eSIM for a Cruise?

Choosing the right eSIM depends on where you’re going and how you plan to use your data. A few key factors can help you decide what kind of plan fits your cruise itinerary best:

• Coverage Across Your Route: Make sure the eSIM supports all the countries you’ll be visiting. For multi-country cruises, regional or global plans are more practical than country-specific ones.

• Data Needs and Validity: If you use streaming, video calls, or maps frequently, you’ll need a larger data allowance. Also, make sure the plan remains active for the full length of your trip.

• Network Access in Port Areas: Check which local carriers the eSIM connects to. Better partnerships can improve performance in each port.

• Cost and Overall Value: Compare eSIM costs with traditional roaming and cruise Wi-Fi. eSIMs are often more affordable and flexible, especially on longer or multi-stop cruises.

• Functionality at Sea: Most eSIMs don’t work on open water. If you need constant access, look for plans with maritime support or prepare to rely on the ship’s Wi-Fi during sea days.

What is the Best eSIM for Cruises?

Roamless is one of the best eSIM apps for international travel. It’s a practical option for cruise use thanks to its RoamlessFlex plan, which follows a pay-as-you-go model and offers global coverage. This means it isn’t limited to a single country or region, which is especially helpful on routes with multiple port stops. RoamlessFlex stands out with its flexibility, broad reach, and the ability to keep unused data with no expiration.

On the other hand, for those planning a cruise in a specific country or region, RoamlessFix plans are also available. These 30-day data plan options are ideal for short-term stays or cruise routes limited to one area.

For more information, you can check out our pages on eSIM Europe, eSIM Asia & Oceania, eSIM North America, eSIM USA, eSIM United Kingdom, eSIM Italy, eSIM Greece, eSIM Turkey, eSIM Australia, and eSIM China.

SIM Card vs eSIM on a Cruise: What’s the Difference?

When choosing between a traditional SIM and an eSIM for cruise travel, it’s important to consider how each option performs in terms of convenience, coverage, and flexibility. Below is a simple comparison to help you understand how they differ:

• Activation method: Traditional SIM cards require inserting a physical chip into your phone. eSIMs are installed digitally, usually by scanning a QR code.

• Network flexibility: A physical SIM is typically locked to a single network. eSIMs can support multiple networks, depending on the provider.

• Ease of use while traveling: Physical SIMs must be carried, swapped, and kept safe. eSIMs are integrated into your device and don’t require manual handling.

• Coverage range: Most SIM cards are tied to specific countries or regions. eSIMs often support global coverage and can be more versatile across cruise destinations.

• Cost structure: Traditional roaming with SIM cards may be unpredictable or costly. eSIM pricing tends to be more transparent and flexible.

For more information, you can also check out our comparative post on eSIM vs Physical SIM.

How Does Your Cruise Route Affect eSIM Coverage?

Cruise itineraries can vary significantly, from short coastal routes to longer trips that include stops in multiple destinations. These differences determine how and where an eSIM can be used throughout the trip, particularly for mobile internet access. Here’s how your cruise type can affect your connectivity options:

1. Coastal and Short-Haul Cruises

   These types of cruises typically follow routes near shorelines, allowing eSIMs to connect to land-based mobile networks. Regional eSIM plans may be sufficient for most of these trips. In 2023, North America accounted for 18.1 million cruise passengers, many of whom joined short-haul cruises departing from nearby ports. These routes generally offer more consistent access to mobile networks in coastal regions [1].

2. Multi-Stop Cruises Across Different Countries

   Cruises that include several countries in a short period make it difficult to manage multiple local SIM cards. A single eSIM with international or regional coverage allows smooth data access across all stops. Cruises that include several countries in a short period make it difficult to manage multiple local SIM cards. A single eSIM with international or regional coverage allows smooth data access across all stops. As these types of itineraries grow in popularity, multi-country cruises have become a key part of today’s cruise industry. For example, according to the 2023 State of the Cruise Industry Report, cruise passenger numbers reached 31.7 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 6.8% [1].

3. Long Voyages and Remote Routes

   Cruises that travel across oceans or explore remote destinations often spend full days away from any land-based network. In these cases, passengers must rely on the ship’s onboard Wi-Fi system for internet access. As reported in the 2023 State of the Cruise Industry Report, expedition-style cruises saw a 71 percent increase in passenger volume between 2019 and 2023, showing that more people are choosing unique and remote travel experiences [1].

For more information, you can also check out our posts on the Best eSIM for international travel, Best eSIM for Europe, Best eSIM for the UK, Best eSIM for Italy, Best eSIM for Norway, Best eSIM for Asia, Best eSIM for China, Best eSIM for USA, Best eSIM for Brazil, and Best eSIM for Australia.

Is Cruise Ship Wi-Fi Reliable?

Cruise ship Wi-Fi is available on most vessels, but it is not always reliable. Most connections depend on satellite networks, which can be slower and less stable than land-based internet. Additionally, Wi-Fi plans may include data limits or extra costs, so it’s important to check what’s included before relying on it throughout your trip.

For example, a globally recognized cruise line experienced several cybersecurity incidents between 2019 and 2021, including phishing attempts and harmful software attacks that exposed passenger information. These cases highlight the importance of being cautious when using cruise ship internet connections, especially for activities like checking your bank account or logging into personal services [2].

Disclaimer: Wi-Fi availability, speed, and security vary by cruise line. For safer browsing, using a VPN may improve privacy, but make sure it is allowed in the countries or regions you’re visiting, as VPN usage is restricted or prohibited in some locations.

Which Cruise Regions are Best for eSIM Use?

While eSIMs typically don’t work at sea unless maritime connectivity is included, they can offer reliable mobile internet access in port cities across major cruise regions:

Caribbean

The Caribbean remained the most visited cruise destination in 2023. According to CLIA’s 2024 Cruise Industry Report, the region gained nearly one million additional cruise visitors compared to 2019. With consistent local network availability in most ports, eSIMs are a practical choice for this region [1].

Mediterranean

The Mediterranean recorded one of the highest percentage increases in cruise travelers in 2023. As interest in this region grows, especially for multi-country itineraries, eSIMs with regional or international coverage offer an easy way to access mobile internet at each stop without needing to switch plans [1].

FAQ

Will an eSIM work on a cruise?
- Yes, eSIMs work in ports but not at sea unless maritime coverage is included.

Do cruise ships have WiFi?
- Yes, most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi as a paid service. It often relies on satellite networks and may be slower or less secure than land-based connections.

Does mobile data work during a cruise?
- Yes, but only when your ship is near the coast or docked. At sea, mobile networks are out of reach unless you have a maritime-enabled plan.

Will my 5G work on a cruise ship?
- Yes, 5G may be available on some newer ships, but coverage is limited. It generally only works near land. At sea, you'll usually rely on the ship’s Wi-Fi.

How many eSIMs can you have for a cruise trip?
- Most smartphones let you store multiple eSIM profiles, so you can add one for each region on your cruise route. 

Why is phone service limited on cruise ships?
Cruise ships sail far from land-based cell towers. Regular mobile networks stop working and ships depend on satellite systems, which are slower and more costly than typical cellular service.

Does international calling work on a cruise ship?
- Yes, but using mobile networks at sea can be very expensive and often requires maritime coverage. A more affordable option is to use Wi-Fi-based apps or a travel eSIM with in-app calling, like Roamless, while connected to Wi-Fi in ports or onboard.

Sources

[1] Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), ‘’State of the Cruise Industry Report’’, 2024.- https://cruising.org/sites/default/files/2025-03/2024%20State%20of%20the%20Cruise%20Industry%20Report_updated%20050824_Web.pdf

[2] Cruise Critic, ‘’Is Internet Aboard Cruise Ships Safe?’’, 2023. - https://www.cruisecritic.com/articles/is-internet-aboard-cruise-ships-safe