The Ultimate Guide to Mobile Internet on Cruise Ships, Planes, and Trains

Whether you travel by air, land, or sea, connectivity in transportation is also possible. However, questions often arise about how to access the internet while on the move, whether on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean, in an airplane at 10,000 meters above sea level, or on a train.

In this guide, we'll cover the most important aspects of connectivity while traveling, including costs and free options.

Offshore connectivity: realities, prices, and alternatives

Onboard a cruise ship, internet connectivity isn't always as easy as it is on land. While more and more companies are offering internet access on board, and the options have improved in recent years, there are still certain things to keep in mind.

In this section, we'll tell you everything you need to know about connectivity at sea, including the available options, costs, and how you can plan your internet access to enjoy your trip without interruptions.

Internet options on cruise ships: satellite and Wi-Fi on board

Cruise ships typically offer satellite internet, which means speeds can be limited, especially at sea. Options vary by cruise line, but most offer Wi-Fi packages that you can purchase before boarding or once on board.

Internet packages tend to be expensive, and speeds may not be optimal for video calls or streaming content. Although some cruise lines are improving infrastructure and offering better connectivity services, the experience is still different from what you'd get on land.

Connection quality is also influenced by factors such as weather, geographic location, and the number of devices connected to the network simultaneously.

Cruise Ship Internet Costs: Is Connectivity Worth It?

Internet costs on cruise ships vary considerably depending on the cruise line, the length of the trip, and the type of package you choose. Some cruises offer fixed-price plans for the entire voyage, while others allow you to pay per use or by the amount of data used.

Costs typically range from $10 to $50 per day, which can be a significant expense if you plan to stay connected throughout your trip.

For many travelers, connectivity on a cruise isn't essential, but for those who work while cruising or want to stay in touch with family and friends, it's a good idea to research connectivity options before booking your cruise.

Using an internatonal sim card to access the internet via local networks can also be a solution, with some specific requirements.

Like a traditional SIM, an eSIM depends on the signal range of antennas located on land. This range, in turn, depends on several factors: topography, distance, and also the power of the devices. In general, the connection is stable even several kilometers from the coast, thanks to the fact that at sea there are fewer obstacles to interrupt the signal than on land.

However, the main advantage of an internatonal sim card for a cruise is that you can get regional plans that provide coverage in multiple countries, without having to change physical cards, which can be a hassle during a cruise. An eSIM is the ideal solution for staying connected during land stops and coastal cruising.

In-flight internet: airlines with the best Wi-Fi service

Air travel can be a much more comfortable experience if you have internet access, especially on long flights.

Due to the average altitude at which commercial airplanes travel, direct connection to ground-based antennas is not feasible. Connectivity on airplanes is possible thanks to their satellite antennas, which allow satellites to be used as a link to ground-based network antennas.

However, access to Wi-Fi service can vary greatly depending on the airline, aircraft type, and route.

Indeed, not all airlines offer connectivity; others offer it for free, and some for a fee. If you plan to connect during your flight, it's important to check what options your airline offers.

Airlines with free, high-quality Wi-Fi

Some airlines have led the way by offering free Wi-Fi on board, which is a great relief for travelers. Among many others, these are some airlines that offer Wi-Fi on their planes:

Aeroméxico : Offers free messaging access on flights within the Americas; Premier One class tickets also include a two-hour unlimited access coupon.

Delta Airlines: Offers free Wi-Fi access on almost all domestic flights for SkyMiles members.

Norwegian: This European airline was a pioneer among low-cost airlines, offering free Wi-Fi for basic use on its flights within Europe. It also offers paid packages that include higher-speed access with fewer restrictions.

Emirates: Known for providing premium services, it offers 20 MB of free data on most flights; it also offers paid plans, with rates that vary depending on the included services.

How to access WiFi in flight?

To take advantage of Wi-Fi during your flight, make sure you connect to the correct network as instructed by the crew. As we saw, some airlines offer basic packages, which allow browsing websites and using messaging apps, while others offer premium packages for video streaming or video calls. The cost of these services varies, but you can expect to pay between $5 and $30 per flight, depending on the airline and route.

If you plan to use Wi-Fi for important tasks, it's a good idea to research the service quality and possible restrictions beforehand.

Connectivity on international rail routes

High-speed trains and international trains are increasingly popular options for travelers who want to explore different countries by land. However, what about connectivity on these routes?

In this section, we offer a guide on how to stay connected while traveling by train, especially on international routes.

Internet on high-speed trains

In Europe and other parts of the world, some high-speed trains, such as those operating in Spain, France, and Japan , offer Wi-Fi on board. Quality and coverage vary, but access is generally free or available through an online payment system.

These trains typically offer good connection speeds in urban areas or nearby regions. However, those with longer routes and crossing rural areas may encounter some connectivity limitations.

Is it possible to use mobile data on international trains?

Another flexible and convenient option is to use mobile data via an internatonal sim card. If you have a plan with adequate coverage, you can enjoy seamless internet access, even on the train.

If your trip is within a single country, a local plan should be your first choice. If, on the other hand, your itinerary will take you through several countries, a regional plan saves you from having to deal with a SIM card for each country. Similarly, if your trip includes several countries on different continents, a global plan is your best option.

However, it's important to keep in mind that some rail companies may offer data connection or signal restrictions, especially on international routes that cross different telecommunications networks. It's recommended that you check with the rail company about signal availability in your itinerary.

Olysim solutions for travelers

If you're planning a trip by plane, train, or cruise and want to ensure you have constant, hassle-free internet access, Airalo is an ideal option for your connectivity needs.

Offering a wide range of eSIM plans for international travelers , they provide a flexible and convenient internet access solution. Forget about international roaming and its costly additional charges.

Olysim eSIM plans are easy to activate and use , and can be tailored to your needs, whether for a vacation, a business trip, or anything in between. Plus, they're compatible with most of the latest phone models.