1. Wing Help Center
  2. Technical Support
  3. International Coverage
  4. International Usage Wing Red

Using Wing Red for International Roaming on a Cruise Ship

When you're traveling on a cruise ship, your phone may connect to either a maritime (satellite) network or a local cellular network at port. Your rates will vary depending on which network you’re connected to while using your Wing Red service.

This guide explains what to expect, including actual cruise ship rates, and how to avoid unexpected charges.


At Sea vs. At Port: What’s the Difference?

While at Sea (Cruise Ship Network)

Your phone connects to a Cellular-at-Sea (satellite) network:

  • Not part of your Wing Red plan
  • Not covered by Verizon international plans or add-ons
  • Billed separately as pay-per-use roaming

While at Port (Local Cellular Networks)


When docked (e.g., in the Bahamas or other destinations):

  • Your phone connects to a local carrier network
  • Covered by standard international roaming features (if enabled)
  • Rates depend on your roaming plan or add-on

Important: Charges will differ depending on whether you are at sea or at port.

 

Cruise Ship Rates (Wing Red)

When connected to a maritime network, the following rates apply:

Voice Calls

  • GSM Voice (Incoming or Outgoing): $4.65387 per minute
  • VoLTE Incoming Calls: $0.011 per minute


NOTE: Outgoing VoLTE calls may fall back to GSM and be charged at higher rates.

Text Messaging

  • SMS Sent: $0.04 per message
  • SMS Received: $0.04 per message

Data Usage

  • Data: $0.0006186700 per KB

      Approximate equivalents:

  • ~ $0.63 per MB
  • ~ $630 per GB

NOTE: Even small background data usage can result in significant charges.

Are These Charges Included in My Plan?

No.

  • Wing Red plans (including unlimited plans)
  • Verizon international plans/add-ons

Do NOT cover cruise ship (satellite) usage

How to Tell Which Network You’re On

  • “Cellular at Sea” or similar → 🚢 Cruise network (high charges)
  • Local carrier name (e.g., Bahamas provider) → 🌴 Standard roaming rates apply

When Will I See Charges?

Cruise ship charges are often:

  • Delayed (can take several weeks)
  • Billed after the cruise provider reports usage

Need Help?

Contact Wing customer support with any additional questions about international services on Wing Red.

Please provide:

  • Travel dates
  • Cruise details
  • Approximate time of usage