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Using Wing Blue 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 Blue 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 Blue plan

  • Not covered by AT&T 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 Blue)

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

  • Talk: $3.35 per minute

  • Text: $0.58 per text / $1.50/picture and video

  • Data: $4.60/MB

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


Are These Charges Included in My Plan?

No.

  • Wing Blue plans (including unlimited plans)

  • AT&T 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

During Cruises 

(If you don’t want to get charged)

Before departure:

  • Close all apps/data sessions

  • Turn cellular data OFF

When arriving at port:

  • Check your international plan coverage first

  • Only turn data ON if you’re sure you're on a land network

Important Warnings

  • 📱 3rd-party apps can still use cellular data

    • Even when you're on Wi-Fi (data “leakage” can happen)

  • 🚢 Ship network behavior:

    • Ships turn OFF their wireless network:

      • When 9–12 nautical miles from land

      • And sometimes while in port

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 Blue.

Please provide:

  • Travel dates

  • Cruise details

  • Approximate time of usage