David Rowlinson

My Kind of Cruise

FAQ: MSC Cruises - Internet access

While cruising with MSC Cruises, staying connected to the internet is possible! However, it is important to understand how connectivity works at sea, and what to expect when browsing or streaming while on board.

How Internet access works on MSC Cruises:

When you are cruising far from land, a traditional high-speed broadband connection is not available. Instead, MSC Cruises uses satellite Internet, which relies on signals sent between the ship and orbiting communication satellites. This technology allows passengers to access the Web even in the middle of the ocean.

This method of connectivity involves sending data across vast distances. The signal must have a clear, uninterrupted line of sight between the ship’s antennae and the satellite. Weather conditions like storms or physical obstructions, such as mountains or tall port buildings, can interfere with this signal. As a result, satellite Internet can sometimes be slower, or less responsive, than the connection you are used to on land.

When to use the Internet on board?

To make the most of your Internet package, avoid peak usage times: especially first thing in the morning, or when large numbers of guests return from shore excursions. These periods often result in congestion and slower speeds, similar to what you might experience on land during periods of increased traffic.

Where can you connect?

Satellite Internet is available throughout the ship, including in most cabins and all MSC Yacht Club suites. Whether you are in a public area or relaxing in your room, all you need is a mobile Internet device - such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, and one of MSC’s Satellite Internet Access packages.

The Browse and Stream cruise package

For guests who want full access to web browsing and streaming, the Browse & Stream cruise package offers unlimited data and 24-hour connectivity throughout their cruise. This package allows the following:

- Browsing websites

- Sending and receiving emails and images

- Chatting through messenger apps like WhatsApp

- Making video calls

- Streaming music and videos

- Posting videos and going live on social media

Package options by number of devices:

- 1 Device: Best for solo travellers who want to stay connected and stream content on one device

- 2 Devices: Ideal for couples sharing a connection for social media uploads and video calls

- 3 Devices: Great for small families or couples using multiple devices, including a tablet or laptop

- 4 Devices: Perfect for families or groups wanting to connect several devices simultaneously

Booking in advance will allow you to save 20% compared to the onboard price, so it is worth planning ahead.

Costs and upgrades:

Prices for these packages vary, depending on the length of the cruise. You can purchase the packages per day, or for the full duration of your voyage. To find out the exact pricing for your trip, visit the “WiFi” section on the MSC Cruises website, or check the ship’s network once on board.

You can also upgrade your package mid-cruise via the MSC Captive Portal, where you will only pay the difference between the full price of your current package and the upgraded one, still benefiting from the advance booking discount.

Premium Satellite Internet Plus:

Some MSC ships, including MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, and MSC Splendida, offer a premium Satellite Internet Plus service. This version provides faster speeds and a stronger connection, which is reflected in a slightly higher rate.

Connection timeouts and tips:

If your connection unexpectedly cuts off, it might be due to background apps and updates increasing traffic, even when you are not actively using your device. To ease network congestion, the system may automatically disconnect inactive users after a certain period. To avoid this, simply revisit the connection page before the countdown ends to reset it. If you do get disconnected, you can reconnect by clicking START.

Understanding MB Usage:

While the Browse & Stream Cruise Package includes unlimited data, some other packages may come with daily or cruise-long megabyte allowances. "MB" stands for megabytes: 1MB is about 1,000,000 bytes of data. As an example, uploading a single photo to social media typically uses around 5MB.

With MSC Cruises and My Kind of Cruise, you can stay connected on your holiday while knowing exactly what to expect from your Internet service. Whether you are keeping in touch with family or sharing highlights from your trip, the right internet package will ensure you are always just a click away from the world - no matter where you are at sea.