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Using Your Cell Phone in Alaska
Today’s technology gives you the opportunity to stay connected while traveling—ensuring you get that memorable photo or message from your loved ones. On most ships, you should be able to use your cell phone or smartphone to do everything you’re used to doing at home. In addition, mobile phones provide convenient access for emergencies and confirming travel plans. Some basic guidelines and tips will help you save money, keep your phone working effectively and stay in touch.
Before You Leave
Spending some time contacting your cell phone carrier in advance of your trip will help ensure you can call friends and family back home and eliminate any surprises on your phone bill when you return. Let your phone carrier know your travel plans, including how you plan to use your phone on your cruise. You’ll want to make sure you understand all of the potential charges. Contact your carrier for specific information.
Check With Your Carrier For International Dialing Access
You will want to make sure international dialing access is active on your mobile phone plan so that you can use it in Victoria, BC and remember that international and maritime roaming rates will apply to calls placed onboard the ship (charges will appear on your phone bill). Because roaming rates can be high on cruises, it’s a good idea to check with your carrier for specific cost details before you leave.
Aboard Your Flight/Cruise
Your cell phone’s battery life is the key to keeping you connected. Below are some tips for staying powered up on your trip:
When you board your flight, remember to set your phone to Airplane Mode. This suspends all calling and texting functions but still allows you to play games, use your camera and listen to music, etc. The flight attendants will request you to switch off your phone completely for take-off and landing. They will announce when it is okay to switch it back on while in flight.
On the cruise, you’ll want to charge your phone every night to ensure you’ll have enough battery life for the next day.
Try to turn off your phone when you’re not using it. Leaving your phone on all day drains the battery, so it’s a good idea to turn it off while you’re on a shore excursion, eating or reading.
Smartphone Tips
As one of the most popular communication devices today, smart phones have revolutionized the way we connect with each other and the world. We know it’s difficult to leave your smart phone behind for an hour, much less multiple days. The following tips will help you save your phone’s battery life and get the most out of your smartphone while on the cruise:
Before your cruise, you’ll want to disable any applications that give you regular updates, such as sports reports and weather updates.
Disable the Data Enabled or Data Roaming option on your phone and keep it off until you reach your destination. Turn off the function for “Automatic” checking of emails and change the email settings to “Manual” to reduce data roaming charges. During your trip, you can check for email messages when you’re connected to a free, wireless Internet connection, such as in a hotel lobby or Internet cafe while in port.
In-Room Phones and Phone Cards
If you choose to not bring your mobile phone, there are various ways to stay in touch with others while on your cruise and in the various ports you visit. Here are some options to consider:
Phone cards purchased at home. A prepaid phone card bought before you leave will allow you to use it at card-equipped public telephones while in port.
In-room phones. As another option, you can use the phone in your stateroom to call home. Please make sure that you understand all of the charges associated with this before you place your call, as the rates can be expensive.
For more information, please call one of our Reservation Coordinators at 800 247 1899, Monday through Friday between 8:30am-5:00pm, Pacific Time.
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