Princess Cruises promises guests the “best internet at sea.”
But is it really the best? And how fast are MedallionNet internet speeds?
We’ve put Princess Cruises MedallionNet WiFi to the test to determine if it lives up to the name. Read our review on Princess’ internet plans.
Table of Contents
Princess Cruises WiFi Plans and Prices
MedallionNet WiFi starts at $9.99 per device per day when purchased before sailing. Platinum and Elite Captain’s Circle members receive a 50% discount on all internet packages.
You can expect to pay a higher price for the internet plan if you purchase it on the ship.
Princess Cruises offers one of the lowest wifi plans in the cruise industry.
Still, you can get it even cheaper!
Guests who purchase the pricier Princess Plus fare receive free drinks, gratuities, and wifi. If you plan on buying a Princess Cruises drink package and the internet plan, you can save hundreds of dollars on your cruise fare by opting for the Princess Plus fare.
How Does MedallionNet Work?
Before discussing the speed of Princess Cruises WiFi, it’s essential to understand how MedallionNet works.
Cruise ships often travel to remote destinations around the globe and spend vast amounts of time far away from land-based cell phone towers. For this reason, cruise ships rely on satellite connections to keep passengers connected at sea.
In the past, cruise ships connected to satellites in geostationary orbit – up to 22,000 miles (36,000 kilometers) from the earth. Although radio waves travel at the speed of light, the distance means up to 240 milliseconds of travel time.
It may not sound like much, but consider that your home internet likely has a connection speed below 30ms.
What makes Princess Cruises MedallionNet WiFi so fast?
Princess Cruises has switched to faster medium-earth orbit satellites like other cruise lines. The cruise line’s connectivity partner, SES Systems, operates a collection of satellites only 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers) above the earth’s surface. These satellites are known as O3B, short for “other three billion people.”
These satellites provide faster internet speeds, reduced latency, and much more bandwidth.
Despite the benefits, there’s one major disadvantage – the lower orbit means these satellites are continuously on the move. While they’re not as fast as Starlinks Low Earth Orbit systems, they require constant tracking.
To overcome the potential disruption caused by frequently switching connections between satellites, MedallionNet maintains a link to two or three satellites at a time.
Further, there aren’t any satellites providing coverage near the earth’s poles. Cruise ships sailing in regions like Alaska, Antarctica, and Northern Europe won’t be able to connect to the O3B network.
Instead, the Princess cruise ships will connect to the older geosynchronous satellites. After all, slow internet is better than no internet.
How Do You Access Internet on the Cruise Ship?
Accessing the MedallionNet internet is a straightforward process. Just follow the steps below to get your device connected in minutes.
- Open your device’s WiFi settings and select the MedallionNet WiFi connection.
- After connecting, you’ll be automatically redirected to the login page.
- Sign in using your cabin number and birthdate.
If, for some reason, your device won’t connect to the ship’s internet, visit guest services for assistance.
How Fast is Princess Cruises MedallionNet WiFi?
We conducted several speed tests during our Caribbean cruise on Regal Princess to accurately measure MedallionNet’s internet speed.
We conducted our speed tests multiple times throughout the day to get the most accurate data sample.
We found download speeds of 5.3 Mbps and upload speeds of 1.2 Mbps.
In our experience, MedallionNet Wifi provides similar internet speeds compared to other mainstream cruise lines.
However, it’s important to note that the internet speeds aren’t as fast as you might be used to back home. The onboard WiFi is great for basic web browsing, emails, and messaging, but you will notice pages take slightly longer to load.
Further, while you can video chat and stream movies, tv, and music, don’t expect 4k video.
That said, for a cruise ship traveling in the middle of the ocean, Princess Cruises provides incredible internet speeds.
And, thanks to the higher bandwidth connections provided by O3B, Princess Cruises’ internet plans are priced by the day rather than the minute. You can say goodbye too quickly, logging on, rushing to get your stuff done, and logging off to save minutes.
You can keep your devices connected through the cruise and never miss an update or email!
In late 2021, SES began launching a new generation of satellites that promise even faster internet speeds. According to SES, the new O3B satellites will provide gigabit internet speeds to thousands of customers, including passengers on Princess Cruises.
MedallionClass Wearable and App
It’s no surprise that Princess Cruises offers some of the fastest internet speeds. Every ship in Princess’ fleet is equipped with OceanMedallion – the cruise line’s award-winning wearable device program.
OceanMedallion replaces traditional room cards with a wearable that provides passengers with touchless boarding, room access, locating family on the ship, ordering food and drinks, and the ability to make purchases around the vessel.
The OceanMedallion wearable and accompanying app create a more personalized experience for passengers.
With thousands of passengers simultaneously using the technology, Princess cruise ships require a serious internet connection.
Final Thoughts
Princess Cruises MedallionNet WiFi provides comparable internet speeds among mainstream cruise lines.
While not as fast as you’ll find at home, the internet connection works perfectly fine for web browsing, emails, and messaging. It’s even fast enough to video chat back home and stream videos from Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Youtube.
FAQ
Can I Stream Movies and TV on Princess Cruises MedallionNet?
Princess Cruises MedallionNet WiFi is fast enough to stream movies and TV shows. On our last Princess cruise, we could stream from Netflix, Amazon Prime, and YouTube.
Can I Make Video Calls on Princess Cruises WiFi?
Yes. Princess Cruises WiFi is fast enough to make video calls at sea.
Can I Send Messages With Princess Cruises Internet Plan?
Yes, you can send messages using a Princess Cruises internet plan. You can use messaging apps such as Facebook Messanger, Signal, Whatsapp, etc.
Do I Have to Purchase an Internet Plan to Use Princess Cruises MedallionClass App?
You don’t need to purchase the Wi-Fi plan to use Cruises MedallionClass App. You can use all of the app’s features on the ship without purchasing an internet plan.
Can I Use One Internet Package for Multiple Devices?
Yes, you can use one internet package for multiple devices. But you can connect only one device at a time to the Wi-Fi.
For example, using the WiFi package, you can connect your laptop to the internet. Once finished, you can connect your phone using the same plan.
The login screen will notify you that you have reached your device limit and ask if you want to connect to the new device. After you accept, your phone will connect to the internet, and the wifi will kick off your laptop the network.
This trick is a great way to save money if you need a constant internet connection throughout the cruise. And You can use it for as many devices as you need.
FAQs
What is MedallionNet wi-fi? ›
MedallionNet delivers wi-fi wherever you are. We offer the fastest wifi on the high seas making it easier for you to stream movies, stay connected on social media and even text with friends and family on board with you! Our internet is fast and affordable and can be pre-purchased before you even step on board!
Do Princess cruise ships have free wi-fi? ›Also effective for voyages sailing February 20, 2023 and beyond, Princess Cruises' MedallionNet wifi will cost $15 per day for a single-device plan, and $40 per day for a four-device plan. Currently, the single-device plan costs $10.
How many devices can you use on Princess Wi-Fi? ›Unlimited MedallionNet WiFi - the best WiFi at sea - for up to four-devices.
How much does Princess MedallionNet cost? ›Choose from one-device or four-device packages starting from just $15 USD. Packages are available with additional savings as part of our Princess Plus and Princess Premier Packages. They can also be purchased pre-cruise and on board through the MedallionClass app.
How to get free Wi-Fi on a cruise ship? ›Use onboard credit to pay for a Wi-Fi package
You can use your credit to pay for onboard internet access, thereby getting Wi-Fi on your cruise for free! On most cruise lines, you'll need a minimum of $100 in onboard credit per device for a week's worth of free basic Wi-Fi.
The Medallion speeds up embarkation, unlocks stateroom doors, enables payment and so much more. Slip it into a lanyard and wear it throughout your cruise, or visit OceanFront to shop for other ways to customize your Medallion wearable. Learn more about Medallion® accessories and customizations.
How much extra is Wi-Fi on a cruise? ›We've rounded up the costs of Internet for several major cruise lines below. In general, expect to pay about $20-30 per day, per device for wi-fi access. Carnival offers three different tiers of service: Social, Value, and Premium wi-fi plans. Each offers different levels of access to the Internet.
Can you hotspot Wi-Fi on cruise? ›Do Hotspots Work on Cruise Ships? Portable wireless hotspots do work on cruise ships but only when the ship is docked or VERY close to land. Your phone's hotspot will also work on a cruise ship as long as you have cell service, are docked or close to land and roaming is included in your plan.
How does Wi-Fi package work on cruise? ›The cruise line's more popular option is the unlimited Wi-Fi package. It costs $25 per day for one device if purchased online before sailing ($29.99 per day if you buy the plan on the ship). This option provides web surfing capabilities and access to email and social media apps (but again, not TikTok).
Is it worth it to buy wi-fi on a cruise? ›Yes, you may get a connection, but at-sea roaming charges can be exorbitant. Horror stories of cruise passengers receiving bills from cell phone companies in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars are not uncommon. Logging onto the ship's Wi-Fi is really your best, and cheapest, way to stay in touch.
What is Princess Plus 1 device WiFi plan? ›
On Princess Cruises, the single device WiFi package retails at $15 per day. With the Princess Plus fare, each individual gets unlimited WiFi for one device. If you need more devices connected during your trip, you can purchase an upgrade to a 4 device package.
Is Princess Medallion free? ›All U.S. guests receive their free Medallion device either in the mail before leaving home or when they arrive at the terminal.
How much is a salary on Princess? ›The average Princess Cruises salary ranges from approximately $26,302 per year for Dispatcher to $160,718 per year for Culinary. The average Princess Cruises monthly salary ranges from approximately $1,208 per month for Clerk to $7,189 per month for Entertainment Director.
Are Princess medallions magnetic? ›The Medallion wearable includes magnets and RF technology that have been designed and manufactured to meet the radio frequency (RF) requirements set by the Federal Communications Commission of the United States.
How much are tips per day on Princess? ›Princess Cruises
Automatic gratuity charge: $16 to $18 per person, per day. Details: Passengers in most cabins pay $16 for what the line now calls a “crew appreciation” charge. Passengers in mini-suites pay $17, while those in bigger suites pay $18.
It's possible to send and receive text messages at sea on a cellular signal, as long as you have a signal through your ship's roaming network. (Just make sure you turn on data roaming in your settings.)
How can I avoid cell phone charges on a cruise? ›If you want to avoid extra charges from your mobile phone service provider, put your smartphone on “airplane mode” sometime between boarding and when the ship sets sail.
How do I save on cruise Wi-Fi? ›Typically most cruise lines give a 10%-15% discount if you book a wifi package before you get on the ship. You can find these discounted wifi packages by logging in to your online account directly with the cruise line, before your embarkation day.
Is the Ocean Medallion a wearable device? ›Carnival Corporation, the world's largest travel leisure company, introduced the Ocean Medallion in 2017. This quarter-sized waterproof wearable device offers a one-month battery backup. This device kind of resembles the wearables offered at amusement parks but exceeds them in terms of its capabilities.
What does the medallion app do? ›MedallionNet® Wi-Fi lets you access the internet anywhere on board, so you can: Text, video chat, share photos and check email.
Why are Princess medallions different colors? ›
The different colors of the Princess Medallion indicate one of two things: the number of cruises the guest has sailed with Princess, or how many days at sea they've spent with Princess.
What cruise lines offer free Wi-Fi? ›Their Value Wi-Fi plan offers email and website access to each passenger for $14.45/day. Some cruise lines offer free internet access. Viking, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises have unlimited internet access included in their base cost.
Can you use your cell phone on a cruise ship? ›Do cell phones work on cruise ships? It's a common question with varying answers. Guests are free to utilize their cellular data or connect to our onboard Wi-Fi on any ship. But, please be aware that cellular data used on the ship or in certain ports of call will result in charges from your cell phone provider.
Can you use Wi-Fi on airplane mode on a cruise ship? ›Put Your Phone in Airplane Mode
You can still use the ship's WiFi while you are in airplane mode. You can also take your phone out of airplane mode when docked at a port of call if you want to use your cellular coverage at that time.
To use your cell phone on your cruise, you have two options — either connect to the ship's cellular service or connect to the ship's wi-fi. Both will cost you extra. For traditional cell service, today's modern cruise ships use providers such as “Cellular at Sea” or “Wireless Maritime Services”.
Can you watch Netflix on a cruise? ›First things first, if you want to stream Netflix, you'll need to purchase an wi-fi access on the cruise. Wi-fi Internet is available on every major cruise ship.
Can I use inflight Wi-Fi on multiple devices? ›You can access your plan on up to two devices on Gogo equipped flights where your plan is valid, subject to Gogo's Acceptable Use Policy. Signing in to your plan on a third device will log off the first device used to get online.
How do pocket WiFi devices work? ›It works like an at home Wi-Fi hotspot, generating a WiFi network with a radius of about 10-15 meters around you, but… it fits in your pocket! It requires no installation, cables, or software. Just turn on the pocket WiFi, enter the password and then you can immediately connect your personal devices.
What is the difference between MiFi and Wi-Fi? ›WiFi is the underlying technology used in WLAN networks that connect WiFi devices to the internet. MiFi is a WiFi device that uses the cellular network to keep WiFi-enabled devices connected. They are not fixed to one location like traditional routers. You can take them anywhere you go.
Can you wear jeans to dinner on a Princess Cruise? ›Princess has both smart casual and formal dress codes for evening dining. Smart casual options include casual dresses and skirts, or pants and a nice top. Nice jeans (clean and not torn) are permitted in Princess' main dining room and specialty restaurants on smart casual evenings.
Is bottled water free on Princess Cruises? ›
Are drinks free on Princess Cruises? There is a small selection of free drinks available on Princess Cruises including tea, coffee, water, lemonade and iced tea. All other drinks are paid for.
What does Blue Lane mean on Princess Medallion? ›In the app, we'll assign you a lane for the terminal based on your readiness: Green Lane. Less waiting, faster check-in. Blue Lane More waiting, extra steps.
How much does a Princess Captain get paid? ›How much does a Captain make at Princess Cruises in the United States? Average Princess Cruises Captain monthly pay in the United States is approximately $8,945, which is 69% above the national average.
What is the salary of waiter in Princess Cruises? ›Average Princess Cruises Waiter salary in India is ₹ 5.2 Lakhs for experience between 3 years to 12 years. Waiter salary at Princess Cruises India ranges between ₹ 1.2 Lakhs to ₹ 15.0 Lakhs. According to our estimates it is 30% more than the average Waiter Salary in Travel & Tourism Companies.
What is the salary of buffet attendant in Princess Cruises? ›The estimated take home salary of a Assistant Waiter at Princess Cruises ranges between ₹ 53,362 per month to ₹ 54,691 per month in India.
Is a Princess Medallion an AirTag? ›The conveniently quarter-sized medallion comes with a lanyard which you can wear around your neck during your cruise. If you've seen Apple's Air Tag, they're about the same size and actually have some similar features, with the ability to track yourself and your shipmates' locations once aboard the cruise ship.
Does the Princess Medallion come with a lanyard? ›The Princess Medallion is free
You also get a free lanyard when you board the ship so that you've somewhere to keep it safe, although other accessories will cost you extra. The Medallion is a fancy bit of kit, but it's included in the price of your cruise, which is a nice bonus.
Inside the medallion, there are two sensors and a battery, similar to a watch battery. Even though it has a battery, you do not need to charge your medallion. It should last the entire length of your vacation. Another great feature is that the medallion is that it is completely waterproof.
Is ice cream free on Princess Cruises? ›Served Up Daily
Craving a frosty treat? Head on deck for a complimentary, classic, soft-serve chocolate, vanilla or swirl ice cream in a cone or cup — the perfect way to cool down!
There aren't any hard-and-fast guidelines for this type of tip since it's contingent on your experience, but $25 to $40 on behalf of a couple roughly works out to an extra $2 to $3 per person, per day, for a seven-night cruise.
How much do you tip your stateroom steward? ›
They clean your cabin daily, keeping it stocked with towels, amenities, and anything you need. If your cruise steward goes above and beyond, a cash tip at the end of your stay to show your appreciation. We usually recommend tipping your cruise steward $3-5 per person daily. What is this?
Should I connect to free airport Wi-Fi? ›The bottom line is that airport WiFi is free and welcoming, but you must be careful not to welcome data thieves into your personal space and offer your pertinent data to them on a golden platter.
How do airports connect to free Wi-Fi? ›On an Android device, tap or press the 'Home' button, then tap on “Settings” and navigate to the 'Wireless & Networks' tab, you can turn on the Wi-Fi under this tab. On most devices, you will be able to see “DXB Free Wi-Fi” under 'Available Networks'.
How can I use airport Wi-Fi? ›- Switch on Wi-Fi and select GMR Free Wi-Fi on your device.
- Enter your mobile number and OTP.
- Use the OTP & set your 4 digits numeric pin to access High-Speed Free Wi-Fi.
...
Free Wi-Fi Now Available for My Love Rewards Members
- 4 Hours = 399 My Love Rewards Points or $3.99.
- 24 Hours = 599 My Love Rewards Points or $5.99.
- 31 Days = 1,999 My Love Rewards Points or $19.99.
No, the Wi-Fi bill only shows the devices that accessed the internet and how much they used. It won't show which sites they accessed. That said, if the network admin wanted to check up on the activity on their network, they could log in to their router to check the logs.
What not to do on airport Wi-Fi? ›- Evil Twin. Watch out for 'evil twin' networks. ...
- Honeypot. ...
- Unsecured networks. ...
- Popups. ...
- Use a VPN. ...
- Disable print sharing, airdrop and Bluetooth. ...
- Visit HTTPS websites. ...
- Avoid entering personal details.
iOS: Open Settings, tap Wi-Fi, and tap the i button beside your network name. Select Configure DNS and tap Automatic. Android: Open Settings, tap Advanced, then tap Private DNS. Choose Automatic.
Does in flight Wi-Fi cost money? ›Pricing. On U.S. domestic and short-haul international flights, like those to Mexico and Canada, Wi-Fi is $8, or 1,600 miles, for MileagePlus® members and $10 for everyone else. For all other flights, prices depend on where you're headed and how long your flight is.
Can you share inflight Wi-Fi? ›Purchase the desired plan and go online. Step 2: Download and install the latest version of Connectify Hotspot - FREE. Once installed, click the purple 'Try It Out' button to start using Connectify Hotspot. There's no need to create an account and you can use it to share the inflight wifi Internet for free!
Is AirPort the same as Wi-Fi? ›
AirPort is still Apple's brand name it uses for its Wi-Fi networking products using the regular 802.11b, g, n and ac standards. Apple started using the name AirPort way back in 1999. If you hear the word AirPort mentioned in conjunction with Apple it's essentially referring to Wi-Fi products and protocols.
How do I connect my iphone to AirPort Wi-Fi? ›On your device, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Tap the info button next to your network's name. Tap Manage this Network, then tap OK to open the App Store and download AirPort Utility for your device.
How do I open my Wi-Fi password? ›In Network and Sharing Center, next to Connections, select your Wi-Fi network name. In Wi-Fi Status, select Wireless Properties. In Wireless Network Properties, select the Security tab, then select the Show characters check box. Your Wi-Fi network password is displayed in the Network security key box.
Is there any such thing as free WiFi? ›Another company offering completely free internet service is FreedomPop. It boasts the world's first 100% free mobile plan while also offering free wireless internet and free home broadband. Its free plans reach speeds up to only 1 Mbps, and it has low data caps, so it's not for heavy internet users.
How can I get free WiFi Anywhere I go? ›- Find a place with a public Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Turn your phone into a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Use Wi-Fi Apps.
- Get a portable router.
Connect to Wi-Fi without a password on Android 10 and Newer
Go to “Settings.” Select “Network & Internet.” Choose “Wi-Fi.” Scroll to the bottom (if your SSID list is long) and tap on the “QR scan icon” on the right side of the “Add Network” row.