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How Do Passengers Communicate on a Princess Cruise?

  • Michael Rodriguez
  • 6 min read

Communication is an important part of any cruise experience, especially aboard Princess Cruises, where guests may want to stay in touch with family, coordinate activities with travel companions, or check in with people back home. Princess Cruises provides multiple ways for passengers to communicate both onboard and off the ship. These options include modern digital tools, traditional methods, and ship-supported technologies that ensure everyone can stay connected with ease. Whether travelers prefer messaging, phone calls, or group coordination features, Princess offers a wide variety of practical solutions.

Main Communication Methods Available to Guests

Passengers on a Princess ship have several channels for communicating during their voyage. Each method is designed to suit different needs, from contacting loved ones at home to finding family members on board. Princess Cruises focuses on combining convenience with modern technology to create seamless connections for guests at sea.

Messaging Through the Princess MedallionClass App

One of the most popular ways to communicate on a Princess cruise is through the MedallionClass app. This app allows passengers to send messages, locate traveling companions, and stay connected without needing a full cellular plan.

Calling and Texting Using Mobile Phones

Many passengers choose to use their own mobile phones to make calls or send text messages. Depending on the location of the ship and the traveler’s mobile carrier plan, guests may use cellular networks, Wi-Fi calling, or international roaming features.

Using Stateroom Phones for Ship-to-Ship or Ship-to-Shore Calls

Every stateroom includes a phone that passengers can use to call other rooms onboard. These phones can also make ship-to-shore calls, allowing travelers to reach friends and family on land when needed.

Face-to-Face Meeting Points and Notification Tools

For guests who prefer more traditional communication, Princess provides printed schedules, cabin message lights, and designated meeting areas that help travelers coordinate with one another in person.

Using the Princess MedallionClass App for Communication

The Princess MedallionClass app has dramatically changed communication aboard Princess ships. This mobile tool provides a variety of communication and coordination features without needing cellular service.

Onboard Messaging Between Guests

The app allows passengers to message each other instantly while onboard. This service is free and works anywhere on the ship. Travelers can send:

  • Quick updates

  • Plans for meeting

  • Location requests

  • Group coordination messages

Device Tracking to Locate Friends and Family

A favorite feature among families is the tracking tool. Passengers can see where their traveling companions are on the ship, making it easy to meet for meals, activities, or shows.

Benefits of the MedallionClass Tracking Feature

  1. Helps parents keep track of children

  2. Assists groups in staying organized

  3. Reduces time spent searching for others

  4. Makes meeting at busy venues easier

Push Notifications for Important Alerts

The app provides notifications for updates such as dinner reservations, onboard events, and itinerary messages. These alerts help passengers stay informed without needing to check paper schedules.

Communication With Crew Through the App

Passengers can use the app to communicate with crew members for service requests, dining changes, or activity information. This reduces the need to visit Guest Services for simple questions.

Communication Using Mobile Phones and Internet Services

Although cruising traditionally meant limited contact with the outside world, Princess has expanded its internet and mobile communication technology to allow guests to stay connected more easily.

Wi-Fi Calling Through MedallionNet

Princess Cruises offers MedallionNet, one of the fastest cruise Wi-Fi networks at sea. MedallionNet supports Wi-Fi calling, allowing passengers to make voice calls through their phone’s internet connection.

Advantages of Using Wi-Fi Calling

  • No roaming fees

  • Compatible with most smartphones

  • Works with apps like WhatsApp, Viber, and FaceTime

  • Offers clear call quality when Wi-Fi is strong

Cellular at Sea Roaming Options

Princess ships are equipped with maritime cellular networks that allow guests to use mobile phones even when far from land. Carriers typically charge international or cruise ship roaming fees for this service.

Tips for Using Cellular Safely Onboard

  1. Check with your carrier before sailing

  2. Turn off data roaming if you want to avoid charges

  3. Use airplane mode when not actively calling

  4. Rely on Wi-Fi instead of cellular whenever possible

Texting While on the Ship

Passengers can also text using Wi-Fi messaging services or cellular networks. For travelers who need constant communication, Wi-Fi messaging apps are usually the most cost-effective.

Traditional Onboard Communication Options

While technology is widely used on Princess ships, many classic communication methods remain available. These are reliable options for travelers who prefer non-digital tools or want backups in case of signal issues.

Stateroom Phone Communication

The in-room phone system allows guests to call other rooms at no cost. Passengers can contact friends, family members, or other accommodations within seconds, which is especially helpful for group travel.

Guest Services Messaging and Notices

Guest Services can leave important information or updates for passengers through cabin communication systems. Message lights or printed notices outside staterooms may indicate new updates.

Examples of Notifications You May Receive

  • Excursion changes

  • Dining updates

  • Safety drill information

  • Disembarkation instructions

Printed Daily Planners for Coordinating Activities

The Princess Patter, a printed daily schedule, helps passengers stay informed about onboard events. Travelers often use the Patter to coordinate activities together by selecting events and writing notes.

Best Practices for Staying Connected on a Princess Cruise

Whether using digital tools or traditional methods, planning ahead helps passengers stay connected without stress or unnecessary expenses. Understanding how to use available communication systems can make a big difference in the onboard experience.

Decide Which Communication Method Fits Your Needs

Before sailing, travelers should think about how much communication they want during the voyage. For example:

  • Families with kids may rely on the MedallionClass tracking feature

  • Business travelers might need Wi-Fi calling

  • Casual travelers may prefer messaging only

Purchase a Wi-Fi Package Early

MedallionNet Wi-Fi plans are usually cheaper when purchased before boarding. Pre-purchasing ensures access to internet-based communication from the moment passengers embark.

Keep Phones in Airplane Mode When Not Using Wi-Fi

This prevents accidental roaming charges and ensures passengers only connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi when they intend to.

Use the MedallionClass App for Onboard Coordination

For any communication between people onboard the ship, the app is the most efficient tool. It eliminates the need for calling or texting and makes group coordination easy.

Inform Family at Home About Emergency Ship Contact Numbers

Princess provides a direct number for emergencies, allowing relatives on land to contact the ship if needed. Sharing this number before sailing ensures peace of mind.

Why Princess Cruises Offers Multiple Communication Options

The modern cruise traveler values flexibility. Some guests want complete digital connectivity, while others want to disconnect. Princess Cruises recognizes these different needs and provides tools that allow every passenger to choose the level of communication that suits them best.

The MedallionClass app appeals to tech-savvy travelers, Cellular at Sea benefits those who need traditional phone service, stateroom phones offer convenience, and Wi-Fi calling provides modern, cost-effective communication. By offering a mix of old and new solutions, Princess ensures that all passengers can stay connected in the way they prefer.

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