Staying Connected On Shore With eSIMs
While Virgin Voyages offers free Wi-Fi on board, an eSIM lets you stay connected off the ship, exploring ports with local data plans.
While Virgin Voyages includes free Wi-Fi on board, your connection will be limited once you leave the ship. If you’re planning to explore ports independently, or just want to stay connected while out and about, using a mobile network can be helpful — especially in destinations where your existing phone plan may not include roaming. That’s where eSIMs come in.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) works like a traditional SIM card but is built directly into your phone. It allows you to download mobile data plans for different countries and regions without needing a physical chip. For sailors visiting multiple destinations in one trip, this flexibility can be a big plus.
You can add an eSIM before or during your cruise, and instantly switch to a local network as you arrive in each port.
- You may visit several countries — eSIMs let you stay connected across multiple locations without needing multiple SIM cards.
- No need to find local shops — you can download a plan in advance or on the go using Wi-Fi.
- eSIMs are digital — no small chips to lose or switch out mid-vacation.
Recommended eSIM Options
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Popular Destinations
Caribbean Islands
Covers most Virgin Voyages stops including Bahamas, Dominica, Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico & more
Europe
Covers popular destinations such as Greece, United Kingdom, Spain, France, Italy & more
Discover Global
Covers more than 200 countries. Ideal if you’re sailing through different regions or extending your trip after the cruise.
Individual Countries
With specific countries you can take advantage of a sim in each specific country rather than a bundle pack.
Is Your Phone Compatible with eSIM?
Most modern smartphones support eSIMs. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A device that supports eSIM
- An unlocked phone (not tied to a specific carrier)
Popular compatible devices include:
iPhone
iPhone XS and newer, including iPhone SE (2020/2022) and all iPhone 13, 14, 15, and 16 models.
Samsung
Recent Galaxy S, Note, Fold, and Flip series models, including the Galaxy S20 and newer.
Google Pixel
Pixel 3 and newer, including Pixel 9, 8, 7, 6, and Fold series.
To check your device, see Airalo’s compatibility guide.
How to Install an eSIM
Once you’ve chosen a plan:
- Purchase the eSIM through Airalo.
- Scan the QR code provided or install via their app.
- Follow the setup steps — typically just a few taps.
Many phones also allow dual SIM use, meaning you can keep your regular number active while using the eSIM for data.
