Wi-Fi Internet Access & Remote Working
With both basic and premium Wi-Fi on offer, Virgin Voyages has become a popular remote working destination. This guide covers the costs, speed and availability.
Wi-Fi Included
Virgin Voyages is one of the few larger cruise lines to offer inclusive Wi-Fi internet access on board, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to stay connected during their cruise. This guide provides practical insights into maintaining connectivity and if needed working remotely while enjoying the unique Virgin Voyages cruise.
Basic/Premium Wi-Fi Options
Basic Wi-Fi:
- Suitable for browsing, messaging, light work, and basic audio.
- You can only connect one device per sailor.
- Included with every cruise at no additional cost.
Premium Wi-Fi:
- Enables full audio streaming, video streaming/calling and unlocks additional websites.
- Number of Connections:
- Standard Sailors: You can only connect one device per sailor and purchase additional devices for a reduced rate (varies by sailing).
- Deep Blue Extras Sailors: You can connect up to two devices per sailor (e.g., tablet and phone).
- Costs $40 + tax per night; cruise-long passes available for around $30 per night.
- Free for Deep Blue Extras or Mega Rockstar Suites.
- Note: Premium WiFi does not increase speed but unlocks streaming, calling and additional sites.
You can switch devices at any time if you need to connect another device. Watches don’t count towards the limit as they connect via your phone.
Messaging on Board
Messaging in the Virgin Voyages app is limited to Sailor Services at this time. It’s advised to use alternatives like iMessage, WhatsApp, or Facebook Messenger over the Wi-Fi. Apps requiring GPS, such as some dating apps, may not work as expected and are best used at port.
Avoid SMS or standard phone calls due to potential high costs when the ‘Cellular at Sea’ network is active.
VPNs, Video Calling & Remote Work
Virgin Voyages has become a popular working destination, with some sailors spending months on board for work. With the inclusive Wi-Fi, reasonable premium options, and ample bandwidth it is an ideal choice for remote work. Video conferencing is feasible from any part of the ship including your cabin when purchasing the premium Wi-Fi option.
VPNs are fully supported if need be for remote work. However you must disable them to use the Virgin Voyages app, which needs access to onboard servers.
Wi-Fi Availability & Speed
Virgin Voyages uses the Starlink system for satellite connectivity, ensuring a decent speed. Bandwidth is typically around 10mbps down, 5mbps up, depending on the region. Ports visited connect directly to land towers for enhanced performance.
Note: When sailing in the India region, WiFi services may be affected due to the government’s ban on Starlink. It is worth checking the availability map for additional regions that Virgin Voyages may sail in.
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