20. You can stay connected.
Most of today's ships offer Wi-Fi, but—with the exception of Royal Caribbean International (RCI), which has high-speed Internet service—it's typically slow and expensive. Most lines charge a daily rate per device or offer packages, such as a certain number of minutes or data for a set fee. Some provide free Wi-Fi to every passenger and others provide free Wi-Fi for certain cabin categories or if you're a repeat cruiser. To make the most of your onboard connectivity: Log on to your email, download messages, and log off while you compose your own messages, then log on again when you're ready to send. Also, log on at odd times, such as late at night, when fewer passengers tend to use the limited bandwidth. In port, take your mobile device ashore, because you can often find free, fast Wi-Fi in the cruise terminal. While at sea, turn off roaming on your smartphone, to prevent exorbitant charges showing up on your cell phone bill.