Thread: Saving on Phone Calls

Hi all,

Just heard about a great mobile app that allows you to make free calls and texts if connected to Wi-fi. We all know the cost of ship phone calls, and although the wi-fi is still more expensive than anything you would find on land, it's remarkably cheaper than calls.

The application is called Viber and all you need to do is ensure that the people you wish to contact also have the app and that you are connected to wi-fi. Too easy!

And a great option for trying to reach tour guides and transfer companies when coming into port as well as letting family and friends know you are having a great time!

Are there any other apps out there that might do the same?

How is this cheaper than just using your cell phone, which lets us use unlimited free long distance minutes?

Originally Posted by Smart Traveler

How is this cheaper than just using your cell phone, which lets us use unlimited free long distance minutes?

When you are on a cruise ship at sea and use their satellite for your cell calls the ship charges you so much per minute in addition to what your phone provider charges for international calling. Also, if you use the in cabin phone it will cost you $7.95 per minute.

If you use the app that Hope mentioned, you go thru your ships wifi connection which can cost $0.75 per minute or less depending on the internet package you purchase on the ship.

The only problem is that in some if not all cases the ship can be blocking voice streaming applications. I know they do this with skype (there is a way around it though, just make sure you are logged into skype through a connection on shore and do not sign out or shut your computer down (leave it in sleep mode) when you resume using the computer skype should reconnect without any problem)

The only real issue with any application like this is the speed of the internet connection, and getting good enough quality in the call.