Thread: Should I buy calling cards?

I know the phones on the boat are just ridiculously expensive, so should I just invest in some calling cards and wait till I'm at a port?

That sounds like a good idea, unless you can find a cheap pay phone at a port.

Calling cards are excellent for an added tip to the crew. They use them to call their families. They have been away from home for a long time, and are greatly appreciated.

Yes that is a good idea...........you can also use your MC or Visa from a pay phone in port......while still expensive, it is still less than what the cruise lines charge. Cell phones normally work in American ports or territories without a long distance charge as well.

Originally Posted by sue miller

Calling cards are excellent for an added tip to the crew. They use them to call their families. They have been away from home for a long time, and are greatly appreciated.

Never thought about that, great response Sue!

I am going to try that as well Sue, thanks!

""Calling cards are excellent for an added tip to the crew. They use them to call their families. They have been away from home for a long time, and are greatly appreciated."""

Sue Miller

What is a good calling card to get for a tip ???
Can I get them at Wal Mart ???
We are going to Alaska in May 2006

Have a Great Crusing Day
FryGirl

Ask the front desk staff which are the best ports to call from and where is the best place to go to to make the calls.


They know all the right places

Jim & Ruth

We were thinking about getting some International calling cards and giving to our room steward and waiter as a Christmas present.

Whenever you get off a ship, it's always interesting to see the ships' employees desinding on the nearest pay phones. You may have trouble using those. Probably should plan to go more into town to use a pay phone (ask a cabbie to take you).

We heard about this tip, bought some cards for our cabin steward, he thanked us for them. Later that week we asked him if he was able to leave the ship and call home, he looked at us and didnt want to reply but knew I wouldnt let it go, so he told us that the card was international but that not all payphones except all the cards, and so far he was not able to find one that would use his card. We felt really bad but he told us not to worry, one of the guys said he could use the phone in St. Thomas next week. We purchased a card in Cozumel that he would be able to use the next time he was in that port. I'm sorry to say I dont remember what card it was, we bought it at Wal-Mart, so whatever they sell eeeks!

So the best place to buy the phone cards from might be in the ports they sail into week after week!