Practically everyone today travels with a mobile device or laptop computer, even on their ocean getaways. In fact, for increasing numbers of cruisers, access to social media, high-quality apps, and other Internet features is an expected part of a fun, relaxing vacation.
Carnival Cruises is consequently upping its Internet game with the introduction of new onboard technologies to keep its passengers happy and connected. Earlier this year, the company had installed high-speed Internet on three ships. That pilot program proved so successful that Carnival has just extended it to nine other ships, with plans for three more this summer. According to company officials, most of the Carnival fleet will be converted to the new system by the end of October.
In addition to upgraded Internet, Carnival has rolled out a multi-tiered pricing plan that allows cruisers to choose the payment level that’s best for them. The low-end $5-a-day plan gives cruisers access to a variety of social media websites so they can easily exchange messages with friends and family back home. Passengers can extend their internet capabilities with Carnival’s $16-per-day plan, which includes the entire Internet except for high-bandwidth services. And for unrestricted access that includes streaming apps like Skype and music downloads, guests can opt for the upper-tier $25-a-day package.
Earlier this season, Carnival Cruises also introduced a mobile app called Carnival Hub on board their ship, Carnival Breeze. Passengers were able to test out exciting new free features such as ship calendars, account tracking, restaurant information, deck maps, and other tools that help cruisers plan their days and manage their spending. Company officials recently noted that this pilot program has gone very well, so passengers should expect to see the Carnival Hub app appear on other ships in coming months.
With Internet access and smartphone apps becoming so important in everyday life, it’s exciting to see cruise companies making every effort to keep their passengers in touch!
