Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best VPN for a cruise ship. If you’re planning a cruise, it’s important to know that accessing the internet on board can be challenging.
Not only is the Wi-Fi often slow and unreliable, but it can also be expensive. Moreover, the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi is often subject to various restrictions, such as blocks on certain websites or apps.
This is where a VPN (Virtual Private Network) comes in handy. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, allowing you to browse the web privately and securely, without the risk of anyone intercepting your data.
With a VPN, you can bypass any restrictions placed on the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi and access the internet freely and without any limitations.
In this guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best VPNs for cruise ships. We’ll cover the key factors to consider when choosing a VPN, including server locations, speed and performance, security and privacy features, compatibility with different devices, and customer support.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best VPN for a Cruise Ship
When it comes to choosing the best VPN for cruise ships, there are several key factors to consider. Here are the most important ones:
Server locations and availability
The number and location of a VPN’s servers are important considerations when it comes to choosing a VPN for cruise ships. You’ll want a VPN with servers located in the countries you’ll be visiting during your cruise. Ideally, the VPN should have a large number of servers, ensuring that you’ll always have a fast and reliable connection.
Speed and performance
Since cruise ship Wi-Fi can be notoriously slow and unreliable, you’ll want a VPN that offers fast and consistent performance. Look for a VPN that offers unlimited bandwidth and doesn’t throttle your connection speed.
Security and privacy features
Security and privacy are paramount when it comes to choosing a VPN. Look for a VPN that uses robust encryption protocols and has a strict no-logs policy. You’ll also want a VPN that offers additional security features such as a kill switch and DNS leak protection.
Compatibility with different devices
It’s important to choose a VPN that is compatible with all the devices you’ll be using during your cruise. Look for a VPN that has apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
Customer support and ease of use
Finally, you’ll want a VPN that offers excellent customer support and is easy to use. Look for a VPN that offers 24/7 customer support via live chat or email. You’ll also want a VPN with an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it easy to set up and use on all your devices.
The Top VPNs for Cruise Ships
1. NordVPN
If you are looking for the best VPN for a cruise ship then our top pic for overall price and performance would be NordVPN. It is of the most popular VPN services that are well-suited for use on cruise ships and travelling in general. Here’s an overview of what NordVPN has to offer:
Features
- NordVPN has a massive network of servers, with over 5,500 servers in 59 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you are in the world.
- NordVPN uses military-grade encryption protocols to protect your online activity from prying eyes. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your activity is never tracked or logged.
- The VPN offers a range of security features, including a kill switch, double VPN, and CyberSec, which blocks ads and malicious websites.
- NordVPN is compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The VPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- NordVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly resolved.
Pros
- Large network of servers in 59 countries
- Robust security and privacy features, including double VPN and CyberSec
- User-friendly apps and browser extensions
- Excellent 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services.
- Certain features on the app can be a bit overwhelming for beginners due to its comprehensive services.
Pricing
NordVPN offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for $12.99/month, a one-year plan for $4.59/month, and a two-year plan for $3.29/month.
User reviews
NordVPN has received generally positive user reviews, with users praising the VPN’s robust security and privacy features, a large network of servers, and user-friendly apps. Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services, but these are relatively rare.
Overall, NordVPN is an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers who value robust security and privacy features and a large network of servers. While the app can be overwhelming for beginners, the VPN’s 24/7 customer support can help you quickly resolve any issues you encounter.
2. Surfshark VPN
Surfshark VPN is a newer VPN service that has gained popularity for its impressive features and affordable pricing. Here’s an overview of what Surfshark VPN has to offer:
Features
- Surfshark VPN has over 3,200 servers in 65 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you are in the world.
- The VPN uses industry-leading encryption protocols to protect your online activity from prying eyes. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your activity is never tracked or logged.
- Surfshark VPN offers a range of security features, including a kill switch, multi-hop VPN, and CleanWeb, which blocks ads and malware.
- Surfshark VPN is compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The VPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- Surfshark VPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly resolved.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Large network of servers in 65 countries
- Robust security and privacy features, including multi-hop VPN and CleanWeb
- User-friendly apps and browser extensions
- Excellent 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services.
- Surfshark VPN is a newer VPN service and does not have as extensive a track record as some of its competitors.
Pricing
Surfshark VPN offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for $12.95/month, a twelve-month plan for $3.99/month, and a two-year plan for $2.39/month.
User reviews
Surfshark VPN has received generally positive user reviews, with users praising the VPN’s affordable pricing, robust security and privacy features, and user-friendly apps. Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services, but these are relatively rare.
Overall, Surfshark VPN is an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers who value affordable pricing and robust security and privacy features. While the VPN is a newer service, its features and performance make it a strong contender in the VPN market.
3. ExpressVPN
ExpressVPN is one of the most popular VPN services on the market, offering a range of features that make it an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers. Here’s an overview of what ExpressVPN has to offer:
Features
- ExpressVPN has a large network of servers, with over 3,000 servers in 94 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you are in the world.
- ExpressVPN uses industry-leading encryption protocols to protect your online activity from prying eyes. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your activity is never tracked or logged.
- The VPN offers a range of security features, including a kill switch, split tunnelling, and DNS leak protection, ensuring that your data is always protected.
- ExpressVPN is compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The VPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- ExpressVPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly resolved.
Pros
- Fast and reliable connections
- Large network of servers in 94 countries
- Robust security and privacy features
- User-friendly apps and browser extensions
- Excellent 24/7 customer support
Cons
- ExpressVPN is one of the more expensive VPN services on the market, with prices starting at £5.58/month.
- Some users have reported occasional connection issues.
Pricing
ExpressVPN offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for $12.95/month, a six-month plan for $9.99/month, and a 12-month plan for $8.32/month.
User reviews
ExpressVPN has received excellent user reviews, with users praising the VPN’s fast and reliable connections, excellent security and privacy features, and user-friendly apps. Some users have reported occasional connection issues, but these are relatively rare.
Overall, ExpressVPN is an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers who value fast and reliable connections, excellent security and privacy features, and top-notch customer support. While the VPN is a bit more expensive than some of its competitors, its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
4. CyberGhost VPN
CyberGhost VPN is a popular VPN service that offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers. Here’s an overview of what CyberGhost VPN has to offer:
Features
- CyberGhost VPN has over 7,300 servers in 91 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you are in the world.
- The VPN uses military-grade encryption protocols to protect your online activity from prying eyes. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your activity is never tracked or logged.
- CyberGhost VPN offers a range of security features, including a kill switch, automatic HTTPS redirection, and ad and malware blocking.
- CyberGhost VPN is compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The VPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- CyberGhost VPN offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly resolved.
Pros
- Large network of servers in 91 countries
- Robust security and privacy features, including ad and malware blocking
- User-friendly apps and browser extensions
- Excellent 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Some users have reported occasional connection issues.
- CyberGhost VPN is a bit more expensive than some of its competitors.
Pricing
CyberGhost VPN offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for $12.99/month, a six-month plan for $6.99/month, and a two-year plus two months plan for $2.19/month.
User reviews
CyberGhost VPN has received generally positive user reviews, with users praising the VPN’s large network of servers, robust security and privacy features, and user-friendly apps. Some users have reported occasional connection issues, but these are relatively rare.
Overall, CyberGhost VPN is an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers who value a large network of servers and robust security and privacy features. While the VPN is a bit more expensive than some of its competitors, its features and performance make it well worth the investment.
5. Private Internet Access (PIA)
Private Internet Access (PIA) is a popular VPN service that offers a range of features that make it an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers. Here’s an overview of what PIA has to offer:
Features
- PIA has over 29,000 servers in 77 countries, ensuring fast and reliable connections wherever you are in the world.
- The VPN uses industry-standard encryption protocols to protect your online activity from prying eyes. The VPN also has a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that your activity is never tracked or logged.
- PIA offers a range of security features, including a kill switch, ad and malware blocking, and DNS leak protection.
- PIA is compatible with all major devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and routers. The VPN also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera.
- PIA offers 24/7 customer support via live chat and email, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly resolved.
Pros
- Large network of servers in 77 countries
- Robust security and privacy features, including ad and malware blocking and DNS leak protection
- User-friendly apps and browser extensions
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services.
- The user interface can be a bit confusing for beginners.
Pricing
PIA offers three pricing plans: a one-month plan for £9.09/month, a one-year plan for £2.20/month, and a two-year plan for £2.03/month.
User reviews
PIA has received generally positive user reviews, with users praising the VPN’s large network of servers, robust security and privacy features, and affordable pricing. Some users have reported slower connection speeds compared to other VPN services, but these are relatively rare.
Overall, Private Internet Access (PIA) is an excellent choice for cruise ship travellers who value a large network of servers, robust security and privacy features, and affordable pricing. While the user interface can be a bit confusing for beginners, the VPN’s 24/7 customer support can help you quickly resolve any issues you encounter.
How to Set Up a VPN for Cruise Ships
If you want to ensure secure and unrestricted internet access while on a cruise, setting up the best VPN for a cruise ship is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Follow this step-by-step guide to set up a VPN on your device and stay protected online while cruising:
- Choose a VPN provider: Choose a VPN provider that offers the features you need, such as a large network of servers, robust security and privacy features, and compatibility with your devices.
- Subscribe to the VPN: Subscribe to the VPN service and choose a pricing plan that suits your needs.
- Download and install the VPN app: Download and install the VPN app on your device. Most VPN providers offer apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux, as well as browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox.
- Connect to a server: Launch the VPN app and connect to a server located in the country you’re visiting or plan to visit during your cruise. This will allow you to bypass any restrictions placed on the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi and access the internet freely.
- Verify your connection: Once you’re connected to the VPN, verify that your connection is secure by visiting a website that shows your IP address, such as whatismyip.com. Your IP address should match the location of the VPN server you’re connected to.
- Enjoy unrestricted internet access: With your VPN set up, you can now enjoy unrestricted internet access on your cruise, without the risk of anyone intercepting your data.
It’s important to note that some cruise ships may block VPN traffic. If you encounter any issues, try connecting to a different server or contacting your VPN provider’s customer support for assistance.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using VPNs on cruise ships:
Q: Is it legal to use a VPN on a cruise ship?
A: Yes, it is legal to use a VPN on a cruise ship, as long as you’re not engaging in any illegal activities.
Q: Will using a VPN slow down my internet connection?
A: Using a VPN can slow down your internet connection slightly, but with a good VPN provider, the difference in speed should be negligible.
Q: Can I use a free VPN on a cruise ship?
A: While there are some free VPN services available, we recommend using a paid VPN for the best performance and security. Free VPNs often have limited server options, slower speeds, and may log your activity.
Q: Will a VPN work on all my devices on a cruise ship?
A: VPNs are compatible with most devices, including Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and routers. However, it’s important to check with your VPN provider to ensure compatibility with all your devices.
Q: Can I use a VPN to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services?
A: Yes, a VPN can be used to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services. However, it’s important to note that some streaming services actively block VPN traffic, so you may need to try different servers or VPN providers to find one that works.
Q: How do I know if my VPN is working on a cruise ship?
A: You can verify that your VPN is working by checking your IP address using a website like whatismyip.com. Your IP address should match the location of the VPN server you’re connected to.
Q: What should I do if I have connection issues with my VPN on a cruise ship?
A: If you’re experiencing connection issues with your VPN on a cruise ship, try connecting to a different server or contacting your VPN provider’s customer support for assistance. Some cruise ships may also block VPN traffic, so it’s important to check with your VPN provider before your trip.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to go on a cruise and want to ensure your online safety and access unrestricted internet, using the best VPN for a cruise ship is highly recommended.
We have compiled a list of top VPN providers, including ExpressVPN, NordVPN, CyberGhost VPN, and Private Internet Access (PIA), that are ideal for use on cruise ships. These VPN services will not only protect your privacy but also enable you to bypass any restrictions imposed on the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi.
When choosing a VPN for your cruise, it’s important to consider factors such as the VPN’s network of servers, security and privacy features, and compatibility with your devices. By following our step-by-step guide to setting up a VPN on your device, you can enjoy unrestricted internet access on your cruise, without the risk of anyone intercepting your data.
Before embarking on your cruise, don’t forget to verify with your VPN provider that their service is compatible with the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi and to resolve any potential problems. This step is crucial to ensure that you have access to the best VPN for a cruise ship and can stay connected and secure throughout your trip.
With the right VPN and a little bit of planning, you can enjoy worry-free internet access while cruising.