Staying Connected at Sea:

My Experience Using GigSky

on a Transpacific Cruise

Somewhere in the middle of the Pacific ocean - but still connected to the internet

Last summer, we sailed on a Royal Caribbean transpacific cruise from Japan to Los Angeles. (read my upcoming post about our incredible trip to Japan here).

Before sailing, I started looking at internet options for the voyage. I wasn't shocked by the price of the cruise line's internet packages - anyone who cruises regularly knows they aren't cheap. Still, when I looked at what it would cost for the entire 17-night crossing, I could practically see my wine budget disappearing.

Clearly, I needed to explore some alternatives.

That's when I discovered GigSky. What caught my attention was that it used eSIM technology, something we had already been using successfully for years while traveling internationally. We had come to love the convenience of eSIMs when traveling abroad, but using one on a cruise ship was a new concept for us since at-sea options had only recently started becoming available.

Since I knew many travelers would be asking the same questions I had, I thought this trip would be a great opportunity to see how GigSky compared to the cruise line's internet service.

Fortunately, Paul agreed to be the guinea pig. He would use GigSky throughout the trip while I continued using my usual eSIM in Japan and the ship's standard Wi-Fi package once we boarded.

A little context is probably helpful here. We aren't particularly demanding internet users when we travel. We weren't looking to stream movies, attend video meetings, or maintain constant VPN access from the middle of the Pacific. We simply wanted enough connectivity to check email, stay in touch with family and friends, share photos, and handle the occasional travel-related task if needed.

Before purchasing, we first confirmed that our specific ship was compatible with GigSky service. If you're considering GigSky for your own cruise, I recommend starting here, Once we verified compatibility, Paul purchased the Asia cruise/land plan and installed the eSIM on his phone before we even left home. The setup was incredibly easy.

We spent quite a bit of time exploring Japan before boarding our ship for the transpacific journey home. During the land portion of our trip, I continued using my usual land-based eSIM for data service while Paul used the GigSky cruise/land plan. Both services worked extremely well across Japan, and we stayed connected everywhere we traveled.

The real test, however, would come once we left port and headed out into the Pacific.

The Big Test at Sea

Once onboard, I purchased the ship's standard Wi-Fi package for my phone while Paul continued using GigSky. The service had already proven itself on land, but now it was time for the real test.

Day after day, we compared notes.

The surprising part?

There really wasn't much difference.

We were both able to:

• Check email

• Send messages

• Browse the web

• Use Messenger and WhatsApp

• Share photos

• Make and receive Wi-Fi calls

When my signal was weak, his usually was too. For the type of internet access we personally needed, the experience was remarkably similar - except his GigSky plan cost significantly less.

We found it very easy to toggle between GigSky (for internet service) and the ship's free Wi-Fi (for entertainment schedules, dining menus, and other onboard information).

The only noticeable difference occurred around port arrivals and departures. As his phone transitioned between the ship's at-sea network and local cellular networks, there were brief interruptions in service. It never had a meaningful impact on our trip.

Now, if you rely on streaming, Zoom calls, VPN access, or heavy business use while cruising, I would still recommend looking at the premium internet packages offered directly by the cruise lines. We didn’t test any of those higher-bandwidth services because that simply isn’t how we use the internet while we travel.

One thing worth considering is that many cruise lines offer premium internet on a daily basis. If you only need additional bandwidth occasionally, purchasing it for a day or two may be far more cost-effective than paying for premium internet for the entire voyage.

Since that first transpacific sailing, we've continued using GigSky on several additional cruises with consistently positive experiences. While it may not be the right solution for every traveler, it has been an excellent fit for the way we travel.

GigSky link

Final Thoughts

One of the nice things about working with a travel consultant is that you don’t have to figure all of this out on your own. I’m always happy to help my clients choose the connectivity option that best fits their travel style and internet needs, as well as assist with setup before the trip.

Whether you book your travel with me or are simply researching options for your next adventure, I hope sharing my personal experience helps make your planning a little easier. Travel looks a little different for everyone, but finding the right connectivity solution can make cruising even more relaxing and stress-free.

Wishing you smooth seas, beautiful sunsets, and an incredible journey wherever your next adventure takes you.

Looking for More Information About GigSky?

Visit my GigSky Resource Page for compatibility information, available plans, and updates as I continue testing the service on future cruises