Norwegian Cruise Line has announced changes to both guest and crew Internet packages, introducing a new distinction between Basic Wi-Fi and Streaming Wi-Fi plans. The adjustment takes effect immediately across the fleet starting with the next embarkations.
Under the new policy, Basic Wi-Fi plans will no longer support video content on social media platforms. Guests and crew will still be able to view photos, send messages, and post text updates, but video features will now require an upgrade.
Apps and features no longer supported under the Basic Plan include:
- - Facebook Stories
- - Instagram Reels
- - X (Twitter) Videos
- - Snapchat Stories
- - Similar video-sharing functions on other platforms
Standard browsing, messaging, emails, and image uploads remain available under the Basic plan.
“Regular pictures and text will continue to work with the Basic plan,” NCL noted in its announcement. “To access social media online videos, guests and crew will need to use the Streaming Internet plan. This adjustment ensures that all onboard can enjoy a more stable connection.”
Streaming Wi-Fi Plan
To access social media video content and other high-bandwidth services such as YouTube, TikTok, Netflix, or live streaming, passengers and crew will need to purchase the Streaming Wi-Fi Pass.
According to NCL, this plan is designed for travelers who want to stay fully connected with video-based apps and streaming entertainment, while the Basic plan remains a lower-cost option for messaging, browsing, and photo sharing.
Here is a comparison between the Basic Wi-Fi and Streaming Wi-Fi plans
Why the Change?
Norwegian Cruise Line explained that the adjustment helps optimize bandwidth at sea, ensuring more reliable service for all users while still offering an upgrade path for those who wish to stream via Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet.
While the company highlights stability and performance as the main reason for this change, crew members say the update has created frustration.
Our source explained that those on unlimited plans are not affected, but crew who rely on the Basic plan are unhappy because the price remains the same while the service has been reduced.
“Now it doesn’t make sense to have the Basic plan for crew. This plan is almost the same as the free WhatsApp messaging option. The only difference is that with Basic, we can upload photos on WhatsApp, unlike the free plan,” the crew member told us.
