Should I pull the US T-Mobile SIM cards as some as we get ready to set sail?
It is not necessary provided that you forward all incoming calls to voicemail and turn off the Internet access. This way you can still receive incoming SMS. Any kids involved? I'd take the phones away from the kids.
Is it fairly likely that all of the T-Mobile phones that I have unlocked will work with a local prepaid SIM card in those three islands, or might they have different GSM bands? Most of our phones are (or were) native T-Mobile, except for a Motorola Tundra, that was originally locked to A Fee and Fee. Thanks again and I will look at the other links that are posted here.
Most everywhere in the Caribbean have 1900 & 850 GSM service. Some places have all four bands (anything to make a roaming buck off tourists). Assuming that the cruise ship stays in these places for a day or two, it hardly seems worthwhile to get local prepaids. I looked into Boingo Mobile WiFi roaming but they have very little coverage in Montego Bay or Georgetown. Better in Cozumel but not a lot.
Only the North American carriers are the ones that I am aware of that charge for incoming sms (roaming or not). And even so, if you have a txt package, then the sms comes out of that bucket, hence it's free.
Originally Posted by Jim1348
So, incoming SMS are no additional fees even in the Caribbean? That is good to know.
I also had same question about Caribbean prepay services. Heading to Turks & Caicos for vacation. From what I was able to research Lime tends to be the cheapest roaming but does not have as much coverage, Islandcom gave the lowest rates if you stay in their coverage areas (even to call back to Canada/US) & Digicel by far has most coverage, but seems to be most expensive per minute.
I am sure there will be other options, but be careful as many cruise ships can get pricey
It is sad I need to state the obvious but some people just don't get it. Any posts I make are my own OPINIONS and in no way represent the views of my employer
Use of a cell phone on board a ship is EXPENSIVE! I suggest waiting until you hit one of your ports of call and head for a wifi connection away from the ship. I've used Line2 on wifi for calling and texting (also has voice mail) and it's the best app I have found for clear calling. You can download the app (android or iphone/ipod touch) and get a free 7 day trial, after that, it's $9.95 a month, no contract. And as someone posted above, DO NOT turn on your phone on board..a nasty charge will show up on your bill.
Originally Posted by Jim1348
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