# How do passengers communicate on a Princess cruise?
One of the most common questions for first-time cruisers is: **“How do passengers communicate on a Princess cruise?”** Call us **<a href="tel:+18448077245">+1-844-807-7245</a>** Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a group, staying connected onboard is important for coordinating meals, activities, and excursions. Fortunately, Princess Cruises offers multiple **onboard messaging** and communication options that cater to a variety of needs.
From using the **Princess Medallion app** for instant chat to more traditional offline methods like meeting points and stateroom phones, passengers have several ways to **communicate on Princess** ships. Understanding these options helps you plan your cruise, avoid missed meet-ups, and keep in touch without unexpected charges.

## Using the Princess Medallion app for onboard messaging
The **Princess app** is central to modern cruise communication. With a MedallionClass-enabled ship, you can use the app for a variety of purposes, including:
* **Onboard chat with friends and family**
* Sending messages to other passengers in your travel party
* Contacting crew members for services or reservations
* Accessing activity notifications and reminders
### How it works
1. Download the **Princess Medallion app** before your cruise.
2. Log in with your booking information and Medallion number.
3. Add your fellow travelers or friends onboard to your contacts.
4. Use the **chat feature** to send text messages, emojis, or notifications instantly.
Because this system uses the ship’s internal network, it’s **faster and more reliable** than trying to rely on cellular roaming. Messaging via the app does not require a WiFi package, making it a convenient and cost-effective way for families to communicate on Princess Cruises.
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## WiFi chat cruise options
For those who want more flexibility, Princess offers **MedallionNet**, a high-speed internet service that enables WiFi-based communication. With MedallionNet, passengers can:
* Use popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or iMessage
* Make VoIP calls (voice or video) with family onshore
* Access social media to coordinate plans and share updates
### Advantages
* **Works globally at sea**: You can communicate even when the ship is far from land.
* **Supports multiple apps**: You can continue using apps you already know and love.
* **Group coordination**: Perfect for families who want to plan activities together, share reminders, or check locations.
### Things to keep in mind
* WiFi calling and app usage may require a MedallionNet package, which is priced per day or for the whole cruise.
* Signal strength may vary depending on location, ship position, and the number of users online.
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## Family communication without WiFi
Not every passenger wants or needs a WiFi package. There are still practical ways to **stay in touch without WiFi on a Princess cruise**:
### 1. Stateroom phones
* Every cabin is equipped with a phone that can connect to other rooms or **guest services**.
* Internal calls are usually free, making them convenient for quick check-ins.
### 2. Meeting points
* Princess ships have **designated gathering areas** and activity spaces, which are commonly used as check-in spots for family members.
* Establishing a schedule and location for meals, shows, or excursions reduces reliance on technology.
### 3. Walkie-talkies or radios
* Some families bring small **walkie-talkies** for easy onboard communication.
* Ideal for short distances and especially useful on large ships or during excursions.
* Battery-powered devices do not depend on WiFi or cellular signals.
### 4. Pre-arranged schedules
* Agreeing on **set meeting times** for breakfast, dinner, or entertainment can reduce stress and the need for constant communication.
* This is particularly effective for children or large groups who may split up during the day.
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## Staying connected while at sea
Passenger communication is not limited to chatting among friends or family. Staying informed about ship activities and announcements is also part of **cruise communication**.
* **Shipboard TV channels** often display daily schedules, menus, and event notifications.
* **Digital signage and monitors** in public areas highlight activities and meeting points.
* **Guest services** can provide updates on excursions, weather changes, or last-minute events.
Combining these resources with your **Princess app chat** or WiFi messaging ensures you remain informed and coordinated, even when roaming the ship.
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## Comparing methods: app messaging vs offline communication
Each communication method onboard Princess Cruises has its advantages:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
| -------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | ---------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Princess app chat** | Instant, reliable, free within internal network, works for multiple passengers | Requires smartphone and Medallion login |
| **WiFi chat / VoIP** | Can message or call family onshore, uses apps you already know | Requires MedallionNet package, may have signal variability |
| **Stateroom phones** | Free for onboard calls, works without app | Limited to internal ship lines or paid ship-to-shore calls |
| **Walkie-talkies** | Independent of WiFi or cellular, works across the ship | Limited range, requires devices for all parties |
| **Pre-arranged schedules** | No devices required, simple | Less flexible, may miss unexpected changes |
By understanding these trade-offs, families and groups can choose a combination of **onboard messaging, WiFi chat cruise**, and offline methods that best suits their needs.
**Also Read:
[How do passengers communicate on a Holland America Line cruise?](https://www.portjourney.com/blog/how-do-passengers-communicate-on-a-holland-america-line-cruise)
[How do passengers communicate on a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise?](https://www.portjourney.com/blog/how-do-passengers-communicate-on-a-seabourn-cruise-line-cruise)
[How do passengers communicate on a Royal Caribbean cruise?](https://www.portjourney.com/blog/how-do-passengers-communicate-on-a-royal-caribbean-cruise)**
## Tips for best communication practices on Princess Cruises
1. **Set expectations**: Let family and friends know which method you’ll use for day-to-day messages.
2. **Combine tools**: Use app messaging for immediate contact and pre-arranged meeting points for backup.
3. **Plan for excursions**: Walkie-talkies or stateroom phones are useful when split into different groups on excursions.
4. **Check MedallionNet coverage**: Purchase a suitable WiFi plan if you want VoIP or social app messaging.
5. **Keep your Medallion handy**: Many communication features are tied to your Medallion ID, so don’t misplace it.
These strategies allow passengers to **communicate on Princess** efficiently, avoid stress, and make the most of their cruise experience.
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## FAQs
**1. What are the best ways for families to communicate on Princess Cruises?**
Families can use the **Princess app chat**, stateroom phones, walkie-talkies, or pre-arranged meeting points. App messaging is ideal for instant coordination, while offline methods provide backup if WiFi isn’t available.
**2. How do I use the Princess Medallion app for onboard chat?**
Download the **Medallion app**, log in with your booking and Medallion number, and add your family or travel companions to your contacts. You can then send messages, alerts, and reminders using onboard messaging features.
**3. Can I communicate without WiFi on a Princess ship?**
Yes. Passengers can use **stateroom phones** for internal calls, establish **meeting points**, or bring **walkie-talkies**. Planning schedules and meeting times also helps stay connected without relying on WiFi.
**4. Is WiFi chat reliable on Princess Cruises?**
WiFi chat using **MedallionNet** is generally reliable, supporting messaging apps and VoIP calls. Signal quality may vary depending on ship location, network load, and weather. A MedallionNet package is required for internet-based communication.
**5. Where can I find more tips about staying connected on Princess Cruises?**
For additional guidance on **cruise communication**, including app tips, offline strategies, and planning for family groups, visit **portjourney.com**. You can also contact a cruise specialist at **<a href="tel:+18448077245">+1-844-807-7245</a>** for personalized advice before sailing.