NCL Revamps Wi-Fi: Basic vs Streaming, Video Requires Upgrade
Norwegian Cruise Line has updated internet offerings for guests and crew, rolling out two tiers—Basic Wi-Fi and Streaming Wi-Fi—that take effect fleetwide beginning with upcoming embarkations.
Under the revised policy, Basic Wi-Fi will no longer support social media video features. Users can still browse, send messages and emails, view photos, and post text, but accessing video tools now requires the Streaming tier.
Apps and functions no longer available on the Basic plan include:
- Facebook Stories
- Instagram Reels
- X (Twitter) Videos
- Snapchat Stories
- Comparable video-sharing features on other platforms
Standard web use, messaging, email, and image uploads remain included with Basic.
“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.”
What the Streaming plan covers
To watch or post social media videos, or to use other high-bandwidth services—such as YouTube, TikTok, Netflix, and live streaming—passengers and crew must purchase the Streaming Wi-Fi pass. NCL describes this tier as the option for travelers who want full access to video-centric apps and entertainment, while Basic remains a lower-cost choice for messaging, browsing, and photo sharing.
Why NCL made the change
The cruise line says the shift is intended to better manage limited satellite bandwidth at sea and deliver steadier performance for all users, while still providing an upgrade path for those who wish to stream over Starlink’s high-speed connection.
Crew reaction
While NCL emphasizes reliability, some crew have expressed frustration with the new limits. According to one crew source, unlimited plans are unchanged, but those relying on Basic see no price reduction despite the reduced functionality.
“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 media outlets.