Outdoor Spirit

Phone & Internet access whilst on the ship

Phone

  • There are passenger phones located throughout the ship. These phones operate via a satellite connection which can be detrimentally affected by weather and the ships position.
  • Pre-paid calling cards can be purchased on the ship: (60 minutes) = $ 30.

Internet

While we encourage you to unplug and enjoy the pristine nature of the Polar regions, internet connectivity is provided on the ship. This service is provided via satellite, not cell towers, and can be affected by weather and ship position. As a result, the service will be slower, sometimes intermittent and more expensive than regular internet connections.

General

  • There have been recent reports of compatibility issues of Apple iPhone, iPad and iTouch devices and the Internet services provided on the ship. We highly recommend you upgrade to IOS 6.1 before you board the ship.
  • IT staff aboard the ship can advise you of the steps to take to ensure proper functioning of these devices while on board, and to avoid high Internet usage charges.
  • The ships’ library or lounge has two computers that you can use to access the Internet should you not wish to bring your own computer.

Internet Portal Access

  • A PIN-based, captive-portal system is offered that requires you to connect to the Internet to enter a private code so that the ships billing system can track your usage. After successfully entering your PIN, your device is granted access to the Internet via Wi-Fi.
  • Each PIN is sold with a set amount of data that will allow you to send and receive. Set amounts are typically 10MB, 30MB and 100MB.
  • Once you have your PIN, you have several Wi-Fi access points, or "Hot-Spots", including all public spaces, and most cabins, where passengers can connect to networks.
  • One of the Wi-Fi features on most mobile devices is "auto connect" or "auto join". When this setting is on, it allows you to stay connected to the network and also reconnects with the network if the device has been out of range or powered off.

Ship Email

If you do not have a laptop or smart device, or would like a very simple and cost effective way to send and receive email, the ship’s Reception Desk can supply you with an email address that can be used while onboard. For a relatively small charge, you get a unique email address that you can use to send and receive email using the ship’s shared passenger computers.

Tips for Reducing Data Consumption Onboard

  • Remember to log-out of your portal session once you’re done in order to minimize your usage.
  • If you want to access the internet to send and receive email only, it is far more efficient to use email software or your smart phone/tablet email application than to use a browser to access your email. We recommend contacting your email service provider for details on how to configure this.
  • WE ADVISE YOU TO NEVER SHARE YOUR INTERNET PIN WITH OTHERS.