Phone calls

[Rx819]

Has anyone heard of a "sim" card to use with a cell phone? Our cell phone company suggested this might be an option when we leave on our cruise, but, they weren't sure what ports it would work in. Anyone ever heard of this? Thanks.

 

Paula

[cb at sea]

I've heard of them, but that's about it! It's generally cheaper to use a pay phone in port and buy an international calling card there to call home. Or, use the ship's e-mail.

Even if your cell will get a signal, you'll be dealing with foreign cell towers and expensive calls!

We usually just turn the phone off when we get out to sea, and turn it back on the night before we get home, in order to use the alarm for that last morning!

[eandj]

If you can wait to make phone calls at the ports of call, just ask your room steward or waiter where they buy their phone cards at port. They'll lead you to the best procveds and places to call from.

We use only ship email accounts or phone cards on land. Nothing is so important that we need to call from the ship. Too expensive in my eyes.

[freddiebud]

Back to your original question - a SIM card is typically used in European phones. It is a different technology than US. US is beginning to introduce SIM cards, which are technically safer - harder to clone. And all the information is maintained on the SIM card. Some phones use the entire card (about credit card size), some use just the chip. This may be the technology at the ports you are visiting which may be why your cell company suggested it.

 

If you are planning on making LOTS of calls and want to have access continually, you might want to consider renting a satellite phone. They are reasonably priced (do a google search) and will work on the cruise ship with no roaming or access charges.

[kitty9]

Freddiebud, what you say is not entirely true. Some US cell phones, namely T Mobile and ATT, have sims in their GSM phones. If you have Sprint or Verizon, some of those phones don't have sims. Sims identify your phone number for your cell, and they activate your phone. They also carry information for your cell such as phone numbers and things like that. Sims are located inside your phone, generally under the battery. You can purchase international sims for calling from foreign ports.

 

Don't bother purchasing calling cards in the US. Most don't work in the phones in the Caribbean. You have to purchase calling cards in each port of call.

[Rx819]

Thanks, everyone, for the help. October 6 is almost here and I cannot wait!!!

 

Paula :D