Updated 2010
Our ships feature the most technologically advanced communication systems at sea, including our innovative Computer University@Sea, a program that set the cruise industry standard for guest communication and technology.
Business Services
Conference and meeting facilities are available on board. Secretarial and copying services are available upon request for a nominal charge, as are private e-mail and Internet access through our Computer Univeristy@Sea.
Computer University@Sea Facilities
Our popular Computer University@Sea program is offered on all cruises. CU@Sea provides e-mail services, Internet access, group and individual instruction on use of a PC, extensive enrichment course offerings and digital camera support. Each ship has at least 25 state-of-the-art workstations. Complimentary classes are offered each cruise. Details of these are listed in the onboard daily newsletter Reflections. There is a nominal setup fee when you begin to use any CU@Sea services involving off-ship communication. Fees apply for e-mail sent and received on board, as well as Internet access.
> Digital Cameras
There are media readers for most standard camera memory cards. You may also consolidate your media card photos on complimentary server space for CD burning; charges apply for burning CDs.
> E-mail Services
A unique e-mail address for each guest is printed on your cruise ticket. The private e-mail system supports sending and receiving e-mail messages under 1MB. Messages are sent and received instantaneously, subject to the stability of satellite communications.[*] There is a charge for the first 100KB of each inbound and outbound e-mail, plus a supplemental charge for all additional outbound e-mail (“cc”) addresses, and for messages greater than 100KB. The current schedule of charges is available on board.
> Home & Business E-mail Access
If your home or business e-mail provider has web access to your e-mail, you will be able to access it from the ship via the Internet. If you are not sure, please contact your e-mail provider prior to your cruise. The current schedule of charges is available on board.
> Internet Access
All Computer University@Sea workstations are configured for Internet access. Charges for Internet access are $50 for 120 minutes (2 hours), $200 for 600 minutes (10 hours) and $300 for 1,500 minutes (25 hours). The current schedule of charges is available on board.
> Wi-Fi Access
Wi-Fi access is available on board throughout the ship, so feel free to bring your laptop. Once on board, please contact the Computer University@Sea to sign up for Wi-Fi during your voyage. Internet access charges will apply.
> Laptop Rentals
Rental PC laptops are available for your use on board for a nominal daily charge. From these specially configured computers you can access the Internet as well as your shipboard e-mail from your stateroom. The current schedule of charges is available on board.
> Private Computer Lessons
Some private lesson times are available. You can arrange for these after you arrive on the ship. Fees apply.
>Using Your Own Laptop on Board
There are several ways you might use your own laptop:
* You can create e-mail messages and transfer them to a Computer University@Sea workstation via a floppy disk.
* You can practice your computer lesson at leisure.
* We can configure your PC or Macintosh laptop for Internet access from your stateroom. There is a charge for configuring your laptop, and current Internet access charges apply; the current schedule of charges is available on board.
Please note: It is not feasible to connect a laptop through the shipboard phone system directly to any phone number ashore. Skype® is not available on board.
>IPAD Usage
Important information regarding IPAD usage on board: Due to some significant technical issues confirmed by Apple, we have learned that the Apple IPAD Wi-Fi systems interfere with Crystal Cruises’ entire on board network, thus disabling all internet users. Therefore, regrettably, until Apple corrects this situation, Crystal Cruises cannot allow Wi-Fi connection via the IPAD on board our ships. The Apple iphone product had a similar issue that was addressed via a software patch earlier this year. Apple assures us that a “software patch” to fix this problem is in development and can be expected this fall. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your cooperation.
>Communication
From traditional mail services in various ports of call, to state-of-the-art communications technology, staying connected to your friends and family around the world is easier than ever.
> Mail
Included in your travel documents is a Communications brochure that lists the addresses of the embarkation and disembarkation ports where mail can be forwarded or delivered to you on board. Postage and mailing services are available on board. Be sure to allow sufficient time for delivery to distant destinations.
> Telephone
Crystal ships are equipped with a sophisticated telephone system that allows you to make direct-dial satellite[*] phone calls from your stateroom. The ship telephone number is included in your travel documents before sailing.
Calls are billed to your shipboard account or a major credit card. However, please be aware that the $9.50[*] per minute cost to use this satellite system is significantly higher than a normal shoreside call. You may also wish to use pay phones located in various ports of call.
* Satellite Reception
All electronic communication to and from the ship is via satellite. Interruptions in satellite reception can occur at any time without notice. While we regret this, and apologize for any inconvenience it may cause, Crystal Cruises cannot guarantee that communication connections for telephone, television, Internet, e-mail or fax will be available at all times in all areas of the world.
* Rates are subject to change without notice. Connection depends on satellite availability and cannot be guaranteed.
> SeaMobile™ Cellular Service
Through an agreement with SeaMobile™ Crystal Cruises lets you take advantage of your wireless devices while at sea. Using your own mobile phone and telephone number, you can make and receive calls to and from fellow travelers who are on the ship, and friends and family who are far away on land. If you currently have the service through your home provider, you can also send and receive text messages. Other available wireless services include use of PDAs, such as your Blackberry®.
Charges for using the SeaMobile system will appear as roaming charges on the regular monthly bill of your service provider. Contact your mobile home service provider for more information about rates, additional fees and taxes. While you do not need to do anything special to connect, you must have authorized service for international dialing through your home provider. To determine if you will be able to access SeaMobile, please contact your home service provider.
To view our SeaMobile Frequently Asked Questions visit our Support section.
> E-mail
Crystal Cruises offers a 24-hour private e-mail system through our Computer University@Sea. Your personal e-mail address is included on your cruise ticket. Details are provided with cruise documents or you may contact your travel agent for more information.
> Facsimile
Facsimile services are available at the Reception Desk. Fees apply.
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