Hi Tara!
I hear you loud and clear that you are just days away from setting sail on the Disney Dream. How wonderful! Hopefully as you set sail, you can unplug for a while, soaking up both the sun and the experiences in the
Bahamas.
I completely understand why staying in touch with relatives caring for your baby is so important to your peace of mind while traveling. That said, my fellow Disney Cruise Line mom and friend Nancy has some
keen insight into iMessage this as she uses it to communicate with her family during her Disney cruises. She was able to use iMessage on her iPhone without having to purchase an internet package. The phone stays in airplane mode and connects to the free DCL-Guest Wi-Fi. Keep in mind that you can send text messages using iMessage, but not pictures or videos.
The backup plan is that you can always purchase a
Connect@Sea internet package if you'd like to communicate using email or access the internet. A representative at the Connect@Sea Desk (Deck 4, Midship) will be able to help answer any questions.
For actual phone calls, Disney Cruise Line also features
Cellular at Sea phone service, available for use in your stateroom using your mobile phone. However, you will be roaming internationally, so service may be unavailable depending on the ship's location. Check with your cellular carrier prior to your sailing to understand the costs associated with connecting to the Cellular at Sea network to make phone calls.
Last but not least, I recommend that you share some information with your family in case they need to reach you. The emergency use only phone number is 1-888-322-8732 and make sure to also give them your ship's name and stateroom number. The way I see it, if they have it, they won't likely need to use it!
Dial up the Disney Parks Moms Panel if you have more questions...we'll be happy to answer the call. Enjoy every moment of your cruise!
Bon Voyage!
Sherry