Ahoy, Linda! Welcome to planDisney, where we are happy to answer all of your Disney Cruise Line planning questions to get you ready for smooth sailing. I know that traveling with special medical needs can be anxiety-inducing, but you are already being proactive by doing your research ahead of time.
Disney Cruise Line currently offers two purchasing options for wireless internet access:
The “Internet Package” is the basic plan, which is designed to allow guests to stay connected on social media, browse the web, and access emails. With this plan, guests can:
- Post text, pictures and video on popular websites and applications like Facebook, Facebook Messenger, X, Instagram, Snapchat, Pinterest, LinkedIn and TikTok.
- Make audio and video phone calls on FaceTime, WhatsApp, Zoom and more.
- View short-form video on social media newsfeeds and platforms like Snapchat and TikTok.
- Surf the web, read the news, check the weather and visit other favorite websites.
- Send and receive emails.
Then there is the “Internet + Streaming Package,” which includes all of the features listed above, plus the added bonus of faster connection speeds and full streaming access. With this plan, guests can also:
- Stream favorite movies and TV shows from streaming platforms such as Disney+, ESPN+, Hulu and more.
- Access YouTube content.
- Listen to audio streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Unfortunately, you cannot add an internet package to your booking prior to sailing, so you will need to wait until you are onboard to make your selection. Once you arrive at the port terminal or make your way onto the ship, you will be able to connect to the “DCL-Guest” WiFi to access the complimentary Disney Cruise Line Navigator App. You will then be able to switch to the app’s Onboard Mode and can select the option labeled “Connect to Internet,” which allows you to purchase your desired internet package.
According to the cast member I spoke with, most bluetooth devices are fully functional on the basic plan and should allow for readings or notifications to be sent to your husband’s smartphone. However, Disney Cruise Line does warn that guests who monitor or maintain a medical condition wirelessly should be prepared to utilize alternate means to manage any medical condition throughout the sailing because the onboard internet service will be noticeably slower than you may be accustomed to and may at times be interrupted or unavailable. To ensure your husband’s safety, he should bring a backup method to test his sugar levels just in case you run into any problems.
Additional information for guests with disabilities and/or medical conditions is available here. If you have any other questions or concerns about his medical condition, you can contact Special Services prior to sailing at (407) 566-3602 or specialservices@disneycruise.com. Once you are onboard, you can always reach out to the Guest Services desk or seek assistance at the Health Center should any problems arise.
I hope that this information helps you enjoy a carefree cruise and allows you to embrace Timon and Pumbaa’s philosophy of Hakuna Matata. Happy sailing!
Catherine