Do Walkie Talkies Work On Cruise Ships? Limits You Want To Know

When traveling with family and friends on a cruise, you’ll want to maintain good communication. If you don’t have access to Wi-Fi on your cruise (or don’t want to pay for it), you may want to consider walkie-talkies. Before rushing out to buy a set, however, you’ll need to know do walkie talkies work on cruise ships?

Short answer? A Walkie Talkie can be a practical solution for staying in touch with friends and family. It is possible to communicate with the other person with a Walkie Talkie regardless of how far apart you are. But there are limitations to these devices. Keep reading to learn more and assess whether this is a good option for you.

Do Walkie Talkies Work On Cruise Ships Indoors?

Short-range walkie-talkies generally have a range between 500 and 1000 yards. That may sound like quite a distance, but don’t put your faith in it completely. The manufacturer determined the maximum range in optimal conditions, with little to no obstructions.

You can hear the conversation clearly if you’re using the gadget within the cabin and the other person you wish to connect with is outside the hallway.

However, it can be an issue if you’re inside the cabin and trying to talk to someone on the deck above. It may be difficult for the communication to reach you because of various obstructions, such as walls, ceilings, or metal posts.

In other words, anticipate communication to be disrupted when inside the cabin, particularly on a cruise ship. Cabins can disrupt or even completely block the signal because of the steel decks, walls, ceilings, and other barriers. To avoid signal problems, avoid using the device inside the cabin.

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If you wish to utilize a walkie-talkie inside the cabin, go for an Ultra High Frequency (UHF) model so the signal may pass through the walls and ceilings. However, even then, various circumstances might limit the device range.

Using Walkie-Talkies Outside The Cabin In A Cruise Ship

If you converse with a buddy using a walkie-talkie while inside the cabin, it will not reach them. However, communication isn’t an issue when you’re outside the cabin.

The gadget should operate fine even if you travel to opposite ends of the ship. So, if you want to swim in the pool at one end of the ship while your friend wants to sunbathe at the other, there’s little question you’ll be able to communicate via the gadgets.

Communication is still feasible if you’re standing at the top of the deck and the other person is two decks below (assuming he’s still outside the cabin). However, if the other person is near the bottom of the ship, you may experience some static. It’s because the decks might be a little signal obstructor.

If both of you are outside the cabin, a walkie-talkie will still operate as long as you are within the range of the device. Walkie-talkies had a hard time operating if someone was in the cabin. They functioned fairly well with two persons outside the room, strolling about the ship.

Using Walkie-Talkies On The Top Deck Of A Cruise Ship

One of the best places to use a walkie-talkie is on the upper deck of the cruise ship. If you’re both on the top deck, you can converse without being interrupted, no matter how far apart you are. The upper deck has fewer or no barriers or obstructions and a clear sightline, allowing the handsets to function well.

Why Do Walkie-Talkies Not Work Well In The Cabin?

Cruise ship cabins are effectively metal boxes that seem to kill reception. The signal’s efficiency is reduced when paired with the cruise ship’s steel decks — not to mention all the other walls, ceilings, and other obstacles like furniture. 

How To Improve The Range Of A Walkie-Talkie On A Cruise Ship

The device’s range may usually be extended with a clear line of sight and little to no obstacles. When utilizing a Walkie Talkie aboard a cruise ship, though, interruptions are unavoidable. Doors, walls, electrical systems, passengers, and swimming pools are just a few examples of obstructions. With that in mind, you may still use your walkie-talkie, although you may hear static and get poor signals.

Despite the constraints, you may use a UHF Walkie Talkie to enhance the range and power output. Alternatively, you may get a high-end Walkie Talkie similar to those used by cruise ship crew members. They’re using a Walkie Talkie with a powerful antenna signal that can break through most obstacles.

Are Walkie-Talkies Allowed On Cruise Ships?

Generally, walkie-talkies are allowed on cruise ships. Indeed, on some ships, you may be able to rent a set through guest relations. You should be aware, however, that certain categories of two-way radios require a license. This is independent of whether you are using them on a cruise ship.

The Family Radio Service (FRS) and the General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS). The FRS allows private, two-way, short-distance voice and data communications. It does not require a license. GMRS radios provide significantly more power and range than can be obtained by FRS radios. They are also more expensive. However, in the United States, you must have a license to operate GMRS radios.

Anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a license and pay a fee to obtain one. Once an individual has a license, his or her family members may operate under that same license.

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Conclusion

Before you set sail on your next cruise, be sure to make plans for how you will stay in touch with your family and friends. While there are many ways to communicate with others on a ship, a walkie-talkie can be a practical solution for those who want to avoid paying extra for Wi-Fi access. Just be aware of the limitations of these devices before purchasing them. With a little bit of preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy your cruise without worrying about losing communication with the rest of your travel party.

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Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API