When you go on a cruise ship, you don’t always have a lot of options to communicate with others who are traveling with you. Cell service is spotty and can be expensive during parts of the cruise, and you normally have to pay extra for Wi-Fi.
Walkie talkies work on cruise ships, but there may be interference. When you are outside and have minimal obstructions, you can communicate clearly. The key is to understand what walkie talkies to buy so that you get the best signal.
You should also know that some walkie talkies are limited when you are in the cabin or separated by ceilings, floors, walls, and more.
Do Walkie Talkies Work Inside the Cabin on a Cruise Ship?
Many types of walkie talkies do not work well in the cabin on a cruise ship. When walkie talkie manufacturers specify the distance that the devices can cover, they are talking about unobstructed distances.
When you are in the cabin on a cruise ship, there are many obstructions, including walls, ceilings, floors, electricity, and more. If you are trying to communicate with someone who is a few decks above you, the interference may cause static and a lack of signal.
In addition, large parts of cruise ships are made of steel, which also reduces the signal strength. An inexpensive set of walkie talkies is unlikely to work through the walls, but you can find higher quality walkie talkies that will work.
One type of walkie talkie that can send a signal through walls and ceilings is the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) walkie talkie. If you choose this type with the range you need, you may be able to use it in your cabin.
Can You Use Walkie Talkies Outside the Cabin on a Cruise Ship?
When you are outside, most walkie talkies work well without any trouble. Without obstructions, the walkie talkies will work up to the range specified by the manufacturer.
Many have a range of 20 to 30 miles, so you shouldn’t have any trouble on a ship that is 1,000 feet long.
You can also use your walkie talkies when you are both outside on different decks of the ship. As long as you are within the range specified by the manufacturer, your signal should be fine.
Are You Allowed to Use Walkie Talkies on a Cruise Ship?
You are allowed to use walkie talkies on a cruise ship. However, you need to make sure that you are using frequencies that are permitted.
One type of frequency range is called Family Radio Service, or FRS, and this type doesn’t require a license.
However, you need to know the rules for the countries you visit. When you are at a port, you could accidentally tap into the country’s public frequency if you are on the wrong channel. Make sure that you ask someone before you use them at a port.
Another type of frequency is GMRS, but this frequency requires a license to use. The staff on the cruise ship is likely using this type of walkie talkie.
Generally you are allowed to use walkie talkies on a cruise ship, but make sure that you understand the best channels and frequencies to use. You can read more about walkie talkie frequencies here.
Best Walkie Talkies for a Cruise Ship
When you are choosing the best walkie talkies to take with you on a cruise, there are certain factors to consider. First, they should be waterproof, and you need to make sure that they have privacy codes.
You should also consider walkie talkies that have a range of 30 miles because it will have the best signal and transmit through the structures in the ship. Take a look at two of the best walkie talkies to take with you.
This walkie talkie set is the perfect answer for communicating on a cruise ship. It is a two-way radio, and it is light and compact. It is easy to carry throughout the ship, and it has a lot of great features.
This walkie talkie has a range of up to 35 miles, and you get 22 FRS / GMRS channels. You also get 121 privacy codes.
In addition, it has a built-in flashlight that can help you get around if it is dark out. They are waterproof and durable, and they work well throughout the cruise ship.
These Midland walkie talkies are also a long range walkie talkie, and they are reliable. They are popular for cruises, but they also work well when you are hunting or camping. They have a range of up to 36 miles, along with 50 channels. They are waterproof as well.
You can use GMRS frequency, and it has an auto-scan feature that ensures that you always have the best signal. You can also use it in hands-free mode with the VOXX activation function. It is dependable, rugged, and a favorite among people who go on cruises.
Final Thoughts
You can use walkie talkies on cruise ships, but it is important to choose the right ones. Inexpensive walkie talkies may not transmit the signal well, so look for long-range walkie talkies with options for different channels and privacy.