The cheapest and most popular way to stay in touch while on a cruise, is via the Internet. But the two things you need to look into if this is your choice, are availability and costs.

Most ships have Internet cafes, and the majority will also offer computer connection in your staterooms if you want to bring along a laptop. A few ships even have laptops for rent at a fairly reasonable per day price. Some luxury suites provide standard computers as one of the amenities.

Remember though, that you’ll be working off a satellite signal and not high speed. Your connection may be 128k, which could mean long waits to get into your email, and send multiple messages. You’ll also have to pay per minute charges, which can pile up faster than you realize. Depending on where your ship is, and even the weather, the satellite signal may not be cooperative, but the clock is still ticking on your usage. Some rates can go as high as $1 a minute, while packages can cut that to .50, but over a seven day cruise, your bill can be higher than it needs to be.

If you can wait to pick up and send mail or photos, try using facilities while you’re in port. You’ll find Internet cafes in almost every town and city, many with high-speed connection at very cheap prices. So if “connecting” is important to you, check the availability and rates when you book, visit the cruise lines website, and confirm the service with your steward, once you are onboard.