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Roaming abroad can be a subject that automatically starts making you feel a bit panicky, often you have no idea how much it will cost and the chances are, your bill is going to be enormous. Luckily it doesn’t have to be this way and we’ve been catching up with the team at RoamingExpert to find out how they’ve been helping the yachting industry with their data fantastic packages.
These are the top issues that they’re hearing every day and they’ve got a solution for each one!
1. There’s no internet on-board
It’s very likely you are using the wrong SIM card. Usually, crew members tend to use the SIM once they have received it not knowing it hasn’t been activated – this is easily fixed by sending an email to your provider to activate your SIM card. Another issue is that sometimes Yachts will use the ‘spare’ SIM card rather than the active one. Be sure to check you have the right one in your router by checking the SIM number on the back.
2. Docked into a new country and we’ve suddenly lost our data coverage
This is a common issue that yachts tend to have a lot of the time, as they will have their router set to the Manual Network Selection Function. When you are changing destination frequently, make sure this is switched off otherwise your router will stay connected to the old network (that you just left) and you won’t be able to access any data. It is best to set your router to the Automatic Network Selection function to prevent any future issues.
3. My router is on the fritz
In the famous words of Ann Lamott, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes.” That goes for routers too. If you are struggling with a technical issue, turn it off and restart it – this usually fixes the problem. (Just make sure you get on the walkie-talkie first to warn the crew ahead of time if you want to remain friends with everybody.)
4. The Yacht is running out of data too quickly
Do you have a password on your router? If not, set that up right now, if you want to make sure that crew don’t use your guest’s data or vice versa. A password ensures that only certain people have access to the onboard data.
5. I can make calls but can’t get online
You could have the wrong APN settings set up. The Access Point Name (APN) refers to the network settings on your phone or router that allows your SIM to connect with your service provider. Usually, most handsets have a ‘default’ setting, however, if not and you can make calls but not access your data then call your mobile provider so they can guide you on fixing this issue.
6. I never have enough data
Thought your plan sounded great when you signed up? Think again… Streaming data, music, TV shows and movies uses at least 1GB of data per hour in standard definition (SD) or at least 3GB per hour for high definition (HD). If you know you are constantly going to stream Netflix or music then make sure you have a large data package in place to cover your monthly usage.
7. My phone bills are huge
When roaming abroad, it is crucial to choose a mobile/data tariff that will suit your needs, especially if you regularly call certain regions or are cruising between different destinations. If you regularly use WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to speak to others, be aware it will eat all of your data quite quickly (particularly if you call). Usually, when you go ‘out of zone’, you will most likely have lower or slower data coverage in addition to your higher standard calls charges. Make sure the plan you choose will cover you wherever you go… with the same level of service and speed.
With more than 15 years of industry experience within the telecoms market, RoamingExpert has built a flexible, affordable mobile roaming tariff that will make yacht crew smile. Learn more about how they can give you peace of mind and keep your costs low whilst sailing around the world via www.roamingexpert.yachts/crew-tariffs.
