I personally always buy the internet package on the ship I am sailing on. Yes it is expensive and sometimes is not great, (especially on trans Atlantic and trans Pacific cruises ) but I feel more comfortable using the private network versus the public networks you must use in port.
You can save money by pre-booking the internet package before getting on the ship. Also depending on your loyalty level you will also get a discount. On Princess as an elite or platinum level you get 50% off booking ahead and Holland there is nothing til 4 star mariner. However Holland has a decent package for a 14 day trip at 20% off for their premium internet. On RCCL, I got 25% off pre-booking the internet package but it has been the most expensive and honestly no better than the other cruise lines.
If you don't want to spend the money and will rely on using the in-port options of free wifi, do so with great caution. Never and I mean never use your mobile banking or make purchases while using free wifi even if these banking/retail sites say its safe, the hackers are so good now that you a high chance of being hacked and they try to do e-transfers and purchases on the credit card info you enter. Fortunately my bank prevented any issues by contacting me but don't take the risk. Just check emails, google maps etc. for safety.
Use the most legitimate wifi you can find ... i.e. when in port you will see the crew using the Port terminal free wifi put by the Tourism boards. Some tourists use the free wifi at restaurants or museums (as these are semi private as the places will give you a sign on password. Watch for any private wifi (i.e. a name and bunch of numbers) and don't use them.
Again I don't recommend using free wifi sites and even hate using it at the airport as I know they track everything you do, but sometimes to check flight status etc you just have to. Be vigilant if you are using free wifi.
Hope this helps
Marcia
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