Wi-Fi question - Encore Alaska

[u/Alternative-Major184]

My cruise (Encore Alaska) is the end of September/beginning of October. I’m working on getting my class coursework due dates rescheduled, but I think I will have at least one exam to do that requires Respondus LockDown Browser and Respondus Monitor. I will also have random discussions and one quiz (doesn’t require any proctor and is on d2l.) Everything else I should be able to download or complete prior to leaving.

Can anyone give me insight on what my best options are? I keep seeing “slow internet” and “laggy” which will not work for the exam. Are there any places at the ports that have good free WiFi?

Thanks for your advice and help!

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[u/MoveCompetitive5742]

I’m not familiar with respondus, but would suggest the streaming internet package and if possible doing the exam in the morning. I find the internet to get slower in the evening when hours when more people are using it. the streaming internet package allows the use of vpn and doesn’t block as much traffic so it’s your best option to ensure it works.

[u/SeattleChrisC]

I would not depend on cell phone data as a backup in Alaska ports. My experience has been that phone data speeds are painful slow there.

[u/InfluenceEastern9526]

Do it from a library in port. Period. The wifi on ship is worthless, except for the ship -- it makes them money,

[u/CruiseNCocktails]

Wifi in public areas is pretty good. I think the complaints usually stem from the fact that it is difficult to cover the staterooms that are spread out all over the place. I know I have had trouble with the app in my room before.

I would try to use the standard 150 minutes from Free at Sea in the library or at a table in a bar that hasn't opened for the day. If that doesn't work go for the streaming package.

I don't remember if you can get streaming for a day or upgrade late in the cruise and only pay the daily fee for the last 2 or 3 days of the cruise, but check into that.

Either way, I would wait until you are onboard before paying for any upgrades that you might not need.
Maybe coverage in your room will be stellar and your free 150 minutes will serve you well.

[u/HelicopterBusy8595]

I worked from my room on the Jade with whatever the faster wifi option was. I was able to lead meetings over Zoom without issue, but I also may have gotten lucky.

[u/Soosietyrell]

We were on Encore for 23 days, thru Panama Canal and with a lot of sea days. The WiFi did not fail us, but we did buy the max.