SMART SHIPS
In response to pandemic concerns , cruise apps have become more user-friendly and feature-rich , allowing passengers as much or as little human interaction as they desire . Touchless payments and paperless receipts make it easier for passengers to remain as socially distant as they wish . Menus by QR code are becoming ubiquitous , while paper invitations , announcements and newsletters are being permanently replaced with digital communications . Onboard technology upgrades allow you to do everything from personalizing your cabin ’ s amenities to locating the kids without moving from your poolside position .
Princess Cruises Guests Can Use Ocean Medallion Wrist Bands to Book Dining and Activities
NAVIGATION & DIRECTIONS
Location intelligence is an innovation being utilized by in passengers in the form of phone apps and wearable technology devices . Cruise employees can manage the flow of people in high-traffic areas by deploying indoor positioning software with real-time information on lunch buffet lines , theater queues and fitness center crowds and send staff where they ’ re most urgently needed . Advanced mapping technology that powers MSC Cruises ’ Mobile for Me app and Princess Cruises ’ MedallionClass ® technology has a geo-location feature that pinpoints your position and provides turn-byturn directions to guide you through the ship .
Not only can guests track their luggage , but they can also easily navigate the ship from their staterooms to restaurants to the theatre with ease . Ordering food and beverages with geo-location means waitstaff can find passengers even as they move from spa loungers to top deck sunset viewing . The Princess MedallionClass app can even be used to locate a lost parent or child and open a stateroom door remotely .
WEARABLE TECH
Disney Resorts pioneered the smart wristband with its MagicBand product which is unique to the guest . It contains RF technology to allow you to touch to enter your Disney Resort hotel room and the Walt Disney World parks ( valid park admission required ) and make purchases at select locations .
MSC Cruises ’ “ MSC for Me ” wearable bracelet and Princess Cruises ’ Medallion ® wearable device are replacing the traditional key card to offer passengers a more convenient and customized onboard experience . Order a glass of champagne and the beacon technology on your wrist or in your pocket allows the staff to find and serve you wherever you are .
VIRTUAL CHECK-IN
Cruise ship embarkation is a logistical task ripe for technological improvements . With thousands of passengers converging during a narrow window of time , frictionless check-in is a welcome change . On Celebrity Edge , facial recognition is now being used to implement touchless embarkation . During the online check-in process , users upload a scan of their passport and a selfie to get boarding
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