21 Things You Need to Know About Ocean Medallion

21 things you need to know about ocean medallion

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21 Things You Need to Know About Ocean Medallion

It’s been a few months since Princess Cruises has rolled out their innovative (and award-winning) Ocean Medallion program. They began with the Caribbean Princess, then moved onto the Regal Princess and Royal Princess. By 2020, according to Princess Cruises’ website, there will be a total of 11 Ocean Medallion ships in the fleet.

In this post, I’ll be letting you know how Ocean Medallion works, what are it’s main benefits and answer some of the questions that are commonly asked in Facebook groups and forums.

If you still have a question by the end of the post, please do me a favor and leave it as a comment. I’ll do my best to find that answer for you.

**Update – Princess has recently updated the MedallionClass app and I’ve updated the information below.

I’ve partnered with Princess Cruises and OceanMedallion to share information about the MedallionClass Experience and accessories with you.

Ocean medallion app to download

Everything you wanted to know about Ocean Medallion – from a cruiser’s perspective

Our Ocean Medallion story

embarkation day Ilana and Frank and Ethan
Embarkation Day on the Regal Princess

I happen to be a big fan of OceanMedallion. We were lucky enough to have cruised on the Regal Princess just a few months ago during it’s trial phase. Even at that, I was impressed with all it could do and bring to a cruiser’s vacation.

We found convenience, connection (love between-friends ship board messaging and MedallionNet), and an overall easier cruise travel experience.

You can read our review and about our Ocean Medallion experience HERE.

What is Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion?

According to Princess Cruises, “Ocean Medallion is a first-of-its-kind wearable device that elevates every moment before, during and after your Ocean Medallion Vacation. From on-demand food and drinks, interactive gaming, custom entertainment and smart navigation, Medallion makes cruising simpler, and more personal and enjoyable than ever.”

By now, you’ve probably heard at least a bit about Ocean Medallion, but perhaps need some more information to be clear on how it works.

In this post I will go over some basics as well as some specific practical benefits for you, the cruise traveler.

** I’ve added a BONUS TIP (#22) which you’ll LOVE!!!

1. What is the Ocean Medallion device and how is it worn?

Ocean medallion lanyards
Ocean Medallion Disks with lanyard

Princess passengers will receive the Ocean Medallion wearable disk, a little bigger than the size of a quarter. It will be be printed out with your name, ship and sail date, along with the Princess logo in the center. As well, it comes personalized with your Captain’s Circle level color.

It’s quite nice, and I’m imagining that for some it could become part of great souvenir collection. I even saw a suggestion by one Princess cruiser, that she’ll turn them into fridge magnets (why not?).

It can be worn on a lanyard, which will be provided to you free of charge when you check in to your cruise. There are also accessories that are available for purchase (see below).

If you are a US resident, the Ocean Medallion will be mailed to you a couple of weeks before your cruise. However, Canadians and passengers from other countries will have the Ocean Medallions available for pick up at the cruise port upon embarkation.

2. What does Ocean Medallion do?

Ocean Medallion is a new technology on Princess Cruise ships, and essentially replaces the cruise card, and does so much more. It’s pretty much made the whole ship “smart”!

Plus, although you can access many features on your smartphone, you don’t need to use your phone to benefit. You will still have an Ocean Medallion experience, with your wearable medallion and by using the portals on the ship.

21 Important Things to Know about Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion
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3. Getting Ocean Ready for your cruise

Once you’ve booked your cruise, you’ll need to fill in your mandatory immigration information (ie. passport info and check in information, etc.) on your Cruise Personalizer, just like we do for every cruise.

Now you can download  the MedallionClass app in the App store or on Google Play. It’s that easy.

You’ll be prompted to upload a photo of yourself and input other information and preferences. Not to worry if you prefer to have your photo taken once you’re at the cruise port.

Once you’ve completed the steps, you’ll be pretty much ready to board your ship, after a quick verification of your documents at the cruise port. Current passengers recount that this is a very quick process, so do this prior to your cruise if possible.

I could go into detail about how to do this, but this video from Princess is really good and has step by step instructions should you need them.

4. How much does Ocean Medallion cost?

If you’re booked on an Ocean Medallion class ship, Ocean Medallion is included and there is no additional charge to use it. The wearable medallion disk, which comes with a lanyard, and the majority of it’s features are part of the OceanMedallion cruise experience.

I believe there has been some confusion as the internet, known as MedallionNet, does have an additional charge. However, cruise passengers are not obliged to use any internet at all, so this is optional. I will detail MedallionNet further in this post.

Features and benefits of Ocean Medallion

Ocean Medallion Princess Cruise experience
OCEAN MEDALLION – Ocean Play, Ocean Compass, Ocean Concierge and more

There are several great things about Ocean Medallion, and some may be more appealing to you than others. That’s what I like about cruising, there’s something for everyone – and the Ocean Medallion is no exception.

5. Hands-free cabin door opening

This simple feature makes cruising so much more convenient. When you arrive at your cabin, there will be a panel on the side of your door that “recognizes” you as you approach. Your photo will come up, so download a good one!

Your door will unlock for you, so no more fumbling for cruise cards. I often have a coffee in hand, so I love this!

6. Ocean Compass

There are portals around the ship that can help you to orient yourself, where you are, and where you want to go. You can also have this feature on your smart phone.

There’s even a little “GPS-like” component where you’ll see a path from where you are, to where you want to go on the cruise ship. You seriously could never get lost, even on a big ship!

These features are my personal favorites:

7. Messenger service between guests

As part of Ocean Compass, guests can message each other throughout the cruise on the ship’s wi-fi (not Internet). I’ve loved this since we used it a couple of years ago, as Princess@Sea, on a amazing multi-generational cruise we did with family and friends. It’s super handy, and it’s free.

Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion Questions Answered
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8. Find your shipmates

On big cruise-ships, can’t we all use this? Simply search on your phone or on the ship’s portals, for your shipmates (ie. friends and family).

So many people can get excited about this. I have a teen, and I like to know where he is. You can read about our little adventure during our last cruise, and how Find My Shipmates saved me, lol.

Hello Ocean Medallion!! A Cruiser’s Perspective on the Best New Tech at Sea

However, this is great for seniors traveling, those traveling with someone who is vulnerable, or just about anyone who sometimes wonders where their spouse disappeared to.

Funny Story

I have a very good friend who says she always “loses” her husband when cruising. He loves to chat with people and she says he can be gone for much longer than he intends.

An hour at the gym?!? No way. She says he gets so side-tracked after that she needs to search to find him a couple of hours later. She is thrilled to be have this feature!! I’m not sure he is ;-).

9. Ocean concierge

Ocean concierge is where you can see events and activities either on your phone or portal, look at the dining room menus and check your ship board account.

10. Ocean Now – more personal interactions with staff and personalized bar service

The medallion actually lets the crew know who you are, as well as where you are. So, when you order a drink and go sit down by the pool or in the theater, they can find you easily.

When you leave your cabin to go for breakfast or dinner, your cabin attendant can know that it’s a good time to enter to clean the cabin. You’ll likely find that the crew members will call you by name as well.

Something that wasn’t yet available during our cruise, but I know I would have loved, is the ability to order drinks right from your phone. I’m imagining what a pleasure it must be to order a drink while sitting in a lounge or by the pool, without having to get up to go to the bar and wait in a line.

ocean medallion FAQ
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11. Interactive games – Play Ocean

There are several large-screen game portals around the ship where people can play games. These games are also available on ipads and phones. During our cruise, we saw many kids and families enjoying these on the large portals.

Something kind of cute is that you can design and create your own Tagalong avatar on the app. You can choose from a seahorse, turtle or angelfish and customize it’s colors and pattern. Each time you pass certain portals, your Tagalong will come out to play.

12. Original travel shows – OceanView

There is some interesting programming available to watch in your cabin as well as on your ipad or phone. This includes Ocean Treks with Jeff Corwin.

13. Casino games (outside of the casino)

If you like to play Casino Games, wherever you feel like, you will probably enjoy Ocean Casino. You can play a variety of games right on your device, from just about anywhere on the ship.

I’ll be the first one to tell you, that I wished I enjoyed the casino, but it’s just not my thing. However, we met other passengers who loved it!

14. What is Princess Cruises MedallionNet?

Medallion Net Life Well Cruised
Hey, that’s me! Check out what I had to say in my Ocean Medallion review.

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you know how expensive and slow cruise ship internet usually is. However, the Ocean Medallion technology has brought with it the Best Internet at Sea (that I’ve ever seen).

If you’re not an internet user while on a cruise, there is no need to change and no pressure to buy any internet package. The Ocean Medallion will work for you without internet.

However, I know there are times people could really use the connection and internet makes their life easier, even on a cruise. The great thing about MedallionNet is that it’s fast, it’s everywhere (even in your cabin), and it’s affordable!

Fun fact – There’s MedallionNet on Princess Cays, Princess Cruise Private Island. How cool is that? 

ocean medallion

15. How much does Medallion Net cost?

When we cruised, the price was $10 per day for unlimited internet (which was a 50% discount) but you did need to buy it the first day. The price was $129 for 4 devices for a 7 day cruise, so excellent value for a family of 4 in one cabin.

Price out internet packages on other cruise ships and cruise lines, and you’ll know that this is a good deal!

Cruise Tip: Purchase the internet package online before your cruise or on the first day of your cruise for a discounted rate. Prices may vary and change, so please check your cruise booking for current pricing.

How does this affect Captain’s Circle internet minute benefits?

Platinum and Elite Captain Circle members can use their allotted internet minutes, or can have a discount applied should they buy the unlimited MedallionNet. In my opinion, this is very worth it, but do check for yourself.

16. What if I don’t want to use my phone on my cruise?

If you’re someone who really likes to get away from it all when cruising, I hear you.

There’s no need to use a smartphone and you can keep it locked in your cabin safe all week if you like. Cruise ship portals are available and all the Ocean Medallion disk “functions” work.

17. Help with Ocean Medallion and the Medallion Class App

Something to note is that when we boarded our ship, and into the next days, there were staff at both an Ocean Medallion kiosque and around the ship to assist guests with everything Ocean Medallion related.

So, if you need help with knowing what to do or something isn’t working right, don’t be shy. Just ask at the Ocean Medallion desk or at Guest Relations (who were super helpful when we ran into an Internet snag, so I speak from experience).

18. How do I pay for purchases, if I don’t have a cruise card?

Your Medallion disk functions the same way as your cruise card, so you will just tap your medallion to pay for purchases throughout the ship.

19. Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion accessories

Ocean Medallion Wristbands
Super cute Ocean Medallion disks and wristbands!

When we cruised on the Regal Princess over Christmas and New Year’s, the Ocean Medallion accessories weren’t available for purchase yet. There was nothing wrong with the lanyard, and being honest, it was surprisingly convenient. But, I LOVE the gold necklaces and bracelets! They just seem to dress up an outfit ;-)!

You can now purchase wristbands in a variety of colors, clips, necklaces and bracelets. OM accessories are available online for pre-purchase, as well as upon boarding your cruise.

See the photo above for a close up view of the wristbands, which I’ve tried out and think are fabulous. They’re very comfortable, fit well and are available in different colors. Super cute!

Now I just have to book a cruise to wear them ;-)!

*Update – we’re heading on the Crown Princess in January 2020. Here more about our upcoming cruise and updated info in this YouTube Video all about Ocean Medallion

20. Can I opt out of the Ocean Medallion?

Princess Cruises says that you can opt out of all but the basic functions of the medallion, and it can be put on a safety mode. It does serve as your room key so it is necessary that you carry it.

However, I encourage you to give it a try for at least a couple of days. Remember that you never have to use your phone, and portals can give you any information you may need.

21. What cruise ships have Ocean Medallion?

As of now, Princess Medallion Class ships include; Caribbean Princess, Crown Princess, Regal Princess and Royal Princess. More are coming soon!

For a complete list of future Medallion Class cruise ships, please visit the Princess Cruises website.

22. BONUS TIP – How to Get a Free Drink with the Medallion App

I’ve recently added this information, as we became aware of a nice little on onboard extra, as an incentive to use the Medallion Class App.

It’s very simple. When you order your drink from the Medallion App on your phone, you’ll see that you will get one FREE drink (up to $12). 

Don’t forget to save this (on your favorite Pinterest board) and feel free to pass this on to other Pricess Cruisers.

21 Things to Know about Ocean Medallion
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Recommended – Are you going on your first Princess Cruise? Then check out this post: Princess Cruises: 15 Best Tips for First Timers

Recap:21 Things You Need to Know about Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion

These are the most Frequently Asked Questions asked by cruisers about Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion and Medallion Class ships. I hope that this post has been helpful, and given you a better understanding of the OceanMedallion features.

In my Facebook community, I asked Princess passengers, who’ve recently cruised on the Caribbean Princess, Royal or Regal Princess, and other Medallion class ships for their thoughts. Overwhelmingly, their cruise experience with Ocean Medallion has been positive.

If you are having any difficulty with setting up before you go, don’t hesitate to call your travel agent or Princess Cruises for some assistance.

Have you cruised on a Medallion Class ship? Are you booked on an upcoming cruise? Let me know your thoughts and what you liked best! If you have any questions, please let me know and I will do my best to find out the answers.

Happy Cruising!

Ilana xoxo

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Popular posts to help get ready for your cruise:

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62 Comments

  1. Jim Forrester
    June 24, 2019 / 8:52 pm

    Since I can’t download the app (they don’t have it for my smart phone), how do I get the picture and documents in. At check in?

    • July 1, 2019 / 2:46 pm

      Hi Jim,

      You can always take a photo at check in, so don’t worry if you haven’t done everything before check in. However, I suggest you call Princess Cruises with specific questions for your booking, as I always want you to have the most current and best information for your own circumstance. 1-800-774-6277

      Have a wonderful cruise!

      Ilana

  2. Judy
    October 3, 2019 / 1:04 am

    Everything I read focuses on the benefits as a selling point, but however isn’t this a bit too much big brother for anyone else? Maybe some people do not want their data tracked by a company or even friends and family to know exactly where they are at every moment. Also I have been on cruises where my older children have had their own cabin, but it may not be unlikely that I give them my cabin key to borrow something from my cabin. Since they no longer are using a keycard this seems like it could be an inconvenience. The only true benefit I’m seeing is the onboard messaging, and most of the other features have been positioned as benefits but the real value is for the company in collecting tracking data.

    • October 3, 2019 / 11:16 pm

      Hi Judy,

      I can understand your point of view. My understanding is that you can have all but the basic functions turned off. It doesn’t bother me personally (tracking data) and I think there are benefits to it, but I can see how it’s not for everyone.

      In regards to the cabin, perhaps see with guest services how it might work for you all to access each other’s cabins.

      If you end up going on a Princess Cruise and experiencing the Medallion, please let me know how it goes.

      Thanks for taking the time to comment!

      Ilana

  3. Alan
    October 4, 2019 / 12:41 pm

    What about getting off the ship? Won’t they still need something with your name, ship etc to get by local authorites?

    • October 11, 2019 / 3:21 am

      Yes they most likely will. Many cruise ports ask you to bring your government ID ashore. Otherwise the Ocean Medallion has all your info in it, just like the cruise cards.

      The cruise ship will give the information as to what you need to bring ashore.

      If you go, please let me know how it is :-).

      Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment,

      Ilana

  4. Rick
    October 12, 2019 / 11:35 pm

    Got half way threw loading all information the app say cannot detect internet my internet is working fine

    • October 13, 2019 / 2:15 am

      Hi Rick,

      I see from a variety of posts in Facebook groups that others are having the same issue today. It seems there may must be a problem/glitch today (someone reported that the system will be back up Monday).

      I would suggest trying Monday and if it’s not working calling Princess or your travel agent.

      Hope that helps.

      Ilana

  5. Jane Kurzeka
    October 22, 2019 / 9:45 pm

    Your post is much more informative than the Princess website.
    I cannot find where to find accesseries to buy, namely wrist bands & bracelets, on their website, I even asked our princess Cruise person, Becky, & she did not know.
    I want to buy them for Christmas presents prior to our Sky Princess cruise the end of February.

    • October 24, 2019 / 1:38 am

      Hi Jane,

      I’m glad the post was helpful to you. My understanding is that once you log into the new Medallion App, that you will be able to order online. I’m truthfully not sure if you need to be a certain amount of days away from your sailing.

      I have not yet tried it myself, but hopefully will soon and then I’ll be able to give a better answer.

      As a suggestion, perhaps try asking recent cruisers in one of the Princess Passenger Facebbok Groups. Princess Passengers Forum and Princess Cruise Lovers are 2 I know are very helpful.

      I love your idea for Christmas presents by the way!!

      Ilana

  6. Elizabeth Anderson
    October 26, 2019 / 8:11 pm

    As of today (10/25/2019), I still cannot complete the final step of the Medallion app — adding my address so that the Medallion can be shipped to me. The app tells me that Ocean Net cannot access my information. If Princess cannot fix this glitch before we sail, will we still get the Medallion at embarkation?

    • October 27, 2019 / 4:20 am

      Hi Elizabeth,

      I don’t think you’ll have a problem picking up the medallions at the cruise port if they they aren’t sent to you (I’m Canadian and this is the process for us so don’t worry). However, it’s best to call Princess directly about your specific booking. I’ve done this myself if I have even a small issue with online check in and they can usually help right over the phone.

      Hope all goes well and that you have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  7. Susan
    November 3, 2019 / 12:55 am

    Hi
    This is a very important question for people with pacemakers. I have heard that the medallion has a magnet in it and should be kept at least 6 inches away from a person’s pacemaker. Any information would be very helpful

    • November 3, 2019 / 4:28 am

      Hi Susan,

      I agree that this is important info. My understanding is that when you receive the medallions, there will be a notice that should you have a pacemaker, it should be kept at least 6 inches away.

      People who have cruised with the Medallion, who have a pacemaker have said they have kept the medallion in their pocket, clipped near their pocket, or have worn the sportsband.

      I suggest that if you call Princess if you have concerns about your specific situation.

      Have a great cruise and please let me know how how it functions with your pacemaker as others will surely be interested.

      Ilana

  8. Karen Clements
    November 3, 2019 / 2:06 am

    Hi! We are sailing on two separate ships (a sort of Back to Back but will need to walk from Regal to Sky). MedallionClass app has us listed as one long cruise. Thinking we cannot use the same device on two cruises, but I can’t set up the second cruise. May need to call them. Any thoughts?

    • November 3, 2019 / 4:34 am

      Hi Karen,

      I do think you should call Princess.

      I’ve heard of having the same for a B2B on the same ship (we did), but would not have thought this would be the case for different ships.

      They can actually help you over the phone with the info and online check in, so please give the a quick call and I’m sure it will all get sorted.

      Have a great cruise – they do sound awesome!

      Ilana

  9. Lisa
    November 7, 2019 / 12:54 am

    We are going on the SKY Princess in 2 week. We are super excited about the Medallion and possibilities. Since it is the first cruise ship to be fully integrated and not a refit.

    • November 7, 2019 / 1:06 am

      Oh Wow! Very true – this ship is built as Medallion Class. I’d love to hear how it works and what you think. If you have a chance, please let me know when you get back.

      So exciting to the cruising on the Sky!

      Have a great cruise Lisa!

      Ilana

  10. Anthony Summers
    November 26, 2019 / 7:36 am

    I will soon be boarding the princess Caribbean I wish to know when and how I can get Ocean Now.
    Thank yoy

    • November 26, 2019 / 3:10 pm

      Hi Anthony,

      You can now simply download the MedallionClass App. I suggest for your specific questions for your booking, to call Princess or your travel agent. They will know exactly when you’re sailing and can give you accurate information while accessing your booking.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  11. Shawn
    January 9, 2020 / 12:14 pm

    Hello!! This is wonderful information, we are cruising on the Regal Princes in 10 days. We are super excited. I am wondering if we should purchase the internet package or if it’s smart just to utilize the free wifi onboard? Also, are there any “must do’s” on the ship or our cruise that you would suggest? We don’t want to miss out on anything.we are going to Cays, St. Maarten, St. Thomas. Would love to get any suggestions. Thank you!!

    • February 12, 2020 / 4:19 am

      Hi Shawn,

      I find the internet package so reasonable, that I think it’s worth it. However I think it depends on if you need internet or enjoy it when on a cruise.

      What a great itinerary! We loved Megan’s Bay in St. Thomas personally and in St. Maarteen the famous Maho beach (airplanes) is something to experience. For a calmer atmosphere you may enjoy the French side of the island, at Orient Beach. Princess Cays is a lovely beach day with a BBQ lunch.

      Enjoy!

      Ilana

  12. Deb Blaubach
    February 2, 2020 / 8:16 pm

    Hi. We will be cruising the end of February. I downloaded the app,and was setting up all the required information, but didn’t complete it all. What concerns me is the need to take a picture of or scan my passport. This information will be forever in the “cloud”. Has anyone ever questioned this before? This just makes me feel uncomfortable. Maybe I have this all wrong and am worrying for nothing. Thanks for any information that would alleviate my fears.

    • February 6, 2020 / 9:35 pm

      Hi Deb,

      Thanks so much for your comments and question. I had heard that information was secure, however not knowing the details, I reached out to Princess Cruises for clarification.

      I received this information from the MedallionClass Support Team:

      The protection and security of guest data is a critical priority for Princess Cruises.

      Passport data is stored in a separate Travel Documents system which is tokenized and can only be retrieved based on an approved identity token.
      *A guest can retrieve travel docs for themselves
      *A guest can retrieve travel docs for their companions (part of the same booking)
      *An authorized crew member can access

      I hope this helps alleviate your worries.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  13. Shari
    February 5, 2020 / 6:06 pm

    My college aged kids and I are sailing on a cruise in March. They have their passports with them at college. Can/Should we each separately download and add our information on the MedallionClass app since I can’t access their passports or get a security pic. Or should I just wait until I see them the day before the cruise and enter their info?

    • February 6, 2020 / 9:40 pm

      Hi Shari,

      Since you’ll want to do your online check in before your cruise, as a suggestion, perhaps have your kids to send you a photo of their passports with info so you can complete the online check in and print out the boarding passes?

      For specific information pertaining to your booking, please call Princess Cruises directly or your travel agent, as circumstances may differ.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  14. Eleanor
    February 11, 2020 / 7:41 pm

    My main issue is that there is a problem with the app and there is no contact phone number to speak with IT directly. We have to wait for a callback. What if it’s not a convenient time or place or during work hours. This is not acceptable and Princess needs to have a direct line to Tech Support. If you do have it, please provide.

    • February 12, 2020 / 3:59 am

      Hi Eleanor,

      I understand your frustration, however your issue would be best directed to Princess Cruises directly. This is a cruise travel blog and not affiliated with Princess.

      Best,

      Ilana

  15. David
    February 16, 2020 / 9:26 am

    We do not own any mobile device to access the medallion APP. Wiil the check in procedure at terminal be the same as it was pre medallion.
    When we disembark at completion of cruise is the medallion disabled.
    Thank you for any information you can offer.

    • February 16, 2020 / 3:26 pm

      Hi David,

      You don’t need a smart phone to use most features of Ocean Medallion once on the ship, so not to worry. That said, do make sure that you complete your online check in, as you would for any Princess Cruise. Yes, the medallion is disabled once you leave the ship, and becomes a bit of a souvenir ;-).

      I hope that helps, however for specific information pertaining to your reservation please call Princess or your travel agent.

      Have a wonderful cruise!

      Ilana

  16. Anne
    February 22, 2020 / 6:40 pm

    Is the price for the medallion accessories the same on board as it is if you pre order. The Sport band is $10 on line but I seem to be between sizes and would prefer to try it on but not if it costs more on the ship. I’m Canadian so I don’t worry about shipping charges as they won’t ship to Canada anyway.

    • February 24, 2020 / 2:06 am

      I believe the price is the same on the ship. I have heard that if you order online, and replace the lanyard with the band, you save a couple dollars. Since you’re waiting till you get to the ship anyway, you may as well choose your colour and size.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  17. DENNIS William STARR-NOLAN
    December 14, 2020 / 2:09 am

    PROBLEM WITH OCEAN READY States Could not start Ocean Ready . All i want to do is Order 2 Medallion class wrist bands . Cruise no . Brisbane to New Zealand . Been trying now for 3 weeks!!

    • December 16, 2020 / 1:55 am

      Hi Dennis William,

      Please contact Princess directly at the toll free number on their website. This is an independent website (blog) not affiliated with Princess. I removed your booking number so not to reveal private information. In some cases, you may want to wait to buy the wristbands once onboard.

      Best of luck,

      Ilana, Life Well Cruised

  18. Sharon White
    March 31, 2021 / 9:17 am

    Can both passengers in a cabin have the app with their details or does it have to be set up with the lead passengers info on both phones? Thanks

    • April 1, 2021 / 2:59 am

      That’s a good question Sharon. I believe that each passenger would have their own details and information. In my case, I completed the check in process for the passengers in my cabin (family) but did input the info for each. Once onboard each passenger has their own medallion (and info).

  19. Jo Ann
    May 3, 2021 / 12:45 am

    Ilana,
    Awesome information. Just curious if you have any more information regarding ordering food and drinks to your cabin with the medallion. I know previously if you ordered food you would be charged a service tip. As well, you could not order drinks from the bar to your room. With medallion, can we now order food without the tip addition and drinks from the bar?
    Thanks!

    • May 4, 2021 / 5:18 pm

      Hi Jo Ann,

      My understanding of the new features & services of Ocean Medallion is that you can order food and drinks to anywhere on the ship. A tip is always optional for room service, so I think this would still be the case. Once Princess starts sailing again (coming soon), we’ll see how things actually work for people onboard. I’ll be watching and updating as I know more.

      Ilana

    • Jeanne Harper
      June 8, 2021 / 7:27 pm

      There will be the usual tip for drinks but no charge for bringing to you according to Princess website.

      • June 9, 2021 / 3:22 pm

        Awesome, thanks for pointing this out and sharing.

        Ilana

  20. Jocelyne Lefebvre
    May 14, 2021 / 1:09 pm

    I cannot seem to complete the MedallionClass App (MedallionPay). Is it because I am more than 6 months before the cruise?

    • May 16, 2021 / 1:33 pm

      Hi Jocelyne,

      That’s a good question. I’ve seen others comment as well about this. The best thing is to call Princess for your specific booking for assistance.

      Ilana

  21. June 8, 2021 / 7:24 pm

    Thank you for your information. I was wondering, in the video you hold up the medallion in a plastic case with the lanyard. Do you take it out for you to use with another accessory or is there a different one for those. Can you use your own silver or gold necklace with them?

    • June 9, 2021 / 3:21 pm

      Hi Jeanne,

      The plastic clip is it’s own accessory, so yes you can take it out and put it into the wristband or the necklace holder. I don’t think you could use your own necklace, unless you adapt it somehow. Perhaps there are some tips and tricks I’m not aware of though 🙂

      Ilana

  22. July 2, 2021 / 3:48 am

    Hello Ilana,

    We have some questions regarding the new Medallion device, after reading your article and would like some clarification regarding the actual Medallion itself.

    1.) Is there a charge for the actual Medallion device, or is it free-of charge?;

    2.) Are you obligated to purchase daily Wi-Fi for the device to operate, other than to open your room?

    Today, 01 July 2021, we received an email from Princess advising the cruise line is doing-away with the free internet minutes, to be replaced with a per-diem charge for use.

    Can you clarify what Princess is doing? Whilst we understand cruise lines have lost revenue due to Covid, it seems the charges are a slap in the face to long-time cruisers, as we are, as our cruises were booked in March 2021.

    My wife contacted Princess today to see if they would honour the previously agreed-upon free internet minutes we booked. After a nearly one- and- a half (1 1/2) hours conversation, first with a Customer Service Representative, and finally speaking to a Supervisor, Princess would not honour their prior internet offer, nor did the Supervisor offer any other on-board compensation as a ‘Thank you’ for our loyalty over the years!

    • July 6, 2021 / 3:02 pm

      Hi Simon and Marianne,

      The medallion is free of charge and you do not need to purchase the internet plan for it to work.

      In my latest YouTube video I went over some of the updates, including the changes to Captain’s Circle benefits. They added some new benefits & discounts as they changed the former free minutes.

      Best to you,

      Ilana

  23. Elaine
    July 5, 2021 / 10:11 pm

    I have a medallion from a cruise that was cancelled. Can I use it, or do I need to order a new one?

    • July 6, 2021 / 2:52 pm

      Hi Elaine,

      My understanding is that you will get a new one for your new cruise. Best to call Princess or your TA for your specific booking questions.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  24. Kathryn
    July 8, 2021 / 8:06 pm

    My partner and I are trying to download the Medallion app to his phone; this appears to be the only way to get the cruise contract, travel info, etc., that was previously done by computer. BUT his phone won’t work – every time he tries to push a back button it freezes up. He has to turn his phone off and turn it back on again. Terribly inefficient and frustrating. Isn’t there some alternative to using the Medallion app to check in and get ready for the cruise? Paper always worked before!!! He’s almost to the point of refusing to go with me because this is so difficult. I can’t find an alternative means to get ready for the cruise. We’re sailing 8/22/21.

    • July 19, 2021 / 2:03 pm

      Hi Kathryn,

      I hope this has worked out for you now. Please call Princess as I know they’ll be helpful.

      Enjoy your cruise!

      Ilana

  25. Nanette Cox
    July 28, 2021 / 5:48 pm

    I had to cancel a cruise and rebook another. I have my new booking number so that is set. I had already filled all the info on the app for the cancelled cruise. However how do I change my cancelled cruise date to my new booking on the app? It still shows the cancelled cruise data?

    • July 29, 2021 / 12:35 am

      Hi Nanette,

      For questions specific to your booking it’s best to contact Princess directly. Your new booking should appear, however it does not, just give them a call and they’ll be happy to help.

      Enjoy your cruise,

      Ilana

  26. DEH
    August 2, 2021 / 12:54 pm

    Can you provide the exact dimensions of a medallion? Or a close up photo with a ruler/tape measure?

    Diameter, thickness. Diameter of center logo?

    I want to make custom accessories for mine before we sail and cannot have it mailed to me in advance.

    • August 13, 2021 / 12:45 am

      This is a good question for any recent Princess cruisers – perhaps in a facebook group or on cruise critic? I wouldn’t want to measure one from 2 years ago and not be accurate.

      Good luck with it,

      Ilana

  27. Roy
    August 15, 2021 / 2:12 pm

    Where on the medallion site will I find my cabin number?

    • August 18, 2021 / 7:02 pm

      Hi Roy,

      On your reservation you should see your cabin number, and it will be on your cruise personalizer as well. Please contact your travel agent or Princess for questions specific to your booking and they’ll be happy to help.

      Ilana

  28. October 6, 2021 / 5:30 pm

    Are these “throw away” items after my cruise or do I have to re-order new medallion for every new cruise?

    • October 8, 2021 / 3:19 pm

      Hi Paul

      While you don’t need to throw them away, Princess will give you a new Medallion in a similar way to the old cruise cards.

      Ilana

  29. Pam Prunier
    October 21, 2021 / 9:14 pm

    When can you pick your dining times now? I’m under the understanding you can through the medallion app, but how long in advance?

    • October 24, 2021 / 2:38 pm

      Yes, you can on Dine my Way.For most passengers you can do this after final payment. Elite and platinum I believe can do this once booked.

      Have a great cruise!

      Ilana

  30. James Hamilton
    January 16, 2022 / 8:14 pm

    And here we are in January 2022 and the system still doesn’t work, indeed has got worse because Princess have switched everything to the Medallion App, so you have to have a smart phone, and a NEWISH smart phone to cruise.

    Result, can’t cruise without checking in, can’t check in without app, can’t load app, can’t cruise with Princess.

    • January 19, 2022 / 6:06 pm

      Hi James,

      I know the Medallion app can have some glitches for some. I myself had a few snags as I did my online checkin on the app. What In did, that helped, was delete the app and start again. I know it’s not ideal, but I did the the app improve over a few months, and once onboard it was quite good and convenient.

      If you continue to have issues, reach out to Princess so that they can assist you.

      I hope things work out and that you enjoy your cruise,

      Ilana

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