7 Best Walkie Talkies for Cruise Travel Reviewed in 2025

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a cruise, but I remember my first time getting separated from my family onboard. With spotty Wi-Fi, expensive data roaming, and cell service disappearing at sea, finding each other became a real challenge. That’s when I realized the incredible value of a good set of walkie talkies for cruise travel. They’re a simple, reliable, and cost-effective solution to stay connected with your group, whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring a port, or navigating the ship’s many decks. After trying out several models and researching extensively, I’ve put together this guide to help you find the best walkie talkies for cruise travel that will make your next voyage stress-free. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into seven top contenders, highlighting their features, real-world performance, and who they’re best suited for.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio Long Range Rechargeable,Portable…	View on Amazon
	Walkie Talkies, NXGKET Walkie Talkies for Adults – 2 Pack…	View on Amazon
	Topsung 2 Way Radios for Adults Long Range Walkie Talkies…	View on Amazon
	Walkie Talkies Long Range for Adults Copy Frequency Baofeng…	View on Amazon
	Walkie Talkies Long Range For Adults,Rechargeable 22 FRS…	View on Amazon
	Walkie Talkies Long Range for Adults baofeng Radio Walkie…	View on Amazon
	Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range,Kartal Rechargeable…	View on Amazon

Retevis RT22 Two Way Radio Long Range Rechargeable,Portable

When you’re looking for simplicity and safety, especially for families with younger cruisers, the Retevis RT22 is a strong contender. Its compact and lightweight design means it slips easily into a pocket or clips onto a belt without being cumbersome. What truly sets it apart is its thumb-length, blunted antenna, designed with safety in mind—a huge plus if kids are using them. This little powerhouse offers clear communication, enhanced by a built-in 300 mW speaker and squelch function, ensuring you hear every word over the ship’s ambient noise. The convenience of a USB-C charging port is fantastic; you can power it up practically anywhere, and it provides about 10 hours of use, perfect for a day’s adventures. Being license-free and compatible with other FRS 16-channel radios, it’s incredibly easy for anyone to pick up and use right out of the box.

• Key Features:

  • Blunted, thumb-length antenna for enhanced safety.
  • Compact and lightweight design, easily fits in pocket or clips to belt.
  • USB-C charging port, providing approximately 10 hours of battery life.
  • Built-in 300 mW speaker with squelch function for clear audio.
  • Good compatibility with all FRS 16-channel Retevis radios.
  • License-free and easy to use.
  • FCC ID: 2AAR8RT22.
  • Separate clip design.

• Pros:

  • Very compact and lightweight, ideal for portability.
  • Safer blunted antenna design for all users, especially children.
  • USB-C charging is highly convenient.
  • Clear and loud audio for ship environments.
  • Completely license-free and user-friendly.

• Cons:

  • Battery life (10 hours) might be shorter than some heavy-use travelers prefer.
  • Range is optimized for close-to-medium distances, not extreme long-range.

• Best for: Families with young children, casual cruise-goers prioritizing simplicity, safety, and pocket-friendly size.

User feedback summary: Users frequently praise the Retevis RT22 for its incredible ease of use and its compact, unintrusive design. Many highlighted the clear sound and convenient USB-C charging, making it a reliable choice for keeping track of family members on a cruise ship.

Walkie Talkies, NXGKET Walkie Talkies for Adults – 2 Pack

The NXGKET walkie talkies are designed for those who need a bit more range and reliability without sacrificing ease of use. These radios boast a claimed range of 1.5 to 3 miles in normal conditions, extending up to 5 miles in ideal, unobstructed environments, which is quite impressive for a cruise ship’s open decks or port excursions. I really appreciate the built-in 1500mAh rechargeable lithium battery, which eliminates the hassle and cost of constantly buying disposable batteries. A full 4-hour charge offers an impressive 3–4 days of standby time, ensuring you’re connected throughout your trip. These walkie talkies come packed with useful features like volume control, auto squelch, channel scanning, and a low battery alert, making them highly adaptable. The custom-designed antenna and upgraded speaker deliver up to 150% better sound quality, crucial for clear communication amidst a bustling ship.

• Key Features:

  • Long-range capabilities: 1.5-3 miles typical, up to 5 miles ideal.
  • Built-in 1500mAh rechargeable lithium battery with 3-4 days standby time.
  • Multi-features: volume control, auto squelch, memory function, channel scanning, low battery alert, drop protection.
  • Custom-designed antenna and upgraded speaker for 150% better sound quality.
  • Versatile for various indoor and outdoor uses, including cruises.

• Pros:

  • Good claimed range for varied cruise environments.
  • Excellent battery life on a single charge.
  • Rechargeable battery is eco-friendly and cost-effective.
  • Enhanced sound quality for clearer communication.
  • Loaded with practical features for convenience.

• Cons:

  • Max range is highly dependent on terrain and obstructions, which are common on a ship.
  • Some users might find the features list slightly overwhelming initially.

• Best for: Travelers seeking reliable mid-to-long range communication, those who appreciate a long-lasting rechargeable battery, and versatile use on and off the ship.

User feedback summary: Many users commend the NXGKET walkie talkies for their strong battery life and the clarity of communication, especially when moving between decks or exploring port cities. They often highlight the convenience of not needing disposable batteries.

Topsung 2 Way Radios for Adults Long Range Walkie Talkies

For the cruiser who demands the absolute best in battery life and advanced features, the Topsung 2 Way Radios are a standout choice. These radios truly embody a commitment to quality with their Proudly American Tech & Design. What impressed me most is the massive 4500mAh rechargeable battery paired with turbo charging tech, delivering an incredible 48-72 hours of standby time from a mere 3-5 hour charge. This means you can go days without worrying about recharging, a significant advantage on extended cruises. Beyond the power, they offer Smart control system (Auto squelch, Auto memory, Auto scan), iVOX hands-free communication, and robust drop-protection. The spiral copper ion antenna and nano-scale Silicon-based CPU contribute to exceptionally clear and smooth voice transmissions, making sure every message is loud and clear. Plus, with NOAA Weather Alerts, you get an extra layer of safety, even when cell service is gone. These are license-exempt and come with a full kit of accessories.

• Key Features:

  • Proudly American Tech & Design with advanced smart control system.
  • iVOX hands-free communication for convenience.
  • Drop-protection design.
  • 22 FRS channels with 142 privacy codes.
  • NOAA Weather Service for alerts.
  • Massive 4500mAh rechargeable battery with turbo charging (48-72 hours standby).
  • USB fast charging compatible with car, laptop, power bank.
  • Advanced hardware for long range and clear voice transmissions.
  • License-exempt and excellent compatibility.
  • Complete accessories package included.
  • FCC ID: 2ACVFK-12.

• Pros:

  • Unmatched battery life and fast charging capability.
  • Advanced features like iVOX and NOAA for safety and convenience.
  • Superior voice clarity and long-range performance.
  • Robust build quality with drop-protection.
  • License-exempt and very flexible with privacy codes.

• Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to simpler models.
  • The extensive feature set might have a slight learning curve for some.

• Best for: Tech-savvy travelers, large groups or families on longer cruises, users who prioritize maximum battery life, clear communication, and advanced safety features like NOAA alerts.

User feedback summary: User feedback summary: These radios receive high praise for their phenomenal battery life, often exceeding user expectations. Cruisers particularly appreciate the crystal-clear audio and the hands-free iVOX feature, making it easy to communicate while carrying bags or holding a drink.

Walkie Talkies Long Range for Adults Copy Frequency Baofeng

The Baofeng Walkie Talkies offer a compelling mix of features and affordability, making them a popular choice for many. This model stands out with its multifunctional design, including 16 channels, high power output, VOX, and a built-in flashlight, all in a lightweight package. For cruise travel, the claimed range of up to 3 miles in open areas and 0.7-1.2 miles in urban settings provides a good balance for staying connected on the ship or during port excursions. What truly impressed me is the “Copy Frequency” feature, allowing you to easily decipher and match the frequency of another walkie talkie without needing complex computer programming. This is incredibly useful for syncing with friends or family who might have different radio models. It’s an economical and convenient choice with a sturdy construction that’s easy to operate, suitable for all ages, and offers a practical standby time of 2-3 days.

• Key Features:

  • Multifunctional: 16 Channels, High Power, 50CTCS/105CDCSS, VOX, Flashlight, Scanning, Low Battery Alarm.
  • Long range: up to 3 miles in open areas, 0.7-1.2 miles in city/town.
  • Economical and convenient with sturdy construction.
  • Unique “Copy Frequency” feature for easy syncing.
  • 2-3 days standby time.
  • Detachable belt clip and antenna.
  • FCC ID: 2AJGM-BF888S. Supports Chirp software.

• Pros:

  • Excellent value for the features offered.
  • “Copy Frequency” simplifies syncing with other radios.
  • Decent range and practical standby time.
  • Built-in flashlight and VOX are useful.
  • Robust and easy to operate for basic communication.

• Cons:

  • Advanced programming (Chirp) might be slightly complex for absolute beginners.
  • Antenna is detachable, which could be a minor inconvenience for some.

• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, users who need the flexibility of the “Copy Frequency” feature, and those looking for a robust, multi-functional radio for varied use cases on and off the ship.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight the Baofeng’s reputation for being a reliable, no-frills workhorse. They appreciate its durability and the unique ability to connect with different devices using its copy frequency feature, making it a flexible option for group travel.

Walkie Talkies Long Range For Adults,Rechargeable 22 FRS (GT18)

This FRS Professional Walkie Talkies Set, often referred to by its FCC ID like GT18, is designed for comprehensive and safe cruise travel. With 22 FRS channels and a host of advanced features, it ensures you’re always connected. The inclusion of Voice Activation (VOX) is fantastic for hands-free communication, especially when you’re carrying luggage or holding a drink by the pool. I also appreciate the built-in flashlight and a clear large LCD display, making it easy to use day or night. Powering these is a 1500mAh battery that conveniently charges via a 2-in-1 USB-C cable, allowing you to top up from a power bank, PC, or car, which is incredibly useful on a cruise. A standout feature is the NOAA Weather Receiver, providing critical alerts for severe weather conditions, adding a significant safety net. The Dual PTT Design (side key + center key) offers flexible transmission options, catering to different preferences.

• Key Features:

  • 22 FRS channels with Voice Activation (VOX), Flashlight, Large LCD, Low Battery Alarm.
  • Keyboard Lock, Volume Adjustment, Channel Scan, 50 CTCSS and 210 DCS Encryption.
  • 1500mAh battery with 2-in-1 USB-C charging.
  • Up to 2-3 miles max long-distance communication in open areas.
  • NOAA Weather Receiver for real-time alerts.
  • Dual PTT Design (side key + center key).
  • Comes with 4 radios, 4 batteries, 4 headsets, 4 belt clips, 4 lanyards, 2 USB charger cables.
  • FCC ID: 2AJGM-GT18.

• Pros:

  • Comprehensive set with useful features like VOX and flashlight.
  • NOAA weather alerts enhance safety, especially during shore excursions.
  • Convenient USB-C charging.
  • Dual PTT offers flexible operation.
  • Includes headsets for private communication.

• Cons:

  • NOAA channels may require programming via software in some regions.
  • Max range is affected by obstacles, typical for FRS radios on a ship.

• Best for: Cruisers who value a comprehensive feature set including NOAA alerts, hands-free operation, and a complete kit with headsets. Ideal for families wanting robust communication with added safety.

User feedback summary: Positive comments on the inclusion of headsets and the NOAA weather alert feature are common among users. Many also praise the clear sound on open decks and the convenience of USB-C charging.

Walkie Talkies Long Range for Adults baofeng Radio Walkie

This Baofeng model, much like its close sibling, has earned its reputation as a reliable and economical choice among the best walkie talkies for cruise travel. It packs a punch with 16 channels, high power output, and handy features like VOX for hands-free operation and a built-in flashlight – always a plus on a dimly lit cruise deck at night. What truly makes this a smart pick for cruise passengers is its economical price point without compromising on essential functionality. It offers a respectable range of up to 3 miles in open spaces, helping you stay connected from the ship’s bow to stern or even during short shore excursions. The sturdy construction means it can handle the inevitable bumps and drops of travel. With a standby time of 2-3 days, you won’t be constantly scrambling for a charger. Plus, its copy frequency feature makes it incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily synchronize with other radios your friends or family might already own.

• Key Features:

  • Multifunctional: 16 Channels, High Power, 50CTCS/105CDCSS, VOX, Flashlight, Scanning, Low Battery Alarm.
  • Long range: up to 3 miles in open areas, 0.7-1.2 miles in city/town.
  • Economical and convenient with sturdy construction.
  • “Copy Frequency” feature for easy syncing.
  • 2-3 days standby time.
  • Detachable belt clip and antenna.
  • FCC ID: 2AJGM-BF888S. Supports Chirp software.

• Pros:

  • Exceptional value for its robust feature set.
  • Proven reliability and durability.
  • “Copy Frequency” is a unique and practical feature for mixed groups.
  • Good range performance for its class.
  • Easy to operate for basic communication needs.

• Cons:

  • May require basic familiarity with radio settings for advanced features.
  • Antenna is detachable, requiring careful handling to avoid loss.

• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, those needing a proven and robust radio, and groups wanting the flexibility of the “Copy Frequency” feature for easy inter-radio communication.

User feedback summary: Many users highlight its reputation for being a reliable, no-frills workhorse. They appreciate its durability and the ability to connect with different devices using its copy frequency feature, making it a flexible option for group travel.

Walkie Talkies for Adults Long Range,Kartal Rechargeable

The Kartal Rechargeable Walkie Talkies are an excellent choice for those seeking extensive communication options and reliable power for their cruise adventures. These two-way radios offer a vast array of choices with 22 FRS channels and 99 privacy codes, totaling an impressive 2178 combinations. This means you’re highly unlikely to experience interference from other groups on a crowded cruise ship, ensuring your conversations remain private and clear. Powering your communication is a robust setup with four 1200mAh rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and two charging cables, allowing you to charge up to four walkie-talkies simultaneously. Once fully charged, these radios can provide up to 72 hours of use, which is fantastic for multi-day excursions without constant recharging. For convenience, they feature a backlit LCD screen and a flashlight, making them easy to use at night, and a VOX-hands free function with 3 sensitivity levels ensures seamless communication while multitasking.

• Key Features:

  • 22 FRS channels and 99 privacy codes (2178 combinations) for secure communication.
  • Four 1200mAh rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with 2 charging cables.
  • Up to 72 hours of use on a full charge.
  • Long range: up to 5 miles in ideal conditions, 3 miles in open areas, 0.5-1 mile in cities/towns.
  • Backlit LCD screen and flashlight for night use.
  • VOX-Hands free function with 3 sensitivity levels.
  • Small size, lightweight, and powerful features.

• Pros:

  • Vast number of channel and privacy code combinations for interference-free communication.
  • Excellent battery life (up to 72 hours) for extended use.
  • Backlit LCD and flashlight are practical for all conditions.
  • VOX function offers hands-free convenience.
  • Rechargeable batteries save money and are eco-friendly.

• Cons:

  • Charging adapter is not included, requiring you to use your own USB wall adapter.
  • Max range claims are highly dependent on environmental factors.

• Best for: Large families or groups who need extensive privacy options, cruisers embarking on long trips needing extended battery life, and those who appreciate nighttime usability and hands-free communication.

User feedback summary: Users frequently praise the sheer number of channel and privacy code combinations, which helps avoid interference on crowded ships. They also appreciate the extended battery life and the convenience of the backlit screen for evening use.

Comparison Insights: Finding Your Cruise Companion

When selecting the best walkie talkies for cruise travel, it’s important to look beyond just the raw specifications. Here’s how these models stack up in crucial categories:

• Range on a Cruise: While manufacturers often quote impressive “ideal” ranges (up to 5 miles for NXGKET, Topsung, and Kartal), understand that steel ship structures, multiple decks, and crowded environments will significantly reduce real-world range. Expect effective communication within lines of sight on open decks and within a few decks vertically, typically a range of 0.5 to 1.5 miles at best. The Baofeng models (Products 4 & 6) often impress for their price with decent in-ship penetration.

• Battery Life: For extended cruises, battery life is paramount. The Topsung walkie talkies truly stand out here with a massive 4500mAh battery offering 48-72 hours of standby time. The Kartal (72 hours standby) and NXGKET (3-4 days standby) also offer excellent endurance. The Retevis RT22 (10 hours) is more suited for daily charging, while the Baofeng models (2-3 days standby) provide a solid middle ground.

• Charging Convenience: USB-C charging is a huge win for travel. The Retevis RT22, NXGKET, Topsung, and the GT18 model (Product 5) all offer USB-C, making it easy to charge with existing phone chargers or power banks. The Kartal also uses USB-C cables, but note the adapter isn’t included. The Baofeng models typically use micro-USB or specific docks.

• Ease of Use & Licensing: All these radios operate on FRS (Family Radio Service) frequencies, which means they are license-free in the US, making them incredibly user-friendly for anyone. Models like the Retevis RT22 prioritize simplicity, while others like the Topsung and GT18 offer more features but remain intuitive. The Baofeng models might appeal to those who don’t mind a little extra customization via software like Chirp, but they are also usable out of the box.

• Features for Cruise Specifics:

  • VOX (Voice Activated Transmission) is a game-changer when you have your hands full – Topsung, NXGKET, GT18, Baofeng, and Kartal all include this.
  • Privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS) are essential on a crowded ship to avoid hearing other groups’ conversations. Topsung, GT18, and Kartal offer a substantial number of combinations.
  • NOAA Weather Alerts on the Topsung and GT18 are a great bonus for safety, especially if you’re taking shore excursions into remote areas.
  • Compact size like the Retevis RT22 is perfect for slipping into pockets or lanyards without being bulky.
  • The “Copy Frequency” feature on the Baofeng models is unique and incredibly useful if you need to quickly sync with a different brand of radio.

Final Verdict: Charting Your Course to Connection

Choosing the best walkie talkies for cruise travel really comes down to your group’s specific needs and preferences.

• If simplicity, safety, and a compact design are your top priorities, especially when traveling with children, the Retevis RT22 is an excellent, fuss-free choice. Its blunted antenna and USB-C charging make it incredibly practical.

• For those prioritizing long battery life and advanced features like hands-free operation and NOAA weather alerts, the Topsung 2 Way Radios stand out as a premium option. They are robust, clear, and will last for days.

• If you’re seeking a balance of good range, decent battery life, and comprehensive features including the handy NOAA alerts, the Walkie Talkies Long Range For Adults, Rechargeable 22 FRS (GT18), especially with its included headsets and USB-C charging, offers fantastic value.

• When budget and versatility are key, and you appreciate the unique ability to “copy” frequencies from other radios, either of the Baofeng Walkie Talkies reviewed provides a robust, economical solution for varied cruise scenarios.

• And finally, for large groups needing maximum privacy with extensive channel/code combinations and superb battery endurance, the Kartal Rechargeable Walkie Talkies deliver reliable, interference-free communication.

No matter which model you choose, investing in a good set of walkie talkies will significantly enhance your cruise experience, keeping you connected and allowing you to fully enjoy every moment of your vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Walkie Talkies for Cruise Travel

Q1: How do walkie talkies work on a cruise ship?
A1: Walkie talkies communicate via radio waves, not cell signals or Wi-Fi. This means they’ll work reliably even when you’re far out at sea or in areas of the ship with no reception. They send and receive signals between two or more compatible units, allowing for instant, free communication. This makes them one of the best walkie talkies for cruise travel for staying connected with your group without relying on expensive ship Wi-Fi or international roaming.

Q2: What range can I expect from walkie talkies on a cruise?
A2: While manufacturers often claim ranges of 3-5 miles in “ideal conditions,” the reality on a cruise ship is different. The ship’s steel construction, numerous decks, and dense passenger areas act as obstacles, significantly reducing range. You can generally expect reliable communication over open decks and across a few vertical decks (e.g., from deck 5 to deck 10) or within a small cluster of cabins. Realistically, expect an effective range of 0.5 to 1.5 miles within the ship, which is usually sufficient for keeping track of your party.

Q3: Are walkie talkies allowed on cruise ships?
A3: Generally, yes! Most cruise lines permit the use of FRS (Family Radio Service) walkie talkies, which are low-power, license-free devices. However, it’s always a good idea to check your specific cruise line’s policy before you travel, as some might have restrictions on higher-power GMRS radios or specific frequencies. All the best walkie talkies for cruise travel reviewed here are FRS-compliant.

Q4: What features are important for cruise walkie talkies?
A4: Look for:
* License-free operation (FRS): Easy to use for everyone.
* Good battery life: Essential for all-day use without constant recharging.
* USB charging: Convenient for powering up anywhere on the ship.
* VOX (Voice Activated Transmission): Great for hands-free use.
* Privacy codes (CTCSS/DCS): To avoid interference from other groups.
* Compact size: Easy to carry around.
* Clear audio: To cut through ship noise.
* NOAA weather alerts: A bonus for safety during port excursions.

Q5: Do I need a license for walkie talkies on a cruise?
A5: In the United States, Family Radio Service (FRS) walkie talkies, which operate on specific low-power frequencies, are license-free. All the best walkie talkies for cruise travel in this article fall under the FRS category, meaning you do not need a special license to operate them for personal use. GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) radios, however, often require a license, so always check the product’s specifications.

Q6: Can walkie talkies interfere with ship communications?
A6: FRS walkie talkies operate on low power and use designated public frequencies, making interference with a ship’s critical communication systems highly unlikely. Ship staff use much higher power radios on different, protected frequencies. While it’s always good practice to use privacy codes to avoid hearing other passengers, your FRS walkie talkies are designed for safe and non-interfering personal use.

Q7: Which are the best walkie talkies for cruise travel for a family?
A7: For families, the Retevis RT22 is excellent for its compact size, safety features (blunted antenna), and ease of use, especially for kids. If you need more features and longer battery life, the Topsung 2 Way Radios or the GT18 FRS Walkie Talkies (Product 5), with their VOX and NOAA alerts, are fantastic choices that come with comprehensive kits and robust performance.