But technology may help close that communications gap.

NPR: Tech Solutions to Iraqi-U.S. Language Barrier

This will fill a needed gap in ship-to-shore communications and also provide for friends and family to be able to communicate onboard without high cost by giving direct dial capability between smartphones.

FORBES: Cruise Ship Communications for Passengers Is About to Change

Zipwhip is bridging the gap between wireless users and landline users for what is now the go-to mode of communications for billions of people.

ENGADGET: Zipwhip endows existing landlines with the ability to send and receive texts