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With most cruises operating as cashless societies, it is possible to take a cruise without bringing any cash at all. But, when you’re craving a Jamaican patty or eyeing a Sicilian cannoli, you’ll be happy you have a few bills stashed in your pocket. Bringing money on your cruise will also help you show appreciation to servers, drivers and other helpful folks you meet throughout your journey.
Beware of Foreign Transaction Fees on Credit Card Purchases
Carnival Cruise Cash can also be used to settle any outstanding balances on a passenger’s onboard account at the end of the cruise. Ultimately, it’s important to check with your specific cruise line for their policies on cash and other forms of payment. In addition, cash is often necessary when traveling on land excursions or exploring ports of call.
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If you booked a tour of some kind it’s recommended you do tip the tour guide or driver a few dollars. It might be anywhere from $2 to $10 and it’s not mandatory, but it’s a good way of thanking the local workers for their expertise. 1% – 3% in foreign transaction fees might not sound like a lot, but if you do a lot of shopping in port it can add up fast. I like to carry and use cash for those smaller items I’m buying when in port.
Eating at local restaurants
But that convenience makes it too easy to lose track of your spending. It eliminates the need to carry cash around the ship and minimizes the risk of theft or loss. Some passengers are content with window shopping or buying just one or two mementos, while others enjoy a full-blown shopping spree. Be honest about your habits and plan your cash reserves accordingly.
Staff tips
The vendor might not accept credit cards, and if they do, there may be a certain amount you need to spend first. Also, it’s not required to tip street food vendors, but you might want to leave something in their tip jar if you’re impressed. To navigate these pros and cons, a combination of both payment methods is often the best strategy. Bringing a reasonable amount of cash for small, immediate expenses and using credit cards for larger purchases or where they're accepted ensures both convenience and security. It's also wise to inform card issuers about travel plans to prevent fraud alerts blocking card usage. When planning for onboard and port expenses during a cruise, travelers often wonder about the best method of payment.
More Royal Caribbean
Whether in Mexico, St. Maarten, Italy, or Vanuatu, having cash is recommended. Although cards are widely accepted, you may still encounter establishments that do not accept card payments. Cash is rarely required on a Royal Caribbean cruise, as all payments onboard are made via your SeaPass account. Prior to your cruise, you’ll connect your onboard account with a credit or debit card, and all payments will be charged to that card at the end of the cruise. Depending on your cruise line, you may have the option of using cash for your ongoing onboard charges.
Visit Beautiful Churches in Mexico
If you’re all about relaxing by the pool and don’t plan to use the spa, drink a lot, gamble or shop, you’ll probably spend less. Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories. When embarking on a cruise, managing and safeguarding your cash is crucial for a stress-free experience.
Sophisticated credit card algorithms look for out of the ordinary purchasing patterns, and a bunch of charges out of the blue in a foreign country might red flag your account. Australia is not prone to as much tipping and some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, have their daily gratuities as part of their cruise fare. While onshore, tips of around 10% are considered appropriate at restaurants and bars. Starting with the friendly porters at the cruise terminal, a couple of dollars per bag is often what many people feel is appropriate. Many people like to tip bar staff $1 or $2 per drink, although in most cases, you can add this to your bill.
Money and Gratuities
It’s uncommon, but the ATMs on cruise lines might run out of money during the cruise. If you find yourself in this situation, there’s no need to panic. From spa specials on port days to happy hour prices at the bar, there are plenty of ways to indulge and spend less. Cruise ships are full of opportunities to snag a bargain, so watch for onboard promotions and discounts. On a cruise, you’re in a self-contained world where all your needs are just a swipe of your room key away.
As you start planning for your voyage, you may wonder how much cash you should bring along. While most cruise ships offer various payment options, carrying some cash can come in handy for certain situations. Credit cards, on the other hand, offer convenience and security, reducing the need to carry large sums of money.
On some cruise lines, like MSC, you are able to ‘load’ money onto your account using machines around the ship. It is definitely worth spending some time researching the ports that you are visiting to determine if you need to pay extra for transport. Our rule of thumb is that you should simply budget as much cash as you would for any other vacation, when in port. We also know that some people love to let loose on a vacation and spend a bit more.
It’s important to strike a balance when deciding on the amount of cash to bring. Carrying too much cash can be risky, while having too little may leave you unprepared for unexpected expenses or limited payment options. Assessing these factors and planning accordingly will help ensure that you have enough cash to enjoy your cruise without any financial constraints. There are a number of beauty and spa treatments available on cruises which aren’t included in the cruise fare.
Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies the Use of Cash Onboard - Cruise Hive
Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies the Use of Cash Onboard.
Posted: Thu, 18 Apr 2024 15:59:19 GMT [source]
Again, this is somewhat subjective, but here’s a good rule of thumb I like to follow. If it’s a large order, somewhere around $4 or $5 should be enough. Not only will this make it easier for you to navigate the ship before your cabin is ready, but it also keeps elevators from getting too cramped with those behemoth bags.
If you are able to try and change your currency before your cruise. I do know a number of people who prefer to pay for attractions using cash, and if this is you make sure you bring extra cash to do so. It is often cheaper to pre-book tickets in advance online though. In a survey of 850 cruisers, 71% stated that they took over $100 per person per day when cruising. You’ll often receive change back in local currency even when paying with USD. If you buy a $5 souvenir with a $20 bill in Mexico, for example, you’ll receive change in Mexican pesos.
When planning a cruise, many travelers focus on the excitement of the open sea, the entertainment options onboard, and the exotic destinations. However, managing finances during such a trip can't be overlooked. Even though the onboard experience is largely cashless, there are several scenarios where having cash on hand is not just convenient but sometimes necessary.
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