Do you need cash in a cruise?

Your cruise cost includes the necessities, such as accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation to ports of call, so you might be able to leave your wallet at home. Although you can easily enjoy your time on board without cash, it's always a good idea to have some with you. The question is: Do you need cash on a cruise? It all depends on the cruise line you sail on, your experiences onboard and on port, and the packages you've selected, calculating how much to budget for and how much cash you carry on your cruise might be very different.
 
Overall, you should carry as little cash as possible and utilize a credit card for most transactions. A credit card maintains track of your expenses and is safer than carrying cash. Furthermore, many shops take credit cards, particularly in major port cities. Cash can be useful if you plan to travel in remote places, want to tip a waitress, or don't want to use your credit card for little purchases. So, get ready to know more about where the cash is needed onboard the cruise.

When You will Need Cash During Your Cruise

You generally won't need cash when you're on your cruise ship or a private island, but having some cash could be extremely handy. But the question is, why do you need cash on a cruise? Here are the reasons to bring cash on board a cruise.

1. Cash for Casino

On all-inclusive lines, you can spend the entire trip without using your wallet! However, the casino is the one spot on a cruise ship where cash is required. Even if you charge the amount you want to wager for your accommodation, the casino will pay you in cash. You'll need to bring some extra cash to cover these expenses. If you're not a gambler, this isn't a big deal, but make sure you have enough money to spend at the casino. While you can withdraw cash from the casino or an ATM, there are fees associated with this service.

Also Read: What Are Cruise Gift Cards & Should You Buy Them?

2. Cash for Tipping Crew Members

Crew members on several premium cruise lines depend heavily on passenger tips to boost their extra income. Luxury cruise lines such as MSC Cruise, Silversea, and Royal Caribbean International have no-tipping policies, as gratuities are included in the prices, but some may not. Here you may also want to consider tipping on various occasions throughout your voyage. At the end of the vacation, it is traditional to thank those who looked after you. Perhaps your fare included tips. If not, your shipboard account will be charged automatically on a daily basis. You still want to hand over something in a small white envelope.

Also Read: What all is included and excluded in cruise fare?

3. Cash for Shore Excursion

Whether you're on a cruise line-sponsored or independent shore excursion, it's best to tip your tour guides at the end of the tour. Exceptions include when tips are included in the price or while visiting a nation with a non-tipping culture, in which case offering cash would be inappropriate. You may require local money, but the ship should be able to convert some cash for you. You purchase stamps at the post office. You need more shampoo. You purchase souvenirs. You're taking a taxi to explore the place. You'll need some money to walk around.

Also Read: How much does a cruise excursion cost?

4. Cash for Transportation

You got a cab to the dock. That polite driver moved those massive roller bags in and out of their trunk. You'll want to both pay and tip them. You do not see the need. You intend to use Uber or Lyft. That makes sense if you're going from home to the dock. If you arrive in New York or a similar terminal, you'll most likely take a taxi to the pier. Even after your trip is completed, you purchased the airport transfer simply because it is money well spent. The nice, uniformed person lugged your big cases once more. You want to give them something.

5. Cash for Shipboard Charities

Every year, Big Cruise Line donates hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and in-kind shipboard activities to a wide range of charitable causes both domestically and globally. You may attend religious services or charity events at sea. The collection plate is passed regardless of whether there is land or water beneath you. You want to place some cash on the plate. The ship might have a piggy bank shaped like a plastic lifeboat. Contributions benefit a worthwhile charity.

Also Read: Why a Weekend Cruise is Perfect for First-Timer Cruisers?

What Currency You Need to Bring on the Cruise

Cruise lines use a 'cash-free' system that includes an onboard spending account and a 'Seapass card' that is issued to you at Guest Services at check-in. The card is used during your cruise to purchase things or services like shore excursions, specialty dining, cocktails, or spa treatments, and it is returned at the end of your vacation. This should be settled by credit card. However, depending on the cruise line you sail on, you will be able to pay in local currency, either dollars, pounds, or other.

Your cruise schedule should tell you which money to use. On a Mediterranean cruise, most ports accept euros. On a Caribbean cruise, most ports accept US dollars. In Asia, the currency may vary depending on the country visited.

Also Read: How far in advance should I book excursions?

How Much Cash Is Needed on a Cruise

When selecting how much cash to bring, you should consider any pre-booked or scheduled shore excursions and what is included in them. Some of these may include items such as lunch and a drink, allowing you to cut your spending on these occasions. If you don't have any excursions scheduled and prefer to visit the sights on your own, it will depend on where you're going and what you want to do, so research the locations ahead of time and attempt to budget properly.
 
If you're visiting numerous countries, Guest Services onboard the ship can also change your money, so don't worry if you forget; they'll be pleased to help. Some cruise ships also have ATMs on board where you can withdraw cash, but these can incur costs of up to $5.00* per transaction. It is also worth remembering that ATMs on shore typically only dispense cash in local currency. If you intend to withdraw money abroad, it is recommended to notify your bank or card provider so that you do not encounter any problems in the resort.

Overall, carrying a small amount of cash on a cruise helps tip, shop at local markets, or pay for small expenses where credit cards might not be accepted. Most cruise transactions are cashless, so a credit card is the safest option for major purchases. If you need cash, onboard ATMs or currency exchange services are available, though fees may apply. Plan, budget wisely, and bring the right currency to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.

For additional information or specific answers about bringing cash on a cruise and the average prices you may expect both onboard and in port, contact our experts at CruiseBooking.com!