How Much Money Should I Bring on a Cruise?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Packing & Preparation

Planning a cruise vacation is an exciting adventure, filled with the promise of stunning destinations, luxurious amenities, and unforgettable experiences on the open sea. Yet, one of the most common questions travelers ask before setting sail is, “How much money should I bring on a cruise?” Understanding the right amount to budget can make the difference between a stress-free journey and unexpected financial surprises.

Cruise fares often cover accommodation, meals, and basic entertainment, but many additional expenses can arise during your trip. From onboard activities and specialty dining to shore excursions and gratuities, knowing what to expect financially helps you prepare adequately. Striking the right balance ensures you can enjoy everything the cruise has to offer without worrying about overspending or running short.

In this article, we’ll explore the key factors that influence how much money you should bring on a cruise, helping you tailor your budget to your travel style and preferences. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, gaining insight into cruise spending will empower you to make the most of your voyage.

Estimating Daily Expenses Onboard

When calculating how much money to bring on a cruise, it is important to consider daily onboard expenses that are not included in your initial cruise fare. While many cruises offer all-inclusive packages covering lodging, meals in main dining rooms, and entertainment, there are numerous optional costs that can quickly add up.

Typical daily expenses to anticipate include:

  • Specialty dining fees at upscale restaurants
  • Bar tabs for alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees
  • Spa treatments, massages, and wellness services
  • Shore excursions and guided tours at ports of call
  • Casino gambling and gaming activities
  • Internet access and Wi-Fi packages
  • Tips and gratuities for staff, if not prepaid

Planning for these expenses helps avoid surprises and ensures you have a comfortable budget throughout your journey.

Cash Versus Card: What to Bring

Most cruise lines operate on a cashless system onboard, where passengers use a cruise card linked to a credit or debit card for purchases. However, carrying some cash is still advisable for certain situations, such as:

  • Tipping crew members directly, especially outside standard gratuities
  • Purchases at ports of call, where credit cards may not be universally accepted
  • Small incidental expenses like vending machines, laundry, or souvenirs

When deciding how much cash to bring, consider the port destinations and your planned activities. U.S. dollars are widely accepted on many cruises but having some local currency for international ports can be beneficial.

Budgeting for Shore Excursions and Extras

Excursions off the ship can range from inexpensive walking tours to costly adventure activities. It is wise to research and budget separately for these experiences since they typically are not included in your cruise fare.

Common excursion types and approximate price ranges per person:

  • Cultural and historical tours: $30 – $70
  • Snorkeling or water sports: $50 – $120
  • Wildlife and nature excursions: $40 – $100
  • Specialty experiences (e.g., helicopter rides, private guides): $150+

Booking excursions through the cruise line may offer convenience and security but can be more expensive than independent operators. Always factor these costs into your overall cash and spending card budget.

Typical Daily Spending Breakdown

To help visualize your potential daily expenses onboard, the following table outlines average costs in various categories for a mid-range cruise traveler:

Category Estimated Daily Cost (USD) Notes
Specialty Dining $20 – $40 One or two meals at specialty restaurants
Drinks (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic) $15 – $50 Depends on consumption and package choice
Spa & Wellness $0 – $60 Optional treatments or fitness classes
Gratuities $13 – $20 Often charged daily per person
Shore Excursions Varies Depends on activity and port
Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, Internet) $10 – $30 Variable based on personal preference

This breakdown can assist in setting a realistic budget for your cruise spending money.

Tips for Managing Money While Cruising

Effective money management during your cruise can enhance your experience and reduce stress. Consider these expert tips:

  • Preload your onboard account with a credit or debit card to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Track your daily expenditures using the cruise line’s app or onboard account statements.
  • Purchase beverage or dining packages in advance if you anticipate high usage, as this often saves money.
  • Bring a small amount of local currency for each port, especially if planning to shop at local markets or use taxis.
  • Keep receipts and review your onboard charges daily to catch any discrepancies early.
  • Set a daily spending limit to avoid overspending and maintain control over your budget.

By thoughtfully planning and monitoring your spending, you can fully enjoy your cruise without financial surprises.

Estimating Daily Expenses on a Cruise

When planning how much money to bring on a cruise, it is essential to consider the various daily expenses that you may encounter beyond the base fare. These costs can vary widely depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and personal preferences.

Typical daily expenses to budget for include:

  • Gratuities: Most cruise lines automatically add daily service charges for staff gratuities, typically ranging from $14 to $20 per person per day. Some allow prepayment, while others collect onboard.
  • Beverages: Standard non-alcoholic drinks such as water, tea, and coffee are usually included, but specialty coffees, sodas, juices, alcoholic beverages, and bottled water often incur charges.
  • Specialty Dining: While main dining rooms and buffets are included, specialty restaurants require additional payment, usually between $20 and $50 per person.
  • Excursions and Activities: Shore excursions, spa treatments, fitness classes, and other onboard activities generally have separate fees.
  • Internet and Communication: Wi-Fi packages vary in price and are rarely included; consider purchasing a package based on your anticipated usage.
  • Souvenirs and Shopping: Gift shops, onboard boutiques, and port markets offer items that can add to your overall spending.

Below is a sample daily budget breakdown for an average cruise passenger:

Expense Category Estimated Daily Cost (USD)
Gratuities $15
Beverages (alcoholic/non-alcoholic extras) $20
Specialty Dining $30
Excursions/Activities $40
Internet Access $10
Shopping/Souvenirs $15
Total Estimated Daily Expenses $130

Keep in mind that these figures represent averages and your actual spending may be higher or lower depending on your choices and cruise style.

Additional Considerations for Cruise Budgeting

Beyond daily onboard expenses, several other financial considerations can impact how much cash or accessible funds you should bring:

  • Prepaid vs. Onboard Payments: Some cruise lines allow prepaid gratuities and beverage packages, which can reduce the need to carry cash or rely on onboard accounts.
  • Currency Needs: Cruises visiting multiple countries may require small amounts of local currency for tips, taxis, or vendors ashore. It is advisable to bring a modest amount of cash in the relevant currencies or use credit cards where accepted.
  • Payment Methods: Most cruise ships operate a cashless system where all onboard purchases are charged to your stateroom account, settled at the end of the cruise using a credit or debit card. Carrying a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is recommended.
  • Cash vs. Card: While credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is useful for port visits, small purchases, or emergencies. The amount varies but generally $100–$200 in small denominations is sufficient.
  • Emergency Funds: Always set aside funds for unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies, last-minute changes, or transportation delays.

Adjusting Your Budget Based on Cruise Type and Duration

The length of the cruise and the type of itinerary significantly affect the total amount of money you should bring. Longer cruises naturally require a larger budget for daily expenses, while luxury cruises may have higher costs for specialty services.

Cruise Type Typical Daily Expense Range (USD) Notes
Budget/Economy Cruise $50 – $100 Less expensive specialty dining, fewer excursions, and simpler beverage options
Mid-Range Cruise $100 – $150 Moderate spending on dining, drinks, and activities
Luxury Cruise $150 – $300+ Higher-end dining, premium beverages, spa treatments, and exclusive excursions

For example, a 7-night mid-range cruise might require approximately $700 to cover incidental expenses, while a 14-night luxury voyage could require $2,100 or more. Planning accordingly helps ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip without financial surprises.

Expert Recommendations on Budgeting for a Cruise Vacation

Linda Martinez (Travel Finance Advisor, CruiseSmart Consulting). When planning how much money to bring on a cruise, it’s essential to allocate funds beyond the ticket price for onboard expenses such as specialty dining, excursions, and gratuities. I recommend budgeting at least $100 to $150 per day per person, depending on the cruise line and itinerary, to cover these extras comfortably.

David Chen (Cruise Industry Analyst, Seaway Insights). The amount of cash or accessible funds you should bring on a cruise varies based on your spending habits and the cruise destination. While most purchases are cashless onboard, having around $200 in small bills is advisable for tipping and port purchases. Additionally, consider pre-loading a cruise card or using credit cards with no foreign transaction fees for convenience and security.

Sarah Patel (Luxury Travel Consultant, Oceanic Voyages). For luxury cruises, guests often underestimate incidental costs such as spa treatments, premium beverages, and shore excursions. I advise clients to plan for an additional 20% to 30% of their cruise fare in discretionary spending money. Bringing a combination of credit cards and a modest amount of cash ensures flexibility while maintaining safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much cash should I bring on a cruise?
Bringing around $100 to $200 in cash is advisable for tips, small purchases, and port expenses where cards may not be accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted on cruises?
Yes, most cruise lines accept major credit cards for onboard purchases, making it convenient to minimize cash use.

Should I budget extra money for onboard activities?
Yes, additional funds are recommended for specialty dining, excursions, spa treatments, and other paid activities.

Is it necessary to tip crew members in cash?
While many cruises include automatic gratuities, having cash on hand for personalized tipping is appreciated by crew members.

Can I use my debit card on a cruise ship?
Debit cards are accepted, but it is safer to use credit cards to avoid potential holds or issues with international transactions.

How can I manage my spending during the cruise?
Set a daily budget, monitor your onboard account regularly, and use cruise line apps or statements to track expenses efficiently.
Determining how much money to bring on a cruise depends on several factors, including the length of the trip, the cruise line’s inclusions, your planned activities, and personal spending habits. While many essentials such as accommodation, meals, and entertainment are often covered in the cruise fare, additional expenses like shore excursions, specialty dining, onboard shopping, gratuities, and beverages can significantly impact your budget. It is important to account for these variable costs when planning your finances for the cruise.

Experts recommend setting aside a daily spending amount that aligns with your preferences and the cruise itinerary. For example, a moderate budget might range from $50 to $100 per day, covering extras such as drinks, souvenirs, and optional activities. Additionally, having access to a credit card or onboard account linked to your cabin can provide convenience and security, reducing the need to carry large amounts of cash. It is also wise to bring some cash in the local currency of your ports of call for small purchases or tips where cards may not be accepted.

Ultimately, careful planning and realistic budgeting will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience without unexpected financial stress. By anticipating potential expenses and monitoring your spending throughout the voyage, you can maintain control over your finances and focus on

Author Profile

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Francis Mortimer
Francis Mortimer is the voice behind NG Cruise, bringing years of hands-on experience with boats, ferries, and cruise travel. Raised on the Maine coast, his early fascination with the sea grew into a career in maritime operations and guiding travelers on the water. Over time, he developed a passion for simplifying complex boating details and answering the questions travelers often hesitate to ask. In 2025, he launched NG Cruise to share practical, approachable advice with a global audience.

Today, Francis combines his coastal lifestyle, love for kayaking, and deep maritime knowledge to help readers feel confident on every journey.