How Much Cash Should You Bring On A Cruise?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Packing & Preparation

Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting adventure filled with new destinations, delicious dining, and endless entertainment. As you prepare for your voyage, one of the common questions that often arises is: how much cash should you bring on a cruise? While the convenience of credit cards and digital payments has grown, having the right amount of cash on hand can make a significant difference in your overall experience.

Navigating the financial aspect of cruising involves understanding what expenses may require cash, which can vary depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and personal preferences. From tipping and onboard purchases to shore excursions and small vendors, cash can sometimes be the easiest way to handle certain transactions. However, bringing too much or too little can lead to unnecessary stress or missed opportunities.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that influence how much cash you should carry, helping you strike the perfect balance between convenience and preparedness. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing the right amount to bring will ensure your journey is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.

Determining Your Cash Needs for Onboard and Shore Expenses

When planning how much cash to bring on a cruise, it’s important to consider both onboard and shore expenses. Although most cruise lines operate cashless systems where your onboard account is linked to a credit or debit card, having some cash on hand can be useful for tips, small purchases, or excursions that may not accept cards.

Onboard Expenses:
Many purchases such as drinks, specialty dining, spa treatments, and souvenirs can be charged to your cabin account. However, certain onboard tips, like gratuities for housekeeping or bartenders, are often automatically added to your account or can be settled in cash if you prefer. It’s wise to check your cruise line’s policies before departure.

Shore Excursions and Local Spending:
When disembarking at ports, cash can be essential for:

  • Taxis or local transportation
  • Street vendors or markets
  • Small restaurants or cafes that may not accept cards
  • Tips for guides or drivers

The amount of cash you’ll need depends on your itinerary and personal spending habits.

Recommended Cash Amounts Based on Cruise Duration

The length of your cruise influences how much cash you should bring. Short cruises typically require less cash since onboard spending and excursions are limited, whereas longer cruises might necessitate a higher cash reserve for unexpected expenses.

Cruise Duration Suggested Cash Amount Notes
3-5 days $100 – $150 Primarily for tips and small shore purchases
6-9 days $150 – $300 Includes potential excursions and additional tipping
10+ days $300 – $500 More shore stops and increased spending flexibility

Keep in mind these are general guidelines; adjust based on your planned activities and port spending customs.

Tips for Managing Cash Safely on a Cruise

Bringing cash on a cruise requires careful management to avoid loss or theft. Follow these expert tips to safeguard your money:

  • Divide Your Cash: Split your cash into smaller amounts and store them in different locations, such as a money belt, cabin safe, and wallet.
  • Use the Cabin Safe: Most cruise cabins have a safe—use it to secure larger sums of money or valuables.
  • Limit Cash on Hand: Only carry what you expect to spend during daily excursions or onboard activities.
  • Be Mindful at Ports: Avoid flashing large amounts of cash in public, especially in unfamiliar or crowded areas.
  • Keep a Record: Note the denominations and amounts of your cash in case it is lost or stolen.

Alternatives to Carrying Large Amounts of Cash

Given the risks associated with carrying cash, many cruisers opt for alternative payment methods that offer convenience and security:

  • Prepaid Travel Cards: These allow you to load a specific amount of money and use them like debit cards, reducing the need for cash.
  • Credit and Debit Cards: Most cruise lines accept major cards for onboard charges and many ports have card-friendly vendors.
  • Mobile Payment Apps: Some ports and cruise lines support mobile wallets or apps, which can be a convenient cashless option.
  • Traveler’s Checks: Although less common nowadays, traveler’s checks can be a secure alternative but may have limited acceptance.

Choosing the right mix of cash and electronic payment methods depends on your comfort level and the destinations on your cruise itinerary.

Determining the Appropriate Amount of Cash for a Cruise

When planning the amount of cash to bring on a cruise, several factors influence the ideal sum. Cruises increasingly favor cashless transactions, encouraging passengers to use onboard cards linked to credit or debit accounts. However, carrying some cash remains advisable for specific situations.

The following considerations will help determine how much cash to bring:

  • Length of the Cruise: Longer cruises may require more cash for incidental expenses and shore excursions.
  • Ports of Call: Some destinations operate primarily on cash, especially for small vendors, taxis, or local markets.
  • Onboard Spending Preferences: While most onboard expenses are charged to your room account, tipping in cash or spontaneous purchases might require actual currency.
  • Currency Acceptance: Cruises operating in countries with limited card acceptance or where currency exchange is difficult call for more cash.
  • Personal Spending Habits: Passengers who prefer cash payments for budgeting or ease of use should consider a higher cash amount.

Recommended Cash Amounts Based on Cruise Type and Destination

Cruise Type Typical Cash Amount Notes
Short Caribbean Cruise (3–5 days) $50–$100 Cash mainly for tips, small souvenirs, and port taxis; onboard spending is mostly card-based.
Extended Mediterranean Cruise (7–14 days) $100–$200 More cash needed for diverse local markets, optional shore excursions, and tipping in multiple currencies.
Alaskan or Northern Europe Cruise $75–$150 Cash useful for local transportation, small purchases, and tipping; some ports may have limited card acceptance.
World or Expedition Cruise (21+ days) $150–$300 Higher cash reserves recommended due to remote destinations and limited access to banks or ATMs.

Situations Where Cash Is Essential on a Cruise

Despite widespread card acceptance, certain circumstances necessitate carrying cash:

  • Tipping: While many cruise lines allow gratuities to be prepaid or charged to your account, some crew members appreciate cash tips for personalized service.
  • Small Vendors and Markets: Shore excursions that involve local artisans, markets, or small eateries often operate on a cash-only basis.
  • Transportation: Taxi drivers, shuttle services, or local buses at ports of call might not accept cards.
  • Emergency Situations: Access to onboard ATMs can be limited, and credit card transactions may fail due to connectivity issues.
  • Currency Exchange: Having local currency on hand avoids unfavorable exchange rates or fees at port.

Tips for Managing Cash on a Cruise

To optimize the use of cash during your cruise, consider the following strategies:

  • Divide Cash in Multiple Locations: Avoid keeping all cash in one place to reduce risk of loss or theft.
  • Use Cruise Cards for Major Expenses: Charge dining, drinks, and activities to your onboard account to minimize cash needs.
  • Bring Multiple Currencies if Necessary: Research the ports of call and carry small denominations of the local currencies.
  • Notify Your Bank: Ensure your credit and debit cards will work internationally to avoid cash dependency.
  • Use Onboard ATMs Sparingly: They often charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates.
  • Keep Receipts: Track your cash spending to manage your budget effectively throughout the cruise.

Expert Recommendations on Cash to Bring for a Cruise

Linda Martinez (Cruise Travel Consultant, Oceanic Voyages) advises that travelers bring a modest amount of cash, typically between $100 and $200, to cover incidental expenses such as tips, small onboard purchases, and port fees. She emphasizes that most cruise lines operate on a cashless system, so carrying large sums is unnecessary and potentially risky.

James O’Connor (Maritime Hospitality Specialist, SeaBound Cruises) recommends allocating cash specifically for gratuities and shore excursions that may not accept credit cards. He suggests bringing around $150 in small denominations to ensure convenience and avoid issues with change, especially in international ports where card acceptance can vary.

Dr. Emily Chen (Financial Advisor for Travel and Leisure, Global Travel Insights) highlights the importance of balancing cash with digital payment methods. She suggests carrying enough cash to cover unexpected situations—usually $100 to $200—while relying primarily on credit cards or onboard accounts for most transactions to maximize security and tracking of expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much cash is recommended to bring on a cruise?
It is advisable to bring between $100 and $200 in cash for incidental expenses, tips, and small purchases where cards may not be accepted.

Can I rely solely on credit or debit cards during a cruise?
While most cruise lines accept credit and debit cards, having some cash on hand is important for ports of call, gratuities, and vendors who may not accept cards.

Are there places on the ship where cash is necessary?
Cash is rarely required onboard, but it can be useful for tipping housekeeping, spa services, or purchasing items from port vendors.

Is it safe to carry large amounts of cash on a cruise?
Carrying large sums of cash is not recommended due to theft risks. Use the ship’s safe for storing valuables and withdraw cash as needed.

Do cruise lines accept foreign currency?
Most cruise lines operate in U.S. dollars onboard. Foreign currency should be exchanged before boarding or at ports, as acceptance varies by location.

How can I manage cash effectively while on a cruise?
Use a combination of cash, cards, and onboard accounts. Keep cash in secure places, track your spending, and avoid carrying excessive amounts at once.
When determining how much cash to bring on a cruise, it is essential to consider the various expenses that may arise during the trip. While many cruise lines operate on a cashless system using onboard cards, having some cash on hand is beneficial for tips, small purchases, shore excursions, and emergencies. The amount should be balanced to cover incidental costs without carrying excessive cash that could be lost or stolen.

Typically, bringing between $100 to $200 in small denominations is advisable for most cruises. This range allows for tipping housekeeping, bartenders, and other service staff, as well as covering minor expenses at ports of call where card payments may not be accepted. Additionally, having local currency for international destinations can facilitate smoother transactions and avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

Ultimately, the decision on how much cash to bring depends on the cruise itinerary, personal spending habits, and the availability of alternative payment methods. Planning ahead and understanding the cruise line’s policies, along with researching destination-specific requirements, will ensure a comfortable and financially secure cruising experience.

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.