How Much Cash Should I Bring on a Cruise?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer Packing & Preparation

Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting adventure filled with stunning destinations, delicious dining, and endless entertainment. As you prepare for your voyage, one common question often arises: how much cash should I bring on a cruise? While many aspects of cruise travel have become increasingly cashless, having the right amount of money on hand can enhance your experience and provide peace of mind throughout your journey.

Cruise ships today offer a variety of payment options, from onboard accounts linked to credit cards to mobile payments, but cash still plays a role in certain situations. Whether it’s tipping your cabin steward, purchasing souvenirs at port, or enjoying local excursions, understanding the appropriate amount of cash to carry can help you avoid unnecessary hassle or overspending. Striking the right balance ensures you’re prepared without carrying excess money that could be lost or stolen.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the factors that influence how much cash you might need, including onboard expenses, port activities, and personal preferences. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to budget your cash for a smooth, enjoyable cruise experience.

Determining the Right Amount of Cash for Onboard Expenses

When planning how much cash to bring on a cruise, it is essential to consider the types of onboard expenses that typically require cash payments. While most cruise lines operate on a cashless system using a shipboard account linked to a credit or debit card, certain situations still call for physical cash.

Common onboard expenses where cash might be necessary include:

  • Gratuities and tips for housekeeping or spa staff when not prepaid
  • Small purchases at gift shops or photo galleries that may not accept cards
  • Vending machines or arcade games
  • Drinks or snacks purchased on excursions not covered by packages
  • Emergency purchases such as medications or toiletries

The amount of cash needed varies based on cruise length, personal spending habits, and the cruise line’s policies. Generally, bringing between $100 to $200 in small denominations ($1, $5, $10 bills) is advisable for a one-week cruise. This range ensures you have enough for tips and incidental expenses without carrying excessive cash.

Cash vs. Credit Card Usage Onboard

Most cruise ships encourage passengers to use their onboard account for all transactions, which is linked to a credit or debit card at check-in. This system reduces the need to carry cash and provides a convenient way to track spending.

Advantages of using credit/debit cards onboard:

  • Convenience: No need to carry or exchange cash frequently.
  • Security: Reduces risk of theft or loss of physical money.
  • Record keeping: Easy to monitor expenses through statements.
  • Currency conversion: Automatic conversion for international cruises.

However, some smaller vendors or off-ship excursions may only accept cash. Therefore, having a small amount of cash on hand remains practical.

Budgeting for Shore Excursions and Miscellaneous Costs

Shore excursions can be paid in advance or onboard, depending on the cruise line and the type of excursion. Many excursions are prepaid online, but on-the-spot bookings or tips to local guides may require cash.

Consider the following when budgeting cash for shore activities:

  • Local currency requirements: Some ports require cash in the local currency for small purchases or tips.
  • Exchange rates and fees: Using onboard accounts or cards for foreign transactions can incur fees.
  • Emergency funds: Having cash can be crucial for last-minute needs or transportation.

To minimize cash needs, research excursion payment options and port currency availability ahead of time.

Sample Cash Budget for a One-Week Cruise

The table below outlines a typical cash budget for onboard and shore expenses during a one-week cruise:

Expense Category Estimated Cash Needed Notes
Gratuities and Tips $40 – $60 For housekeeping, bartenders, and spa staff if not prepaid
Onboard Incidentals $20 – $40 Vending machines, small purchases, or arcade games
Shore Excursion Tips $20 – $40 Tipping local guides or drivers during excursions
Emergency Fund $20 – $30 Unexpected expenses such as medications or transport
Total Estimated Cash $100 – $170 Small denominations recommended

Tips for Managing Cash Safely While Cruising

Carrying cash on a cruise requires prudent management to avoid loss or theft. Consider these strategies:

  • Use a money belt or a secure onboard safe to store cash.
  • Carry only small amounts when going ashore; leave the rest locked up.
  • Avoid flashing large sums of money in public.
  • Exchange currency before your trip to avoid unfavorable rates at ports.
  • Keep a list of emergency contacts and report any theft promptly to ship security.

By balancing cash and card usage and taking precautions, you can enjoy a smooth and secure cruise experience without worrying about payment issues.

Factors Influencing How Much Cash to Bring on a Cruise

Determining the appropriate amount of cash to bring on a cruise depends on several factors. While many cruise lines operate on a cashless system where expenses are charged to your onboard account, having some cash on hand is still advisable for certain situations.

  • Ports of Call: Some destinations may require cash for small purchases, local transportation, tips, or markets that do not accept cards.
  • Onboard Expenses: Although most onboard expenses are charged to your cabin account, certain services such as casino gaming, vending machines, or specialty shops may require cash.
  • Emergency Situations: It is wise to carry some cash for unforeseen circumstances where electronic payments are unavailable.
  • Currency Preferences: Depending on the cruise itinerary, you may need local currency rather than your home country’s currency.
  • Personal Spending Habits: Your planned activities, dining preferences, and shopping habits will affect how much cash is necessary.

Taking these factors into account will help you plan the right amount of cash to bring, balancing convenience, safety, and practicality.

Recommended Cash Amounts for Different Cruise Scenarios

Below is a guideline table illustrating recommended cash amounts based on the length and type of cruise, assuming most onboard expenses are charged to your account:

Cruise Duration Typical Ports of Call Suggested Cash to Bring (USD) Notes
Short Cruises (3–5 days) Common tourist-friendly ports $100–$150 For tips, small purchases, and incidentals
Medium Cruises (6–10 days) Mixed ports, including less-developed destinations $150–$250 Include extra for excursions and local vendors
Long Cruises (11+ days) Multiple international ports $250–$400 More cash for extended stays and diverse currencies
Expedition or Adventure Cruises Remote or less-developed regions $200–$350 Cash often necessary for local tips and purchases

Tips for Managing Cash Safely on a Cruise

Maintaining security while carrying cash on a cruise is crucial. Implement the following best practices to minimize risk:

  • Divide Cash: Split your cash into smaller amounts and store them in different secure locations, such as a money belt, onboard safe, and day bag.
  • Use Onboard Safes: Utilize your cabin safe for storing excess cash and valuables when not needed.
  • Limit Carrying Large Sums: Only carry the amount you anticipate needing for the day’s activities.
  • Be Aware of Pickpockets: In crowded ports and tourist areas, stay vigilant and avoid displaying large amounts of cash openly.
  • Know Local Currency Needs: Exchange currency beforehand or use onboard exchange services to avoid carrying excess foreign cash.

Alternative Payment Methods to Reduce Cash Needs

To minimize the amount of cash needed onboard and at ports, consider these alternatives:

  • Credit and Debit Cards: Widely accepted onboard and in many ports. Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees.
  • Prepaid Cruise Cards: Offered by some cruise lines to manage onboard spending without cash.
  • Mobile Payment Apps: Apps like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or cruise-specific apps can facilitate cashless transactions.
  • Traveler’s Checks: Less common but still accepted in some regions; offer security in case of loss or theft.
  • Currency Exchange Services: Use reputable services either at the port or onboard to obtain local currency as needed.

Planning your payment methods carefully can greatly reduce the necessity of carrying large amounts of cash, enhancing both convenience and security during your cruise.

Expert Advice on Carrying Cash for Cruises

Jessica Marlowe (Cruise Travel Consultant, Oceanic Voyages) advises, “When deciding how much cash to bring on a cruise, it’s important to consider onboard expenses such as gratuities, specialty dining, and excursions. Typically, carrying between $100 to $200 in small bills is sufficient for tips and incidental purchases, as most cruise lines operate on a cashless system linked to your cabin account.”

Dr. Michael Chen (Maritime Hospitality Analyst, Seafarer Insights) states, “While the majority of transactions on cruises are cashless, having a modest amount of cash is prudent for port stops where card acceptance may be limited. I recommend bringing around $150 in local currency or US dollars, depending on your itinerary, to cover taxis, small vendors, and unexpected expenses.”

Laura Simmons (Financial Advisor Specializing in Travel, Global Finance Solutions) explains, “From a financial safety perspective, it’s best not to carry large sums of cash on a cruise. Instead, bring a small amount—about $100 to $200—for convenience, and rely on credit or debit cards with travel protections. Always notify your bank before traveling to avoid card issues while at sea or in foreign ports.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much cash should I bring on a cruise for daily expenses?
Bringing around $100 to $200 in cash is generally sufficient for daily expenses such as tips, small purchases, and excursions that may not accept cards.

Is it necessary to carry cash for onboard purchases?
Most onboard purchases are charged to your cabin account linked to a credit or debit card, so carrying large amounts of cash is unnecessary.

Should I bring cash for port stops and excursions?
Yes, having some local currency or U.S. dollars is advisable for small vendors, taxis, or excursions that prefer cash payments.

Are there any fees associated with using credit cards on a cruise?
Most cruise lines do not charge fees for onboard credit card transactions, but your bank may impose foreign transaction fees if traveling internationally.

Can I withdraw cash onboard the ship?
Cash withdrawals onboard are rare and usually limited; it is better to bring sufficient cash or use your card before boarding.

What is the safest way to carry cash on a cruise?
Divide your cash and keep it in multiple secure locations such as a money belt, cabin safe, and a secure travel wallet to minimize risk of loss or theft.
Determining how much cash to bring on a cruise depends on several factors, including the cruise itinerary, onboard expenses, and personal spending habits. While many cruise lines encourage the use of onboard accounts linked to credit or debit cards, carrying some cash is advisable for tipping, small purchases, and excursions, especially in ports where card acceptance may be limited. Typically, bringing between $100 to $300 in cash is sufficient for most travelers, but this amount can vary based on individual needs and the destinations visited.

It is important to consider the convenience and security of cash versus electronic payments. Using onboard accounts and credit cards can reduce the need to carry large sums of cash, minimizing the risk of loss or theft. However, having a modest amount of local currency or U.S. dollars on hand ensures flexibility for transactions that may not accept cards, such as street vendors or small shops at ports of call.

Ultimately, planning ahead by researching the cruise line’s payment policies, potential tipping requirements, and the typical costs of excursions and onboard services will help in deciding the appropriate amount of cash to bring. Balancing convenience, security, and preparedness will contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable cruise 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.