How Much Money Should You Take On A Cruise?

AvatarByFrancis Mortimer General Cruise Queries

Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting adventure filled with stunning destinations, luxurious amenities, and unforgettable experiences. Yet, one common question that often arises before boarding is: how much money should you bring along? Knowing the right amount to carry can make your journey smoother, more enjoyable, and free from unexpected financial stress.

Cruise vacations typically include many expenses covered upfront, such as accommodations, meals, and entertainment, but there are also additional costs that travelers should anticipate. From onboard activities and specialty dining to shore excursions and gratuities, understanding the financial landscape of a cruise helps you budget wisely. Striking the right balance between carrying enough cash and relying on cards is essential for convenience and security.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key factors that influence how much money you should take on a cruise, helping you prepare confidently for your voyage. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this guide will equip you with the insights needed to manage your spending and make the most of your time at sea.

Estimating Daily Expenses on a Cruise

When planning how much money to take on a cruise, it is essential to consider daily expenses that are not included in the base fare. These additional costs can vary significantly depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and personal preferences. Common daily expenses include gratuities, specialty dining, beverages, shore excursions, and onboard activities.

Gratuities are often automatically added to your onboard account, typically ranging from $14 to $18 per person per day. These fees cover service staff such as waiters, cabin stewards, and other crew members. Some cruise lines allow you to prepay gratuities or adjust amounts based on service quality.

Specialty dining options, such as steakhouses, sushi bars, or wine tastings, generally charge extra fees. Budgeting for at least one or two specialty meals during your cruise is advisable if you want to experience upscale dining beyond the standard complimentary options.

Beverages, especially alcoholic drinks, sodas, and specialty coffees, are usually not included unless you purchase a beverage package. These costs can add up quickly. If you plan to consume several drinks daily, consider the cost of beverage packages versus individual purchases.

Shore excursions offer unique experiences but come with varying prices depending on the activity and destination. Booking excursions through the cruise line or independently can affect cost and availability.

Other onboard expenses may include spa treatments, internet access, casino gaming, and shopping. These discretionary expenses depend on personal preferences and should be planned accordingly.

Cash vs. Credit Card: What to Bring

Deciding between cash and credit cards for a cruise involves understanding where each form of payment is accepted and the potential fees involved.

  • Cash is useful for tipping porters, purchasing goods at ports of call, and in situations where credit cards may not be accepted. It is advisable to carry small denominations of the local currency for each port.
  • Credit cards are widely accepted onboard for charges to your cabin account, including dining, beverages, and excursions. Major cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are typically accepted.
  • Debit cards can also be used but may trigger holds or delays in transactions, so a credit card is generally more convenient.
  • Some cruise lines offer prepaid onboard accounts linked to credit or debit cards, simplifying payment and tracking expenses.
  • Be aware of foreign transaction fees on credit cards when spending in international ports.

Carrying a mix of cash and credit cards provides flexibility and security.

Sample Budget for a 7-Day Cruise

The following table outlines an estimated budget for additional expenses on a 7-day cruise, excluding the base cruise fare. This example is based on a moderate spending style for one adult traveler.

Expense Category Estimated Cost Notes
Gratuities $126 $18 per day, automatically added
Specialty Dining $100 2 specialty meals at $50 each
Beverages $140 Average $20 per day for drinks
Shore Excursions $200 3 excursions at approx. $65 each
Spa/Other Activities $75 One massage or similar treatment
Miscellaneous (shopping, tips, etc.) $50 Small purchases and additional tips
Total Estimated Additional Expenses $691

This budget can be adjusted up or down depending on individual preferences, cruise line policies, and itinerary specifics.

Tips for Managing Money on a Cruise

Effectively managing your money onboard and during port visits can enhance your cruise experience and prevent overspending.

  • Set a daily spending limit to keep track of discretionary expenses.
  • Monitor your onboard account regularly through the cruise line’s app or at guest services.
  • Prepay gratuities if possible to avoid surprises at the end of the trip.
  • Purchase beverage or dining packages if you plan to indulge frequently, as these can offer savings.
  • Use credit cards with travel rewards or no foreign transaction fees to maximize value.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid fraud alerts or declined transactions.
  • Keep some cash in small denominations for tipping and purchases in ports where cards may not be accepted.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash by using secure onboard payment methods.

By planning ahead and tracking expenses, you can enjoy your cruise without financial stress.

Determining Your Daily Spending Budget on a Cruise

When preparing the amount of money to bring on a cruise, consider your daily spending habits and the types of onboard and offboard expenses you anticipate. Cruises often include many services in the base fare, but additional costs can quickly add up if not planned for.

Typical categories of daily expenses include dining upgrades, beverages, shore excursions, spa treatments, gratuities, shopping, and onboard activities. Estimating your daily spending helps you avoid surprises and manage your finances effectively.

Expense Category Average Daily Cost per Person Notes
Specialty Dining $15 – $50 Optional; varies by cruise line and restaurant
Beverages (Alcoholic & Non-alcoholic) $10 – $60 Depends on consumption and drink package purchases
Shore Excursions $40 – $150 Excursions vary widely; budgeting per port is recommended
Spa & Wellness $30 – $100 Optional services such as massages and treatments
Gratuities $12 – $20 Often charged daily per person; check cruise line policy
Shopping & Souvenirs $20 – $100 Highly variable based on personal preferences

As a rule of thumb, plan for a daily discretionary budget ranging from $50 to $200 per person beyond the cruise fare, depending on your preferences and activities.

Additional Considerations for Cruise Money Planning

Beyond daily expenses, consider the following financial factors to ensure you have sufficient funds for your entire cruise experience:

  • Prepaid Gratuities: Some cruise lines allow or require gratuities to be prepaid. Verify whether your fare includes this or if you must budget for it separately.
  • Onboard Credit: Occasionally offered as a promotion, onboard credit can offset some expenses. If you have it, factor it into your spending plan.
  • Currency: Most cruises operate primarily in U.S. dollars, but some ports require local currency for purchases. Research your itinerary and bring or exchange currency accordingly.
  • Payment Methods: Cruises typically use a cashless system tied to your onboard account. Bring a credit or debit card accepted by the cruise line for incidentals. Carry some cash for tips and shore excursions where cards may not be accepted.
  • Emergency Funds: Set aside a small emergency fund in case of unexpected expenses, such as medical needs or last-minute travel changes.

Sample Budget Scenarios Based on Cruise Style

Cruise Style Daily Spending Range Typical Activities Included Additional Notes
Budget Cruise $30 – $70 Basic dining, minimal excursions, limited specialty drinks Opt for included amenities; bring own snacks and beverages if allowed
Mid-Range Cruise $70 – $150 Some specialty dining, moderate shore excursions, beverage packages Consider pre-purchasing drink or excursion packages to save
Luxury Cruise $150 – $300+ Multiple specialty dining options, spa treatments, premium excursions Higher gratuities and onboard spending expected

These scenarios provide a framework for how much money to bring based on the type of cruise experience you prefer. Tailor your budget to your personal preferences, travel itinerary, and the amenities you want to enjoy.

Expert Advice on Budgeting for Your Cruise Vacation

Lisa Morgan (Travel Finance Consultant, CruiseSmart Advisory). When planning how much money to take on a cruise, it is essential to consider not only the upfront costs like excursions and specialty dining but also onboard expenses such as gratuities, drinks, and shopping. A good rule of thumb is to allocate at least $100 to $150 per day per person beyond the cruise fare to cover these incidentals comfortably.

Dr. Anthony Rivera (Maritime Tourism Analyst, Global Cruise Insights). Passengers often underestimate discretionary spending on cruises. I recommend budgeting for unexpected expenses like spa treatments, internet packages, and shore excursions that can quickly add up. A practical approach is to research the specific cruise line’s onboard pricing and set aside an additional 20% of your cruise fare as spending money to avoid financial surprises.

Sandra Kim (Certified Travel Planner, Oceanic Voyages). The amount of cash or accessible funds you bring on a cruise depends largely on your itinerary and personal spending habits. While most purchases onboard are cashless, carrying around $200 to $300 in small bills is advisable for tips, port fees, and small vendors at ports of call. Always check if your cruise line offers prepaid onboard accounts to manage your budget more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much cash should I bring on a cruise?
Bringing $100 to $200 in cash is advisable for tips, small purchases, and excursions where cards may not be accepted. Most expenses can be handled onboard with a cruise card linked to your credit or debit account.

Are credit cards accepted on cruises?
Yes, major credit cards are widely accepted onboard for purchases, dining, and excursions. Your cruise card acts as a charge card linked to your account, making cash less necessary.

Should I budget extra money for onboard expenses?
Yes, it is wise to budget extra for specialty dining, drinks, spa services, shore excursions, and gratuities, as these are often not included in the base fare.

Is it better to use cash or card for tipping on a cruise?
Using cash for tipping housekeeping and dining staff is preferred to ensure direct and immediate gratuity. However, many cruises also allow adding tips to your onboard account.

How can I manage my money safely while on a cruise?
Use your cruise card for onboard purchases, carry minimal cash, keep valuables in the cabin safe, and notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.

Do I need foreign currency for ports of call?
Most ports accept U.S. dollars or credit cards, but having small amounts of local currency can be helpful for taxis, markets, or small vendors that do not accept cards.
Determining how much money to take on a cruise depends on several factors including the length of the trip, the cruise line, the destinations, and personal spending habits. While many expenses such as accommodations, meals, and onboard entertainment are included in the cruise fare, passengers should budget for additional costs like gratuities, specialty dining, shore excursions, onboard purchases, and incidental expenses. It is advisable to carry a mix of payment methods, including credit cards and some cash, to ensure convenience and security throughout the voyage.

Planning ahead by researching the cruise line’s policies and typical onboard costs can significantly help in estimating an appropriate budget. Travelers should also consider setting aside extra funds for emergencies or unexpected purchases. Using onboard accounts linked to credit cards can streamline spending but keeping some cash on hand is useful for port stops where cards may not be accepted or for tipping local guides and drivers.

Ultimately, the right amount of money to bring on a cruise varies by individual preference and itinerary, but a well-prepared budget that includes both planned expenses and a financial cushion will enhance the overall cruise experience. Being mindful of spending and understanding the cruise’s financial logistics ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey without financial stress.

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.