Being on a cruise ship is a “cashless” experience.
When you register your cruise booking on the cruise line website, they ask you to set up your onboard account. You will need to use a credit or debit card. I recommend using a credit card. A debit card may put a good-sized hold on your checking account.
Another option is to use cash. If you choose to use cash, you must visit guest services shortly after you board. You will then give them the cash to apply to your account. This cash you deposit is used for anything you purchase while onboard. You use your ship card when ordering or buying things. It is then charged to your credit card or taken from your cash deposit.
You can choose not to add any cash to your card. However, you will not be able to purchase anything while onboard.
What charges wILL TYPICALLY be on your card?
- Beverages including alcohol drinks, soda, and specialty coffees if packages have not been purchased
- Gift or candy shop purchases
- Specialty restaurants and food venues
- Onboard activities that require an additional fee; arcades, rides, tours, etc
- Photo shop purchases
- Wi-Fi packages
- Excursions
- Laundry; valet or self service facilities
- Gratuities if you haven’t pre-paid them.
You CANNOT use cash to purchase any of these items on the ship. Some items or packages can be purchased at a discount on the website before your cruise.
Typically cash can only be used in the casino or for tipping onboard.
Carnival has introduced a new option for onboard spending cash. Carnival Cruise Cash is a pre-purchased credit. Guests can add it to their Sail & Sign account before or during a Carnival cruise. It serves as onboard spending money. You can use it for various expenses like drinks, souvenirs, photos, and even excursions booked through the cruise line.
It’s a convenient way to manage spending and potentially avoid carrying large amounts of cash on board.
You can choose this option if you don’t have a credit or debit card available to use for your sail and sign account.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Carnival Cruise Cash purchases are limited to $500 per cabin.
Cruise Cash is essentially pre-paid onboard credit that can be used for purchases on the ship.
Once purchased, the Cruise Cash amount is added to the guest’s Sail & Sign account. This account is the card used for all onboard purchases.
Types of Cruise Cash:
- General Cruise Cash: Can be used for any onboard purchase, including drinks, food, souvenirs, and more.
- Bar Cruise Cash: Can only be used for drinks, including alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and more.
- Photo Cruise Cash: Can only be used for purchasing photos and related items.
Benefits:
- Convenience: Guests can pre-load their accounts and avoid carrying large amounts of cash on the ship.
- Budgeting: It can help guests manage their onboard spending by setting a pre-determined budget.
- Gifting: It can be purchased as a gift for other guests on the cruise.
- Casino: General Cruise Cash can be used to fund a player’s bank in the casino. This allows guests to cash out any winnings.
Important Considerations:
Non-refundable: Any unused Cruise Cash is non-refundable.
Not transferable: Cruise Cash is tied to a specific cruise and cannot be transferred to future bookings.
Limited by type: If you purchase Bar Cruise Cash, it can only be used at the bars. It cannot be used for other onboard expenses.
I strongly recommend that you check your sail and sign account daily. In the past I have found extra charges on our account. These were always quickly rescinded after a visit to guest services. Most cruise lines have your onboard spending accounts available on your cabin television or kiosks throughout the ship. By consistently checking your account, you prevent overcharges. You will also know exactly what will be charged to your credit card at the end of the cruise. This helps you avoid any surprises.
I have found that many of us overspend while on vacation. To prevent this, plan and use a budget while cruising.
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