CASH IS KING

On the islands or in port.

Yes, US money is accepted at almost every port on your itinerary. If not, they will always exchange it for you. Curaçao is an example.

How much cash should you take?

It truly depends on your travel plans. There are a variety of reasons of why you will need to have cash on a cruise.

Here are a few examples:

Have you booked a prepaid excursion?
If so, you need tip money for your shuttle driver and tour guide. You might also want to purchase a snack or beverage.

Exploring the destinations on your own?
If you are planning to find a taxi and go on your own, research first. Make sure you check everything out before you go. Find out what to expect to pay for transportation, beach access, and tours. Then you can figure the amount of cash needed for transportation, beach loungers, umbrellas, swim mats, food/drinks, etc. I often take about $100 per person with us on each port if we don’t have any specific plans.

Want to try local food and drinks?
Beverages and food used to be a good deal on the islands. However, they have realized they can charge more. If you’re willing to pay $10 for a beer on the ship, you will likely pay $5 or more on the island. Prices tend to match your willingness to spend! We paid $5 for a soda in Cabo!

Shopping?
Always take plenty of small bills for bargaining. If you bargain with a vendor for a lower price, pay with smaller bills. It’s much easier than expecting them to change a large bill.

Looking for cheaper prices?
Don’t buy items from the shops right off of the ship. Walk farther out and find better prices!  Cozumel, walk across the street. Belize, walk to the buildings farther down.  Private cruise ship islands and ports have mostly higher end shops. Not the best places for souvenir shopping.

Need extra services?
In some places, you need to tip the restroom attendants. You might also have to pay for toilet paper. So, always have a few $1 bills handy.

Onboard spending on the ship?
The only need for cash on the ship is for extra tipping and the casino!

EXTRA TIPS:

• We always go to the bank before our cruise and get plenty of small bills, $1, $5, $10, $20. I also save small bills throughout the year for use while cruising.
  
• We split our cash up into different pockets, pouches, bags. That way when you open up your bag others won’t see a bunch of money.
  
• Keep plenty of $1 bills handy for tipping.  At night I set out a couple of dollars for our early morning room service tipping.
  
• Never pack your cash in your checked luggage!

I recommend using cash while in port over using a credit card for purchases. I’ve heard many stories of fraud and cruise passengers being unable to get their money back. And, it helps curb overspending!

HERE’S A GROUP JUST FOR NEW CRUISERS AND OTHERS!
NO JUDGMENT WITH CORRECT ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS.
LOTS OF IN-DEPTH INFORMATION, TIPS AND PERSONAL ADVICE! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors