Do I Need Travel Money on a Cruise?

If you’re heading on a cruise for the first time, you might be wondering whether you need to bring cash or travel money. Unlike a typical holiday, cruise ships operate on a cashless system, meaning you won’t be paying with physical money on board. However, there are still situations where having some cash could be useful, especially when going ashore.

How Do Payments Work on a Cruise Ship?

Most cruise lines use a cashless system, where your cruise card (or wristband) is linked to your onboard account. Everything you buy; drinks, excursions, shopping, and spa treatments, is charged to your room. At the end of your cruise, your balance is settled using a credit or debit card, a prepaid travel card, or a cash deposit made at check-in.
If you’re worried about overspending, you can set a spending limit on your onboard account or use a prepaid card to help control your budget.

Do You Need Cash Onboard?

Generally, you won’t need cash for everyday purchases since most transactions are charged to your account. However, there are a few situations where carrying some cash can be useful:

• Tipping: While gratuities are often included in your fare, you may want to tip certain crew members personally, such as your cabin steward, waiters, or bartenders.
• Casino: Some cruise ships require cash for slot machines and table games, though others allow you to charge chips to your onboard account (often with an extra fee).
• Cash deposits: If you prefer not to use a card, you can load your onboard account with cash at guest services.

If you plan to tip crew members, it’s best to bring small denominations in pounds and US dollars since change for larger bills can be difficult to get.

Do You Need Local Currency for Port Stops?

This depends on where you’re going. Many ports accept British pounds, US dollars, or euros, but some require the local currency.

Cash can be useful in port for:

• Small souvenir shops and market stalls
• Local transport like taxis, buses, and ferries
• Street food vendors and independent cafés
• Tour guides not booked through the cruise line

Before your trip, research the currency used at each port. Some Caribbean islands and Mediterranean destinations widely accept US dollars or euros, while others prefer their own currency. It’s always a good idea to carry some small notes and coins, as some vendors may not have change for larger bills.

Can You Use a Credit or Debit Card in Port?

Most major tourist spots accept credit and debit cards, but some smaller businesses and markets may only take cash. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, while American Express can be less reliable.

Be mindful of foreign transaction fees, as some banks charge extra for international purchases. If you want to avoid these fees, consider using a travel-friendly card with no foreign transaction charges.

A good rule of thumb is to always pay in local currency when using your card abroad. If given the option, avoid selecting “GBP” when paying, as the exchange rate is usually worse.

Withdrawing Cash: Cruise Ship vs. Ports

While cruise ships often have onboard ATMs, they tend to have high fees. If you need cash, withdrawing from an ATM in port is usually a better option. However, be cautious—some machines have high withdrawal fees or security risks.

For safety, use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centres rather than standalone machines in tourist areas. Avoid small kiosks or street ATMs, as they often have the highest fees.

Should You Take Travel Money or Just Rely on Cards?

A combination of cards and a small amount of cash is the best approach.

• If you like to stick to a budget, bringing some pre-planned cash can help.
• Carry small notes and coins for tipping and small purchases.
• Keep an emergency stash of £50-£100 separate from your main wallet in case your card doesn’t work or gets lost.

Final Travel Money Tips for a Cruise

• Bring a small amount of cash in pounds and US dollars for tipping waiters and butlers onboard your cruise and emergencies.
• Use a credit or debit card with no foreign transaction fees for larger purchases.
• Withdraw cash from secure ATMs in port rather than expensive onboard machines.
• Keep your money safe; use a money belt or hotel safe when ashore.
• Check your bank’s travel policies, as some require you to notify them before using your card abroad.

You won’t need much physical cash on the ship since most purchases are cashless. However, having some cash for tipping, the casino, and emergencies is a good idea. When in port, a mix of cash and cards will ensure you’re covered.

Final Tip: Always have a backup payment method for travel money on a cruise, whether it’s a second card or some emergency cash, just in case your main card is lost or declined.

Southampton Cruise Centre has partnered with TravelFX, one of the leading providers of foreign currency in the UK. They offer some of the most competitive exchange rates available, coupled with fully insured Royal Mail Special Delivery postage.

By planning ahead, you can enjoy your cruise without worrying about money matters!