Nope! Your cruise works just like a hotel - everything you buy onboard gets added to your account, and you'll settle up at the end with the card you registered during online check-in.
💳 How onboard payments work
When you check in online before your cruise, you'll link a credit or debit card to your account. Then onboard, you'll use your cruise card (given to you at embarkation) to charge everything - drinks, spa treatments, specialty dining, shore excursions, you name it. At the end of your cruise, the total gets charged to your registered card automatically.
💷 What about tips and port spending?
While you won't need cash onboard the ship, it's handy to have some local currency for when you're off exploring ports - for markets, small shops, taxis, or tipping tour guides.
🔍 Want the full picture?
Each cruise line handles onboard accounts slightly differently, including which cards they accept and how gratuities are charged. Check out your cruise line's website for all the specifics.
✅ Top Tips
- Register your card early during online check-in to avoid queues at embarkation
- Check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before you travel
- Bring some cash in local currencies for ports of call
- Monitor your account - most cruise lines let you check your spending via their app or cabin TV
- Keep your cruise card safe - it's your key, ID, and payment method all in one!