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20th February 2017
One of the biggest drawcards of a cruise holiday is the convenience. But sadly, more people than you’d think hop aboard, then realise they weren’t carrying the right sort of travel money.
To make sure you get the best from your boat-ride, we’ve put together our guide for carrying cash on your cruise.
What Do I Need Money For on a Cruise?
Thought everything was included in your cruise fare? You’d be about 90% right. In general, you’ll find your fee will cover you for:
- The ship itself
- Most of your food
- Your cabin
- Some basic entertainment.
However, there are a few ‘extras’ that require payment. So, we’ve prepared a cheeky little table to help explain what extras you’ll want, and how much they’re likely to cost.
Of course, you can still have all of these things charged to our account. But it’s incredibly easy to lose track of how much you’re spending. And if you leave it until the last morning of your trip to pay off your account, you’ll be fighting the crowds of people doing the exact same thing.
Tipping on a Cruise
If you’re holidaying with a reputable cruise ship, there’s a strong chance it won’t tip over.
But, you were probably asking about how to tip the staff with money. Right?
Well, the best thing you can do is check if basic tips are included in your fare. If not, it’s worth setting aside some sneaky cash to tip your stewards and stewardesses. Even your waiters and waitresses are paid some incredibly low wages, relying on tips.
Your cruise’s website should also include some details of their preferred procedures on tipping, so it might be worth a cheeky check before you depart.
Tips For When You’re Onshore
You can book shore excursions through the cruise ship and have the cost added to your account, so you don’t need to pay for them separately, or you can organise your own activities when you disembark in port.
The only catch – all the food, drinks, and souvenirs you’ll want to buy will cost you cash. And the ATM on-board will carry some pretty heavy fees. So if you know the currencies your ports prefer, you can prepare the cash you’ll need in advance.
If you aren’t sure which currencies you will need, any of our FXperts will be happy to help. They’ll be able to help with currency information, as well as the rate available on the day. Find your nearest store online, or by phoning 1300 738 697.
How Much Cash Should I Take on a Cruise?
How long is a piece of string? Well, it depends if you’re planning to knit a jumper, or you simply need to do a bit of flossing.
The point of that analogy is – bring as much cash as you want to enjoy yourself. If you’re planning to dine in the finest restaurants, and lose a bit of coin at the casino, go for it. But if you’re looking to squeeze every penny on your cruise, don’t bring as much.
The best thing you can do is check with your cruise’s website, understand their costs upfront, and have your cash well prepared. The more you can prepare before you travel, the more you’ll save on ATM fees.
Thankfully, our FXperts have seen a cruise or two in their day. Simply chat to a member of our team at your local Travel Money Oz store, and they’ll be able to help estimate how much cash you should carry on your cruise.
This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.
