How do I pay for my purchases while on board a cruise?

On a cruise ship, you don’t use cash or credit cards for day-to-day purchases. Instead, cruise lines operate on a cashless system, where all onboard spending is linked to your personal onboard account. Here’s how it works:

💳 1. Cruise Card

When you check in, you’ll receive a cruise card (also called a keycard, SeaPass, Sail & Sign, etc.).

• This card or device acts as:

  • Your room key

  • Your ID when boarding/disembarking

  • Your payment method onboard

Whenever you make a purchase—drinks, spa treatments, gift shop items, specialty dining—you just tap or swipe your card or device.

🧾 2. Linking a Payment Method

At check-in (either online or at the port), you’ll link your cruise account to a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit.

• Credit/Debit card: Most common; charges are settled at the end of the cruise.

• Cash deposit: If you prefer not to use a card, you can leave cash at the start and top it up if needed.

• You can view your account balance via:

  • The cruise line’s mobile app

  • The TV in your cabin

  • Guest services or kiosks onboard

🛍️ 3. What Can You Charge to Your Account?

🧾 4. Settling Your Bill

• On the last night or morning of your cruise, your final bill is tallied and charged to your linked payment method.

• You’ll receive a printed statement or can view/download it digitally.

• If you left a cash deposit, any unused amount is refunded at guest services.

✅ In Summary