Help CenterAn onboard credit (OBC) is a dollar amount applied to your cruise account that you can use like spending money while you're on the ship. It’s one of the most popular cruise perks and can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses during your vacation.
💳 What Can Onboard Credit Be Used For?
You can use OBC to pay for many extras that are not included in your cruise fare:
| You Can Use OBC For: | You Cannot Use OBC For: |
|---|---|
| Specialty dining | Casino gambling (on most lines) |
| Shore excursions | Tips/gratuities (varies by line) |
| Spa services | Medical services |
| Drinks (alcohol, soda, coffee) | Some pre-purchased items/packages |
| Gift shop purchases | Future cruise deposits (sometimes) |
| Internet/Wi-Fi | |
| Photos & photo packages | |
| Laundry services |
💰 How Do You Get Onboard Credit?
| Source | Description |
|---|---|
| Booking promotion | Offered by Direct Line Cruises as part of a cruise deal |
| Group cruise perk | Given when sailing with a group |
| Cruise line loyalty status | Higher-tier members often receive OBC as a reward. In addition, Direct Line Cruises' Loyalty Club provides points that may be redeemed for onboard credits. |
| Future cruise certificates | Sometimes include OBC as a bonus for redeeming a Future Cruise Certificate |
| Cruise rebooking incentives | Given as an incentive to rebook while onboard an active cruise |
🔎 How to Check or Track OBC
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You’ll see your OBC listed in your online cruise planner. Note: Some onboard credits provided exclusively by Direct Line Cruises will be added into your onboard account at approximately 7 to 10 days before your scheduled sail date.
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Once onboard, you can track your onboard credit balance at guest services or on the cruise line’s mobile app or stateroom TV.
🛑 Important Notes:
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Use it or lose it: OBC is typically non-refundable and expires at the end of the cruise.
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It does not lower your fare, but rather gives you spending power while onboard.
✅ In Summary:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is an onboard credit (OBC)? | A spending credit added to your cruise account |
| What can it be used for? | Drinks, excursions, dining, spa, Wi-Fi, and more |
| How do you get it? | Promotions, group perks, loyalty status, onboard rebooking. Call Direct Line Cruises to check for Onboard Credit specials. |
| Does it expire? | ✅ Yes — must be used during the cruise |