Why did Carnival charge my card $100?

That $100 Carnival Charge: It’s a Hold, Not a Bill

Received a $100 charge from Carnival Cruise Line and wondering what it’s for? Before you panic and start calling customer service, understand that this is almost certainly a temporary authorization hold, not an actual charge. Carnival, like many cruise lines, implements this practice to secure funds against potential onboard expenses.

Think of it as a pre-emptive budgeting measure. Rather than constantly checking your balance throughout your cruise, Carnival places a temporary hold on a portion of your credit or debit card’s available funds. This typically ranges from $100 to $200, though the exact amount can vary based on several factors, including the length of your cruise and your chosen stateroom category.

What does the hold cover?

This temporary hold primarily serves as a buffer for onboard purchases. This includes, but isn’t limited to:

• Drinks: Those tempting cocktails and specialty coffees quickly add up!
• Excursions: Last-minute shore excursions can significantly inflate your spending.
• Spa treatments: Relaxation comes at a cost, and spa services are a popular onboard activity.
• Specialty dining: Reservations at premium restaurants often involve extra fees.
• Casino chips: Lady Luck might not be on your side, but the casino needs to secure its funds.
• Gratuities (if not prepaid): A significant portion of the hold often accounts for gratuities, especially if you haven’t pre-paid them.

What happens after the cruise?

Once your cruise concludes, Carnival will process your actual onboard expenses. The cruise line will then release the hold, and any unused portion of the authorized amount will be automatically refunded to your account. This refund process can take a few business days to a week, depending on your bank’s processing times. You should see the full amount of the hold become available again within this timeframe.

Why a hold and not just charging for the cruise itself?

This system simplifies the financial aspects of the cruise experience. It eliminates the need for constant billing during the voyage, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without worrying about constantly verifying your balance. For Carnival, it manages potential risks associated with onboard spending and ensures sufficient funds are available to cover any expenses incurred.

What if you have concerns?

If you’re still unsure about a charge, or if the refund isn’t processed within a reasonable timeframe (a week or so), contact Carnival Cruise Line customer service directly. They can provide clarification on the transaction and assist with any discrepancies. Providing your confirmation number will significantly expedite the process.

In short, that $100 (or $200) charge is almost certainly a temporary hold designed to secure funds for potential onboard purchases. Don’t worry, it’s not a surprise bill – it’s just a precautionary measure that will be refunded after your cruise.