How does billing work on a cruise?

Understanding Cruise Ship Billing: A Comprehensive Guide

When embarking on a memorable cruise vacation, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of how onboard expenses are handled. This article provides a comprehensive guide to cruise ship billing, ensuring a seamless and well-informed experience.

Charging Onboard Purchases

Onboard your cruise, all purchases you make will be conveniently charged to the credit card you have registered with the cruise line. This includes various expenses such as dining at specialty restaurants, spa treatments, excursions, and retail shopping.

Pre-Authorization Hold

Upon boarding the ship, a temporary hold may be placed on your credit card as a pre-authorization. This hold typically ranges around $100 and serves as a security measure to cover potential expenses incurred during your cruise.

Final Bill Settlement

Towards the end of your cruise, you will receive a final bill that itemizes all your onboard purchases. This bill will be presented to your room for your review and settlement. Once you settle your final bill, the pre-authorization hold will be released, and only the actual charges will remain on your credit card.

Payment Options

Most cruise lines accept major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Some cruise lines may also offer the option to pay with cash, traveler’s checks, or debit cards. However, it’s recommended to verify with the cruise line before departure to confirm accepted payment methods.

Additional Charges

In addition to onboard purchases, there may be additional charges that are not included in the cruise fare. These charges may include:

• Gratuities for staff
• Shore excursions
• Internet access
• Childcare
• Medical services

It’s important to budget for these additional expenses to avoid any surprises at the end of your cruise.

Tips for Managing Cruise Ship Billing

• Register your credit card with the cruise line prior to departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.
• Keep track of your onboard purchases to avoid any discrepancies when you receive your final bill.
• Set a daily spending limit for yourself to stay within your budget.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your bill, contact the reception desk for assistance.

By understanding cruise ship billing and following these tips, you can ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience while enjoying all the amenities and services your cruise has to offer.