Do I need cash on a Carnival cruise?

Ditch the Dough: Navigating Carnival’s Cashless Cruise Experience

Are you planning a Carnival cruise and wondering if you’ll need to bring stacks of cash? The good news is, you can leave the green stuff behind! Carnival’s innovative Sail & Sign® system allows you to enjoy a completely cashless cruise experience.

How It Works:

Instead of carrying around cash, you’ll be issued a Sail & Sign card at the beginning of your cruise. This card serves as your onboard currency, linked directly to your account. Every purchase you make, from drinks at the bar to souvenirs in the shops, will be charged to your Sail & Sign account. You can even use it for gratuities, ensuring all tips are distributed fairly and efficiently.

Benefits of Going Cashless:

• Convenience: Say goodbye to fumbling for bills in your wallet or worrying about lost or stolen cash. The Sail & Sign card is a convenient and secure way to make all your onboard transactions.
• Seamless Experience: You can simply swipe your card and enjoy the experience without the hassle of cash. It’s especially helpful for quick purchases like grabbing a snack or buying a coffee.
• Track Your Spending: Keep an eye on your budget with easy access to your account balance online or on the Carnival Hub app. You’ll have a detailed record of every purchase, making it easy to monitor your spending.
• Safer Alternative: A cashless system means you’re less susceptible to losing money or falling victim to theft. The Sail & Sign card is a secure and protected way to manage your onboard finances.

What to Expect:

• Initial Deposit: You’ll be asked to make a deposit to your Sail & Sign account at the start of your cruise. This deposit serves as a pre-payment for your onboard expenses, and any unused balance will be refunded to you at the end of your cruise.
• Automatic Charging: You don’t need to worry about constantly topping up your card. If your account balance falls below a certain threshold, it will automatically be charged from your linked credit card or bank account.
• End-of-Cruise Settlement: At the end of your cruise, you’ll receive a statement detailing all your onboard purchases. You can settle your balance with your linked credit card or bank account or pay in cash at the guest relations desk.

Is Cash Still Accepted?

While cash is not typically accepted onboard, you can still use it at the casino and for some shore excursions. However, it’s generally advisable to primarily rely on the Sail & Sign system for a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.

So, relax and enjoy your Carnival cruise knowing you’ve left the hassle of cash behind. Sail & Sign® is a convenient and secure system that ensures a seamless and memorable journey.