How much money do I need?

[Danix91]

Hi all, I will be going on my first cruise in Feb (it's a three day cruise to nowhere) on the MSC Opera and I was just wondering if anyone could give me a rough idea of how much I'll need to bring with?

 

I won't be going to the casino or the spa, and wont be buying many photos either. However I will try a few drinks (not a heavy drinker) and am interested in getting the cruise DVD (anyone bought one before or know the price of it?)

 

Another thing that I'm not sure about is the whole tipping story? The MSC site says that no tips are requested on board. Does that mean I don't have to tip over and above the service charge added or is that considered rude? Won't be using room service. The reason that I ask is that I've read that people take $1 or $5 bills for tipping. As my cruise is in South African waters (and I'm South African) I'd have to exchange money before I board correct? Or is there the option to change some money on board? :confused:

 

Don't have a credit card so am needing to take cash for the cruise card.

 

Any and all advice is welcome :) thanks in advance

[AmoMondo]

You don't need to tip over and above the service charge. Cruise photos are usually around €20 and videos €20-25. they often do a deal where if you buy so many photos you get the DVD free.

 

It's difficult to say how much you'll need for drinks without knowing what you intend drinking. There's free water, tea and coffee in the buffet all day. Wine starts at €18 per bottle +15% service charge. Espresso, cappuccino etc around €2, small beer €3-4.

 

There arebar menus published on the Allegrissimo thread, that will give you actual prices, so you can work this out for yourself.

 

Only other charge is €1 UNICEF donation which can be removed.