On-Board Account Question

[NewUserRR]

I booked a Carnival cruise this winter for my wife and I. It will be the first cruise for both of us. I understand that tips are automatically added to your on-board account, which has to be paid by the end of the cruise, is that correct? Are there other expenses added to your on-board account which aren't typically paid "up front?" Just want to be sure we know the "real cost" and plan accordingly. I do plan to keep the automatic tipping in place. Thanks for any help in clarifying the expenses which are added automatically in addition to the "up-front" cost. I'm excited!

[LoriSan]

gratuities are the only expense besides your purchases and activities. I believe you can pre-pay your gratuities before the trip as well, if you would rather get it off your account.

[NewUserRR]

Thank you LoriSan. Glad to hear that.

[olemissreb]

Make sure you budget for any of your onboard expenses - drinks, excursions, souvenirs, pictures. Those will be charged to your account via your sign and sail card. They are not automatic like gratuities, but they can add up if you aren't careful.

[Krazy Kruizers]

Drinks that you are charged for are sodas, bottled water, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. And there will be a 15% gratuity added on.

[Marie51]

Just to clarify....your onboard acct does not have to be paid at the end of the cruise. It goes on your credit card so you may have some time before you get the bill.

[Glaciers]

We usually go to the pursers desk and get a print out half way through the trip of our onboard account, or at least prior to the last day. More than once we've had charges that weren't correct.

[cb at sea]

Your credit card isn't CHARGED until the end of the cruise...that includes any purchases you make. So, at the end of the cruise, the cruiseline gets paid...even though you may not get your credit card bill until the next month! Just to clarify!

[SadieN]

We usually go to the pursers desk and get a print out half way through the trip of our onboard account, or at least prior to the last day. More than once we've had charges that weren't correct.

 

Carnival also has Kiosks to check your balance.

[Dayenu]

Gratuities are added automatically unless you want to pre-pay them before the cruise.

 

Everything else is your choice: you can buy alchohol, go to specialy restaurants, buy souvenirs, tours, use computers...

[schlot]

Activities such as special tours of the ship and spa/massage appointments are added to your account also.

[skipsaur]

Just wanted to mention that while most people tie accounts to credit cards, you usually do have the option to set up a "debit" type system and preload your card with cash. Usually you can do this at the pier at check-in or guest services.

 

If you're using a credit card, I think most lines still use the system of placing a preset hold on your available credit right at the beginning. The amount is dependent on the length of your cruise. Something to consider if applicable.