Ever found yourself halfway through a cruise, only to realize you’re low on cash for a shore excursion or a spontaneous souvenir? You wouldn’t be alone in wondering, “Are there ATM machines on cruise ships?”
Knowing your options for accessing cash at sea can save you time, stress, and extra fees. In this article, we’ll answer whether ATMs are available onboard, how they work, and offer tips for managing money during your cruise adventure.
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Are There ATM Machines on Cruise Ships? Your Complete Guide
Cruises are all about relaxation, adventure, and convenience. As you embark on a journey across the seas, you might wonder: Are there ATM machines on cruise ships? Maybe you’re thinking about how you’ll access cash for tips, souvenirs, or unexpected expenses onboard or at ports of call. Let’s break down everything you need to know about ATMs at sea—how they work, what to expect, and how to make the most of your financial options while cruising.
The Clear Answer: Do Cruise Ships Have ATM Machines?
Yes, most modern cruise ships do have ATMs onboard. However, using them works a little differently than back on land. While these machines offer convenience, they also come with unique details and possible downsides you should understand before relying on them for your cash needs.
Let’s explore how onboard ATMs work, the pros and cons, and your best strategies for managing cash on a cruise.
What To Know About Cruise Ship ATMs
1. Availability Across Cruise Lines
- Major Cruise Lines: Nearly all large cruise lines—including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Celebrity—provide ATMs on their ships.
- Smaller Ships & Older Vessels: Some smaller or older cruise ships may not have ATMs onboard. It’s wise to check with your specific cruise line before sailing.
- ATM Locations: ATMs are usually located in public areas, such as near guest services, the main lobby, or the casino.
2. How Cruise Ship ATMs Work
ATM machines on cruise ships function similarly to those on land. You insert your debit or credit card, enter your PIN, and withdraw cash. However, there are a few key differences:
- Currency Dispensed: Most ship ATMs dispense U.S. dollars, regardless of the destinations you visit—even if you’re cruising internationally.
- Fee Structures: Be prepared for higher transaction fees. Using an onboard ATM typically means:
- The ATM operator (the company running the machine) charges a convenience fee, which can range from $5 to $10 (sometimes even more).
- Your own bank may also add a foreign or out-of-network ATM fee.
- Transaction Limits: ATMs may have daily withdrawal limits, sometimes lower than those you’re used to at home (often $200–$500 per transaction).
3. When You’ll Need Cash on a Cruise
Although cruise ships have largely moved to cashless systems for onboard purchases, you may find that cash is still needed:
– Tips for Crew: While most major cruise lines allow you to add gratuities to your onboard account, cash tips for exceptional service are always appreciated.
– Casino Play: Some casinos only accept cash for chips or slot credits, though others allow you to charge funds to your stateroom account.
– Shopping in Port: Many shops or market stalls in port towns prefer cash, especially in smaller or less touristy destinations.
– Excursions & Taxis: Local excursion providers, taxis, or street vendors may only accept cash.
– Emergencies: Unexpected expenses can pop up, and access to cash can be a lifesaver.
Pros and Cons of Using Cruise Ship ATMs
Let’s weigh the benefits and challenges of getting cash at sea:
Pros
- Convenience: You can access cash without needing to leave the ship or search for unfamiliar ATMs in port.
- Peace of Mind: No need to carry large amounts of cash from home, helping you travel lighter and safer.
- 24/7 Access: Most onboard ATMs are available round-the-clock.
Cons
- High Fees: Expect to pay more per withdrawal—sometimes double or triple the fees of land-based ATMs.
- Limited Currency Options: Generally, only U.S. dollars are available, which might require you to exchange money in port if visiting countries with different currencies.
- Potential for Technical Issues: ATMs may run out of cash or be temporarily out of order, particularly on longer or heavily booked sailings.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Make your cruising experience smoother and your budget happier by keeping these tips in mind:
1. Bring Some Cash With You
Carry a modest amount of cash when boarding your cruise. This will help cover immediate expenses or emergencies without the scramble to find an ATM as soon as you set sail.
2. Consider Currency Exchange Before Departure
If your cruise will stop in countries with different currencies, exchange some money at home or once you reach port, as ship ATMs rarely dispense foreign currency.
3. Watch Out for Fees
- Research your bank’s fees for international and out-of-network ATM withdrawals.
- Consider using a bank or credit card that reimburses ATM fees, if available.
4. Withdraw Larger Amounts at Once
To minimize fees, take out larger sums less frequently, rather than making multiple small withdrawals.
5. Plan for Onshore Expenses
- Find out whether ports of call have reliable ATMs or require cash for shopping, dining, or excursions.
- Some ports may have higher ATM fees or less secure machines.
6. Use Your Cruise Card Onboard
Almost every cruise line uses a cashless system onboard, linking purchases to your cruise card or wearable device connected to your onboard account. Only cash-based activities—like the arcade on some lines or the casino in certain cases—require physical bills.
Alternatives to Cruise Ship ATMs
If you want to avoid onboard ATM fees, here are some alternatives:
- Get Cash in Port: Use ATMs at reputable banks when your ship docks. Fees may still apply, but they can be lower than at-sea rates, especially if you need local currency.
- Prepaid Travel Cards: Consider loading a prepaid travel card with a set amount for use at ATMs or in stores.
- Bank Options: Some banks, especially large international banks, have partnerships that reduce fees for overseas ATM withdrawals.
- Cash Advances at Guest Services: Some cruise lines allow cash advances charged to your onboard account, but these often come with high fees or interest rates, especially with credit cards.
- Bring Enough From Home: Budget for expected cash needs and bring it with you, keeping it secure in your stateroom safe.
Useful Advice for Specific Cruise Lines
- Carnival Cruise Line: Offers ATMs on all ships. Standard fees apply, and cash advances are available at guest services for a fee.
- Royal Caribbean: ATMs dispense U.S. dollars, with applicable charges. The cashless SeaPass system is used for onboard purchases.
- Celebrity Cruises: ATMs are found near guest relations or the casino, dispensing U.S. dollars; fees will be charged for withdrawals.
- Other Lines: Almost every mainstream cruise line offers similar services, but always confirm with your cruise company before travel.
Summary
To sum it up: Most cruise ships do provide ATM machines, usually dispensing U.S. dollars, and located in accessible spots like the main atrium or casino.
While convenient, these ATMs come with high fees and limited currency options, making it wise to plan your cash needs before you set sail. Bringing cash, using onshore ATMs, or considering cashless alternatives can all help you avoid unnecessary charges.
By thinking ahead, you’ll spend less time worrying about money and more time enjoying your cruise!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are ATM fees higher on cruise ships than on land?
Yes, ATM fees on cruise ships are often significantly higher. The operator may charge between $5 and $10 per transaction, and your bank could also charge an out-of-network or foreign ATM fee. Always check the total cost before completing a withdrawal.
2. What currency do cruise ship ATMs dispense?
Most cruise ship ATMs dispense U.S. dollars, no matter where you are cruising. If your travel takes you to countries using different currencies, you may need to visit an ATM or currency exchange in port.
3. Can I use my credit card at shipboard ATMs for a cash advance?
Yes, in many cases, you can use a credit card to obtain a cash advance at onboard ATMs or at Guest Services. However, this comes with higher fees and immediate interest charges. It’s usually cheaper to use your debit card or bring cash from home.
4. Do all cruise ships have ATMs?
Most large, modern cruise ships have at least one ATM onboard. However, smaller ships or older vessels might not, so it’s always best to double-check with your cruise line if you’ll need ATM access at sea.
5. Is it better to use ATMs onboard or in port?
If you need local currency or want to avoid higher fees, it’s often better to use bank ATMs in port. These are generally more cost-effective and dispense the appropriate currency for your destination.
With this guide in hand, you’ll know exactly how to access cash when you need it, and you can cruise with confidence—focused on adventure, not ATM fees!