There are limited currency conversion options onboard, however we do accept most major currencies and convert them to US dollars with applicable conversion rates, and at a limit of $950 USD per person per day. There are not always exchange facilities available or open in the ports. Was this content helpful?

Onboard almost any major cruise ship, you do not need different currency; the "onboard account" is the universal way to pay. Ships typically operate on a cashless system where your room key (or a wearable like Disney's MagicBand+) is linked to a credit card. For U.S.-based lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Disney, the onboard currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). However, you should carry local currency for ports of call. While USD is widely accepted in the Caribbean and Bahamas, you will get much better exchange rates using Euros (€) in Mediterranean ports or Pounds (£) in the UK. In 2026, many cruisers find that a "No Foreign Transaction Fee" credit card or a digital wallet (Apple/Google Pay) is sufficient for most port purchases, though keeping $50–$100 in small local bills is still recommended for tipping independent tour guides or buying from small street vendors.