And how much cash should you take on your next cruise? We're here to help you figure it out! Experts say the average cruise passenger spends anywhere from $52 to $89 per day, but the amount you'll spend will, of course, vary based on cruise line, ship, experience and your individual preferences.

For an 8-day cruise in 2026, you should budget between $100 and $150 per person, per day for "onboard and port expenses," totaling roughly $800 to $1,200 for the trip. Most of this is handled digitally via your "Sail & Sign" card, so you don't need to carry this much in cash. You should, however, bring about $200 to $300 in small cash bills ($1s, $5s, and $10s) for tips to porters, shore excursion guides, and for small purchases in local markets where cards might not be accepted. Remember that "hidden costs" like daily gratuities (often $16–$20 per day) are usually charged to your onboard account automatically. If you plan on indulging in specialty dining, spa treatments, or high-end drink packages, you may need to increase your digital budget. By 2026, almost all major cruise lines allow you to track your real-time spending through their mobile apps, helping you stay within your financial comfort zone without any "end-of-cruise" bill shock.