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 a cruise in 2026, you should budget between $75 and $250 per person, per day for "extras" not included in your base fare. While the cruise is mostly all-inclusive, you will still encounter daily automatic gratuities (crew appreciation), which now range from $17 to $25 per day depending on your cabin category. Most onboard spending is "cashless" and charged to your room key, so you primarily need physical cash for the ports of call. Experienced travelers recommend carrying about $30 to $60 in small bills per port for local taxis, market souvenirs, and tips for tour guides. If you plan to indulge in specialty dining ($35–$75 per meal), drink packages, or high-end shore excursions ($60–$250+), your daily total will lean toward the higher end. For a standard 7-night sailing, a couple should expect to see an onboard bill of at least $500–$700 for basic tips and minor extras, while also keeping $300–$400 in cash for local island expenses.