What Payment Methods Are Accepted by Princess Cruises?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most important aspects to consider is how to pay for your trip and manage expenses while onboard. Princess Cruises, one of the world’s most trusted cruise lines, offers multiple payment options to ensure passengers have flexibility and convenience. Whether you are booking your cruise online, making final payments, or covering onboard purchases such as drinks, spa treatments, and excursions, Princess Cruises has systems in place to make the process seamless.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the payment methods accepted by Princess Cruises, covering everything from pre-cruise payments to managing your onboard account. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to pay for your trip, what to expect when onboard, and tips to make the most of your payment options.

How Payments Work with Princess Cruises

Unlike traditional vacations, a cruise involves two main types of payments:

1. Booking and Final Payment – The amount paid before your cruise to secure your trip and cover your fare.

2. Onboard Account – All additional expenses during your cruise, such as dining, excursions, drinks, internet packages, shopping, spa treatments, and gratuities, are charged to your onboard account.

Instead of paying individually for each item with cash or card, you set up a payment method linked to your cruise card, also known as your Medallion, which functions as your onboard ID and charge card.

Payment Methods Accepted Before Your Cruise

When booking and paying for your Princess cruise in advance, several payment methods are accepted.

1. Credit Cards

Credit cards are the most common method of payment for cruise bookings. Princess Cruises accepts major credit cards including:

• Visa

• MasterCard

• American Express

• Discover

Credit cards offer added security, travel protection benefits, and the ability to earn rewards or travel points.

2. Debit Cards

Debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo are typically accepted for cruise payments. However, travelers should be aware that debit cards may have daily transaction limits and may not offer the same travel protections as credit cards.

3. Princess Cruises Gift Cards

Princess Cruises offers branded gift cards that can be used toward cruise fares, onboard purchases, and excursions. Gift cards can be purchased online or through authorized retailers and make excellent gifts for travelers.

4. Travel Agency Payments

If you book through a travel agent, you may have additional payment options depending on the agency’s policies. The travel agent will process your payment directly with Princess Cruises.

5. Online Payment Portal

Princess Cruises provides an online payment system where guests can log in, manage their booking, and make payments using accepted credit or debit cards. This system allows for installment payments leading up to the final payment date.

Setting Up Your Onboard Account

Once you board the ship, all expenses are charged to your onboard account. Cash is rarely used onboard; instead, you will use your Medallion device for all purchases.

To set up your account, you will link a payment method during online check-in or at the port before boarding. Options include:

• Credit card

• Debit card

• Prepaid gift card

• Cash deposit

Payment Methods Accepted Onboard

1. Credit Cards

Most passengers choose to link their account to a credit card. This ensures smooth transactions and eliminates the need to carry cash onboard. Credit cards are especially useful because:

• Charges are automatically billed at the end of the cruise.

• You can track expenses via the Princess MedallionClass app.

• Credit cards usually provide fraud protection.

2. Debit Cards

Debit cards are accepted, but travelers should be cautious. When using a debit card, Princess Cruises may place an authorization hold on your account for estimated expenses. This hold may tie up funds temporarily, which can be inconvenient during your vacation.

3. Gift Cards

Princess gift cards can be applied to your onboard account. These cards cover purchases like drinks, specialty dining, excursions, and shopping. They are a popular choice for travelers who prefer to prepay for expenses.

4. Cash Deposit

Guests who prefer not to use a credit or debit card can place a cash deposit at the beginning of the cruise. The amount is placed on your onboard account, and charges are deducted from this balance. If you spend more than your deposit, you will need to add more funds. If you spend less, you will receive a refund at the end of the trip.

What Expenses Are Charged to Your Onboard Account?

Your onboard account covers nearly all extra expenses during your cruise, including:

• Specialty dining: Meals at premium restaurants not included in the base fare.

• Beverages: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, unless you purchase a drink package.

• Shore excursions: Booked either before or during your cruise.

• Wi-Fi: Internet packages through MedallionNet.

• Spa treatments: Massages, facials, and salon services.

• Shopping: Duty-free purchases, souvenirs, and luxury goods.

• Gratuities: Daily service charges automatically added to your account.

• Photos and entertainment: Professional photos, special activities, or classes.

How Final Payment is Processed

At the end of your cruise, Princess Cruises will total your charges and bill your chosen payment method.

• If you used a credit card, the final balance is charged automatically.

• If you used a debit card, the final amount is charged and any authorization holds are released after a few business days.

• If you used a cash deposit, your balance is settled at the Guest Services desk. Refunds are issued if you did not use the full deposit.

You can review your statement at any time through the Princess MedallionClass app or by requesting a printout from Guest Services.

Benefits of Using Different Payment Methods

Credit Cards

• Best option for fraud protection.

• Earn miles, cashback, or reward points.

• No need to carry cash onboard.

Debit Cards

• Useful if you want to avoid credit card use.

• Money comes directly from your account.

• Requires caution due to authorization holds.

Gift Cards

• Excellent for budgeting before your trip.

• Makes a great gift option for cruisers.

• Can be combined with credit or debit cards.

Cash Deposit

• Ideal for guests who do not want to use cards.

• Helps with strict budgeting.

• Requires visiting Guest Services for top-ups.

Tips for Managing Payments with Princess Cruises

1. Link a Credit Card for Ease – This avoids complications with holds and ensures smooth checkout.

2. Use Gift Cards to Prepay – Apply them to your onboard account for spending money.

3. Check Your Balance Frequently – Monitor expenses using the MedallionClass app.

4. Bring a Backup Payment Method – Always have a secondary card or cash available.

5. Plan for Gratuities – Factor daily service charges into your budget.

6. Book Packages in Advance – Prepaying for drink packages or Wi-Fi helps manage costs.

7. Avoid Large Holds on Debit Cards – If you must use a debit card, keep extra funds available.

Common Questions About Princess Cruises Payments

Can I pay for my cruise in installments?

Yes, you can make partial payments before the final due date through the online portal or your travel agent.

Does Princess Cruises accept PayPal or mobile payments?

Currently, Princess Cruises does not accept PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay for cruise fares or onboard spending.

Can I use traveler’s checks?

Traveler’s checks are not commonly accepted, though you may be able to use them to make a cash deposit at Guest Services.

Can I split payments between multiple cards?

Yes, you can use different cards for booking and for onboard accounts, or split payments with the help of Guest Services.

Will I be charged in US dollars or local currency?

Most transactions are charged in US dollars, though your card provider may convert the amount if your account is in another currency.

Final Thoughts

Princess Cruises provides multiple payment methods to accommodate different passenger preferences. From credit and debit cards to gift cards and cash deposits, you have flexibility both before and during your cruise. While credit cards remain the most convenient and secure option, gift cards and cash deposits are excellent tools for budgeting.

By understanding how payments work, setting up your onboard account properly, and keeping track of your expenses, you can enjoy a smooth and stress-free financial experience while sailing. The key is to choose the payment method that best matches your lifestyle, budget, and level of comfort.

When you board a Princess ship, you should be focused on relaxation, discovery, and adventure—not financial worries. By planning ahead and using the right payment method, you can ensure your only concern is enjoying the journey.