How to Use Cruise Credit Wisely: Tips for Onboard Spending

Cruise lines often offer onboard credit as an incentive when you book — sometimes called OBC or just “cruise credit.” It’s essentially free money to spend during your trip, but how you use it can make a big difference.

Here’s how to use cruise credit wisely and get the most value out of your onboard spending.

What Is Cruise Credit

Onboard credit is a set amount of money added to your stateroom account. It can come from:

- Promotions during booking

- Travel agent perks

- Cruise line loyalty programs

- Compensation for changes or delays

You’ll usually see the credit on your account as soon as you board.

Understand the Rules

Not all cruise credit works the same way. Some can only be used for certain services, and some must be used before the cruise ends.

Always check:

- Whether your credit is refundable or non-refundable

- What it can be applied to (some restrict spa, alcohol, or shops)

- Whether it can be used for pre-booked excursions or only onboard charges

Best Ways to Use Cruise Credit

1. Gratuities  

You can often apply your cruise credit toward automatic daily gratuities, which can save you $100–$300 over the course of your trip.

2. Drink Packages  

If your credit is valid for beverages, use it to offset a soda or alcohol package. Just be sure it covers the full amount or you'll pay the rest out of pocket.

3. Specialty Dining  

Upgrade from the buffet or main dining room to enjoy steakhouse dinners, sushi, or chef’s tastings without spending extra cash.

4. Shore Excursions  

Some cruise credit can be used to book excursions at the shore excursion desk or through your online cruise portal before sailing.

5. Spa Services  

Massages, facials, and salon treatments are high-dollar items that are perfect for soaking up credit—if your account allows it.

6. Onboard Shopping  

Use your credit in cruise boutiques to buy souvenirs, jewelry, or essentials. Prices are usually inflated, so prioritize items you actually need.

7. Internet Access  

Wi-Fi is often a separate charge. Use onboard credit to stay connected without dipping into your main travel budget.

8. Photo Packages  

Professional photos can be expensive. Use cruise credit to cover part of a package if you want keepsake memories without paying full price.

9. Fitness and Wellness  

Yoga classes, personal training, or fitness seminars are sometimes covered by onboard credit. Check the schedule early in your cruise.

What to Avoid

Avoid wasting your cruise credit on things you don’t really want or need just to use it up.

Examples:

- Overpriced logo merchandise

- Random snacks from onboard cafes

- Games, lottery tickets, or casino credits (unless you're already a player)

Track Your Spending

Use the cruise line’s mobile app or cabin TV to monitor your onboard credit balance in real time. That way, you know how much is left and where it went.

Tips to Maximize Value

- Plan your spending before you sail

- Combine credit with discounts or onboard promotions

- Ask the guest services desk if unused credit can go toward gratuities or packages

Can You Cash Out Cruise Credit

Most onboard credit is non-refundable, meaning you either use it or lose it. Refundable credit (rare) may be returned to your original payment method, but only if unused.

Summary

Cruise credit is a valuable perk — but only if you use it wisely. By understanding the rules and planning ahead, you can turn your OBC into real onboard savings and upgrades instead of last-minute impulse buys.