What will I need cash for, on Alaskan cruise?

[LuvinDisCruiser]

Leaving next month on the Star Princess.

 

Trying to figure out how much cash I will need, I unusually don't take too much on vacations, use my credit cards.

 

I know for tips, porters, drivers, room service. What about in the ports ? Do you have to pay cash to get into the town at each port ?

 

What else will I need cash for?

 

Thanks !

[edmusic]

Never a charge to get off the ship in any port I've ever visited. You'll need cash for things like:

 

1. Transportation (bus, taxi) if not on a prepaid ship excursion and you plan to walk a ways

2. Souvenirs

3. Dining off the ship (we do that as we like to experience the local flavor)

4. Any local attraction that requires an admission

5. Souvenirs

6. Spur of the moment excursion not planned ahead of time

7. Did I mention souvenirs?

[sherryf]

Never a charge to get off the ship in any port I've ever visited. You'll need cash for things like:

 

1. Transportation (bus, taxi) if not on a prepaid ship excursion and you plan to walk a ways

2. Souvenirs

3. Dining off the ship (we do that as we like to experience the local flavor)

4. Any local attraction that requires an admission

5. Souvenirs

6. Spur of the moment excursion not planned ahead of time

7. Did I mention souvenirs?

 

But credit cards can be used for these things in most places. Yes, cash is good for things like taking a city bus or buying a soda, but if you go in to a restaurant (or even many food stands) to eat, you can use a credit card. Shops will take credit cards, but you might occasionally run across a small vendor that only takes cash. I rarely use cash except for tips.

[skrink]

Just got back from AK and I'd suggest cash for unexpected incidentals, like camera batteries or over-the-counter remedies, in addition to what others posted. I saw signs at some places that had a minimum purchase amount was needed for them to accept a debit/credit card. Not many though, maybe a couple places had those signs.

 

I went through three more sets of camera batteries than I thought I would!

[Northern Aurora]

As someone who lives in Alaska I just want to point out that ATMs abound here, just as they do in other parts of North America and Europe.

[edmusic]

But credit cards can be used for these things in most places. Yes, cash is good for things like taking a city bus or buying a soda, but if you go in to a restaurant (or even many food stands) to eat, you can use a credit card. Shops will take credit cards, but you might occasionally run across a small vendor that only takes cash. I rarely use cash except for tips.

 

Good point. I was under the impression the OP wanted to know what things were extra once they got onshore but now that I read it again, you are right - just about anything can be purchased with a card, except tips, of course.

[EmJakeBubbie]

not the OP, but some occasionally, forget that Alaska is one of our 50 American States; therefore, you spend cash in the ports just like you would do "back home".

Shipboard Tours will charge to your stateroom.

There are lots of bars and restaurants in each port, if that's your thing; also, lots and lots of shops.

Everybody takes cash or credit card.

 

Just enjoy - I highly recommend the Skagway train and bus combo tour. Purchase on the ship. you really don't need to spend anything in town. Pricey, but well worth the cost.

 

one great thing about Alaska: good cell service w/o extra fees, in most ports :D

 

My fav is a pre-cruise tour of 4 nts with a 7nt cruise following. I need the cruise to rest up from the 4 nts touring. woohoo....

[LuvinDisCruiser]

Thanks for the replies !

 

Sounds Like everywhere takes credit cards. Cash mainly for tips sounds like all I need. Of course I'll take extra for unexpected emergencies !

 

I read somewhere about having to take a shuttle into to town, would those shuttles accept credit ?

 

Thanks !

[shofer]

The Casino takes cash.

 

Sue

[Keith1010]

Take what you would if you were visiting another city. And as mentioned you can get cash from the ATM.

 

Keith

[LuvinDisCruiser]

Yea, casinos always take ALL my cash !! Ha ha.