How do I Spend My $100 Onboard Credit?

From time to time, cruise lines will offer a great perk of an onboard credit that can range from $25 - $350 per cabin. Often, cruisers will ask, "what can I do with that?" Here are a few ideas about how a $100 onboard credit translates into real experiences.

 

Drinks!

Whether lounging by the pool with an umbrella-topped frozen beverage, a glass of wine at dinner or cocktails in the lounge, many of us purchase drinks onboard. This includes, of course, sodas for the kids. The largest portion of most onboard spending is typically the bar tab. 

 Drinks at the Poolside Bar

 

Shore Excursions Booked Onboard

While it's a good idea to book your shore excursions in advance to ensure your spot in the group, there may be some spur-of-the-moment excursions you don't decide on until you are already onboard. Your onboard credit could cover the cost of many ship-booked excursions, like snorkeling, swimming with dolphins or walking tours. Many of these will be well under $100 per person. 

Snorkeling at Sea—A Memorable Cruise Excursion for Less than $100

 

Get SCUBA Certified or Learn to Surf

Ships offer some relevant training programs for your trip. If you plan to spend some time in the ocean during your shore excursions, but you are still a little nervous about standing on a surf board, or you still have one last lesson to take for your SCUBA certification, onboard lessons are a great option for you. $100 will be plenty for two people to attend either a PADI trial program or refresher course, or to be instructed on how to stay upright on your surf board. SCUBA and surf lessons are also available as shore excursions, taking place in the open ocean. 

My Surf Lesson on Royal Caribbean's Flow Rider Surf Simulator

 

Gambling at the Casino

Most ships now allow passengers to use your cabin's account to access funds for gambling at the onboard casino. That includes your onboard credit. While you may normally be reluctant to try your luck at the slot machines, this is free money..! So why not take a chance on turning your $100 into much more? Even if you aren't lucky at the gambling, your onboard credit will go a long way in providing you an evening's entertainment in the fun atmosphere of the ship's casino. 

Players Try their Luck at Craps, the Most Social and Boisterous Casino Game

 

100 Mini Cupcakes or Other Premium Treats Onboard

Though most snacks and treats onboard your cruise are included in your fare, there are a few premium treats that tempt the palate enough to pay an additional charge. Many of Royal Caribbean's ships have a Cupcake Cupboard where mini cupcakes or cake pops can be purchased for about $1 each. MSC ships have a mouthwatering variety of gelatos, as well as an onboard chocolatier. These are just a fe ways you might want to sweeten your day—or each day—on your cruise. 

Bright and Fluffy Cupcakes at Royal Caribbean's Cupcake Cupboard

 

Colorful and Unique Gelato Varieties Onboard MSC Cruises

 

Friendly Staff Serves-Up Decadent Chocolates on MSC Cruises