Can I exchange currency on a Disney cruise?

Emma-Jane Stogdon

If you’re going on a Disney cruise soon, you’re probably packing and planning for your trip, Mickey ears and all! However, knowing what currency to bring can be a little trickier as cruise ships often stop in different countries.

That’s why we’ve prepared a handy guide to exchanging currency on a Disney cruise ship and what your options are onboard.

We’ll also show you a handy alternative, the Wise debit card. It’s designed for low-cost spending around the world, automatically converting your pounds to the local currency at a fair mid-market exchange rate*.

Learn more about the Wise card 💳

Can you exchange money on a Disney cruise ship?

Yes, you can exchange currency on Disney cruise ships. This service is available at their Guest Services Desk.1

How does money work on a cruise ship?2

You won’t be using either cash or cards during your Disney cruise. Instead, all of your expenses will be charged to your stateroom folio.

When checking in online, you’ll also provide your credit card information and set up a Key to the World account. Once you arrive on your Disney cruise, you’ll get your Key to the World card. This card will serve both as a room key and an onboard payment method.

At any point during the cruise, you can visit their Guest Services Desk and change your preferred form of payment. Other options include Disney gift cards and cash. However, you still won’t be using cash directly, but only as a deposit.

Can you use cash on Disney cruises?

Disney cruises are cashless and you’ll use your Key to the World card for all onboard transactions. It is possible to place a cash deposit for your expenses instead of being charged to your credit card. However you still won’t be using cash directly.2

What currency is used on Disney cruise ships?

The official currency on Disney cruises is the US dollar.3

Disney cruise ship at sea

Are there ATMs on Disney cruise ships?

There aren’t any ATMs on Disney cruise ships. You’ll need to either come prepared or find an ATM in port.4

💡 Tip: Make sure you avoid poor exchange rates by only withdrawing cash in the local currency.

How to avoid Disney cruise currency exchange fees

Cruises are known for having unfavourable exchange rates at their desks. However, this is often the most convenient option for the passengers. If you want to avoid high cruise currency exchange fees, here are some tips:

  • Exchange currency in advance - before embarking on your cruise ship, visit an exchange facility and get the currency you need
  • Use an ATM while on land - try to make time for finding an ATM during your port days
  • Exchange currency on land - try to find a currency exchange facility in the places you’re visiting
  • Use your debit or credit card - let your card do the conversion instead

Embark on an adventure with an alternative way to exchange currency

Even though you won’t be paying in cash onboard your Disney cruise ship, it’s handy to have some local currency when stopping in port.

There aren’t any ATMs on Disney cruise ships, but they have multiple currency exchange facilities available to their guests. However, it’s best to avoid them, since you can end up paying unnecessary additional fees.

In order to avoid high exchange fees and exchange rates during your Disney cruise, you could try using the Wise debit card. It automatically converts the currency with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

Remember if you end up using an ATM on land, make sure you only withdraw in the local currency. Alternatively, your Wise card can auto-convert the money in your Wise account to the right currency whenever you withdraw cash, all at the mid-market rate*.

What’s more, with your Wise card you can make 2 free withdrawals each month up to 200 GBP, so you won’t have to worry about how you’ll pay on land. So get ready to don your Mickey ears and have a magical time.✨

Apply for a Wise card today 💳

That’s our guide to Disney cruise ship currency conversion - we wish upon a star for you to have a happy cruise!

Sources used for this article:

  1. Disney - Currency exchange on Disney ships
  2. Disney - Paying while onboard a Disney ship
  3. Disney - Accepted currency and credit cards
  4. Disney - Disney cruise ATMs

Sources last checked on date: 07-May-2024


*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.

Money without borders

Find out more

Tips, news and updates for your location