Atlas by Shumba Travel · Ask Atlas
Will Royal Caribbean put a hold on my credit card at check-in?
Yes, and it catches people off guard the first time they see it on their statement. When you link a credit card to your onboard expense account during check-in, Royal Caribbean places an initial authorization of $99.75 USD, similar to a hotel hold. It is not a charge, but it does tie up available credit until it clears. A big week onboard can trigger additional holds beyond that amount. Most release by the end of your cruise, though your bank may take up to 30 days to show the funds again.
Royal Caribbean does not decide how long your bank keeps a hold in place. If you switch to a different card or cash during the sailing, holds on the original card may linger longer than you would like.
Source: Royal Caribbean
Last verified 2026-07-02