If you've recently returned from a Royal Caribbean cruise departing from Australia, you may have noticed a pending credit card authorisation on your bank statement. Don’t worry—this is completely normal and part of the cruise line’s payment process. But how long does it take for the authorisation to be removed, and what does it mean for your finances?
Let’s break it down.
What Is a Credit Card Authorisation?
When you check in for your Royal Caribbean cruise, the cruiseline places a pre-authorisation hold on your credit card. This hold serves as a security measure, allowing the cruise line to cover any incidental charges you incur onboard, such as specialty dining, spa treatments, or shore excursions. The authorisation hold isn’t a charge, but it temporarily reduces your available credit limit.
How Much Is the Authorisation Hold?
The amount varies depending on the length of your cruise and the onboard credit policy. Royal Caribbean calculates an estimated daily amount per guest to ensure coverage of potential expenses.
When Will the Hold Be Released?
Once your cruise concludes and your final bill is settled, the pre-authorisation hold is no longer needed. However, the time it takes for the hold to be lifted depends on your bank. Most banks release the authorisation within 7–10 business days after the cruise ends.
If you used a debit card, the hold may take slightly longer to clear, as it directly affects your available funds rather than your credit limit.
Why Does It Take Time for the Hold to Be Lifted?
The delay is primarily due to the financial institution’s processing times. Royal Caribbean releases the hold shortly after your cruise, but the exact timing of when the funds become available again depends on your bank’s internal policies.
What Should You Do if the Hold Is Still There After 10 Days?
If you notice that the authorisation is still showing on your account after 10 business days, here are some steps you can take:
- Check Your Statement: Ensure the hold isn’t an actual charge. The final payment for your onboard purchases should appear as a separate transaction.
- Contact Your Bank: If the authorisation hasn’t been released, reach out to your bank to inquire about their specific process for clearing pending holds.
- Contact Royal Caribbean: As a last resort, you can contact Royal Caribbean’s customer service on 1800 754 500 to confirm that they’ve released the authorisation.
Tips for Managing Credit Card Authorisations
- Plan Ahead: Be mindful of your credit limit when planning additional expenses before or after your cruise. The hold may temporarily impact your available credit.
- Use a Credit Card Over a Debit Card: Credit cards are generally better suited for travel expenses, as the authorisation won’t directly affect your cash flow.
- Track Your Expenses: Review your onboard spending regularly via the Royal Caribbean app to avoid surprises at the end of your trip.
In Summary
While it might seem inconvenient to have a credit card authorisation hold, it’s a standard practice designed to make your onboard experience seamless. Rest assured, the authorisation will typically be lifted within 7–10 business days, allowing you to regain full access to your funds.
Have more questions about cruising with Royal Caribbean? Contact us at S.W. Black Travel for personalised assistance and tips for making your next cruise unforgettable!
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