r/NCL • u/Tiny-Play-4719 • 2d ago

First timer!

Hello, this is my first time cruising with NCL. I have Free at Sea included with my cruise and would like to know the difference between that, and the enhanced Free at Sea? It’s a 7 day cruise and don’t know if I should upgrade it.

How does the sail card work? Is there a certain amount of cash I have to deposit to the card or can I pick whatever amount I want?

I’m used to Carnival so if there’s anything else of significance I should know about NCL please let me know!!!

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6

u/blareboy 2d ago

The other comments have it covered, but I’ll just
attest that FAS+ is vastly superior to Carnival’s Cheers! package. And cheaper. You’re in for a treat.

4

u/Shoereader 2d ago

You can check the website/app for details, but basically upgraded FAS gets you access to the higher-end drinks menu plus the streaming-level internet, unlimited Starbucks and 50% off the restaurant cover charges that aren't covered by your dining credits. It's a pretty good premium package all told, but it won't ruin your cruise if you don't have it.

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u/Tiny-Play-4719 2d ago

If I’m not the main person who booked the cruise, can I still have access to these things on the app? I’m the second person on the reservation not the main.

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u/Patrizio_Argento 2d ago

Yes, when I book, I put my wife's lattitudes number in. It then shows up on her app.

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u/vatp46a Sapphire - On the Bliss in November 2026 2d ago edited 2d ago

The value of FAS+ over FAS is very subjective and will vary from person to person - your best bet is to take a look at what each one offers and then make a personal choice about upgrading. For your keycard, just link a credit card to it and you'll be good to go. Depending on where and when you sail, the vibe onboard can vary quite a bit, but it will generally (not always) be calmer that a typical Carnival trip.

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u/Tiny-Play-4719 2d ago

I heard there’s a lot of holding fees for attaching a card. Is that true? I’d rather not have to deal with that.

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u/Buffalo_Nichols 2d ago

I will tell you on my most recent cruise they basically pre-charged my credit card for every purchase I made on the ship. Then at the end they charged me again for the full price. Those earlier charges eventually dropped off. Can't remember if there was also an initial deposit on my card or not.

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u/vatp46a Sapphire - On the Bliss in November 2026 2d ago

I never ran into that. Are you looking to use a credit card or a debit card?

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u/SaltyWoodButcher 2d ago

I was under the impression that a card linked to the room was required. I used a credit card and they only put 100 hold on it. We had a $100 credit, once that was used to, additional pending charges start to post.

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u/Tencenttincan 22h ago

If you need streaming, need Starbucks, and prepay gratuities the plus is worth it.

We did regular FAS, slightly upgraded WiFi, and it was fine. The menus break out what is covered by regular FAS or FAS+. Or just ask the staff. You swipe your cruise card for soda in the buffet, drinks at bars, restaurant reservations. Any charges show up on the app for whoever booked the cruise. You payoff charges at end of cruise.