What travel adapters and currency should I bring?

Most boats use Type C/F (European) or Type A/B (US) outlets at 110-220V. Bring a universal adapter. Carry USD/EUR cash for tips, marine park fees, and on-board extras.

Power outlets vary by region but most modern liveaboards have either European Type C/F (220V) or US Type A/B (110V), and many premium boats have both. The boat's electrical system runs off the main engines or generator, so power is available 24/7 — but voltage may fluctuate slightly during boat maneuvers and engine starts. Always use a surge protector for laptops and camera battery chargers.

Bring a universal travel adapter (one that handles US, EU, UK and AU plugs in one unit) plus an extension cord with multiple outlets — your dive computer, camera batteries, phone, laptop, and dive light battery all need charging. Cabin outlet count is typically 1-2 per cabin, which is rarely enough.

Currency for on-board expenses: every liveaboard uses USD or EUR cash for tips, marine park fees (paid on arrival in cash), gear rental, alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, and souvenirs. ATMs do not exist on boats. Plan to carry: $200-400 cash for crew tips (10% of trip cost is the standard, distributed by the cruise director), $100-300 for marine park fees (Galápagos $200, Raja Ampat $100, Komodo €50, Tubbataha $200, Sudan $50), and $100-200 buffer for drinks and extras.

Credit cards are accepted on premium boats for the on-board bar tab and gift shop, but rarely for tips or government fees. Bring crisp, unmarked USD bills (especially $100s, $50s, $20s) — torn or marked notes are sometimes refused in remote destinations.