American Express Check Card

[ruffsmom]

We are leaving on the TP on November 20th. I am trying to decide weather to use traditional traveler's checks or try the new American Express Check Card. Has anyone used the Check Card onboard Princess? Did you have any problems using it?

Thanks,

Debbie

[johnql]

I would stick with the traditional travelers checks. I did a little research on the Travelers Cheque Card a while back because I too was interested in possibly using it. Here's the verbatim wording on Amex's web site regarding the limitations of using the Travelers Cheque Card:

 

Since Travelers Cheque Cards are prepaid cards, they are not intended for use in certain industries. You are NOT permitted to use the Travelers Cheque Card:

 

* To reserve a rental car, or when picking up a rental car. However, at the end of a car rental, you can use your Card to pay for the rental.

* To reserve a hotel/motel room, or when checking into a hotel/motel or other lodging establishment. However, at the end of your stay, you can use your Card to pay for your stay.

* To pay for gasoline/petrol "at the pump" through automated terminals. However, you can use your Card to pay for gasoline by presenting the Card in the station or to a service station attendant.

* To pay for "person-to-person" internet payment products such as "Paypal" or "YahooDirect."

* To pay for telecom charges (including cellular, airplane telephones, payphones, home phone service, etc.)

* To pay for recurring billing charges, such as health club memberships or subscriptions.

* To make installment payments in the future for goods/services received in the present.

* To pay for bail bondsmen.

* To pay for detective agencies.

* To pay for home repair services such as plumber, electrician, or painter/decorator.

* To pay for internet electronic services including electronic mail, internet service provider, internet telecom, etc.

* To pay for personal services such as escort agencies, introduction services, or massage parlors.

* To pay for wholesale goods.

* To pay for on-board cruise charges.

* To pay for gambling.

[ruffsmom]

Thank you! We are going to stick with the traveler's checks.

Debbie

[mirthmaiden]

I'm not sailing with Princess, but your posting caught my eye because I just bought one of these AMEX check cards when they were having the "free companion airfare" promotion. I posted a similar type question, and after some discussion, my fellow posters and I decided that the referrence to onboard ship charges may be about using the card to secure your onboard charges. It would be understandable why that wouldn't be possible. But, logicially, there should be no reason why you couldn't use the card to pay for charges already incurred on your onboard account - just like using a paper travelers check. It is supposed to be accepted anywhere American Express cards are accepted. Looks like we'll both be on our cruises about the same time, so it won't help you much, but I will check it out and post my results when I get back so that others will know.

 

Anyway, I put the minimum of $300 on my card, paid $14.95 for it, and will get a companion airfare to use next summer. Still a good deal (imho). If I can't use it onboard to settle my account, I will use it to buy merchandise onshore, and during travel to and from the port.

[johnql]

I'm not sailing with Princess, but your posting caught my eye because I just bought one of these AMEX check cards when they were having the "free companion airfare" promotion. I posted a similar type question, and after some discussion, my fellow posters and I decided that the referrence to onboard ship charges may be about using the card to secure your onboard charges. It would be understandable why that wouldn't be possible. But, logicially, there should be no reason why you couldn't use the card to pay for charges already incurred on your onboard account - just like using a paper travelers check. It is supposed to be accepted anywhere American Express cards are accepted.

I completely agree with your logic. It should be accepted as payment for charges already incurred. I just don't know if it will. Good luck and have a great cruise.