Currency for onboard cash account on Baltic Cruise?

[sstepson]

Hi guys,

 

We’re cruising the Baltics on RCCL out of Southampton in June. When we cruise out of US ports, we have gotten in the habit of putting cash towards our onboard account rather than a credit card. (We have credit cards...we just feel we have a better handle on our onboard spending this way.)

 

Anyhow, is it possible to do this on a European cruise? If so, what currency do they prefer at check in? I would assume GBP, since we leave out of the UK.

 

If anyone has any experience with this, any feedback would be appreciated!

 

Steve

 

 

 

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[CruiserBruce]

I would be asking this on the RCI board, as it is a matter of their policy.

 

The on board currency for RCI is dollars.

[sstepson]

I would be asking this on the RCI board, as it is a matter of their policy.

 

 

 

The on board currency for RCI is dollars.

 

 

 

Gotcha. Will do.

 

 

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[John Bull]

Ship's currency will still be USD

If you change your USD to GBP you'll be paying commission to your bank or exchange bureau, and you'll then be screwed an awful exchange rate by RCI (and all other non-sterling cruise lines) to convert your GBP back to USD..

 

We always, but always, settle our on-board account in ship's currency, usually by card. (we decline cruise lines' kind :rolleyes: offers to convert our on-board account to our own currency)

Credit cards always give good exchange rates, and we use a credit card that doesn't charge an exchange fee. Such cards are available in the USA (your countrymen can suggest which), and are the best way to pay for goods & services in-port on foreign shores.

(Again, decline merchants' offers to charge you in your own currency)

 

BTW, ships give those same awful exchange rates for buying local currencies.

OK for $10 or $20-worth but for more than that use your debit card in ATMs in port.

 

JB :)

[klfrodo]

As John stated, the currency used “on board” is USD even for European cruises. Even in the casino.