Credit cards, cash, what?

[newcruiser30]

So are there ATM's on board the ships? (we'll be on Freedom) Or do you just take tons of cash along with you. I'm assuming all of the markets only take cash...

Can you use american credit cards at the ports of call (Jamaica, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Labadee) or is it cash only all the way?

Sorry so many questions! ;)

[cruzeluver]

Yes there are ATM's onboard (with fees of course).

 

We prefer to use credit cards in port whenever possible so we have the aility to dispute any necessary charges. We'll use cash for inexpensive items (usually $20 or less).

 

Mostly we bring cash for tips in port, small charges in port and that's really about it. The casino is the only place onboard where you can use cash, as everything else is charged to your onboard account. You can also use your onboard account for gambeling money.

[cb at sea]

We bring plenty of cash, so we don't have to worry about getting any later. Cash is accepted at all of the ports, and in "real" stores, credit cards are also accepted.

 

On Labadee, everything (except the "straw market") will be charged to your account, just like on the ship.

 

You really only need gambling money and tip money---the ship is a "cashless" society--any and everything you do will be charged to your room.

 

You should have a safe in the room, so you don't have to carry very much ashore with you.

[cruiserbryce]

yes you can use cc's in the ports but if it isnt a large purchase we try to use cash whenever possible...just makes it easier.

[maureencruiser]

Hello, If you are buying inexpensive items, a postcard or T-shirt or something, do not break a big bill to do it, because you will get the change in the local currency, which is useless in the US. Now, if you're buying a 25 cent postcard, it can be fun to pay with a dollar because some of the countries have really cute coins with fish, starfish, etc on them that make fun souveneirs , but, you wouldn't want to break a 20 for a 25 cent purchase...Maureen

[newcruiser30]

Thank you for the great tips! I can't wait!!

[satxdiver]

Beware the ATM on board the ship is not cheap. Check the charge before you use it.

[silentbob007]

Be sure you don't have super-large bills that you expect locals to break. It is enough that they are taking American currency, but don't expect to pay a $10 bar tab with a $100 bill (I saw this happen twice in succession the last time I went to Costa Maya). I'm a little hesitant about charging in most ports of call unless it's a big-ticket item.

[CPT Trips]

Be sure you don't have super-large bills that you expect locals to break. It is enough that they are taking American currency, but don't expect to pay a $10 bar tab with a $100 bill (I saw this happen twice in succession the last time I went to Costa Maya). I'm a little hesitant about charging in most ports of call unless it's a big-ticket item.

 

Good point. I take large bills in order to not have a bulging wallet . . . I break the bills at the pusre as needed for shore use.

 

Also keep in mind that many independent shoreex providers will only take cash (US) and it helps to have exact change.