newcruiser30 Posted January 9, 2009 #1 Share Posted January 9, 2009 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! ;) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruzeluver Posted January 9, 2009 #2 Share Posted January 9, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cb at sea Posted January 9, 2009 #3 Share Posted January 9, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cruiserbryce Posted January 10, 2009 #4 Share Posted January 10, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
maureencruiser Posted January 11, 2009 #5 Share Posted January 11, 2009 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 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
newcruiser30 Posted January 12, 2009 Author #6 Share Posted January 12, 2009 Thank you for the great tips! I can't wait!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
satxdiver Posted January 15, 2009 #7 Share Posted January 15, 2009 Beware the ATM on board the ship is not cheap. Check the charge before you use it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rare silentbob007 Posted January 15, 2009 #8 Share Posted January 15, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CPT Trips Posted January 15, 2009 #9 Share Posted January 15, 2009 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. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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