Baltic Currencies

[Pettifogger]

A few days ago, one of CC's featured cruise reviews of a Baltic cruise on another cruise line mentioned that that line changed currencies in both direction before and after port stops, which was an important benefit in view of the number of different currencies between Amsterdam and Saint Petersburg. Apparently a commission was charged only one way.

Does anyone know whether HAL provides such a service?

[camrosegirl]

HI,

 

Just got off the Rotterdam June 24 and you could change money--only paper money could be changed back to another currency. I gave my left over change to my cabin steward who appeared very happy to get it!!

 

Happy sailing

 

Sherlyn

[RuthC]

Whenever I've changed money on HAL, there's been a charge in each direction. But the VAT tax returns were in US $$$! :)

[jtl513]

... in view of the number of different currencies between Amsterdam and Saint Petersburg.

You can get along just fine in the Baltic with just $US, Euros, and a Visa card. The only place you ever really need local currency is for public transportation. We even bought small items (postcards, souvenir trinkets) at Catherine's Palace in Pushkin (St Petersburg port) with $US. The merchants know that if they don't take the money you've got then they don't make the sale. Guess which they choose. :)

 

If you buy something with $US you will usually get your change in local currency, so if want to get some petty cash buy something with a value of $4 or $5 with a $20 bill. Any left over local paper money can be changed back to $US when you get back to the ship.

 

I'm not saying you're going to get a good exchange rate from most street merchants or shops, but if you're not worried about that you don't have to go out of your way to get local money.