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Call free 0800 019 0063 We are open today between 9am and 8pm
You should bring currency on your cruise relevant to the countries that you will be visiting, however, all cruise ships operate a ‘cash free’ system on board so you will only need currency for your time on shore.
Cruise lines operate a ‘cash free’ system through an onboard spending account and ‘Seapass card’ which is issued to you at Guest Services upon check in. This card is used during your time onboard to buy items or services such as shore excursions, speciality dining, drinks or spa treatments and is settled at the end of your holiday. This should be settled by credit card, however, you will have the option of paying in your own currency i.e. sterling or using the cruise ship currency i.e. dollars, dependent upon the cruise line you travel with.
Your cruise itinerary should dictate to you which currency to take. For example if you are taking a Mediterranean Cruise you will be able to use euros in most ports, for a Caribbean Cruise it would be US Dollars or for Asia the currency will more than likely be different in each country you visit.
When deciding how much currency to take you should take into consideration any pre booked or planned shore excursions and check what’s included in these. Some of these may include things like lunch and a drink which would mean that you could reduce the amount of spending money for these days. If you don’t have any excursions planned and would prefer to see the sights on your own then it will depend on where you are going and what you would like to do, so research the areas well in advance and try and set your budget accordingly.
If you are visiting multiple countries Guest Services onboard the ship will also be able to change your currency, so no need to panic if you forget as they are more than happy to assist. The rate for this may not be as favourable as you would receive back in the UK, but it can be a more convenient option for varied itineraries.
Some cruise ships do also have ATM’s on board for you to withdraw cash, however these will carry fees of up to £5.00 per transaction. It is also worth noting that the ATMs on shore will usually only issue cash in local currency. If you do plan to withdraw money abroad we would also recommend that you advise your bank or card issuer of this in order to ensure that you don’t have any issues in resort.
Our Cruise Experts are here to advise you on all aspects of your cruise holiday, ensuring you have the best time and choose the right cruise for your needs. Call us today on 0800 019 0063 to arrange your perfect cruise!
Abbie was amazing, so patient and explained everything. Other two ladies were chatty and friendly.
Mrs McBain / April 2026
Always get an excellent service from Stewart Travel Helensburgh staff always courteous and helpful
Mr Wilson / April 2026
Sean from the Belfast branch was great the whole way throughout. We kept making changes to dates and how may people were going which messed up rooms and hotels and Sean never batted an eyelid to help us. He has done us big turn really appreciate it. He’s got the whole thing booked for us under budget and staying in far nicer places than we were expecting will definitely be back because of it. Was always available to help whether it was in the branch, over the fone or email, were all bizz with the holiday. Big shout out to Eamon in the same branch who was another great help and really enjoyed his company as well. Great team and a great run company will 100% be booking all my big holidays through here.
Mr south america holiday / April 2026
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