Amanda PhillipsIf you were to ask us what the top benefits to cruising are, we would definitely include the avoidance of fluctuating exchange rates. With so much being included on a cruise you’ll find very few reasons to carry any money or use a card while in location as even the excursions can be paid for in advance. All cruise ships have an official onboard currency which can vary and result in exchange rates hitting your purse – however these 5 cruise lines have all chosen the British Pound Sterling for all on board spending so passengers from the UK won’t have to pay for any exchange rates on top of their holiday.
P&O Cruises
There’s not a cruise line out there that oozes more British-ness than P&O Cruises, so it’s no surprise that Sterling is accepted on board. All their ships are “cash free” and to make purchases on board you’ll only need your cruise card to make purchases. Before your cruise you will need to register your credit or debit card and everything will be charged to your account in British Pounds.
Fred Olsen
Despite the Norwegian heritage of Fred Olsen, this global cruise line has chosen the Pound Sterling as their official currency for all world-wide itineraries. Accommodation, buffet dining, evening entertainment, daily activities and luggage porterage are included, however shore tours, beauty treatments and alcoholic drinks are extras. Nevertheless, Fred Olsen prize themselves on their reasonably priced offerings with a glass of house wine costing just £4.05 and a pint of lager ringing in at £3.30.
Thomson Cruises
Everything on board a Thomson Cruise is priced in pounds and is charged to your account so you won’t need to bring any cash with you. Even better, all Thomson Cruises are full-board as standard and all passengers have the option to upgrade to the All Inclusive drinks package. The TUI Discovery and TUI Discovery 2 will also be going 100% All Inclusive from summer 2017 onwards.
To make budgeting even easier, at the end of your cruise you can choose to settle your account with cash, travellers’ cheques, credit card or debit card. Passengers will also be issued an interim bill half way through to help them keep track.
Saga
If you’ve ever been on a Saga Cruise you’ll known that so much is already included in the upfront price. From free car parking to 24-hour room service and gratuities – there will likely be no reason for you to open your purse while on board at all. However, if you do find yourself wanting to spend a little extra you’ll have no volatile exchange rates to contend with.
Cruise & Maritime
If you’re wanting to experience the traditional country club atmosphere of Cruise & Maritime without tricky exchange rates, you’re in luck. The cruise line boasts four pound-only ships no matter where they are in the world: Columbus, Magellan, Marco Polo and Astoria.