Local Currency Needs?
 

Our PC cruise will have stops in Mexico, Guatemala, Panama and Columbia. I assume that it will be necessary to carry some local currency in each of these countries. Can we acquire local cash on board the ship (Statendam) prior to disembarking and turn it back in to dollars if we do not spend it all?

Since cruise ships stop there all the time, they probably take US dollars, as well as credit cards. The ship doesn't issue any foreign currency.

Been to all of these ports and they all take US dollars

Thanks for the info. BTW, I called HAL (866#) and was told that they can sell us foreign currency onboard and will buy it back if we don't use it.

With your US dollars, remember to carry smaller bills - $5s & $1s . . . maybe a few $10s. You will most likely not get change for a $20 for a $5 purchase. Also - expect to get your change in local currency when using USD

Thanks for the insightful suggestion susanmaz, I will visit my bank prior to leaving home and load up on the $1s and $5s.

When getting back aboard the ship, there will be a box to donate any of your foreign currancy....It will go to a good cause.....Happy Sailing...

Bob E