Can I use my credit card on board?
Yes, you can use a credit card on board, but purchases are charged to your onboard account through your stateroom keycard, not by swiping your card at each venue.
How onboard payment works
On board, your stateroom keycard is your “all set” tool for purchases in US dollars. You’ll use it for things like drinks at bars, purchases at onboard shops, spa services, and shore excursions, and those charges will automatically post to your onboard account. Cash is not accepted for individual transactions in most venues. Cash is accepted in the casino.
Registering your card
When you register a credit card during pre-cruise check-in, it activates your keycard for onboard charging. On embarkation day, Holland America Line places an initial authorization hold of US$30 per person, per cruise day. After you reach that amount, additional authorizations may occur for your spending to date, plus US$30 per person, per day for the remainder of the sailing. It is normal to see multiple authorizations, and some banks may keep holds in place for up to 30 days.
Before you sail
Before you travel, update your card’s travel settings to “World.” This will make it easier for your bank to recognize international transactions and process onboard charges smoothly throughout your journey.
If you prefer not to use a credit card
If you do not want to use a credit card, visit Guest Services on boarding day and place a cash deposit of US$30 per person, per cruise day (for all guests age 18 and over). Any unused amount is refunded at the end of the cruise. Traveler’s checks can be cashed at Guest Services; personal checks are not accepted on board.
After the cruise
At the end of your cruise, you can retrieve your final statement in the Holland America Line Navigator® app. Your card will be charged for only the actual total of your purchases. Refunds for onboard products and services credit back to your onboard account (whether the purchase happened pre-cruise or during the voyage). The final billed amount may take up to 24 hours after disembarkation to complete. If you have questions about how long a hold remains, your card issuer is the best point of contact.
Please note that ATMs are not available on board Holland America cruise ships.