Cruise Cards-Can You Withdraw Your Money?

[pink poodle]

On my next cruise I would prefer to put cash into my cruise card (instead of using a credit card and being horrified with the bill at the end!) but I am wondering what happens if, for example, you run short of money to spend on the islands. Do they allow you to withdraw any of the money that you have in the cruise card or do you have to wait till the end of the cruise to get it back? Thanks !

[suey]

It is probably a better idea not to put a big amount on your card at the beginning, just keep a check on your balance (easy quick job at the pursers desk daily) and top up your card as you need to. Keep the rest of your cash in your safe in cabin wardrobe. This is what I do anyway!:)

[MsMinx]

I've always just put cash onto my cruise card - so I know how much i'm spending. I know you can get a refund of the balance at the end of the cruise but don't know about withdrawing it for the islands sorry. My best suggestion would be to put $200 or $300 on the card on day one and save the rest of your cash for the islands. If your cruise card runs short you can always top up :D

[pink poodle]

Thanks to both of you for taking the time to reply ! It was good advice and I will do as you suggest and just top up the cruise card as I need to:) . Thanks again !

[Cooee_Kid]

My best suggestion would be to put $200 or $300 on the card
This raises an issue for me. How much cash do people take on a cruise? I am on the Cruise Fantastique with visits to Noumea, Lifou and Port Vila. How much do people recommend to take on that sort of cruise?