QM2 Currency Exchange

[CalTom]

Is there any type of currency exchange available on board, for example at the Purser's Office?   We'll just need a small amount of British pounds when we disembark and use a taxi in Southampton.

Thank you.

 

[bluemarble]

Yes, you can exchange currency at the Purser's Desk on QM2. Or you can purchase British pounds there and have the cost added to your on board account (can't use on board credit for that type of purchase though). 

[CalTom]

Thank you bluemarble.  This is very helpful!

[bluemarble]

It will probably come as no surprise that the exchange rate you get on board is not very favorable. I purchased a few pounds on board last year just for the convenience of having some on hand upon arrival in Southampton. The on board rate to buy pounds was $1.504 per pound while the interbank exchange rate for that week was more like $1.33 to $1.34 per pound.

Edited May 14, 2019 by bluemarble

[Bigmike911]

5 hours ago, CalTom said:

Is there any type of currency exchange available on board, for example at the Purser's Office?   We'll just need a small amount of British pounds when we disembark and use a taxi in Southampton.

Thank you.

 

Cal Tom, You might consider checking with your bank to see if they can provide you with a small amount of GBP before you leave home. I know BofA and Wells Fargo both offer that service. BofA will provide GBP at todays rate of $1.3674 delivered free from their on line web site. Search 'buying foreign currency'. That is a far better deal than you will get from the Cunard Pursers office, or their on-board exchange machine which offers an even worse rate. 

[bluemarble]

20 minutes ago, Bigmike911 said:

... their on-board exchange machine ...

 

Ok, you've piqued my curiosity. Not that I intend to ever use it, but where is the currency exchange machine on QM2? In the casino perhaps? If so that would explain why I've never noticed it.

[Underwatr]

Oddly, I remember an exchange machine near the starboard entrance to the Royal Court Theatre (don't recall whether on Deck 2 or 3), but never had a need to use it (usually I ride to the Caribbean and back). Is it still there? 

[BiggDawg]

12 hours ago, Bigmike911 said:

You might consider checking with your bank to see if they can provide you with a small amount of GBP before you leave home.

 

If you are a AAA member they will also be able to do this for you.

Our local AAA won't do more than about $100 exchanged, though (or was it GBP100?  I forget.)

But, opt for a minimum, since the exchange rate will not be favorable.

If I understand, many if not most Southampton cabs take cards.  I am sure that there are ATMs in the port area, are there not?  Usually using an ATM with your own card to withdraw in the local currency will get you the best rate.  Check with your bank to see if they are going to charge you an "exchange fee" on top of the ATM fees (if they are, get a different bank!).  Mine not only doesn't charge an international fee, but will rebate the ATM charge from the other bank.

[Se1lad]

If it’s the ocean terminal then according to their site there is no ATM there which is a bit surprising!

 

https://www.cruisesouthampton.com/places/ocean-cruise-terminal

 

There is über in Southampton who obviously do take cards.

[BobBranst]

If you are staying in NYC prior to your crossing, there are lots of businesses in the city that offer currency exchange at much better exchange rates than on the ship.  We found a small business near Times Square to get both pounds and Euros. at considerable savings in any amount you need..  Some even post thier daily exchange rates on their websites.     

[CalTom]

Thank you all for the great advice and suggestions.  Yes, I figured that the on-board rate of exchange would be less than desirable.  We're only looking for a small amount until we get to a UK bank ATM, but all of this is very worthwhile for options.