Settling your onboard account

I have had a number of questions about this recently, and it has come more to the fore as in the last week there has been some press as Cunard have announced a change to the method of payments onboard from the Euro Med 2011 sailings.

So what can or can't be accepted?

Credit/Debit Cards:
Accepted - Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Diners Club. Visa Delta/Debit.

Not accepted - Solo, Maestro, Switch, Visa Electron or any Pre Paid Credit Cards.
                     - Travellers cheques or personal cheques.
Cash:
Guests will need to keep their account in credit at all times

However, are Cunard doing anything different to the other Cruise lines?

Well in reality not, most have the same requirements and not taking personal cheques or travellers cheques is the norm for the industry.

I am struggling to work out why they will not accept pre paid cards and why Fred Olsen charge a 2% surcharge for credit card payments, but I'm sure that there are good reasons for both of these.

So as long as you have a major credit card, a Visa debit or good old cash you will be able to settle your account. But why not try to find a cruise with good on board credit so you spend the cruise lines money first!