Q: What currency is used on board Yangtze ships?

February 14, 2026 / 12:06 AM CST

Answered 1

kasa

February 14, 2026 / 12:06 AM CST

A:
It depends on the ship and what you're paying for.
Look, here's the thing about money on Yangtze cruises: these ships operate in China, so the base currency is always Chinese Yuan (Renminbi, RMB). For your onboard account—covering meals, drinks, excursions, and the souvenir shop—most major cruise lines (like Victoria, Century, or President) will let you set it up in either RMB or US Dollars. I remember when I managed ships, we priced everything in USD for international guests, but the actual transactions often defaulted to RMB.
Many agencies will tell you "USD is accepted everywhere," but in 2026, the reality is more nuanced. While ships do take USD for settling your final bill, the exchange rate they use is often 5-10% worse than the official bank rate. Also, for small purchases like a beer at the bar or a snack, the point-of-sale systems usually charge in RMB. If you pay in USD, you'll get change in RMB at their poor rate. And don't forget: during shore excursions, local vendors, guides, and small shops only accept RMB cash.
> Xiang's Insider Note: Bring at least 500-1000 RMB in small bills (10s, 20s, 50s) for tips, port town snacks, and minor souvenirs. The ship's currency exchange service is a rip-off—avoid it like the plague.
Here’s my advice: before boarding, withdraw RMB from an ATM in Chongqing or Yichang for the best rates. Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to secure your onboard account, but rely on cash for daily spends. Always notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card blocks. And if you’re on a budget, skip the fancy onboard upgrades and spend your money in the ports for a more authentic experience.
Hope that clears it up. Have a great trip!