Shopping when on board a cruise ship is no longer about picking up a few souvenirs of your trip or seeking out great deals on duty-free alcohol.
On the contrary, when you shop on board modern cruise ships, you can expect a similar luxury customer experience to what you might hope for on land. There are designer clothes and handbags, opulent jewellery and watches, and the latest beauty products and perfumes.
Even better, onboard shopping is duty-free, so you won’t have to pay the local tax as long as you stay within your allowances.
So, if you love to shop, days at sea will never be dull. Here are our five favourite land-based shops that you can find on board.
Michael Kors
If you enjoy the sharp, elegant look of Michael Kors designs, then you could pick up a handbag or two, a stunning pair of heels, a luxury accessory from their latest range or a good deal from their out-of-season lines while on your cruise holiday.
Michael Kors stores can usually be found on Oasis-class Royal Caribbean ships, Carnival Horizon and selected Celebrity Cruises and P&O ships.
Tiffany & Co.
If you want to add sparkle to your cruise holiday memories, Tiffany & Co. will be sure to sell the ideal piece.
Specialising in luxury, innovative jewellery design and expert craftsmanship, Tiffany & Co. creates style and beauty throughout their products, all packaged in their infamous turquoise boxes that bring delight to the person receiving them.
You can enjoy shopping for deals at Tiffany & Co. on several cruise ships, including Celebrity Edge, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and Disney Dream and Fantasy.
Bvlgari
With the precision of Swiss watchmaking and exceptional Italian design, Bvlgari is the master of luxury timepieces. Browse their elegant stores to discover contemporary jewellery with unique coloured gemstones, opulent silks and leather goods, too.
Apple
It doesn’t need much introduction, so for those who love all things Apple and i-phone-related, you’ll be pleased to hear that you can still indulge while on board.
Find Apple iLounges on ships including Celebrity Eclipse, Silhouette and Apex.
Cherry on Top
Shopping at sea is not all about designer wear and accessories, but it is about treating yourself and others.
On Carnival’s ships, you’ll find the perfect place if you’re hankering after an extra indulgent delicacy while on your cruise holiday.
Cherry on Top is a delicious store filled with everything from candy and chocolate heaven. Beware – for those of you who have a sweet tooth, this store will be difficult to bypass!
More top brands
You’ll find a whole range of other top luxury brands stocked in the boutiques on board many of today’s cruise ships, several of which have a dedicated shopping promenade or walkway. Cruise guest favourites include Kate Spade, Ted Baker, Armani, Radley, Guess, Tag Heuer, Armani, Calvin Klein, Versace, Breitling and Omega.
Getting the best from your duty-free
For the best deals, don’t make a spare-of-the-minute purchase. Instead, keep an eye on the prices of your favourite items throughout your cruise holiday; often, the best discounts are offered towards the end.
Furthermore, always check your allowances on duty-free items, and be sure to declare the necessary at customs. You don’t want to end your holiday with a nasty fine and spoil all your great deals!
