Beat tariffs with duty-free purchases on cruise ships

When they cruise, passengers can potentially spend very little, or they can spend a fortune. On a typical cruise, you pay for travel, hotel, and cruise fare in advance. Many travelers will opt to book excursions, drink packages, and spa experiences pre-cruise, while others decide spontaneously to purchase experiences on the ship.

It is not uncommon for travelers to bring discretionary funds to buy souvenirs or to roll the dice at the casino. The average cruiser might look to buy alcohol and cigarettes at the duty-free shops, but these shops can also offer significant opportunities to save on bigger purchases. 

Related: Royal Caribbean makes key beverage package change

Cruise ships are actually a good place to buy gifts for your loved ones, since people frequently celebrate special occasions, such as anniversaries and birthdays, on board. Ships' duty-free shops could even make high-end purchases more affordable by avoiding the exorbitant tariffs placed on international products. 

It is great to buy gifts that hold memories and can make the trip more exciting. But your pocketbook may stand to benefit the most. 

High-end products may be more accessible than imagined 

Louis Vuitton shoulder bags can range from $2,000-$4,000 or even more. On many Royal Caribbean ships, for example, stores may sell exclusive purses including Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and other brands. 

On Oasis of the Seas, a popular Louis Vuitton "Damier Azur" purse goes for $1,450, and that’s without tax. Also currently onboard are some special purses referred to as “pre-loved.” As the salesperson explained, these handbags were originally used in promotional photo shoots. Sold at discounted prices, they offer a good value.

If you are looking for a timepiece, Breitling stores are commonly seen on cruise ships. A Super Ocean watch, which can go underwater up to 200 meters, is currently priced at $5,750 USD on Oasis of the Seas (I was offered 10% off that price). 

This special on-ship deal includes an additional no-cost two-year warranty, in addition to the two-year manufacturer's warranty that normally comes with a purchase. The bonus two-year warranty is equivalent to $800 USD if you are buying it on land. With no tax, that would be a total savings of over $1,700 USD for buying at sea.

Other premium retailers such as Mont Blanc are currently found on Edge-class ships such as the Celebrity Apex. Mont Blanc sells watches, wallets, and other high-end luxury wear. But their flagship product is the luxury pen. 

A lot of their pens, referred to as "writing instruments," are even collectibles and appreciate value over time. A Marilyn Monroe special-edition Pearl Fountain Pen is priced at $1,235 USD on Mont Blanc's website. On the Apex, you can buy it for only $900 USD, without tax, of course.

Know this before making a purchase on a cruise

Duty-free stores open once the ship is sailing in international waters. So be patient and make your purchases when you are not at port.

On land, you will pay tax on these products, and that will vary by city and state. For example, in Miami, Florida, you will pay 7.0% tax, whereas in New York City, you will pay 8.875%.

The prices listed on the items are not always fixed, as there is sometimes room for negotiation. If you are unsure about spending that much for an item you desire, be sure to ask for a discount because there may be some wiggle room. For example, I have been offered up to a 15% discount on Effy rings and necklaces. Sometimes larger discounts are available if you buy more than one piece. This is not automatic, so be sure to inquire.

You may have to declare the items purchased during your cruise with customs. Remember to check with customs on the rules for declaring.

(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)

Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.