There are plenty of reasons to go on a cruise: the eating, the activities, the excursions ... the eating. But did you know that many ships are dazzling fashionistas and bargain hunters alike with their fine selection of onboard shops? We're not talking stock-standard souvenir stands (though there are places to pick up one-of-a-kind mementos), but rather designer boutiques, fine jewellery shops and art galleries to name a few. Even better, you can pick up excellent duty free deals.
Take a sneak peek before you set sail at some of the shops that could have you reaching for your wallet!
Treat yourself to a treat aboard Carnival's ships
Carnival Cruises:
If you're not one to spend on big name brands and fine jewellery, Carnival Cruises' Cherry On Top may just tempt a browse. This sweet shop can be found on all of Carnival's ships and offers up a staggering array of lollies and more. Whether you're looking to treat yourself or someone at home, you'll find it here. It's also a fun activity for the kiddies, marvelling at the oversized lollipops and rows of gummy confectionery favourites.
Celebrity Cruises:
This major cruise line is all about shopping, with each ship incorporating a shopping plaza and galleria. Drawing inspiration from Europe's stunning arcades, passengers are treated to an array of boutiques. This includes a number of very recognisable names. The Celebrity Sihouette offers up a slew of designers, with favourites being Bvlgari and Michael Kors. The Celebrity Reflection has become the first ship to offer Kate Spade and Cole Haan. Even better, it's all duty free, which means passengers have access to deals aplenty.
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P&O:
P&O recently revamped the shopping selection on their ships, adding a number of high end boutiques. From renowned beauty brands to handbag and fashion designers, there's something to tempt all cruisers. In fact, Even the most ardent gentleman shopper could be persuaded to have a look, with fine watchmakers Citizen and TAG Heuer offering up counters aboard their ships. There are even trained watch specialists onboard to ensure you find exactly what you're looking for.
Royal Caribbean International:
Like many cruise lines, Royal Caribbean International is all about going above and beyond for passengers. This is certainly evident in the selection of shops available aboard their ships. For example, the Oasis-class ships offer up such renowned designers as Coach showcasing signature luxury handbags, leather accessories, sunglasses and scarves. Passengers aboard the Allure of the Seas can get their shop on at the likes of Guess, offering up trendy shoes, eyewear, perfumes and more.
Cunard:
Cunard prides itself on 5-star service and amenities, with ships such as the Queen Mary 2 providing decadent accommodation, white-glove service and fantastic onboard facilities. This definitely extends to the shopping. Aboard the Queen Mary 2, all shops are located around the Grand Lobby, offering up jewellery, fashion, perfumes, books and more. This includes the likes of renowned brands as Harris Tweed – an iconic Scottish company known for selling the best tweeds in the world.
Pampering is easy aboard Princess's ships (Image: Princess Cruises)
Princess Cruises:
A day at sea aboard any of Princess's ships can easily be spent browsing the shops, with brands and boutiques to catch the eye of nearly any traveller. There's no need to settle for standard souvenirs or wait until you're on land to pick up something unique with brands such as Swarovski and Lancome on board. Why not pick up a beautiful crystal memento, or pamper yourself in your cabin with some of Lancome's latest skincare creams? If you're more of a fashion guru, Calvin Klein is also available.
