No matter how you enjoy spending your holiday, a cruise vacation offers something for everyone; from the adventure packed shore excursions to the relaxing onboard facilities. Whether you enjoy thrill-seeking activities or prefer to unwind, a cruise holiday ensures no Guest misses out. This is especially true for “shopaholics”. There are many cruise passengers who enjoy the many delights of cruising the world and stopping off in new ports to shop local delights and big-name brands. And what’s more, even while you are onboard, many cruise lines offer personal shopping experiences and a range of luxury goods for sale.
There’s no denying that shopping can quickly become a big part of your cruise experience. So, it’s important to come prepared with extra cash or a credit card to spare for those impulse purchases! And if you’re hoping to seek out special treasures and bargains, you may find what you’re looking for at some of these cruise ports offering the best in international shopping.
Shops in cruise ports around the world
From luxury designer shopping around the European continent to bespoke tailoring and unique souvenirs in Asia, you are bound to find brilliant shopping experiences around the world. These are just some of the most loved:
The French Riviera – Anywhere along the beautiful southern coastline of France is sure to deliver when it comes to luxury shopping experiences. With Nice, Cannes, and St Tropez being some of the most luxurious holiday destinations in the world, it’s no surprise that these cruise destinations are lined with streets of big-name brands as well as Mediterranean inspired boutiques.
Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast – The entire country of Italy is a haven for shopaholics, but we must give special attention to the areas of Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast where luxury fashion lovers flock to find one-off pieces and special items. From here you can also visit the Isle of Capri, which is famed and adored for its small streets that are lined with boutiques.
Dubai – Famed for lavish malls and outlets, Dubai is home to some of the largest and most unique experiences in the world. The Dubai Emirates Mall in particular is loved by tourists who flock to Dubai each year to enjoy the 5-star experience, even if this is just for window shopping. Inside the Dubai Mall not only will you find luxury brands like Bottega Veneta, Tissot, Versace, Giorgio Armani, Cartier and Chanel, you will also find electronics and toys, as well as their very own Chinatown.
Hoi An, Vietnam – While Vietnam wouldn’t immediately be your first thought when you think of shopping, it is in fact a destination that is home to some of the world’s best master tailors. Offering unique personal shopping experiences that allow travellers to pick their own fabrics and materials in order for tailors to cut and craft unique suits, dresses, and outfits, perfectly fit to your exact measurements.
India – Across the land of craftsmanship and beautiful jewels you will find an assortment of jewellery stores and boutiques selling items unique to India. In the cruise port of Mumbai, for example, you will find the Zaveri Bazaar which is an iconic market famed for its trade of imitation jewellery. From necklaces to earrings and bangles, those with an eye for shiny things will adore a stop in India’s financial and commercial centre.
Singapore – For some of the best in men’s tailoring, a stop in the cruise destination of Singapore is sure to supply quality and elegance. The country’s blend of tradition and modern shopping provides shoppers with lots to explore, from futuristic malls to night markets. However some of the best shopping is for the men with tailors lined along the roads of Tanglin Road and Orange Grove Road, you will find the highest quality of fabrics and craftsmanship here.
Shopping onboard a cruise ship
While there’s a whole world of shopping to explore, for days at sea you won’t miss out on a single second to swipe your card. Onboard modern cruise ships you will find plenty of shopping experiences. From designer boutiques including Michael Kors, Kate Spade and Hugo Boss to boutique stores and cruise souvenir shops, there’s plenty to explore as soon as you step onboard. And even more exciting, these shops will often provide special prices and sales especially for your cruise duration. The perfect opportunity to grab yourself a bargain and save on luxury goods as well as souvenirs from your trip.
Some cruise lines, such as Celebrity Cruises, even offer electronics stores where you can buy gadgets and equipment. Most popular, of course, would be camera equipment for capturing your special moments aboard and at shore.
Much like shopping in an airport, cruise ships offer duty-free shopping, meaning you can save a little bit on your purchases by avoiding paying VAT.
Ready for an unforgettable shopping experience of a lifetime? Book your next cruise holiday with Supercruises and explore a wide variety of cruise itineraries visiting some of the world’s best cruise ports for shopping.
