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  • On Jun 21, 2011
    Monica from OK Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I’m going on my 1st cruise on the Dream to the Bahamas for 3 nights. I wanted to see if you could help me with info on duty free shopping. What merchandise can be bought this way and how much? Also, what do I need to do for customs? Thx!

    Hi, Monica!

    Congratulations on your first cruise aboard the Disney Dream -- you really know how to start off in style!  Simply put, duty-free shopping offers international travelers a way to save money on merchandise in ports and on the ship, too.  A "duty" refers to a government tax. Merchants who import goods and sell them to consumers who are leaving their country aren't charged a duty on certain products. Therefore, this allows sellers to pass the savings along to their customers -- giving savvy shoppers the opportunity to shop for bargains.

    Shoppers should be aware, however, that they will have to pay customs duty in their home country on items purchased from a duty-free store if the value of the goods exceeds a certain amount. US residents -- including minors -- are allowed to take home merchandise with a combined retail value of up to $800 each if they have been outside the country for more than 48 hours and have not taken that exemption for 30 days. You will complete a US Customs claim form on the last evening of your cruise (one per household) and will present it to the US Customs agent (along with your passports) after claiming your luggage in the port terminal on Debarkation Day.

    As far as available duty-free merchandise for a Bahamian cruise, you really could shop till you drop in downtown Nassau.  Bay Street is crowded with luxury outlet stores that sell jewelry, gemstones, watches, perfumes, handbags, sunglasses, clothing, crystal, cosmetics, and much more. Many of these stores display familiar names in the world of high-fashion such as Gucci, Cartier, Fendi, Coach, and Carlo Milano.

    I hope that helps you plan and gets you even more excited about your upcoming cruise. Have a wonderful day and a magical vacation. Bon voyage!

    Andi
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Meet the Panelist: Andi, Alabama

Anchors aweigh! Time to set sail aboard Disney Cruise Line, and I'm just the mom to help you navigate the waters of planning. From stem to stern to ports of call, I'll show you the ropes of pixie-dusted vessels filled with magic and adventure. Learn More About Andi

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