Shopping onboard the Amsterdam

The Amsterdam features Wine and Gourmet Shops on Deck 4 (Promenade) across from the Wajang Theatre and Culinary Arts Center. There is also a Gourmet and Boutique shop plus a Shopping Arcade called the "Signature Shops" on Deck 5 (Upper Promenade). Here, you can buy an assortment of sundry items (suntan lotion, toiletries, candy, postcards, etc.), Holland America logo-wear, resort wear (casual clothing), jewelry, watches, liquor, and cigarettes. The values (prices) are all over the spectrum -- great on liquor and cigarettes, generally good on watches, expensive on sundry items. Also, when the ship is at sea, you will not have to pay a sales tax -- purchases are "duty free." A point of interest is the Merabella Luxury Shop, Deck 5 (Upper Promenade). This shop offers personal service for those interested in buying high end jewelry and other items onboard.

Also popular is the "Art Auction At Sea," where you can purchase collectible art while onboard the Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Shopping Tips:

• The liquor deals are excellent. However, keep in mind limits on what you can bring back into the country per US Customs regulations. Also, liquor bought at the onboard store cannot be consumed during your cruise -- you will be given the liquor you purchased during disembarkation.
• No, you can't bring Cuban Cigars back into the U.S. If you are U.S. citizen even through you can buy them in a foreign port. But you can smoke them in the appropriate areas on the ship.
• While not a guarantee, many items go "on sale" on the last day of the cruise.
• Reportedly, several companies that run art auctions onboard cruise ships will provide an appraisal with their art that will lead you to believe that you are getting very good value. There are those with opinions that the appraisal methods are questionable. So, if you are inclined to buy something at one of these auctions, a common sense approach to avoid feeling like you got ripped off is to never buy thinking you will make a profit, buy the art because it suits your tastes and budget.