Shopping on the Explorer of the Seas

The Royal Promenade is THE central gathering place on the ship, and it's well worth a stroll for both shopping and amusement. The Explorer of the Seas' shopping venues are primarily located along this Royal Promenade on Deck 5. However, The Art & Photo Gallery is on Deck 3, and Sea Trek (diving gear) is on Deck 11. Here's a list of intriguing places where you'll find a variety of items for purchase:

Shopping Along the Royal Promenade, Deck 5:

• Fashion Boutique is an excellent place to find apparel and accessories a cut above the typical souvenir sweatshirt!
• At Pets at Sea, children and kids at heart can build their own stuffed animals. Accessories are also for sale. 
• The Perfume Shop carries a variety of colognes and perfumes as the name suggests, including brand names such as Chanel.
• Logo Souvenir Shop is where you'll find apparel and accessories sporting Royal Caribbean labels.
• Day to Night Boutique on the Explorer of the Seas carries this store's apparel and accessories.
• The General Store is where you'll find those little sundry items you thought you packed (but didn't).

About Shopping on the Explorer of the Seas...

When shopping on the Explorer of the Seas, bear in mind the fact that prices are all over the spectrum -- great on liquor and cigarettes, generally good on watches, and expensive on sundry items. And, when the ship is at sea, you will not have to pay a sales tax -- purchases are duty free.

Also popular is the "Art Auction At Sea," where you can purchase collectible art while on the Explorer of the Seas.

Explorer of the Seas Shopping Tips:

• The liquor deals are excellent. However, keep in mind the limits on what you can bring back into the country per US Customs regulations. Also, liquor bought at the on 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 a U.S. Citizen, even though you can buy them in a foreign port. You can, however, smoke them in appropriate areas on the ship.
• While not a guarantee, many items go on sale on the last day of the cruise.
• Several companies that run art auctions on cruise ships will provide an appraisal with their art that will lead you to believe that you are getting very good value. Some people do find the appraisal methods questionable. -So, if you are inclined to buy art at one of these auctions, we suggest that you never purchase with the intention of making a profit. When you buy art to suit your taste, and stay within your budget, you'll likely avoid that ripped off feeling!
• ATMs are available on the ship. There is a fee in addition to your bank charges.