shopping on 7-night eastern cruise

[DreamGirl's Mom]

Just booked my first (ever!) cruise today after getting back from WDW. DISers have been so helpful - thank you!

Couple of questions about shopping -

1) Which is better for shopping - St. Maarten or St. Thomas ?
I notice on the Navigator that many of the recommended shops? at both locations have the same names. Do they have the same stock? Does one have better prices than the other?

2) What are the must-get souvenirs or bargains at each stop?

Thanks kindly for your help!

 

[swede63]

St Marteen is cheaper, for jewelry. I bought a gold necklace same store and same one in St Thomas was $130 more expensive.

 

[mrsfuzzmo]

Depends wht kinds of stores you like to shop in. I much prefer St. Thomas.
There are many many more shops in downtown Charlotte Amalie than in Philipsburg. I LOVE shopping in St. Thomas. I am not a jewelery, fine linen or perfume shopper though. I like the local arts and crafts, touristy, islandy stuff. For the rest, someone else will have to let you know. For variety, I choose St. Thomas, for price....don't know....don't care.

 

[rotary2808]

I love shopping in St. Thomas. I wasn't a big fan of St. Maarten. At St. Thomas, Havensight Mall is right at the dock and has some of the best stores. On the ship, there is normally a shopping presentation and they tell you some of the best places to go, that's how I found out about one store I absolutely fell in love with. It's the Benard K. Passman gallery. He sculpts black coral into sculptures & jewelry. Some of the items are a bit pricey ($$$$), but even if you go just to look, you'll be amazed at what this guy can do with black coral. I have a 4 bead black coral necklace and a black coral heart pendant that my husband bought me as an early anniversary gift when we were there last year & I absolutely love it and wear it everyday. Also, don't miss Diamond International & Tanzanite International.