Thread: shopping

For all you experienced Alaskan cruisers....where is the best place to buy unique but not expensive things for the relatives back home? Are the things in ports the same as on the ship?

Hey grandma50! I have moved your question over here to the Alaska forum.

We just got back from Alaska....our 6th time there and each time is better than the last!

The shops in port will have a greater selection than the ship and the prices will vary depending on what it is you are looking for.

I suggest that you take a look at what the shops on the ship are offering and if you see something that appeals to you, look for it or a similar item when you are ashore. The ship merchandise will still be there if you can't find anything ashore.

It is good to shop the little family owned stores. The merchandise will most likely be made in Alaska rather than China or elsewhere. DO look to see where the product is made---

The prices in Alaska will be a bit higher than you find in the Caribbean, so don't get sticker shock! There are still reasonable prices for small items such as Christmas ornaments or the small Russian dolls you can find in Sitka. Now, those Russian dolls should be hand made in Russia or in Sitka. Be sure to check.

You can always find magnets or small pieces of jewelry at fairly reasonable prices.

The famous Ulu knives can be purchased for as little as $12 or $15 on up. Do note that if you purchase the Ulu knives that the ship will hold them for you until the next to last night just like they hold alcololic beverages brought onboard. They MUST be packed in your checked luggage as they will not be allowed on the plane in your carry on (if you are flying).

Definitely avoid the "cruiseline recommended" shops. When going into the ports, especially in Alaska, we would walk beyond those and look into the small shops. We usually don't go for expensive, more tee shirts and trinkets, and we certainly found them this way.