a couple newbie questions

[CaptainCrunch]

it's our 7th anniversary, so we figured we'd make it a good one ...

 

but ... a couple questions for the seasoned veterans out there ...

 

(FYI) we'll be on the Mariner (Aug 27th 2006) ...

 

1. any limits on how much alcohol can be brought back on-board the ship (obviously, RC is gonna keep it until we're done w/ the cruise)? although, i'm guessing I also have to get it home on the airline too ...

 

2. i'd like to smoke (pipe) in a lounge/bar or two ... anyone know the specifics on the Mariner and smoking?

 

thanks a bunch!!

[shellden]

If I'm not mistaken as far a booze goes the limits are in regards to customs. We always get 4-6 bottles then just put it on the claims form. I think it's 1 liter p/person.

The ships have a cigar lounge also outside is great.

Happy Anniversary

[Twaincruisers]

I am not aware of a limit on how much alcohol you can bring back...it is a matter of whether you want to pay duty--some states (Texas, I think) make sure they get their money, too. We have had our alcohol purchases scrutinized a few times, but have always been told we are "below the threshhold"...meaning they don't bother to collect tax unless you owe enough! We did learn that high percentage alcohol can get you taxed as well...we were only asked that question once or twice and didn't have any...but I now have a bottle from St Vincent in the cupboard I've been trying to get up the nerve to try!

[Stormlover]

You can smoke your pipe outside on any of the decks most lounges, an of course the casino. ;) Not sure how much booze you can bring home as we only bring back a couple bottles. We will be sailing same time, go to our roll call for AUG 27 if you have any further questions their are several of us that have sailed the Mariner more than once, 3 For me an I think Dotsi has sailed her 2-3 times. Everyone is very friendly an great to answer any questions. :rolleyes:

[parrotthead]

When we were on the Splendour, the limit was 1 ltr per adult...however they did mention that was if you lived in Texas ...maybe one of our quirky Texas laws...(yes, we have a few...keeps life interesting);)

[cb at sea]

I'm not sure why you would want to lug all that liquor home with you--I know it's cheaper, but IMHO it's not enough savings to make me carry all that extra weight through the airports! Of course, if you're not flying--have at it!

 

As far as pipes go--there are restrictions on cigars, but I've never seen anyone turned away from the smoking-permitted bars for a pipe! I don't think anything but cigarettes are allowed in the casino, but I don't think you'll have a problem in the smoking lounges.

[parrotthead]

Besises a pipe usually smells a lot better than a cigar!!!

[smrtypnts]

I'm not sure why you would want to lug all that liquor home with you--I know it's cheaper, but IMHO it's not enough savings to make me carry all that extra weight through the airports! Of course, if you're not flying--have at it!

 

My MIL bought a case once and boy was she sorry. I'd limit it to a bottle or two, any more than that isn't worth the extra weight to the airport and everywhere else you have to lug it.

[masonpips]

We carried home 4 bottles each on the Mariner last year. We shopped in St. Maarten at a shop we've been to before and those 8 bottles + a few small (airplane types) were just about $120. We bought Chivas, Absolut, etc. It would have been twice that at home so it was worth it and the 4 pack provided by the store fit nicely on our wheeled luggage and was no bother.

 

I believe if you purchased one bottle of rum that was either made on the island or St. Thomas or something you could have brought back one extra bottle, but 4 each was plenty for us

[CaptainCrunch]

y'all have been wicked helpful - it is greatly appreciated!

 

to add on to previous said questions ... what's a fair price for top shelf tequila and rum down there?