Will I be charged VAT and TAX on board a P&O Cruises ship?

Our fleet offers a variety of on-board shopping options. To ensure a smooth experience, please note that some purchases may be subject to VAT and taxes. This guide will clarify when these charges apply.

VAT and TAX

Last updated: 19/09/2024

Will I be charged VAT or similar sales taxes on EU cruises?

Guests are advised that during intra-EU cruises (cruises that begin and end in the EU and only call at EU ports), government regulations prohibit the sale of tax and duty-free items.  This means that liqueur and tobacco will not be available to purchase (other than in quantities for onboard consumption) and VAT will be added to goods purchased in the shops and boutiques at the appropriate EU rate.  Prices displayed in the retail outlets are exclusive of any VAT or similar tax. The VAT charged will be identified on your receipt. 

For example: If you are on a cruise that departs from Malta or Spain and only visits other European countries, duty-free items will not be available and VAT will be added.  If your cruise includes a non-EU country (such as Turkey or Montenegro) then duty/VAT free shopping will be available.

Will I be charged VAT on a UK domestic cruise?

Guests are advised that during domestic-UK cruises (cruises that begin and end in the UK and only call at UK ports including Northern Ireland), government regulations prohibit the sale of tax and duty-free items.  This means that liqueur and tobacco will not be available to purchase (other than in quantities for onboard consumption) and VAT will be added to goods purchased in the shops and boutiques at the appropriate UK rate.  Prices displayed in the retail outlets are exclusive of any VAT or similar tax. The VAT charged will be identified on your receipt

For example: If you are on a round-trip UK cruise that only visits ports in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland duty/VAT free shopping will not be available.  If your cruise includes a call in a non-UK country (such as France or the Republic of Ireland e.g. Cobh) then duty/VAT free shopping will be available.

For further information about our on-board shopping, please visit our dedicated page.

You can find additional information on VAT, including Spanish IVA on My P&O Cruises. Click on the ‘Before you sail’ tab at the top of the page, then click 'Important to know' and scroll down to ‘Useful information’.

Still need help?

Still have questions? Our friendly Customer Contact Centre is always happy to help! Contact us today on 0344 338 8003. 

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