Tax on drinks

[cruzadict]

We will be embarking in Barcelona and have just read that we will have to pay tax on any drinks whilst in Spanish waters.  How will this affect the drinks packages please .

[Alakegirl]

It doesn’t affect passengers who have purchased the package and stay within the package pricing.

Edited September 21, 2023 by Alakegirl

[Whinenowine]

Correct...anything pre-paid isn't impacted--pre-paid excursions, specialty restaurants, drink packages, etc.  However anything you buy ON the trip will be...not sure if your cruise is closed loop or not, but we did a Barcelona closed loop on the Edge last month and they told us (ON BOARD, for the first time) that all purchases would incur the (i think) 20% VAT.  I was a bit peeved because X didn't allow me to book Eden in advance, and once on board that added $48 to my bill.  

[cruzadict]

Thank you very much for your replies.

[ElmaLee]

If your cruise is entirely within EU then any purchases during cruise are liable to be taxed.  Sailing from Barcelona you will pay IVA (Spanish Value Added Tax) where appropriate.  Also ship will not sell "duty free" bottles of alcohol.