U.K. Customs

Allowances. If your cruise was wholly within European Union (EU) countries, you no longer need to pass through customs when you return to the United Kingdom. If you plan to bring back large quantities of alcohol or tobacco, check in advance on EU limits. Current guidelines for goods bought for personal use within the EU are 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1 kg smoking tobacco, 10 litres of spirits, 20 litres of fortified wine, 90 litres of wine, and 110 litres of beer.

When returning from cruises that called at countries outside the European Union, you may import duty-free 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco; 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of fortified or sparkling wine or liqueur; 2 liters of still table wine; 60 milliliters of perfume; 250 milliliters of toilet water; plus £145 worth of other goods, including gifts and souvenirs. If you bring in something worth more than £145, you will have to pay charges on the full amount, not just the amount over £145. Tobacco and alcohol allowances do not extend to passengers under 17 years of age.

For More Information. For further information or a copy of "A Customs Guide for Travellers," which details standard customs procedures as well as what you may bring into the United Kingdom from abroad, contact HM Customs and Excise (Dorset House, Stamford St., London SE1 9PY, tel. 020/7202-4700), or view the guide online at the Customs Web site.