we are going on a western caribbean cruise & have heard that the shops raise prices on merchandise when the ships pull into port, anyone know for sure?

What ports are you visiting? For example, there are probably 5-6 ships or more in Cozumel on a daily basis. In Belize, you have to anchor out. There were 3 other ships in port when we were there.

We didn't find any great deals in either of these ports. I guess it depends upon what you are shopping for and what you like. I would always be cautions when buying jewelry.

When are you going? In Aruba we got some bargains in August because it was low season for cruises.

The trick is to get away from the tourist trap shops near the docks. Walk a few blocks into the interior of the town. In Cozumel you can get some real deals by walking an extra couple of blocks.

In real stores one can assume that prices stay the same on a daily basis. In a privately owned kiosk, shack, flea market table one can assume the price changes on the owner's whim. One rule of thumb is to take a look around when you get off the ship to see what you like and what it cost. Then go about your day ashore. If you see something you like further away from the pier at the same or lower price, buy it. If not stop at the shops by the dock before reboarding the ship.