Can You Take Drinks on Royal Caribbean? A Comprehensive Guide
Bringing your own drinks aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise can be a bit of a grey area, and the rules can seem confusing. This guide will clarify what you can and can't bring, helping you plan your vacation smoothly. The short answer is: it depends. Let's delve into the specifics.
What Drinks Can I Bring Onboard Royal Caribbean?
Royal Caribbean's policy regarding bringing your own drinks is primarily focused on preventing the smuggling of alcohol. Generally, you're allowed to bring non-alcoholic beverages onboard, including sealed water bottles, juice boxes, and soft drinks. These are usually subject to inspection upon boarding. However, the specific regulations may vary slightly depending on your cruise itinerary and the port of embarkation.
Can I Bring Alcoholic Beverages Onboard?
This is where things get trickier. Royal Caribbean prohibits bringing alcoholic beverages onboard before you've embarked on the ship. This is to protect their onboard sales and licensing agreements. Attempting to sneak alcohol past security is strongly discouraged. If discovered, you'll likely have your alcoholic beverages confiscated.
Exceptions: Some Royal Caribbean itineraries allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard after you've already boarded from an excursion or a port of call. This usually applies to wine or champagne purchased during a shore excursion. Check with your cruise director or onboard staff for precise details regarding this, as policies can change. It’s always best to confirm the rules closer to your sailing date.
What Happens If I Get Caught With Alcohol?
Attempting to smuggle alcohol aboard a Royal Caribbean ship might result in the confiscation of your beverages. While it's unlikely to lead to expulsion from the cruise, it can certainly sour your start to the vacation and potentially waste your money. It's simply not worth the risk.
Are There Any Exceptions for Medical Reasons?
If you require specific alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages for medical reasons (e.g., prescribed medication mixed with alcohol or a specific type of juice for a medical condition), it’s crucial to contact Royal Caribbean's guest services well in advance of your cruise. Provide appropriate documentation from your doctor to support your request. They will likely make arrangements to accommodate your needs.
What About Non-Alcoholic Drinks Purchased at Ports of Call?
Generally, you are permitted to bring non-alcoholic beverages purchased during port stops back onto the ship. However, be aware that over-large quantities or anything deemed inappropriate by security may still be confiscated.
Why Does Royal Caribbean Have These Policies?
Royal Caribbean's policies concerning bringing onboard beverages are primarily designed to protect their revenue streams and maintain order and safety onboard the ship. It's essential to respect these regulations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for all passengers.
What's the Best Course of Action?
To avoid any potential issues, it's best to leave alcoholic drinks at home or purchase them onboard. Enjoy the convenient onboard bars and the wide range of beverages they offer. For non-alcoholic drinks, stick to purchasing them at the port or bringing them from home – ensuring they are properly sealed and non-alcoholic. Remember to always check Royal Caribbean's official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date and accurate information before your cruise.
