Cruise Ship Traveller

Can You Drink On a Cruise at 18? (& What Cruise Lines Allow 2024)

If you are based in the U.S, where the drinking age on cruises is 21 years old, you may be wondering if it’s any different on a cruise ship.

Whether you are aged 18 to 20 or you are looking on behalf of a younger family member.

In some cases, the answer is very clear, however, as is often the case, there are also many variables and instances in which it may be acceptable to drink at 18.

Friends drinking cocktails

In fact, under the right circumstances, most cruise lines do allow 18-year-olds to drink alcohol, but it depends on what country you are from and where you are sailing.

Here we take a deeper look.

How Old Do You Have to be to Drink on a Cruise?

The drinking age for all cruise ships within US waters is 21.  Across the rest of the world, the drinking age varies from 18 to 21 years old, including in some US cruise lines, although parental permission may be required.

Can 18-Year-olds Drink on Cruises?

There are some circumstances where 18 years olds can drink alcohol.

The 3 main factors are:

  • Cruise line
  • Geographical departure of the ship
  • Parental consent

What Cruise Lines Allow Drinking at 18?

All US cruise ships in US waters adhere to the legal drinking age law of 21.   US waters are considered territorial waters extending 12 nautical miles from the baseline, the low waterline of the coast.

Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise In International Waters?

Many cruise lines allow 18-year-olds to drink alcohol if they depart from international waters , even if it is a US cruise line.

These include:

  • Celebrity Cruises (parental permission)
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cunard Cruises
  • Disney cruises (parental permission)
  • Holland America
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (parental permission)
  • P&O Cruises 
  • Princess Cruises
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Virgin voyages

If you’re single, you might be interested in which of the above cruise lines are the best cruises for 18 to 20 somethings .

Young adults drinking in a bar

Carnival Cruise Drinking Age

Although well known as the party and fun cruise line, Carnival is one of the strictest regarding the drinking age .

The Carnival Cruise drink age is 21 years of age in both US Waters and when sailing in international waters There are no exceptions and no option for parental permission to be allowed to drink any younger.

Carnival clearly states:

“ Guests must be 21 years or older to be served alcohol on board. Proper I.D with birth date is required.” Carnival Cruise

You might also be interested in our best carnival singles cruises .

Young adults at cruise ship bar

Can You Drink At 18 On Royal Caribbean?

While in US waters, you have to be 21 or over to be able to drink alcohol on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.  As well as applying to all ships originating from North America, it also applies to those originating from Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.

In specific International waters, you can drink alcohol from the age of 18 years and up from sailings originating in:

  • New Zealand
  • South America

For confirmation, see the Royal Caribbean legal drinking age policy here .

You might also be interested in our 7 ways to cheat the Royal Caribbean drinks package .

Bar Drinks

Can You Drink On Norwegian Cruise Line at 18?

In US waters, the minimum drinking age for alcohol is 21.  

However, guests from 18 can purchase and consume alcohol once the ship is at least 3 miles outside of US territorial waters.  Parental consent will be required, and a form will need to be signed.  This will give permission for the 18 to 20-year-olds to drink beer and wine only, no hard liquor.

Find full info under “Alcohol” in the NCL Guest Conduct Policy here .

Young woman drinking cocktail at sea

Can You Drink On a Disney Cruise at 18?

In US waters, the legal drinking age on a Disney cruise ship is 21.   Make sure you take a form of valid photo I.D as this will be required as proof of age.

In international waters, Disney cruise allows people to purchase and drink alcohol at 18 as long as they have their parent’s permission. 

Disney Cruise alcohol policy here .

Can You Drink On a Princess Cruise at 18?

Passengers disembarking from and sailing in US waters are not allowed to buy or consume alcohol until the age of 21. 

However, for some cruises around the rest of the words 18 year old can drink alcohol on a Princess cruise, with the exception being Japan, where the age is 20.

For cruises between Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe and Singapore ports, the drinking age will be 18 years old. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age will be 20 years old. Princess Cruises

It is also worth noting that guests under 18 will have to leave the onboard Night Clubs by 11.00 pm.

This is an example of just one difference between choosing a Princess vs Carnival cruise .

Can You Drink On a Celebrity Cruise at 18?

Guests on Celebrity cruises are expected to adhere to the minimum drinking age of 21 in US waters.

Although if guests embark from a country outside the US where the drinking age is lower than 21, they will be allowed to drink onboard if parents or legal guardians sign a waiver giving their consent.

3 young women on cruise vacation drinking alcohol from bottles

Can 18 Year Olds Drink on Cruises in Mexico?

If you embark from a US port, you would have to adhere to the minimum drinking age of 21 while on a cruise ship in Mexican waters.

However, if you leave the cruise ship and visit a port in Mexico where the legal drinking age is 18 you can purchase alcohol while off the ship.

Crystal Cruises Beer and Wine Only

Outside of Us territorial waters, 18 to 20-year-olds can buy and consume beer and wine only   They will not be able to drink hard liquor until they are 21.

Can You Drink Alcohol if you Turn 18 on a Cruise?

If you have an 18th birthday while on a cruise and 18-year-olds are allowed to drink alcohol, you would also be able to buy and consume alcoholic beverages while onboard.  In some instances, depending on your cruise line, your age is verified upon boarding.  Therefore you may need to visit Guest Services with evidence of ID to prove your new age so they can update your details so you can get served.

Can You Drink on a Caribbean Cruise at 18?

If you cruise ship sales from a North American port, the minimum drinking age is 21.  If your cruise ship embarks from a port outside the US, the drinking age depends on the cruise line and, in some cases, whether parental consent is given to drink at 18.

Alcoholic drink with lime on a bar

Can 18-year-Olds Visit Bars and Nightclubs on a Cruise?

Most cruise lines will allow 18-year-olds to hang out in bars and nightclubs with friends and family or even by themselves.  

They will, however, have to abide by the cruise lines drinking age rules. This will often mean that although they can hang out at bars, they can’t drink alcohol until they are 21

Related Posts:

  • Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol on a Cruise
  • Can You Bring Wine on a Cruise
  • Cruises for 18-Year-Olds (With or Without Parents)
  • Drinking Age In International Waters (for each Cruise Line)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink underage on a cruise .

Whether you are 18 to 20  years of age, if you are deemed underage by the cruise line rules, you will not be able to purchase any alcohol. Staff will not serve underage or anyone else attempting to purchase drinks on behalf of minors.

Anyone caught buying alcohol for minors could get into trouble if caught and, depending on the circumstances, possibly be kicked off the ship. 

Can an 18-year-old Drink on Cruises With Dinner?

Most cruise line drinking rules apply to meals in the same way they do at bars and nightclubs.  This means if a person aged between 18 to 20 is deemed underage for drinking, they will not be able to order or consume wine or any other alcohol at meal times.

One exception is the British cruise line P&O Cruises which allows 16 and 17-year-olds to drink alcohol with a meal.

Can 18-Year-olds Drink Alcohol in the Cabin?

If 18-year-olds are deemed underage, they should not be by drinking in their cabins.   However, it is not unheard of for teens to smuggle or sneak alcohol to their cabins.  This is likely to go unnoticed unless the teens in question overindulge and get caught outside the cabin inebriated.

Can You Drink At 18 On a Cruise With Parental Consent

Outside of US waters, some cruise lines allow parents or legal guardians to sign a waiver giving consent for their 18 to 20-year-old to drink alcohol on board.

Parental consent in international waters is required on:

  • Celebrity Cruises 
  • Disney cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line

Can You Drink on a Cruise at 17?

The only main cruise line which offers drinking to 17 years olds is P&O cruises which allow alcohol with a meal to anyone over 16 years of age.

In US waters, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to drink alcohol.  Departures from international waters may allow drinking from the age of 18.  

Related Posts

What Happens if Caught Sneaking Alcohol on a Cruise

What Happens if Caught Sneaking Alcohol on a Cruise?

Food waste

What do Cruise Ships do with Food Waste?

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Drinking Age on a Cruise Ship: Can You Drink Under 21?

' src=

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

If you’re planning a cruise vacation, you’re probably wondering about the drinking age on cruise ships. As a seasoned cruiser, I know that navigating the rules and regulations surrounding alcohol consumption can be a bit tricky.

Although cruise ships sail in international waters, the minimum drinking age depends on your ship, itinerary, and the laws governing your departure and return port.

We’ll help you understand the minimum drinking age on a cruise ship to help you prepare for your next vacation.

Table of Contents

What is The Drinking Age on a Cruise Ship?

Hand holding a refreshing cocktail by a cruise ship pool at sunset with passengers swiming

The legal drinking age on cruise ships depends on the cruise line and the itinerary.

Most cruise lines sailing in North America have a minimum drinking age of 21. Cruises departing or returning to the U.S. follow the U.S. U.S.deral, which sets the national minimum drinking age at 21. 

Although Mexico and Canada have minimum drinking ages of 18 and 19, all U.S.-based cruise lines set the minimum drinking age at 21, even when sailing in international waters.

The cruise line staff strictly enforces the minimum drinking age. Passengers caught drinking alcohol under the age limit or giving alcohol to guests under the minimum drinking age may face consequences, including disembarkation.

Many countries have drinking ages lower than the U.S. Cruises saU.S.g to Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America often have a lower legal drinking age of 18.

Minimum Drinking Age on Major Cruise Lines

An espresso martini cocktail served on a bar counter with bartender in the background to a passenger who is the minimum drinking age on a cruise ship

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line has a clear and strict policy that guests must be 21 years of age or older to be served alcohol on board. Carnival enforces the policy across all areas of the ship where alcohol is sold or served, including bars, lounges, and gift shops.

It’s important to note that Carnival Cruise Line reserves the right to request identification from any passenger before purchasing alcohol. The cruise line staff refuse to sell alcohol to anyone who cannot provide proper identification or appears to be under the influence.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruise’s minimum drinking age of 21 applies to all Celebrity cruise ships and itineraries.

However, on sailings departing from Europe, South America, and Australia a parent who is sailing with their child can sign a waiver alowing 18-20 year olds to consume alcoholic beverages.

If a guest celebrates their 21st birthday on the cruise ship, they may ask the Front Desk Manager to adjust the ship’s records to permit them to consume alcohol for the remainder of the cruise.

Costa Cruises

Costa Cruises has a simple policy: the minimum onboard drinking age is 21 for sailings with U.S. departures and 18 for sailings from non-US ports.

Cunard Line

An orange refreshing cocktail with an orange slice on the deck of a cruise ship overlooking the ocean

Cunard Line’s minimum drinking age is 18, except in U.S. waters, where the minimum drinking age is 21.

This means that when a Cunard ship is sailing in international waters or visiting ports outside the United States, passengers 18 years of age or older are allowed to purchase and consume alcohol on board.

However, when the ship enters U.S. territories or ports, the minimum drinking age is raised to 21 to comply with U.S. federal law.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has a minimum drinking age of 21 and requires a valid photo I.D. to purchase and consume alcohol on Disney Cruise Ships .

However, parents and guardians can sign a Beverage Consent Form allowing their 18- to 20-year-old children to purchase and consume alcohol on round-trip cruises departing from any European country with a lower drinking age. The same policy applies to repositioning cruises between Hawaii and Australia.

Additionally, the drinking age is lowered to 18 on round-trip cruises departing Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, and Brisbane.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises’ minimum drinking age for cruises departing from the United States is 21. For cruises departing from countries other than the United States, the minimum drinking age is 18.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) guest policy has minimum drinking age of 21. However, passengers 18-20 years old may purchase and consume beer and wine if traveling with a parent or legal guardian and in international waters, except for sailings in Alaska and Hawaii. The parent or legal guardian must be onboard the sailing and sign a Parent Consent Form for their child at the Front Desk.

If a guest celebrates their 21st birthday during the cruise, they may ask the Guest Services Manager to modify the ship’s records to permit their consumption of alcohol during the remainder of the cruise. When changing the ship’s records, you will be asked to present a valid government-issued I.D. to show your proof of age.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises sailings from North America have a minimum age of 21 for consuming alcohol on their ships.

However, sailings from Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, and New Zealand have a legal drinking age of 18 on Princess cruise ships , and cruises between Japanese ports have a minimum age of 20.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International’s minimum drinking age is 21 for North Americans and itineraries visiting Dubai. The legal drinking age is 18 for sailings in South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

The minimum drinking age is 21 at Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee.

Virgin Voyages

The drinking age on Virgin Voyages ships varies depending on the location:

  • In international waters, the minimum drinking age is 18 years old.
  • When the ship is in United States waters, the minimum drinking age is 21.
  • In other ports of call, Virgin Voyages adheres to the laws and regulations of the specific country.

Drinking Age on Private Islands

A person holding a refreshing drink against a sunset over a cruise ship railing with the ocean in the background

Many cruise lines operate private islands and resorts. Some cruise line private islands have different drinking ages than the cruise line ships.

Here is a list of the drinking ages at many of the cruise lines private destinations:

  • Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Royal Caribbean Labadee Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Carnival Cruise Line’s Half Moon Cay Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Princess Cruises Princess Cays Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay Marine Reserve Drinking Age : 21 Years Old
  • Celebrity Cruises’ Little Stirrup Cay Drinking Age : 21 Years Old

Consuming Alcohol in Ports of Call

Once you leave the ship, you are governed by the laws and regulations of the port city. You are not bound by the cruise ship’s rules when you’re on land. In other words, if the country’s legal drinking age is 18, you can consume alcohol in ports of call, even if the ship’s drinking age is 21.

You’ll be happy to know that the drinking age in most Caribbean countries is 18. If you’re unsure, you can ask your cruise line staff or the port attendants.

' src=

Marcello De Lio

Trending now

Cruise Ships docked at Caribbean port

Stay in the Loop: The latest cruise DEALS & NEWS delivered to your inbox - Click Here!

CruiseOverload

Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise? (Drinking Ages Explained!)

Did you just turn 18 and wondering if you can enjoy a drink on your next cruise? The answer isn’t as straightforward as it should be and it depends on the cruise line and region..

We’ll help break it down so you’ll be prepared and enjoy a hassle-free trip.

Table of Contents

Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise?

Different cruise lines have different regulations, but generally, 18-year-olds can visit bars or nightclubs alone or with friends and family who are also 18+. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the legal drinking age on all ships that dock in the U.S, as well as many U.S.-based cruise lines worldwide, is 21.

For cruises sailing between Australia, New Zealand, China, Europe, and Singapore, you’ll find that the drinking age is 18 years old.

On the other hand, if you’re cruising between Japanese ports, the legal age increases to 20 years old.

Keep in mind that some cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, may require parental consent if you are under 21 years old.

This could be applicable for cruises outside North America, including Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia.

As you can see, your ability to drink at 18 on a cruise largely depends on where you’re sailing and the specific cruise line’s rules.

Let’s break down these rules and regulations a little further so you know exactly what you’re signing up for…

Drinking Age On Cruises

Woman offering a fancy cocktail on a cruise ship

General Rules For Having A Drink On A Cruise

On most cruise ships, the drinking age is 21 when the ship is within US waters.

However, the age limit varies between 18 to 21 years old as you sail in international waters or aboard some cruise lines.

This can depend on the cruise line’s policies, the destination, and the country of departure.

For instance, on Royal Caribbean cruises , the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages is 21, making it consistent throughout all their ships.

It’s crucial to respect the rules set by each cruise line, as those who break them may face consequences, including parents who supply alcohol to their underage children.

International Waters

When sailing in international waters, some cruise lines may allow passengers aged 18-20 to consume alcohol.

Norwegian Cruise Line is an example of this, as they permit passengers between 18 and 20 years old to drink alcohol once the ship leaves international waters.

However, parental consent is required for guests under 21.

It’s essential to keep in mind that while some cruise lines allow for a lower drinking age, this may only apply when the ship is in international waters, so make sure you’re aware of the rules and restrictions for each stage of your journey.

In summary, understanding the drinking age policies on different cruise lines and in various regions is key to ensuring a smooth sailing experience.

By respecting these guidelines, you can have a fun and enjoyable cruise vacation without any unexpected hiccups.

Cruise Line Policies

Cruise ship at port

Carnival Cruise Lines

On Carnival Cruise Lines, the drinking age is generally 21 years old. However, when sailing from a non-U.S. port, such as the ones in Europe or Australia, the legal drinking age is lowered to 18 years old.

This is so Carnival can comply with the drinking age policies in those countries. Remember that this policy may sometimes vary and can be subject to change.

Royal Caribbean Cruises

If you find yourself on a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll notice that the legal drinking age is 21 years old onboard all their ships.

However, there is an exception when sailing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, or New Zealand, where the minimum age to consume alcohol is lowered to 18.

Nevertheless, it’s important to keep in mind that the drinking age at private destinations remains 21, regardless of the sailing origin.

Norwegian Cruise Lines

With Norwegian Cruise Lines, guests aged 18-20 years old can purchase and consume beer or wine when the ship is in international waters (3 miles out of U.S. territorial waters).

Parental consent is required for all cruises where guests are under 21 years old. It’s worth noting that this age modification does not apply for Alaska and Hawaii sailings.

Be attentive to the specific policy details before embarking on a Norwegian Cruise.

Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruise Lines takes a strict approach, maintaining a 21 years or older drinking age policy for all beverages across their ships despite the originating location.

This policy applies throughout the duration of the cruise and does not change based on the ship’s location.

Make sure you’re aware of this policy if you plan to sail with Princess Cruise Lines.

Impact of Port Laws

Cruise at port

Embarkation Location

When planning your cruise, it’s essential to consider the embarkation location as it can affect your drinking age while onboard.

For instance, if your cruise embarks from a U.S. port, you will usually need to be 21 years old to consume alcohol.

However, exceptions apply when the ship sails at least 3 miles outside of U.S. territorial waters. In these cases, you can purchase and consume beer and wine if you are between 18 to 20 years old.

Parental consent will be required, and a form needs to be signed to grant permission for this age group.

Outside of the United States, different embarkation locations may offer varying drinking age restrictions.

For example, if your cruise departs from a port in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, China, or Singapore, the drinking age may be lower at 18 years old.

In Japan, the legal drinking age is 20 years old. Make sure to research the specific policies of your cruise line before booking.

Port of Calls

As your cruise takes you to different ports of call, keep in mind that local laws may impact your drinking privileges.

Each country has its own legal drinking age, which may affect your ability to consume alcohol both onboard and ashore. Be aware of these restrictions and follow the local laws at each destination.

For example, when visiting a port in the Caribbean, the local drinking age may range from 18 to 21 years old.

On the other hand, countries in Europe typically have a lower drinking age, which is often 18 years old.

To help keep things clear, familiarize yourself with the drinking age policies at the following port categories:

  • Caribbean Ports: Drinking age ranges between 18 to 21 years old.
  • European Ports: Drinking age is typically 18 years old.
  • Asian Ports: Drinking age varies depending on the country, with Japan requiring passengers to be 20 years old.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to stay informed about the drinking age restrictions for both your embarkation location and each port of call you visit during your cruise.

Keep in mind that these policies are subject to change and may vary between cruise lines.

Taking these factors into account will ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable sailing experience while respecting local laws.

Can You Drink At 18 In International Waters?

Many cruise lines have policies that prohibit passengers under the age of 21 from consuming alcohol.

However, there are a few exceptions, especially when in international waters.

If you’re 18 and interested in enjoying an alcoholic beverage during your cruise, you’ll be pleased to know that several cruise lines allow passengers aged 18 to 20 to drink in international waters.

Some require parental consent, while others simply have age restrictions in place.

Below is a quick list of cruise lines that permit drinking at 18 in international waters:

  • Celebrity Cruises (requires parental permission)
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cunard Cruises
  • Disney cruises (requires parental permission)
  • Holland America
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (requires parental permission)
  • P&O Cruises

Keep in mind that these policies may change and it’s important to check with your specific cruise line before booking.

While many cruise lines will allow drinking at 18 in international waters, they may still have restrictions in place, especially when approaching U.S. or Middle Eastern ports.

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the cruise itinerary, as the legal drinking age on board may be determined by the itinerary rather than international waters.

In most cases, if a U.S. or Middle Eastern port is on your itinerary, you won’t be allowed to drink at 18, even when the ship is in international waters.

Can You Drink At 18 On A Bahamas Cruise?

When it comes to the legal drinking age, the Bahamas has set it at 18 years old. This means that, technically, while you’re exploring the picturesque islands in the Bahamas, you can indeed enjoy a local beverage if you’re 18 or older.

However, things get a little bit more complicated when you’re aboard the cruise ship.

Cruise lines each have their own set of rules for the minimum drinking age on their ships.

Although the legal drinking age in the Bahamas is 18, many cruise lines have a strict 21-year-old policy when it comes to consuming alcoholic beverages on their vessels.

For example, Royal Caribbean International requires that all passengers consuming alcoholic beverages on their ships be 21 or older if the sailing originates from North America or the Caribbean.

Now, there’s a bit of a caveat here – some cruise lines have private islands in the Bahamas, such as Carnival’s Half Moon Cay or Disney’s Castaway Cay. While you’re on these islands, you might assume that the Bahamian legal drinking age applies.

However, keep in mind that each cruise line has its own set of rules, which could still require passengers to be 21 or older to drink, even on their private islands.

One more thing to remember is that some cruises may allow 18-year-olds to drink on the ship while in international waters, but not while docked at a port in the United States or other countries with stricter drinking ages.

Additionally, there could be certain ports, like Amsterdam, where you’re allowed to indulge in specific activities while ashore but not on the ship.

Can 18 Year Olds Drink On Cruises In Mexico?

If your cruise itinerary includes a stop at a Mexican port, you’ll generally be allowed to drink alcohol according to local laws when you’re ashore, as their legal drinking age is 18.

This means you can indulge in some local flavors and cocktails while exploring Mexico’s popular tourist destinations.

However, it is important to note that the drinking age onboard the ship may be different. Most cruise ships enforce a minimum drinking age of 21, especially if the cruise originates from a US port.

It means that even if you are in international waters or within Mexican territory, you might not be allowed to buy or consume alcoholic beverages on the ship.

For instance, on most Carnival cruises , the minimum age to purchase and consume alcohol on the ship is 21, regardless of the legal drinking age in the destination ports.

Similarly, Royal Caribbean International has a minimum drinking age of 21 for sailings originating from North America or the Caribbean.

Although these rules may seem strict, they’re in place to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all passengers, including families and young adults. It’s crucial that you respect the cruise line’s policies and adhere to the age restrictions while on board.

In summary, if you’re 18 and cruising to Mexico, you can drink while ashore and exploring the local destinations.

However, be prepared for the possibility that you might not be able to consume alcohol on the ship, depending on the cruise line’s policies.

Always make sure to double-check the cruise guidelines and age restrictions before booking your vacation to avoid any disappointment or complications during your journey.

Similar Posts

Best Size Luggage For 7 Day Cruise (PLUS 5 Best Picks!)

Best Size Luggage For 7 Day Cruise (PLUS 5 Best Picks!)

How To Sneak Alcohol On A Cruise

How To Sneak Alcohol On A Cruise

13 Secrets Only Cruise Ship Staff Know (& Will Make Your Trip 10x Better!)

13 Secrets Only Cruise Ship Staff Know (& Will Make Your Trip 10x Better!)

Front Or Back of Cruise Ship: Best Cabin Locations Explained!

Front Or Back of Cruise Ship: Best Cabin Locations Explained!

Debarkation Day: Common Mistakes Every First-Timer Makes

Debarkation Day: Common Mistakes Every First-Timer Makes

How Fast Is a Knot? (Knots to MPH Explained!)

How Fast Is a Knot? (Knots to MPH Explained!)

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
  • Back to Main Menu
  • Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
  • Cruise Deals
  • Weekend Cruises
  • Last Minute Cruises
  • Family Cruises​
  • 2024-2025 Cruises
  • All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
  • Cruise Dining
  • Onboard Activities
  • Cruise Rooms
  • The Cruise Experience
  • All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
  • Cruise Ports
  • Shore Excursions
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay
  • Caribbean Cruises
  • Bahamas Cruises​
  • Alaska Cruises
  • European Cruises​
  • Mediterranean Cruises​
  • Royal Destinations
  • Cruise Planner
  • Make a Payment
  • Check-In for My Cruise
  • Beverage Packages​
  • Shore Excursions​
  • Book a Flight
  • Dining Packages​
  • Royal Gifts
  • Required Travel Documents
  • Transportation
  • Book a Hotel
  • Redeem Cruise Credit
  • All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
  • Boarding Requirements
  • Future Cruise Credit​
  • Travel Documents​
  • Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
  • Transportation​
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay​
  • Post-Cruise Inquiries
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Celebrity Cruises

What will the drinking age be for the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

Twenty-one is the minimum drinking age onboard sailings departing from the United States, Canada or the United Arab Emirates. On sailings departing from the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, it is 18 unless the home port’s legal drinking age is higher than 18, in which case the higher age applies. This applies to possession of alcohol as well.

Still need help? Contact Us

Get support by phone or email.

Email Your Questions

Locate a Travel Agent

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

international cruise drinking age

Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? Everything you need to know

W hen most people think about cruising, the first thing that comes to mind is drinking. And for good reason – a cruise is a great opportunity to let loose and enjoy some cocktails with friends.

But what are the rules around drinking on a cruise ship?

How old do you have to be?

Can you drink on a cruise at 18?

Can you drink in public?

And what happens if you get drunk?

As as a travel advisor who has taken many courses to become a cruise specialist, I have learned the ins and outs of cruising.

Read on for answers to all your questions about drinking on a cruise.

The answer to this question cant be answered with one single answer. The fact is, the legal drinking age on cruises depends on the cruise line and the port of embarkation.

Let’s look at the policies of a few of the most popular cruise lines .

Carnival Cruise Line

On Carnival cruise ships, alcohol consumption is only permitted for guests aged 21 and over. This rule applies to Carnival private islands such as Half Moon Cay , and Princess Cay as well.

The only exception to this rule is for Carnival Australia, where passengers 18 and over are allowed to consume and purchase alcohol.

Royal Caribbean

For sailings that begin in North American ports, the legal drinking age onboard Royal Caribbean is 21.

However, if you are sailing on Royal Caribbean from Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South America, and Asia, the drinking age on board is 18 years old.

Royal Caribbean private islands, such as Perfect Day at Coco Cay , the drinking age will be 21 years old, no matter where the cruise started.

The legal drinking age for all alcoholic drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21.

However, NCL does have one advantage over the other lines, and that is that in international waters passengers who are over 18 can drink beer and wine.

Like Disney, this rule only applies if the parent is on board with the minor and signs a consent form.

The legal drinking age on Disney Cruise Line is 21 with one exception.

If you are sailing from Europe, and you are sailing with a parent, that parent can sign a consent form that allows you to drink in their presence only. This option is available for guests 18-20 years old.

Celebrity Cruise Line

The legal drinking age for alcoholic beverages on all Celebrity Cruises ships sailing from North America is 21.

For guests sailing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages onboard any of our Celebrity Cruises ships is 18.

The drinking age on private islands is 21.

Can you drink at 18 on a Caribbean cruise?

The drinking age on most cruise ships is 21. If the cruise originates from a US port, the minimum age to drink on board is 21.

It is a common misconception that minors can drink on board if they are heading to a port where the drinking age is 18, but that is not the case.

You must provide identification when booking your cruise, and that information will be attached to your sail and sign card, and your age will be known by crew members. Cruise crew members will not serve underaged guests.

Can you drink at 18 on a Bahamas cruise?

No, you can not drink on board a cruise to the Bahamas if the cruise has departed from a US Port.

What about private islands in the Bahamas?

Many cruise lines have private islands in the Bahamas such as Half Moon Cay (Carnival) or Castaway Cay (Disney).

The minimum age to drink in the Bahamas is 18, so some assume that once you are on the private island, you can drink as long as you are 18.

This isn’t the case though. If you are on an island owned by the cruise line, the same rules apply as if you are still on board the ship, which means no drinking for anyone under 21.

However, if you get off the ship in a port that is not owned by the cruise line, you are able to follow the rules in that country.

For example, the drinking age in Nassau is 18. So if you have a cruise stop in Nassau Bahamas, you can drink as long as you are 18 while you are in that port.

Read more: The best bars in Nassau

To help clarify this:

Cruising Age2118Can I drink on board the ship?yesnoCan I drink on Private Island? yesnoCan I drink in Bimini, Nassau, or Freeport?yesyes

Are there any cruises where you can drink at 18?

Yes, cruises on certain lines like Disney , Royal Caribbean, Carnival Australia, and Celebrity that do not originate in North America you may be able to drink at 18 years old.

Can you drink at 18 in international waters?

Once you are in international waters (more than 3 miles away from US waters) you may drink on Norweigan Cruise Line if your parents sign a waiver.

If your cruise line has a no drinking under 21 policy in place, where you are located in the ocean does not change the rules.

What if I turn 21 during my cruise?

Most cruise lines determine your age based on the age you are the day you board the ship, meaning if you aren’t of drinking age when the cruise starts, you will not be able to drink for the duration of the cruise.

There are a few exceptions to this rule. Norweigan and Celebrity Cruise Lines, both allow a guest who has turned 21 during their sailing to show ID to guest services and have their age updated. Once this is approved by guest services, that passenger will be allowed to purchase alcohol for the remainder of the cruise.

Overdrinking on a cruise

No matter which cruise line you go on, you need to drink responsibly and maintain control of yourself.

Drinking too much can cause a host of problems for you. First, getting too drunk on a moving ship can make it difficult to navigate your way around safely.

You can also become dehydrated easily and become sick in the heat and humidity.

If you become so drunk that you are dangerous or disruptive to other passengers you can find yourself in trouble with ship security, and potentially authorities when you return to port.

You can be confined to your cabin, or even earn yourself a trip to the cruise jail if you become overly intoxicated.

Drinking ages on Cruises Recap

As you can see, the “typical” age that you can drink on a cruise is 21 years or older. While there are exceptions to the rule especially if your cruise does not originate in North America.

It is always best to check your cruise line’s alcohol policy before you board so you know what to expect.

Hiring a travel advisor is a great way to be sure you know all of the facts pertaining to your unique situation as well. As a cruise specialist, I am happy to help you plan your trip (at no additional cost) and help you fully understand all of the rules and regulations pertaining to your sailing and situation.

If you need any help planning your cruise, message me to get started.

Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? Everything you need to know

All Things Cruise

Alcohol policy by cruise line

Adventure Smith Explorations

Alcoholic beverages other than wine and beer can be purchased with lunch and dinner.

AmaWaterways

Europe: Alcoholic beverages are available at additional cost. During dinner, local wines soft drinks and beer are available on a complimentary basis.

Russia: Alcoholic beverages are available at additional cost. Complimentary wine and beer included with every dinner on board the ship

Vietnam & Cambodia: Complimentary house brand spirits and local beers available during the cruise. Free flowing wine with every lunch and dinner on board. Imported wine and premium alcoholic beverages are available to purchase at an additional cost.

Africa:  Complimentary wine and beer is served with all lunch and dinners on board. Premium alcoholic beverages as well as drinks outside of meal times are available at the bar for additional cost.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines provides complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner service. A complimentary cocktail hour with full bar is hosted each evening before dinner.

American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines)

Select wines and beer are included with dinner.

The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages will be limited to Guests who are 21 years or older. American Queen Voyages will refuse and prohibit the sale or service of alcoholic beverages to Guests under the age of 21 years. Guests are kindly reminded to consume alcohol in moderation. American Queen Voyages reserves the right to prohibit and retain all liquor brought aboard the Ship.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

A selection of fine alcoholic beverages, beer and wine are available aboard ship for independent purchase, but not included in your cruise fare. There is a good selection of wine available aboard, and you may purchase a bottle and have the unfinished portion capped and held for you.

A-ROSA Cruises

A-Rosa river cruises include complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages throughout the ship.

Avalon Waterways

Choice of complimentary wine and beer will be included with dinner on Avalon Europe river cruises. On the Yangtze wine is included with all dinners. On the Mekong complimentary local beer/spirits is available throughout the day and wine is included with dinner.

Should you wish to bring your own wine on board and drink it in the dining room or lounge, the maître d’hôtel or bartender will be happy to serve it to you; a corkage fee will be charged. All inclusive drink packages are also available.

Azamara Club Cruises

The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Azamara ships is 21. However, on ships in Europe and South America, where the legal drinking age is 18, a parent sailing with children between the ages of 18 and 20 may sign a waiver allowing them to consume alcoholic beverages. The waiver may not apply when the vessel is in certain territorial waters. Please note that an individual’s age on the date of sailing determines his or her status for the entire voyage vacation.

Any guest for whom a waiver has been signed must agree to comply with Azamara’s policies. This includes an agreement to not provide alcoholic beverages to any other person, regardless of age. This policy is subject to change without notice.

Azamara Club Cruises® offers a wide selection of international liquors, beer and fine wines onboard. You may bring your own favorite liquor, beer or wine for private consumption in your suite or stateroom. If you wish to consume your liquor, beer or wine in any shipboard restaurant, bar or dining venue, each bottle is subject to a corkage fee of $10.

If you are given a bottle of wine that was purchased from Azamara’s Bon Voyage Gift selection, then no corkage fee will apply. If you are given a bottle of wine from an outside vendor and/or travel professional, and the bottle was not purchased through Azamara’s Bon Voyage selection, then a $10 corkage fee will apply if the wine is consumed in the dining room or other public area. All corkage fees will be added to your onboard account.

Alcoholic beverages purchased from onboard shops will be stored by the ship and delivered to guest staterooms on the last day of the sailing. Alcohol will not be delivered to any guest under the age of 21.

Guests who violate alcohol policies (over-consume, provide alcohol to people under age 21, or demonstrate irresponsible behavior) may be debarked or not allowed to board, in accordance with our guest conduct policy. In such cases, no voyage costs, airfare or any other expenses will be reimbursed.

Azamara reserves the right to revoke or otherwise restrict drinking privileges of any guest, regardless of age. Shipboard personnel may elect, at their discretion, to refuse waivers to 18 to 20-year olds or to withhold alcohol from other guests.

Blount Small Ship Adventures (formerly ACCL)

Complimentary wine and beer is served with lunch and dinner on all cruises.

In addition to serving wine and beer with meals, the company’s popular “BYOB” policy is still in effect.  This unique “bring your own bottle” policy gives guests the freedom to enjoy their preferred beverages without a costly bar tab at the end of the trip.  Mixers, snacks, barware, refrigeration, and bottle storage space are provided around the clock.

Captain Cook Cruises

Captain Cook Cruises has adopted the following House Policy, which provides a framework for the “Responsible Service of Alcohol” which will be monitored and modified on an on going basis:

  • In order to prevent underage access and drinking Proof of Age must be provided when requested. The only proof of age that will be accepted are: a current photo drivers’ license; proof of age card; or passport.
  •  Persons who are intoxicated will be refused admission to our premises
  • Signs will be displayed and refer to intoxication signs in order to support a responsible attitude and meet the requirements of legislation
  • Any patron in Captain Cook Cruises premises will be denied service if they are considered to be intoxicated
  • Staff and patrons will be educated as part of their policy to ensure that they understand the implications and abide by our responsible service of alcohol policy
  • Support and actively promote initiatives to minimize drink driving in order to safeguard the wellbeing of our patrons

In NSW various Acts control the sale and service of alcohol. There are four basic points, which are relevant to responsible serving practices.

  • A person shall not sell or supply liquor to a person under the age of 18 years
  • A licensee shall not permit intoxication or any indecent, violent or quarrelsome conduct on their licensed premises
  • A person shall not sell or supply any liquor to any person who is at the time in a state of intoxication
  • Where a person is intoxicated on the licensed premises the licensee shall be deemed to have permitted intoxication on the premises unless they and their employees took all reasonable steps to prevent intoxication on the licensed premises

Carnival Cruise Line

Bringing Alcohol On Board – Embarkation Day:

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board. However, at the beginning of the cruise during embarkation day, guests (21 years of age and older) may bring on board one bottle (750ml) of wine or champagne, per person, only in their carry-on luggage.  A $10 corkage fee per bottle will be charged should you wish to consume this wine in the main dining room; $14 corkage fee per bottle in the steakhouse. (A corkage fee is a charge exacted at a restaurant for every bottle of liquor served that was not bought on the premises)

On embarkation day, each guest may bring a small quantity of non-alcoholic beverages on board and only in their carry-on luggage. A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 bottles and/or cans, 20 ounces each or less.

All alcohol/hard liquor/beer (sealed, unopened bottles/cans), wine/champagne over the allowable 1-bottle per guest (sealed, unopened bottles) or excessive quantities of non-alcoholic beverages (over 12 per person, sealed, unopened bottles/cans) will be confiscated and stored for safekeeping until the end of the voyage. The retained item(s) will be available for collection onboard in a designated location on the morning of debarkation.  Unsealed liquids that are prohibited will be discarded, as well as any unclaimed items left after the voyage, and no compensation will be given in either case.

Large cooler restrictions:

Carnival Cruise Lines does not allow guests to bring large coolers on board its ships. However small, personal-sized coolers, no larger than 12”H x 12”L x 12”W for the purpose of housing small quantities of non-alcoholic beverages and/or medications are permitted as carry-on luggage. Screening and movement of large coolers through embarkation is an impediment to the boarding and security screening process. Therefore, large coolers are not permitted as carry-on or checked luggage.

Ports-of-Call:

Alcoholic beverages of any kind purchased in any Port-of-Call will be retained at the gangway, stored on board and held by Carnival until the end of the voyage.

Gift Shops On Board:

Alcoholic beverages of any kind purchased in the ship’s gift shop will be stored on board and be retained by Carnival until the end of the voyage.

Drinking Alcohol On Board:

The minimum age for the purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages in the bars, lounges and gift shops is 21 years of age.  In the event that Bar/Restaurant/Gift Shop staff are in question that a guest is less than 21 years old, they shall request picture identification, prior to serving the drink or selling the bottle of liquor.

Carnival reserves the right to refuse the sale of alcoholic beverages to anyone.

Celebrity Cruises

No beer or hard liquor may be brought onboard for consumption. If you wish to bring personal wine onboard with you at the beginning of the cruise, you may do so, limited to two (2) bottles per stateroom. When enjoyed in any shipboard restaurant, bar or dining venue, each bottle shall be subject to a corkage fee of $25. The only exception to this policy is on our “Wine Cruises. Those who book a company-sponsored winery tour are permitted to bring two bottles of wine from the winery onboard per stateroom on the day of the tour. When enjoyed in any shipboard restaurant, bar or dining venue, each bottle will be subject to a $25 corkage fee.

If you receive a bottle of wine that was purchased from our Bon Voyage Gift selection, no corkage fee will apply if the bottle is enjoyed in the dining room or any public area. If you receive a bottle from an outside vendor and/or travel agent, and the bottle was not purchased through our Bon Voyage selection, then a $25 corkage fee per bottle will apply if you wish to enjoy the wine in the dining room or any other public area. The fee will be applied to your onboard account.

Alcoholic beverages purchased in ports of call or from onboard shops will be stored onboard and delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the sailing.

Costa Cruises

The minimum drinking age onboard is 21 years old for cruises departing from U.S. ports and 18 years old for cruises departing from non-U.S. ports.

It is strictly forbidden to bring any kind of drink on board in hand or cabin luggage.

Any drink, including items purchased during excursions and visits during the call, will not be admitted on board. Local regional products eventually purchased will be kept in custody by ship officers upon arrival and released at disembarkation.

Cunard Line

No alcohol may be purchased or consumed by any Guests under the age of 18, except when in waters of the U.S., in which case no alcohol may be purchased or consumed by any Guests under the age of 21.  Guests agree not to bring alcoholic beverages of any kind (except wine and champagne) on board for consumption. You must surrender alcoholic beverages that are purchased duty free from the ship’s gift shop, or at ports of call, to Carrier, which will be delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the voyage. A corkage fee of $15.00 U.S.D. per bottle (which is subject to change without notice) will be applied to wine and champagne brought aboard by you and consumed in the ship’s restaurants.

Disney Cruise Line

Alcohol is permitted on board. However, any fragile items (including alcoholic beverages) must be hand-carried on board in the carry-on of an adult Guest – age 21 or older (dimensions can’t exceed 22″ wide, 14″ high and 9″ deep).

Alcohol brought on board may not be consumed in any lounge or public area.

Guests who arrive in the dining room, including Palo and Remy, with a bottle of champagne or wine will be charged a corking fee of $20.00 per bottle.

Please be advised: Disney Cruise Line reserves the right to remove fragile items (including beverages) from checked luggage. In such cases, items will be stored and returned at the end of the voyage. Beverage containers are considered fragile and have previously caused damage in checked luggage. All fragile items must be transported inside carry-on luggage.

The drinking age aboard ship is 21. Valid photo I.D. is required. Disney Cruise Line reserves the right to refuse sale and/or service to anyone.

In recognition of the expectations of our multi-national guests, for roundtrip cruises departing from European countries, where the legal drinking age is lower than 21, a parent or guardian who is sailing with his or her son(s) and/or daughter(s) and/or ward(s) who is between the ages of 18 and 20, may sign a beverage waiver allowing the 18 to 20 year old to consume alcoholic beverages while onboard. Parents or guardians may complete the beverage waiver in the Guest Ticket Booklet or inquire about the waivers upon check-in. Please note: The 18 to 20 year old must comply with all laws and Disney Cruise Line policies related to the consumption and distribution of alcohol in Europe, including among other things, agreeing to not provide alcoholic beverages to any other person, regardless of age. This policy is subject to change without notice.

House wine and local beer served during dinner.

Emerald Waterways

If your Itinerary includes booking on a Emerald “Star-Ship,” all standard beverages are included in the tour price during lunch and dinner while you are on board. This includes beer, wine and soft drinks. It also includes daily replenishment of specific designated cabin minibars. Selected items, such as spirits, and French champagne, are not included and will be subject to an additional charge. Otherwise, beverages will only be included when listed on the Itinerary.

European Waterways

Included is all good regional wines served throughout the cruise, open bar with a large selection of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages.

Special vintage wines, Premier and Grand Cru wines can be purchased at cost.

Farah Nile Cruises

Alcoholic beverages are not included in your fare.

Festiva Sailing Vacations

Meals aboard include wine and there is an open Standard Bar throughout your charter week. Special Requested Liquors are available at an additional cost.

France Cruises

Included are wines with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board.

Fred.Olsen Cruise Lines

It is not permitted to take your own alcohol aboard your cruise ship.

Any alcohol which is purchased whilst ashore will be placed in a secure hold area and will be returned to you at the end of your cruise holiday.

French Country Waterways

During the cruise, you will be offered more than two dozen different wines, representing many of France’s major wine growing districts. Wines are chosen for consideration directly from the properties of the growers, and the final list is selected during an annual tasting of over two hundred, estate-bottled labels. More than half of the wines will bear well-known labels from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards, such as Gevrey-Chambertin, Meursault, and Puligny-Montrachet. You will also be introduced to wonderful vintages from distinguished, family-owned properties whose limited production is rarely sold for export. Drawing from this rich and varied selection, each French Country Waterways cruise offers the perfect opportunity to sample and compare the noble wines of France.

GAP Adventures

There is a bar on board where juice, soft drinks, wine, beer and a basic selection of liquor can be purchased.

Hapag Lloyd Cruises

Passengers are not permitted to take on board alcoholic beverages intended for consumption during the cruise.

Hebridean Island Cruises

House wines and spirits, champagne, beers are included in the cost of the cruise throughout each ship.

Holland America Line (HAL)

Except for wine and champagne, guests cannot bring hard alcohol on board for private consumption. Hard alcohol purchased on board in the duty free shops or in port will be collected, stored for safekeeping and delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the voyage.

Guests can bring as much wine and/or champagne as they choose on board at embarkation or purchased in port. A corkage fee of US$18.00 applies to wine and champagne brought to the shipboard restaurants or bars for consumption. Wine and/or champagne brought on board cannot be consumed in any public venue. If a guest is drinking a beverage carried on board and in a public venue they will be asked to return it to their stateroom.

Room Service offers reduced-price stateroom beverage packages for in-stateroom consumption of alcoholic beverages. A 15% Service Charge on all beverage items and packages with beverages will be added.

Persons under 21 years of age are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages.

Hurtigruten

Only alcohol that has been purchased at the restaurant or at the bar may be consumed on board. Alcohol bought in the on board shop or on land must be stored until your return. According to Norwegian law, only persons over the age of 18 may purchase beer and wine. Liquor may only be sold to people over 20 years.

Island Cruises

Alcohol will only be served to adults.

Where the fare paid by a Passenger includes meals on a breakfast only, half board or full board basis, it does not also include wines, spirits, beer, mineral waters or other liquors. These are available for purchase on-board at fixed prices and Passengers are not permitted to take on-board any such liquors for use during the voyage whether for consumption in their own cabins or otherwise.

The Carrier and/or its servants and/or agents may confiscate alcohol brought on-board by Passengers. Such alcohol will be returned to the Passengers at the end of the cruise.

The Carrier and/or its servants and/or agents may refuse to serve a Passenger alcohol or further alcohol where in their reasonable opinion the Passenger is likely to be a danger and/or a nuisance to himself, other Passengers and/or the Vessel.

Lindblad Expeditions

Alcohol is available on the ship for purchase and you’ll have the opportunity to taste craft beers and local wines on board.  The drinking age aboard the ship is 21.

Louis Cruises

Drinks from the bar and the restaurant are available at an additional cost. Minors are not allowed to purchase or consume alcohol.

MSC Cruises

Liquor, including wines, spirits, beer or other liquors are available for purchase onboard the vessel at fixed prices. Passengers are not permitted to take onboard any such liquors for use during the voyage, whether for consumption in their own cabins or otherwise.

The Carrier and/or its Servants and/or Agents may confiscate alcohol brought onboard by Passengers.

The Carrier and/or its Servants and/or Agents may refuse to serve a Passenger alcohol or further alcohol where in their reasonable opinion the Passenger is likely to be a danger and/or nuisance to himself, other passengers and/or the Vessel.

North Star Cruises Australia

Generally BYO drinks are not permitted onboard as the True North operates a licensed bar. However, passengers may be permitted to BYO drinks in instances where the desired drink is not available from the ship’s bar but ONLY with prior written approval. Corkage will be applied to all BYO drinks. Contact the reservation staff at [email protected] for the latest wine list.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Passengers must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcohol. With the exception of Alaska and Hawaii itineraries, Norwegian permits young adults to purchase and personally consume wine and beer only while onboard and with the consent of an accompanying parent. Authorization will be given only when the accompanying parent completes the Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver form. This form can be obtained and completed at the Guest Services Desk upon embarkation of the vessel. However, passengers 18 years of age or older are permitted to consume alcoholic beverages when sailing on round-trip European voyages without having to complete the Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver form.

Please note that with the exception of Wine and Champagne, all guests are prohibited from bringing alcohol on board ships. If you purchase any alcohol at any ports-of-call or in an onboard shop, it will safely stored and either on the final night of the cruise or the morning of debarkation it will be available for pick up in a designated area.

Guests may bring bottles of wine and champagne on board. When bottles are brought on board and served or consumed in any restaurant, public room area or in their stateroom, a corkage fee will be charged according to bottle sizes noted below.

750 ml Bottle: $15.00 1,500 ml Magnum: $30.00

Wine or champagne sent directly to the ship by travel agents, friends, family, etc. or from another retail source, are subject to the same fees. Box wines are not allowed on board.

Norwegian encourages the responsible use of alcohol and accordingly reserves the right to permanently or temporarily revoke the drinking privileges of any guest who violates Norwegian’s Guest Code of Conduct or who is deemed a danger to himself, herself or others by vessel management. Continued abuse of alcohol while sailing and/or violation of Norwegian’s alcohol policy may result in immediate disembarkation.

Oceania Cruises

The sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages will be limited to guest aged 21 years or older. Oceania Cruises will refuse and prohibits the sale or service of alcoholic beverage to guest under the age of 21 years. Guest are reminded to consume alcohol in moderation. Oceania cruises reserves the right to prohibit and retain all alcohol bought ashore for consumption onboard the vessel.

Pandaw River Cruises

Local spirits are free of charge. Only imported spirits and liquors and wines will be charged.  A complimentary daily cocktail will be served made by local spirit.

Paul Gauguin

Complimentary beverages, including select wines and  spirits, served  throughout the ship. Only premium liquors, specialty wines, and certain Cognacs incur an additional charge.

P & O Cruises

There are a variety of bars on board each ship, offering a range of drinks at competitive prices, and drinks can also be purchased in restaurants. P&O Cruises reserves the right to take alcohol at the gangway, if brought on board, to return to passengers at the end of their cruise. It is not the intention to invoke this policy as a matter of course and it will implemented only when it is considered likely that the health, comfort, safety and enjoyment of passenger may otherwise be compromised.

Should you wish to take wine or Champagne on board to consume in a restaurant, you will be charged a corkage fee per item (any size) per occassion.

Should you wish to take wine or champagne on board to celebrate an event, the number of bottles you may take on will be at the port authorities discretion and you will be charged a corkage fee.

It is prohibited to attempt to purchase alcohol for those under 18 in bars and shops on board (21 years in American Waters). 16 and 17 year olds may be brought beer, cider or wine to drink with a meal in the restaurants when accompanied by an adult only. Alcohol purchased ashore by under 18’s will be confiscated at the gangway.

P & O Cruises Australia

P&O Cruises Australia is committed to the responsible service of alcohol. There may be times when they consider it appropriate to refuse the service of alcohol to a passenger for any reason. Passengers must be 18 years or over to purchase or consume alcohol. Government issued photo identification may be requested . Any alcohol purchased ashore will be collected at the gangway for safe keeping and will be returned to you on the last day of your cruise.

Complimentary wines included at lunch and dinner.

Poseidon Expeditions(formerly Expedition Cruises)

Wine offerings include a wide range of fine wines from France, Italy, and Chile. There is also a selection of sprits available in the bar. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the fare.

Princess Cruises

Passengers agree not to bring alcoholic beverages of any kind onboard for consumption, except one bottle of wine or champagne per adult of drinking age (no larger than 750 ml) per voyage, which will not be subject to a corkage fee if consumed in the stateroom. Additional wine or champagne bottles are welcome, but will incur a $15 corkage fee each, irrespective of where they are intended to be consumed. Liquor, spirits or beers are not permitted. Please remember that luggage will be scanned and alcohol outside of our policy will be removed and discarded.

Alcoholic beverages that are purchased duty free from the ship’s gift shop, or at ports of call, will be collected for safekeeping and delivered to the passenger’s stateroom on the last day of the cruise.  A member of the ship’s staff will be at the gangway to assist passengers with the storage of their shoreside alcoholic purchases while our Boutiques staff will assist passengers with shipboard alcoholic purchases.

The legal drinking age of 21 years is always observed onboard and proof of age may be required. All onboard staff are trained to take their responsibility to not serve alcohol to underage passengers seriously. The age restrictions are clearly posted in the bars.

Regent Seven Seas

Guests agree that the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages will be limited to Guests who are 21 years or older and no Guest will attempt to purchase or consume such beverages in violation of this policy under any circumstances, either for themselves or others. Carrier will refuse and prohibit the service of alcoholic beverages to Guests under the age of 21 years. Guests are reminded to consume alcohol in moderation and Carrier reserves the right to refuse such beverages to any intoxicated or underage Guest. Carrier reserves the right to prohibit and retain all liquor brought aboard the Ship.

Enjoy a welcome Bottle of champagne and unlimited, complimentary beverages including fine wines, spirits and the daily replenishment of your in-suite mini-bar.

Royal Caribbean International (RCI)

Effective immediately on all sailings, the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Royal Caribbean International is as follows:

The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings originating in North America is twenty-one (21).

The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand is eighteen (18). The minimum age to consume alcohol at all private destinations remains twenty-one (21) without regard to where the sailing originated. The Company retains the right, on rare occasions, to raise the minimum age of alcohol consumption on any sailing when local laws require or permit such a modification.

Guests may bring personal wine and champagne onboard only on boarding day, limited to two (2) 750 ml bottles per stateroom. When consumed in any public area, each bottle shall be subject to a corkage fee of $25.00. Alcoholic beverages that are purchased in ports of call or from onboard shops will be stored by the ship and delivered to guest staterooms on the last day of the sailing. Security may inspect containers (water bottles, soda bottles, mouthwash, luggage etc.) and will dispose of containers holding alcohol. Royal Caribbean’s Guest Conduct Policy may be enforced, up to and including disembarkation, if a guest violates any alcohol policy. Guests under the age of 21 will not have alcohol returned to them.

Guests who violate any alcohol policies, (over consume, provide alcohol to people under age 21, demonstrate irresponsible behavior, or attempt to conceal alcoholic items at security and or luggage check points or any other time), may be disembarked or not allowed to board, at their own expense, in accordance with the Guest Conduct Policy.

Saga Cruises

Alcoholic beverages and wine are not included in the fare but are available for purchase.

Scenic ‘Space-Ships’ now provide All-Inclusive beverages – a generous selection of complimentary fine wines and spirits throughout the ship, including an open bar service in the lounges.  Guests are welcomed on board with Moët & Chandon, which is also available daily at breakfast. Even the beverages in your mini-bar are complimentary.

Sea Cloud Cruises

Table wines are included at meal time.

Persons under 21 years of age are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages. Complimentary fine wines at lunch and dinner, and open bars throughout the ship.

SeaDream Yacht Club

Open Bar with selected premium brands is included in your fare. Also included is a daily selection of wines to accompany lunch and dinner.

Semester at Sea

Students who are 18 years of age and older are able to drink moderately both on the ship and in port.

Do no pack alcohol to bring onboard.

Passengers must be 21 years of age or older to purchase or consume alcohol. Silversea reserves the right to refuse to serve anyone who in its sole judgment may be under the influence of alcohol or for any reason necessary to preserve the health and safety of passengers and employees.

An extensive selection of fine wines, spirits, champagne are yours to enjoy not only with meals but throughout the ship. Your preferred selections are even stocked in your suite…compliments of Silversea.

St. Lawrence Cruise Lines

Alcohol is available for purchase at the bar.

Star Clippers

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages for consumption on board the ship. Alcoholic beverages purchased in ports of call will be retained and returned at the end of the voyage.

Star Cruises

There is a nominal corkage charge if you bring your own alcoholic beverage to any of the dining outlets. The fare does not include spirits, wines, or beer. Guests must be 18 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol on the Vessel.

Tauck River Cruising

Unlimited complimentary beverages including regional wine, beer, and premium spirits. The legal drinking age aboard the riverboat is 21 years old.

Un-Cruise Adventures (formerly Innersea Discoveries and American Safari Cruises)

Spirits are strictly prohibited, and will be confiscated by vessel crew. This is due to our license and state regulations. Bringing wine on board is permitted under our license, however may be subject to a corkage fee. $20.00 for 750ml and $30.00 for boxes and magnums. Crew will continue to control consumption as needed, including confiscation of wine when required. With our Luxury and Heritage Adventures, premium spirits, wine, and beer are included in your fare. For our Active Adventures, alcoholic beverages range from $4 to $8, with top shelf brands running slightly higher.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

in 2014 fares include unlimited fine wine, beer, spirits. The minimum age required to consume alcoholic beverages onboard all Uniworld river cruise ships is 21 years of age.

Variety Cruises

Wine and alcoholic beverages are not included in the fare.

Viking River Cruises

Complimentary wine and beer are served with lunch and dinner. You may bring local wine aboard and enjoy it with your meals—there is no corkage fee. The minimum drinking age on all Viking River cruises is 21 years of age.

Voyages of Discovery (formerly Discovery World Cruises)

Only alcohol purchased in the ship’s bars and restaurants may be consumed on board. The serving of alcohol may be restricted in certain countries.

Windstar Cruises

Bottles or other containers of beer and other alcoholic beverages purchased in the vessel’s shops or otherwise brought on the ship cannot be consumed on the ship, with the exception of wine and champagne. If the beverages are purchased from the vessel’s shops or at ports of call, they will be collected for safekeeping and delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the voyage. The staff will make arrangements to store the items for you during the cruise. Guests can bring wines and champagne purchased from outside the ship onboard for consumption in their stateroom. For consumption in the restaurants or bars, a corkage fee will be applied to the guest’s onboard account.

international cruise drinking age

All Things Cruise is dedicated to the joy of travel. Specializing in ocean, river, ultra-luxury, small ship and expedition cruises.

Subscribe for travel updates, news and great offers directly from the cruise lines!

ATC Logo

Frommer's - Home

Can I Sea Some ID? The ABCs of Cruise Line Age Policies

By Heidi Sarna

You may think anything goes in those lawless international waters, but truth is, the cruise lines maintain fairly strict policies governing the age at which you can drink booze, gamble and occupy a cabin alone. Typically, the combination key/ID/charge cards each passenger is issued clearly indicate if the holder is under age. The only hope of getting a drink on a cruise ship if you're an underage teen is getting some older sucker to buy it for you when no one's looking. If a cruise line wants to be hard nosed, they can eject transgressors from the ship at the next port of call -- at their own cost. Drinking laws may be much more lenient on shore, for instance in the Caribbean.

Of course it wasn't always this way. Just a decade ago rowdy high school groups were a common sight on big cruise ships, especially during the spring break months. Barely chaperoned mobs of young binge drinkers would practically take over a ship, hogging deck chairs, spilling out of cabins, passing out in hallways, puking on stairs and boldly staggering up to adults in bars asking for drinks (which, if they were cute enough, they usually got!).

Since those wild days, cruise lines have toughened up their policies quite a bit. Unsupervised teen groups are not permitted on board any more. Not to say you won't ever encounter obnoxious adolescents -- with more and more families cruising, there are a lot of teens sailing these days -- but mom and dad are on board to, hopefully, keep their offspring in line. Now, if you happen to be a civilized teen looking to cruise solo with a friend or two, you're basically out of luck.

Age Policies of the Major Lines

Carnival ( www.carnival.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol no matter where the ship is sailing. You must be 18 to gamble in the casino; if you're under age 21, there must be at least one person in the cabin over 25.

Celebrity Cruises ( www.celebritycruises.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol, with the exception of Europe, South America and Australia cruises if parents cruising with their children sign a waiver allowing their 18 to 20 year olds consume alcohol. Passengers must be 18 to gamble in the casino (and 21 on Alaska cruises). If you're under age 21, there must be at least one person in the cabin over 21, unless minor children are cruising with their parents or guardians and staying in an adjacent cabin.

Costa Cruises ( www.costacruises.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol and 18 to gamble in the casino. All passengers must be 21 years old, or have at least one person in the cabin over age 21. During certain times of the year, like Spring Break, passengers ages 21 to 24 must have one person at least 25 years old in the same cabin.

Crystal Cruises ( www.crystalcruises.com )

All passengers must be 18 years old to drink beer and wine, and 21 to drink the hard stuff; however when the ship is docked or anchored in an American port, or within the 3-mile limit, the drinking age is 21 for all alcoholic beverages. To gamble in the casino, passengers must be 21 or older. Those 18 and younger must share a cabin with a parent or guardian 21 or older.

Disney Cruise Line ( www.disneycruiseline.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol and you must be at least 18 to occupy a cabin without an adult.

Holland America ( www.hollandamerica.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol no matter where the ship is sailing, 18 to gamble in the casino, and if you're under age 21, there must be at least one person in the cabin over 25.

Norwegian Cruise Line ( www.ncl.com )

Passengers ages 18 to 20, with the written consent of their parents or guardian, can purchase beer or wine for themselves only when the ship is sailing in international waters (except in Alaska and Hawaii, where you must be 21 years of age to consume or purchase alcohol or any kind). To gamble in the casino, passengers must be 18.For cabins, at least one person must be 21 or older (unless cruising with parents in an adjoining cabin or if you can prove you're a married couple under age 21).

Princess Cruises ( www.princesscruises.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol or gamble in the casino; those 18 and under must share a cabin with someone 21 or older.

Regent Seven Seas ( www.rssc.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol or gamble in the casino; and 18 is the age minimum to occupy a cabin.

Royal Caribbean ( www.royalcaribbean.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol, with the exception of Europe and South America cruises if parents cruising with their children sign a waiver allowing their 18 to 20 year olds consume alcohol. Passengers must be 18 to gamble in the casino (and 21 on Alaska cruises). If you're under age 21, there must be at least one person in the cabin over 21, unless minor children are cruising with their parents or guardians and staying in an adjacent cabin or if underage married couples can show proof of marriage certificate.

Silversea Cruises ( www.silverseacruises.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol on all cruises, and 18 to gamble in the casino or occupy a cabin alone.

Windstar Cruises ( www.windstarcruises.com )

All passengers must be 21 years old to drink alcohol; 18 to gamble in the casino; and if you're under age 21, there must be at least one person in the cabin over 25.

As for cabin age minimums, many cruise lines make an exception for parents traveling with children and occupying two adjoining (or nearby) cabin -- even if it's not officially condoned, it's often overlooked.

Talk with fellow Frommer's cruisers on our Cruise Message Boards .

Get inspired banner image

  • All Regions
  • Australia & South Pacific
  • Caribbean & Atlantic
  • Central & South America
  • Middle East & Africa
  • North America
  • Washington, D.C.
  • San Francisco
  • New York City
  • Los Angeles
  • Arts & Culture
  • Beach & Water Sports
  • Local Experiences
  • Food & Drink
  • Outdoor & Adventure
  • National Parks
  • Winter Sports
  • Travelers with Disabilities
  • Family & Kids
  • All Slideshows
  • Hotel Deals
  • Car Rentals
  • Flight Alerts
  • Credit Cards & Loyalty Points
  • Cruise News
  • Entry Requirements & Customs
  • Car, Bus, Rail News
  • Money & Fees
  • Health, Insurance, Security
  • Packing & Luggage
  • -Arthur Frommer Online
  • -Passportable
  • Road Trip Guides
  • Alaska Made Easy
  • Great Vacation Ideas in the U.S.A.
  • Best of the Caribbean
  • Best of Mexico
  • Cruise Inspiration
  • Best Places to Go 2024

User Picture

  • 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
  • | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
  • | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
  • | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
  • | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
  • | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
  • View All Results
  • Preferences
  • Latitudes Rewards
  • Special Offers
  • Personalised Recommendations
  • Make reservations before you cruise
  • 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

  • 00800 0310 21 21

Guest Conduct Policy

It's your holiday and you should have the freedom to choose how you spend it. That's Freestyle Cruising® on Norwegian Cruise Line. Dress up or down. Sleep in or catch a sunrise from your own private balcony. Take in some never-before-seen entertainment at sea. Even eat somewhere different every day, on your own timetable . Whether you're on board or on shore, you can do as much or as little as you please. It's all up to you.

Although Freestyle Cruising offers you plenty of freedom and flexibility, it is important that all our guests have a common understanding of the expected behavioral standards whilst on board our ships. This Guest Conduct Policy is intended to ensure that all guests enjoy their cruise experience whilst following our code of conduct throughout their holiday. Whether you are transferring to and from ships, are inside the terminal, exploring on a shore excursion, enjoying our private island or on board one of our ships, we ask that you abide by this policy. It is not intended to be all-inclusive and it is possible that not all issues are specifically addressed. Guests are always expected to follow the direction of the ship’s Captain, who will take the necessary action to ensure the safety, security and well being of our guests. Guests are also expected to comply with applicable laws of the various countries that their cruise visits. Updates to the Guest Conduct Policy may be made between publications of this directory and will be available for review on the Norwegian Cruise Line website www.ncl.com .

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Safety and security are everyone's responsibility. Should anyone become aware of unsafe or possibly illegal behavior during their cruise, they should immediately report this to the ship's Security Staff or other ship management. This may be done through ship's telephone system by dialing 911 or by seeking the assistance of a crew member.

GUEST CONDUCT

GUEST AND CREW INTERACTION Our crew members are friendly, outgoing and helpful, and they will do their very best to make your holiday as enjoyable as possible. Please do not misinterpret their friendliness. Crew members are prohibited from engaging in physical relationships with guests. Crew members are not permitted to socialise with guests beyond their professional duties, and are not permitted to be in guest staterooms, except for the performance of their shipboard duties. Guests are expected to respect these policies and are similarly prohibited from engaging in physical relationships with crew members. Guests are not permitted in any restricted or crew area of the ship, including crew staterooms and corridors.

VERBALLY ABUSIVE OR OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE Verbally abusive or offensive language directed toward anyone, to include guests, crew members, governmental officials, or others is not permitted.

INAPPROPRIATE OR ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR Inappropriate or abusive behavior including uninvited physical contact, solicitation, harassment, vandalism, theft, violence, use of fake/false identification, underage drinking (see alcohol section below), providing alcohol to those under the allowed age (see alcohol section below), possession of illegal substances/items or any other illegal or offensive conduct is not permitted.

UNSAFE BEHAVIOR Sitting, standing, laying or climbing on, over or across any exterior or interior railings or other protective barriers, or tampering with ship's equipment, facilities or systems designed for guest safety is not permitted. Guests may not enter or access any area that is restricted and/or for the use of crew members. Any other unsafe behavior, including failure to follow security instructions, is not permitted.

DISCOURTEOUS OR DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR Pool, deck and theatre chairs may not be reserved. Topless sunbathing is not permitted. Boom boxes or loud radios are not permitted. Roller blades, roller skates, skateboards, scooters, surfboards, bicycles, and similar items may not be utilised on-board; except for mobility aids related to special needs, as approved by the ship's management.

SMOKING As the health and well-being of our guests and crew is of the utmost importance, Norwegian Cruise Line prohibits smoking on stateroom balconies and limit smoking in the casino to players. Public areas throughout all our ships are smoke-free. If you smoke regular or electronic cigarettes, you can do so in designated areas only. For more information on our smoking policy please click here.

CURFEWS Ship's management reserves the right to enact and enforce curfews on an individual, group, or ship-wide basis, if in the sole judgment of the ship's Captain, such steps become necessary to ensure guest or crew safety. Children under the age of 17 are not allowed unaccompanied by an adult after 1:00 am.

DISEMBARKING FROM A SHIP Parents or guardians must not permit any guest in their care under age 18 from leaving a ship in any port without responsible adult supervision.

PARENTAL AND GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITY For purposes of this Guest Conduct Policy, a minor is defined as anyone under the age of 18. A young adult is defined as anyone ages 18, 19 or 20. Parents and guardians are responsible for the behavior and appropriate supervision of their accompanying minor(s) and young adult(s) throughout their holiday. This obligation applies during transfers to and from ships, inside terminals, whilst onboard, at our ports of call, during shore excursions and at our private destinations. This responsibility applies at all times, regardless of whether the parents and guardians are physically in the company of their minor(s) and young adult(s).

ALCOHOL Norwegian Cruise Line guests are expected to be responsible for their actions at all times, including during transfers to and from ships, inside terminals, whilst onboard, at our ports of call, during shore excursions and at our private destinations. Consuming alcohol to excess impairs one's judgment and reduces one's ability to recognise and avoid potentially dangerous situations. Guests who choose to consume alcohol must do so responsibly. The ship's staff may refuse to serve alcoholic beverages to any guest who does not consume alcohol responsibly. Ship's personnel may request verification of a guest's age to verify they are of age to consume alcohol pursuant to this policy. Any guest that violates this alcohol policy, will be considered for disciplinary action pursuant to the "Consequences Section" of this Guest Conduct Policy, and may lose their privileges to use the disco or other areas or facilities of the ship or maybe required to disembark the vessel.

Guests are not permitted to bring alcoholic (except wine & a corkage fee will be charged) beverages onboard and Security reserves the right to inspect containers (water bottles, soda bottles, mouthwash, luggage, etc.) at any time. Alcoholic beverages that are purchased from onboard shops or in ports-of-call (which must be presented to security upon re-boarding), will be held until the last night of the cruise. The Freestyle Daily will list the location and time for pick up. Guests who are under the permitted drinking age will not have alcohol returned to them.

The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21. Guests who are 18 - 20 years of age can purchase and consume beer or wine when the ship is in international waters (3 miles out of US territorial waters). The age modification does not apply for Alaska and Hawaii sailings. The parent or legal guardian must be onboard the sailing with the young adult and present themselves at the Front Desk so they can sign the form allowing the consumption of beer and wine only. A notarised Parent Consent Form or any other document allowing for temporary guardianship for the purposes of the sailing only will not be accepted.

For purposes of complying with the minimum drinking age requirements, a guest's age is established upon embarkation (beginning of the cruise). If a guest celebrates their birthday during the cruise, and thereby becomes of age to consume alcohol, the guest may thereafter ask the Guest Services Manager to modify ship's records to permit their consumption of alcohol during the remainder of the cruise. The guest will be required to appear at Guest Services to present a government issued form of identification to permit verification of their age.

On cruises embarking in a country where the legal drinking age is lower than 21 and where a young adult (age 18, 19 or 20) is not travelling with a parent or legal guardian, they will generally not be permitted to consume alcohol. There may be exceptions made to this restriction in areas of the world where local laws require and Norwegian Cruise Line concurs. Details on such exceptions can be obtained from the Guest Services Desk. No guest under age 18 may possess or consume alcohol at any time, whilst onboard or at our private destinations. No guest under age 21 may possess or consume alcohol at our private destinations. Any guest who goes ashore and consumes alcohol (whether under the supervision of a parent/guardian or not, is responsible for ensuring they consume responsibly and retain their ability to recognise and avoid potentially dangerous situations when they return to the ship. Parents/guardians are reminded they are responsible for the actions of their child/young adult at all times whilst on a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise.

Guests who violate any alcohol policy, including but not limited to underage drinking; providing alcohol to minors or young adults; possessing, concealing or attempting to conceal alcoholic items in their luggage, when boarding, or whilst on board; engaging in alcohol drinking games; or failing to consume alcohol responsibly, will be considered for discipline under the provisions of this policy.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

ITEMS WITH HEATING ELEMENTS OR OPEN FLAMES Certain items that generate heat or produce an open flame are not permitted onboard. This includes clothing irons, hotplates, candles, incense and any other item that may create a fire hazard. Curling irons and hair dryers are allowed and may require a converter.

DRUGS OR OTHER ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES No illegal drugs or other illegal substances including but not limited to medical marijuana are allowed onboard or may be utilised during a Norwegian Cruise Line holiday, including during transfers to and from ships, inside terminals, during shore excursions or at our private island. Illegal drugs or substances will be confiscated and appropriate action taken,which may include removal from the ship and involvement of appropriate authorities. In addition, foreign governments at Norwegian Cruise Line ports of call have strict laws that address drug possession. Guests found in violation of such laws are subject to arrest and prosecution by the foreign jurisdiction (and perhaps United States or other authorities as well) and may be prevented from re-boarding the ship.

WEAPONS, EXPLOSIVES OR OTHER DANGEROUS ITEMS No weapon, explosive, or other item that presents a risk of harm to persons or property, are permitted onboard. They will be taken by ship's Security and appropriate action taken. Guests are not allowed to bring their own scuba gears onboard such as oxygen tanks, diving knives, spears, etc.

NON-ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices - are prohibited to be brought onboard either as carry-on or checked luggage on both embarkation and port days. The only exception to this policy is purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula.

HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT

HAND WASHING Guests are strongly encouraged to wash their hands with soap and hot water after using the restroom and before eating or handling food. Medical experts say this is one of the best ways to prevent illnesses from starting or spreading.

ILLNESSES AND ISOLATION OF GUESTS Norwegian Cruise Line follows practises and maintains policies that seek to prevent illnesses from affecting our guests. One of the best ways to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses like gastrointestinal viruses, colds and flu is to wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and hot water after using the restroom and again before eating anything. In the event you experience symptoms that indicate a gastrointestinal illness, such as diarrhea or vomiting, or know of someone experiencing these symptoms, you must advise the medical staff immediately. In addition, some gastrointestinal illnesses remain contagious up to 72 hours or more after symptoms subside; therefore, if you or someone you know experienced such an illness just prior to your cruise, you must immediately notify the ship's medical staff. This will permit the crew to take steps to reduce the chance that your illness will spread to others on the ship. Failure to immediately report a contagious illness to the ship's medical staff, or to accurately describe its onset, greatly increases the likelihood the illness will spread to others and is a violation of this Guest Conduct Policy. In the event of a contagious illness, the ship's crew will take steps to curtail its spread to other guests, including if necessary, steps set forth in the Consequences Section on next page.

AGE POLICIES

** United States Public health ( U.S.P.H. ) regulations prohibit nappies of any kind, including those marked as "swimmers," in the swimming pools or hot tubs.

*** If you’re 18 through 20 years of age and you have written consent of your parents or guardian ( parent or guardian must be on board ), you can purchase beer or wine for yourself only when the ship is sailing in international waters ( except Alaska and Hawai’i cruises where you must be 21 years of age to consume or purchase alcohol of any kind )

**** If you want to gamble in our casinos, you must have a valid ID showing you are 18 years or older.

CONSEQUENCES

FAILURE TO ACT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THIS POLICY MAY RESULT IN:

  • Intervention by Security, other management personnel or law enforcement
  • Removal of certain onboard privileges, which may include being detained, quarantined or confinement
  • Confiscation of illegal/contraband/prohibited items (may be turned over to law enforcement authorities) and used for prosecution
  • Denial of boarding on the current or any future Norwegian Cruise Line cruise holiday
  • Reporting of incidents to government and law enforcement authorities for follow-on legal action
  • Removal from ship at the next port-of-call. Guests removed from a Norwegian Cruise Line ship pursuant to this policy, are responsible. Documentation requirements for re-entry into the guest's home country are also the responsibility of the guest.

IMAGES

  1. Drinking Age In International Waters (All Cruise Line Drinking Ages

    international cruise drinking age

  2. Drinking Age In International Waters (All Cruise Line Drinking Ages

    international cruise drinking age

  3. Drinking Age In International Waters (All Cruise Line Drinking Ages

    international cruise drinking age

  4. Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise? (Drinking Ages Explained

    international cruise drinking age

  5. Drinking Age on Cruises: Everything You Need To Know

    international cruise drinking age

  6. Refused Service? How Old You Need To Be To Drink on a Cruise in

    international cruise drinking age

VIDEO

  1. Drinking water in the cruise ship 🤔

  2. A GIANT heading out to Sea! where drinking water comes #sailaway #cruiseship # viral #ytshortsvideo

  3. blacking out in the bahamas

  4. Full day of drinking on a cruise! #alcoholicdrink #beer #drink #drinks #alcohol #cruiseship #cruise

  5. Alaska Cruise

  6. Drinking At EVERY Lounge On The Disney Wish

COMMENTS

  1. Drinking Age In International Waters (All Cruise Line Drinking Ages)

    Norwegian cruise line allows passengers aged 18 - 20 to drink alcohol onboard once they are out of international waters. Parental consent will be required for all cruises where guests are under 21. "The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21.

  2. Drinking Ages On Cruises

    The minimum legal drinking ages on cruises varies depending on the cruise line and the location of the ship. In general, the drinking ages on cruises is 21 years old for cruises that sail within the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska. However, for cruises that sail from international ports, the legal drinking age can be 18 years old or ...

  3. What is the Legal Drinking Age on Cruises?

    A. Effective immediatly on all sailings, the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Royal Caribbean International is as follows. The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings originating from North America or the Caribbean is twenty-one (21). The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal ...

  4. Drinking Age on a Cruise: Can You Drink Under 21?

    The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships on sailings originating in North America is twenty-one (21). Guests must be 21 years of age or older to be served alcohol onboard. Proper I.D with birth date is required. The age for drinking on Princess ships is 21 years old.

  5. Can You Drink On a Cruise at 18? (& What Cruise Lines Allow 2024)

    For cruises between Australia/New Zealand, China, Europe and Singapore ports, the drinking age will be 18 years old. For cruises between Japanese ports, the drinking age will be 20 years old. Princess Cruises. It is also worth noting that guests under 18 will have to leave the onboard Night Clubs by 11.00 pm.

  6. Drinking age on cruises and other cruise age restrictions: How old you

    For these cruises, the legal drinking age is 18. Royal Caribbean. Anyone purchasing or consuming alcohol on a Royal Caribbean cruise from North America must be at least 21 years old. The age drops to 18 years for voyages from select international ports. The drinking age at all private islands remains 21, regardless of country of embarkation ...

  7. Drinking Ages on Cruise Ships: The Rules

    On Norwegian Cruise Line, the drinking age requirement is 18 in international waters. No guest under 18 may possess or consume alcohol at any time. No guest under 18 may possess or consume alcohol ...

  8. Refused Service? How Old You Need To Be To Drink on a Cruise in

    NCL drinking age. Norwegian Cruise Line's policy states: "The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21. Guests who are 18 - 20 years of age can purchase and consume beer or wine when the ship is in international waters (3 miles out of US territorial waters).

  9. Drinking Age on a Cruise Ship: Can You Drink Under 21?

    Princess Cruises sailings from North America have a minimum age of 21 for consuming alcohol on their ships. However, sailings from Europe, Asia, South America, Australia, and New Zealand have a legal drinking age of 18 on Princess cruise ships, and cruises between Japanese ports have a minimum age of 20. Royal Caribbean International.

  10. Alcoholic Drinks on a Cruise Ship: What to Expect

    The drinking age onboard a cruise ship is typically 21 for cruise lines catering to Americans or for ships cruising to or from U.S. ports. European lines and a few American lines decrease the ...

  11. Cruise Line Alcohol Policies

    P&O Cruises Australia Alcohol Policy. Princess Cruises Alcohol Policy. Regent Seven Seas Cruises Alcohol Policy. Royal Caribbean International Alcohol Policy. Seabourn Cruise Line Alcohol Policy ...

  12. What is the drinking age on board a cruise ship?

    The drinking age on all U.S.based cruise lines is 21, even when sailing international waters. (Under special circumstances, some cruise lines allow 18 to 20 year-olds to purchase and consume alcohol with a parent's consent.) Regardless of the policy, you should never buy a drink for someone under 21. The drinking age on all U.S.based cruise ...

  13. Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? (International Waters?)

    On most cruises, the minimum drinking age is 21. Some cruise lines have a lower drinking age of 18, and on some cruise lines, it depends on where the ship is sailing - with most cruises that include ports in the US or Middle East having the higher legal age of 21. ... The legal drinking age in international waters is defined by the rest of ...

  14. Can You Drink At 18 On A Cruise? (Drinking Ages Explained!)

    General Rules For Having A Drink On A Cruise. On most cruise ships, the drinking age is 21 when the ship is within US waters. However, the age limit varies between 18 to 21 years old as you sail in international waters or aboard some cruise lines. This can depend on the cruise line's policies, the destination, and the country of departure.

  15. What will the drinking age be for the Ultimate World Cruise and the

    A. Twenty-one is the minimum drinking age onboard sailings departing from the United States, Canada or the United Arab Emirates. On sailings departing from the Caribbean, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, it is 18 unless the home port's legal drinking age is higher than 18, in which case the higher age applies.

  16. Can You Drink On A Cruise At 18? Everything you need to know

    The legal drinking age for all alcoholic drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21. However, NCL does have one advantage over the other lines, and that is that in international waters passengers ...

  17. Alcohol policy by cruise line

    Costa Cruises. The minimum drinking age onboard is 21 years old for cruises departing from U.S. ports and 18 years old for cruises departing from non-U.S. ports. ... the minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Royal Caribbean International is as follows: The minimum age to consume alcohol on Royal Caribbean International ships ...

  18. Can I Sea Some ID? The ABCs of Cruise Line Age Policies

    Crystal Cruises (www.crystalcruises.com) All passengers must be 18 years old to drink beer and wine, and 21 to drink the hard stuff; however when the ship is docked or anchored in an American port, or within the 3-mile limit, the drinking age is 21 for all alcoholic beverages. To gamble in the casino, passengers must be 21 or older.

  19. 12 Rules of Drinking on a Cruise Ship

    The drinking age on all U.S.-based cruise lines is 21 -- even when sailing international waters. (Under special circumstances, some cruise lines allow 18- to 20-year-olds to purchase and consume ...

  20. Guest Conduct Policy

    The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Line ships is 21. Guests who are 18 - 20 years of age can purchase and consume beer or wine when the ship is in international waters (3 miles out of US territorial waters). The age modification does not apply for Alaska and Hawaii sailings.

  21. What Cruise Lines Allow Drinking at 18 Years Old?

    As the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 years old, no cruise line permits passengers under 21 to drink alcohol while in U.S. territorial waters. In international waters such as Mexico or the Bahamas, however, as claimed by countries with lower drinking ages, some cruise lines age policies allow passengers 18 years old and over to ...

  22. Royal Caribbean International Alcohol Policy

    The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on Royal Caribbean ships sailing from North America is 21. On cruises departing from a country where the legal drinking age is younger than 21 ...