Vivian Marlowe
With the high cost of drinks on board cruise ships, it's no surprise that many passengers consider sneaking alcohol onto their cruise. While TikTok and other social media platforms are full of creative ways to do this, from flasks disguised as tampons or binoculars to hairbrushes with hidden compartments, it's important to remember that there can be serious consequences if you get caught. Most major cruise lines' policies forbid passengers from bringing their own alcohol on board, and security staff are within their rights to confiscate any contraband alcohol and even deny boarding to those attempting to smuggle it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Carnival Cruise Line's policy on alcohol | "All liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided." |
| Reasons for sneaking alcohol on a cruise | High cost of drinks on board |
| Possible consequences | Alcohol being confiscated, denied boarding, surrendering identification, fines, being called to account for misdeeds, losing luggage, being booted off the ship |
| Hacks to sneak alcohol on a cruise | Using mouthwash bottles, water bottles, tampon boxes, flasks disguised as binoculars, shampoo bottles, hairbrush flasks, bras, fake beer bellies, umbrellas, tote bags, water bras, boozy bracelets |
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What You'll Learn
Potential consequences of sneaking alcohol on a Carnival Cruise
While it may seem tempting to sneak alcohol on a Carnival Cruise due to the high cost of drinks on board, there are several potential consequences to consider. Firstly, if you are caught, your alcohol will be confiscated and not returned. This is stated in Carnival Cruise Line's contract of carriage, which all passengers agree to follow when booking a cruise. Additionally, security and port authorities have the right to inspect and remove any alcohol from your possession, and you may be denied boarding or fined.
Another consequence of sneaking alcohol on a Carnival Cruise is the potential for embarrassment or shame. If your contraband alcohol is discovered, you may be called down to a crew area to confess to your rule infractions and receive a lecture on the ship's alcohol policy. You may also be required to surrender your identification and face questioning about your actions.
Furthermore, attempting to sneak alcohol on a cruise can ruin your vacation. If you are caught, you may be disembarked or not allowed to board at your own expense, as stated in Royal Caribbean's online FAQs. This is especially true for minors caught sneaking alcoholic beverages or adults providing alcohol to those under the legal drinking age.
In addition to the risk of confiscation and denial of boarding, there is also a financial risk involved in sneaking alcohol on a Carnival Cruise. If you are caught, you may be subject to fines or other financial penalties. The money you invested in your cruise could be lost, and you may incur additional costs associated with the fines or penalties.
Lastly, sneaking alcohol on a cruise can be dangerous. Some of the methods for sneaking alcohol, such as using fake containers or concealment methods, may not be safe for consumption. There is also a risk of leakage, which could damage your belongings or the cruise property, leading to further financial consequences. Overall, it is important to weigh the potential consequences before attempting to sneak alcohol on a Carnival Cruise. Following the cruise line's rules and alcohol policies is always the best course of action.
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Creative ways to sneak alcohol on a cruise, according to TikTok
While it is prohibited to bring alcohol on board a cruise ship, people have devised creative ways to do so. Here are some of the most common methods shared on TikTok:
Plastic Pouches and Rum Runners
Plastic pouches, also known as "rum runners," are soft plastic flasks that come in various sizes and are thin enough to avoid detection by X-ray scanners. They can be stored on their side, with the capped end next to your toiletries, making it more challenging to identify during baggage screening. Smaller pouches can be tucked into pockets or other discreet locations.
Mouthwash Bottles
Using mouthwash bottles to disguise alcohol is a classic method. People often pour clear liquor into the bottles and add green or blue food coloring to mimic the typical color of mouthwash.
Binocular Flasks
These flasks are designed to resemble a set of binoculars, making them ideal for expedition cruises to picturesque destinations. Each side can hold up to 8 ounces of liquid, and they usually come with a funnel for easy filling.
Water Bottles
Some people opt for a simpler approach by pouring alcohol into water bottles or sports drink containers. However, it's important to note that security personnel may inspect such containers.
Creative Containers
Some individuals get creative by using unconventional items as flasks, such as boozy bracelets, hairbrush flasks, and even tampons or tampon wrappers. These items can hold smaller amounts of alcohol but can go unnoticed during security checks.
While these methods may seem ingenious, it's important to remember that attempting to sneak alcohol onto a cruise ship can result in serious consequences, including confiscation of the alcohol, denial of boarding, fines, and surrendering identification. It is always advisable to follow the cruise line's policies and regulations regarding alcohol consumption.
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Alcohol policies of different cruise lines
While alcohol is a huge part of life onboard a cruise, with many cruises offering "Drink of the Day" and cocktails in keepsake drinkware, the cost of alcoholic drinks can quickly add up. This has led many passengers to consider bringing their own drinks onboard, despite this being banned by most major cruise lines. While some sources suggest that small-scale cruise lines with open bar policies have very few alcohol restrictions, most major cruise lines have strict policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line's contract of carriage states that "All liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage and such items will be confiscated and discarded and no compensation will be provided." However, some sources suggest that guests are allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard on embarkation day only.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises' passenger contract states that "If your luggage is locked, the lock may be removed by security or, alternatively, the luggage will be held by security until you can be present for an inspection and any items in question further identified and/or surrendered." Princess Cruises observes a drinking age of 21 years, and all onboard staff are trained to take responsibility for not serving alcohol to underage passengers.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean has a similar alcohol policy to Carnival Cruise Line, noting that security may inspect containers such as water bottles, soda bottles, and mouthwash. Their online FAQs state that "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."
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line allows unlimited wine to be brought onboard, with a $15 cork fee per bottle.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises does not allow any alcohol to be brought onboard.
Ponant
Ponant, a French small-size cruise line, has virtually no policies for passengers regarding alcohol.
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Pros and cons of sneaking alcohol on a cruise
Cons
- If caught, security and port authorities have the right to confiscate your alcohol, and they do not have to give it back.
- You may be fined, denied boarding, or even booted off the cruise.
- Your luggage may be held by security until you can be present for an inspection.
- It is likely that your attempts at sneaking alcohol on a cruise will fail.
Pros
- You can save money by not having to purchase alcohol on board.
- It can be a fun challenge to come up with creative ways to sneak alcohol on board, such as using a water bottle, a fake shampoo bottle, or a boozy bracelet.
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Alternative ways to save money on alcohol on a cruise
While it may be tempting to sneak alcohol on a Carnival cruise, it is highly discouraged and can get you into serious trouble. If caught, the alcohol will be confiscated and not returned, and you may even be denied boarding. Instead of risking it, here are some alternative ways to save money on alcohol during your cruise:
Research Alcohol Packages
Before booking your cruise, research the various alcohol packages offered by the cruise line. Compare prices, inclusions, and restrictions to find the best value for your budget. Some cruise lines offer different tiers of packages, so choose one that suits your preferences. Many cruise lines offer discounts for early booking, helping you save money on drinks throughout your trip.
Share an Alcohol Package
If you're travelling with a companion, consider sharing an alcohol package. Look for packages that allow multiple guests to use the same plan, and coordinate with your companion on drink orders to maximise your shared package. This can be a great way to split the cost and save money.
Take Advantage of Happy Hours and Specials
Keep an eye out for happy hours and reduced-price daily specials offered by the ship's bars. Plan your drinking around these money-saving events. Some specialty restaurants may also offer free or half-price bottles of wine as an incentive to dine with them. Ask about specials on unopened bottles of beer that you can buy and consume later.
Bring Alcohol Purchased at Port
Many cruise lines allow passengers to bring sealed bottles of alcohol purchased at port destinations. Enjoy these drinks in your stateroom or at onboard events for a more budget-friendly alternative to the ship's bars. Any duty-free liquor bought at the ship's store or alcohol purchased in port can be delivered to your cabin on the last night of the cruise.
Ask for Alternatives
If your favourite cocktail is not included in your drinks package, ask your bartender if they can make a similar drink that stays within the package rules. They may even make an exception and sneak you the real deal if you've been a loyal customer and generous tipper.
Combine Drinks
If you enjoy frozen drinks, consider ordering a combination instead of two separate drinks. For example, a Miami Vice is half pina colada and half strawberry daiquiri, giving you two drinks in one.
Loyalty Programs
Take advantage of loyalty programs such as Carnival's VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) program. Passengers who reach Gold level receive a free drink on cruises of five days or longer, and at Platinum level, they receive a free beverage on cruises of any length.
By following these alternative tips, you can save money on alcohol during your cruise without risking the consequences of sneaking it onboard.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not easy to sneak alcohol on a Carnival cruise. While TikTok and other social media platforms showcase numerous creative ways to do so, such as using fake shampoo bottles or flasks disguised as binoculars, it is highly discouraged. If caught, there can be serious consequences, including confiscation of alcohol, fines, and even denial of boarding.
Carnival Cruise Line's policy states that "all liquor, beer, other forms of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage." However, they do allow guests (21 years of age and older) to bring one 750-ml bottle of sealed/unopened wine or champagne per person in their carry-on luggage during embarkation day only.
Sneaking alcohol on a Carnival cruise comes with several risks. Firstly, if caught, the alcohol will be confiscated and not returned. Additionally, there may be financial implications, such as fines or the loss of your cruise vacation investment if you are denied boarding. Moreover, it is important to respect the cruise line's policies and not ruin your vacation by breaking the rules.
