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Writer's pictureGeorge and Dan

Can I Take Alcohol Onboard Princess Cruises?

If you’re planning a Princess Cruise and wondering, “Can I bring alcohol onboard?” you’re not alone! The rules around bringing drinks on a cruise can be a bit confusing, so we’re here to break it all down for you in a simple and practical way. Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a seasoned traveller, here’s everything you need to know about Princess Cruises’ alcohol policies.


Can i take alcohol onboard Princess Cruises?

Bringing Alcohol Onboard at Embarkation


Yes, you can bring alcohol onboard a Princess Cruise, but there are limits. Each passenger is allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne. There’s no corkage fee if you plan to enjoy it in your stateroom – a nice little perk for wine lovers!



If one bottle isn’t enough, you can pack additional wine or champagne in your luggage. However, these will come with a $15 corkage fee per bottle, whether you drink them in your room or elsewhere onboard.


What about beer, spirits, or liquor? Unfortunately, these aren’t allowed in your luggage, so leave the gin and tonics at home!



What About Soft Drinks?


Good news for those who prefer a non-alcoholic beverage! You’re welcome to bring up to 12 sealed cans or cartons (12oz/350ml each) of soft drinks, sparkling water, or juice per person in your hand luggage. Just make sure it’s in its original packaging and unopened when you board. Bottled water, sodas, or juices in plastic bottles aren’t allowed.



Buying Alcohol in Ports of Call


Exploring ports of call and tempted to grab a bottle of local rum or wine? Go ahead – but there’s a catch. Any alcohol purchased at ports will be stored by the cruise staff until the end of your cruise. Don’t worry – they’ll return it to you on your last day onboard, so you can take it home or enjoy it after disembarkation.


Duty-Free Alcohol Purchases Onboard


Fancy treating yourself to some duty-free bargains onboard? You’ll find plenty of options in the ship’s gift shop. However, just like alcohol bought in port, these purchases will be held by the cruise line and returned to you on the final day.


Free Drinks on Princess Cruises


While bringing alcohol is limited, there’s no shortage of free drinks onboard Princess Cruises! Complimentary options include water, tea, coffee, iced tea, and lemonade. If you fancy something stronger, you can always explore the ship’s bars and lounges for a well-mixed cocktail, wine, or beer – just remember, these aren’t included in the price of your cruise unless you’ve purchased a drinks package.



Smuggling Alcohol or Drinks


Now, let’s talk about smuggling drinks onboard – and why it’s not worth the risk. If security finds prohibited items like spirits or beer in your luggage, they’ll confiscate them, and you won’t get them back. In some cases, trying to sneak alcohol onboard could result in your cruise privileges being revoked.


It’s best to follow the rules and avoid any unnecessary stress. With the variety of drinks available onboard and the option to bring wine or champagne, there’s plenty to enjoy without breaking the rules!


Why Does Princess Have These Policies?


You might wonder why cruise lines like Princess have such strict alcohol policies. It boils down to safety, security, and ensuring everyone has a great time. Limiting alcohol onboard helps prevent excessive drinking, keeps the onboard environment enjoyable for all, and supports the ship’s revenue through bar sales.


Plus, the corkage fee is a fair way to let wine lovers enjoy their own bottle without impacting the ship’s business.



FAQs About Bringing Alcohol Onboard Princess Cruises


1. Can I bring my own alcohol on a Princess Cruise?

Yes, you can bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person at no cost. Additional bottles are allowed with a $15 corkage fee. Spirits, beer, or liquor are not permitted.


2. Can I drink the alcohol I bring anywhere on the ship?

You can enjoy your wine or champagne in your stateroom without a corkage fee. If you want to drink it in public areas, you’ll still need to pay the $15 fee.


3. Can I bring duty-free alcohol onboard from port stops?

Yes, but it will be stored by the ship until the end of your cruise and returned on the last day.


4. Are there free drinks available onboard Princess Cruises?

Yes! Water, tea, coffee, iced tea, and lemonade are complimentary throughout your cruise.


5. Can I bring soft drinks onboard Princess Cruises?

Yes, up to 12 cans or cartons (12oz each) per person are allowed, as long as they’re sealed and in your hand luggage.


We hope this guide clears up any confusion and helps you plan your Princess Cruise with confidence. Follow the rules, pack smart, and get ready for a fabulous holiday at sea. Got more questions? Drop them in the comments – we’d love to help!


Happy cruising!

George & Dan

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