Drinking age on cruise ships varies by cruise line and destination, impacting your vacation. The age for enjoying a cocktail depends on specific rules.
For families with kids, knowing the drinking age helps prevent issues and ensures a safe environment for all during the cruise. In this article, we discuss the drinking age requirements for major cruise lines.
What is the Legal Drinking Age on Cruise Ships?
The drinking age on cruise ships can vary based on several factors, including the departure and destination countries. In North America, the minimum legal drinking ages are typically 21 in the United States and 19 in Canada.
However, when a cruise is traveling to Mexico or other international areas, the drinking ages may be different, sometimes set at 18 or 16. Each cruise line adheres to the law of the places they operate in, so passengers need to be aware of these regulations.
Let’s explore the minimum drinking ages for several major cruise lines.
Drinking Age on Cruise Lines
1: Drinking Age on Cunard Cruises Line
On Cunard ships, the drinking age is generally 21 when sailing in U.S. waters. However, there is an exception when the ship is in international waters or visiting certain destinations where the minimum drinking age can be lowered to 18. Passengers should be aware of these regulations as they can change based on the location of the ship.
2: Drinking Age on Disney Cruise Line
The legal drinking age on all Disney Cruise Line ships is 21. On some round trips to Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, the drinking age may have exceptions.
While the standard rule for the drinking age on a cruise ship in Europe is 18 or 20, some cruise lines may allow adult passengers aged 20 to consume alcohol. Anyone under the standard drinking age may need a beverage consent form with permission from their parents to drink in their presence.
3: Drinking Age on Princess Cruises Line
On Princess Cruises ships, the drinking age varies by region. The Princess Cruise drinking age is 21 in North America and Asia. However, in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, the drinking age is typically 18.
Passengers should be aware of these regional differences, as Princess Cruises adheres to local laws to ensure compliance on all their ships.
4: Drinking Age on Royal Caribbean Cruise
On Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise ship drinking ages vary depending on the region. In North America and Asia, the drinking age is set at 21. However, in regions like Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and South America, the drinking age is typically 18.
For sailings in the Caribbean, Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates, Royal Caribbean follows the local laws, which can differ from one destination to another. It’s important for passengers to know the drinking ages on their specific sailings, as these regulations are not set in stone and may change according to the right local legal requirements.
5: Drinking Age on MSC Cruises Line
On MSC Cruises in the US, the drinking age is set at 21. This applies to all sailings in US waters. The MSC Cruise drinking age policy adheres to local regulations to ensure compliance and safety for all passengers on board.
6: Drinking Age on Norwegian Cruise Line
The Norwegian Cruise Line drinking age policy varies depending on the sailing destination. In Alaskan and Hawaiian waters, passengers aged 18 to 20 can consume beer and wine with proper authorization.
This authorization involves completing a Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver Form, available from guest services on the ship. The form grants consent from a parent, ensuring that younger adults can enjoy alcoholic beverages responsibly while on board.
Verifying Identification on Cruise Ships
On cruise ships, passengers must be 21 to drink alcohol, and 18 to enter the casino. These rules ensure that minors are kept out of age-restricted spaces. For example, passengers are required to show their ID to verify their age.
Some cruise lines use a wristband system to easily identify those who are of legal drinking age. The same applies to gambling areas, where staff check IDs to ensure compliance. This window of regulations helps maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all passengers on the ship.
Celebrity and MSC Cruises Offer Zero Proof Drink Packages for Minors
Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises offer Zero Proof drink packages for minors and those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. These packages typically cost around $30 per day and include a variety of options such as cocktails, coffee drinks, and energy drinks.
For example, parents can purchase a Zero Proof drink package for their children, ensuring they have access to a wide range of non-alcoholic drinks throughout the cruise.
These packages are a great option for any person who wants to enjoy flavorful drinks without alcohol, providing an inclusive experience for all passengers on these cruise lines.
If you’re 18 and want to cruise on your own, take a look at my guide to the best cruises for 18-year-olds to help you find the right ship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you Drink at 18 on a Cruise in International Waters?
Guests aged 18 to 20 must have parental consent to drink beer and wine when the ship is in international waters.
What is the Drinking Age on Cruise Ships to the Bahamas?
The drinking age on cruise ships to the Bahamas is typically 21.
What are Drinking Laws on Cruise Ships?
For cruises departing from U.S. ports, the minimum drinking age on board is 21, while for cruises leaving from non-U.S. ports, it is 18. Bringing any drinks on board, whether in hand or cabin luggage, is strictly prohibited.