There are many things you may want to bring with you on a cruise, including food. After all, knowing what is and isn’t allowed on board can be confusing. So can you bring food on a cruise?
Today, we’re diving into the rules and regulations regarding bringing food and other items onto a ship. We’ll help ensure you don’t have anything confiscated by port authorities.
So grab your favorite snack, and let’s get started!
Why Would You Bring Food on a Cruise?
Despite nearly unlimited food, passengers may consider bringing food on a cruise for several reasons. For starters, they may have dietary restrictions. Whether it’s the result of allergies or a personal preference, passengers can have access to safe foods at all times. They won’t have to worry about feeling ill because they ate something that doesn’t agree with them.
Additionally, it can be helpful for those who enjoy having familiar foods. Chefs are great about offering a variety of foods to try. However, children or picky eaters may not appreciate them. Having some snacks or other foods on hand can save the day.
It’s also important to remember that some people depend on certain foods. Parents with babies may need to bring baby formula and other nutritional supplies. In addition, some passengers could have medical conditions requiring them to have specific food items.
HOT TIP
Before packing for your next cruise, be sure to read Cruise Luggage Rules You Need to Know!
Can You Bring Food on a Cruise?
Rules and regulations vary from one cruise line to the next. Generally, you can typically bring pre-packaged and non-perishable food items on board. Although, the critical thing to note is that they must be pre-packaged and non-perishable.
You cannot bring that fresh loaf of banana bread you made before the trip or a batch of cookies. You’ll also want to leave meats, fruits, and cheeses behind. If not, don’t be surprised if they get confiscated from you at the port.
Can You Take Alcohol On A Cruise?
Alcohol is one of the biggest money-makers for cruise lines. As a result, it’s no surprise that there are strict rules and regulations regarding bringing booze on board. Surprisingly, some cruise lines are more generous than others.
Those that allow guests to bring it on board typically permit one bottle of wine or Champagne per passenger of legal drinking age. Some, like Disney Cruise Lines, allow guests to carry on small amounts of beer at the cruise’s start and each port. Some cruise lines will charge a “corkage fee” if you want to bring your bottle to the dining room or other restaurants.
If you plan to bring alcohol on a cruise, ensure you know the fees and restrictions. If you’re not careful, you could have it taken from you and not returned. That’s a waste of perfectly good booze.
Things You Can’t Bring on Cruise Ships
Food and alcohol aren’t the only items with restrictions. You will want to visit your cruise line’s website, like Royal or Carnival, for a complete list of things you’ll want to leave at home. Regardless, here are some common items that are restricted across the industry.
Weapons
It likely goes without saying why passengers cannot bring weapons aboard a cruise ship. Nevertheless, just like at airports, port agents regularly confiscate these items. Depending on the weapon, you could find yourself in serious legal trouble.
All ships prohibit knives, scissors, and firearms on board. In addition, you cannot bring realistic replicas either. If you do, you can plan to have an intense chat with security officers. They will likely not be delighted with you or the situation you created.
Illegal Substances
Passengers should plan to leave any illegal substances at home too. Cruise ships operate under federal law regarding marijuana, which still considers the drug illegal. Just because you depart from a state where it is legal doesn’t mean you can bring it with you. So whether it’s marijuana or any other illegal substances, leave it at home.
Flammable Items
Disney Cruise Lines is the only cruise line that offers fireworks at sea. Despite this, they and others in the industry prohibit passengers from bringing them with them. If you want to enjoy a firework show, leave it to the professionals and set sail with Disney.
Not only are fireworks banned, but any other flammable liquids and explosives. Again, if you show up with them in your suitcase or on your person, they will be taken away. Security officers will also likely want to know why you want to bring them with you.
Drones
Rules and regulations vary from cruise line to cruise line. Although, all major cruise lines prohibit their use while on the ship. Some require that the head of security hold onto them for you. On the other hand, others permit passengers to hold onto them as long as they only use them at port and off the ship.
If you hoped to capture an incredible shot of your cruise ship at sea, it’s unfortunately not going to happen. Launching your drone around the boat will quickly catch the attention of security and land you in hot water.
Irons and Heating Elements
You’ll also want to leave behind irons and heather pads. If you want your clothes to look great, you’ll need to consider the laundry amenities the ship offers. Some offer self-service laundry facilities, but others may require you to pay a fee and let them do the work.
While you can’t bring heating pads or irons, you can bring curling irons and hair straighteners. Many cruise lines will even provide mats to help protect the countertops from damage.
Candles
While you may want your room to smell fresh, you’ll want to leave the candles at home. Cruise lines prohibit candles, incense, and diffusers. Restricting these items helps avoid discomfort for all guests. Your neighbors and the next guests may not enjoy smelling your baked apple pie scent.
Another critical reason to consider why you can’t bring candles on board is the fire danger. Do you want a burning candle on board a ship cruising through the sea? Rough seas could send that flame flying and quickly set the ship ablaze.
Power Strips with Surge Protectors
Unfortunately, cruise ships are notorious for having a lack of power outlets. Some guests try to multiply these outlets by packing power strips with them. Regardless, security will confiscate it if you show up with a standard power strip.
There’s a very detailed and scientific explanation for this prohibition from the US Coast Guard. At the same time, it’s easier to say they’re incompatible with a cruise ship’s electrical system. They could cause a dangerous fire, which isn’t what anyone wants while floating in the sea.
Be Careful What You Bring on a Cruise
So while you can bring your pre-packed snacks and other foods, be careful when packing. Whether it’s an opened can of Pringles or one of the items on our list, you don’t want to arrive with them. Tossing your food or other items into the trash isn’t how you want to start your cruise.
If you accidentally bring a prohibited item, don’t try to hide it. It’s only going to make it worse if you do. Take your time when packing, and you’ll have a smooth cruising experience.
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