What Are The Legal Drinking Ages on Cruises? Is The Drinking Age Onboard 18 or 21?

Are you planning to go on a cruise soon and wondering about the drinking ages on cruises? Perhaps you’ve just turned 18 or you are traveling with a group of young adults and wondering how the cruise drinking age will impact your group?

Things like the cruise departure port and the Ship’s registry can have an impact, so it is good to check. So how old do you have to be to drink on a cruise? Is it 18 or 21?

Unfortunately there is no simple answer. Each cruise line also has its own set of rules and regulations when it comes to drinking and the legal drinking age on board. So the Royal Caribbean drinking age might differ from the Carnival drinking age in certain circumstances or locations.

It’s important to know these policies and other cruise tips before you embark on your vacation to avoid any surprises and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Let’s face it, if you are not over the cruise ship drinking age a Rum Punch without the Rum isn’t as much fun is it 😉

Heads Up, if you are cruising from the USA and not yet 21, be prepared for a disappointment.

What is the Legal Drinking Age on a Cruise Ship?

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 even younger in some cases.

It’s important to note that even if the legal drinking age is 18, some cruise lines may still require passengers to be 21 years of age to purchase a drink package or consume an alcoholic beverage on board.

So why does leaving from a certain port make a difference to the legal drinking age? This is because you must be 21 to drink in the United States, and cruise ships that operate in US waters must adhere to US laws. This applies even if they spend some time in International waters.

However, if the ship is outside US waters, the drinking ages on cruises may be lower. For example, if you are on a European cruise, the age for drinking will most likely be 18.

It is important to note that parental consent does not override the legal drinking age on a cruise ship.

Even if a parent or guardian allows their child to drink alcohol, if the child is under the legal drinking age on the ship, they can still be denied service and may face consequences for violating the ship’s alcohol policies.

What Age Do You Have to Be To Drink On a Cruise in Particular Regions?

The legal drinking age can vary depending on what areas of the world you are in. Here is a breakdown of the drinking ages by region:

North America Including Alaska and Hawaii

On sailings from North America, the minimum drinking age on most cruise ships is 21 years old. This includes popular cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruises.

If you are under twenty-one, you will not be allowed to purchase alcohol or consume alcohol on the ship.

South America

If your sailing originated from South America, the minimum age to consume alcohol on most cruise ships is 18 years old.

Europe

In Europe, the minimum drinking age to drink alcohol on board can vary depending on the specific country you are in. However, on most cruise ships that sail in Europe, the minimum age to consume alcohol is 18 years old.

Asia

In Asia, the minimum drinking age can also vary depending on the country you are in. On most cruise ships that sail in Asia, the minimum age to consume alcohol is 18 years old.

Australia and New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, the minimum age to consume alcohol is 18 years old.

FAQS About the Legal Drinking Age on MAJOR Cruise Lines?

Each cruise line has its own policy about legal drinking ages on cruises. Here are the drinking age policies on some of the most popular cruise lines. Remember though, that local regional laws may supersede these minimums:

It’s important to note that these policies are subject to change and may vary depending on the itinerary and the port of call. It’s always a good idea to check with your cruise line before setting sail to avoid any confusion or disappointment.

Drinking Ages on Cruise Ships Private Islands

It will come as no surprise to learn that the drinking age on cruise ships private destinations and islands remains twenty-one years of age.

So whether you are going to Half Moon Cay, Castaway Cay, Labadee, or having that Perfect Day at Cococay, you’ll need to be 21 or over to consume alcohol at all private destinations.

How Cruise Ships Check ID’s and Ages

One of the primary ways that cruise ships check ID’s and ages is by using a key card system.

When you board the ship, you will be given a key card that serves as your room key and your identification. This card will be used to purchase drinks and other items on the ship, and it will also be used to verify your age.

The key card data will originally have been entered based on your legal ID – a Passport or your birth certificate details. So there is no way of hiding your real age, no matter how old you look.

When you attempt to purchase alcohol at a bar or restaurant on the ship, the bartender will scan your key card to verify your age. If you are under the minimum drinking age, you will not be served alcohol.

Cruise lines take underage drinking very seriously. If you are caught drinking underage, you may be subject to disciplinary action, which could include being removed from the ship at the next port of call.

So, if you are under the minimum drinking age, avoid alcohol altogether to avoid any potential consequences.

The Bottom Line on DRinking Ages On Cruises

It’s crucial to understand that the drinking ages on cruises may vary depending on the cruise line’s policy, and the location of the ship.

Remember that even if you are of legal drinking age, you should always drink responsibly and be mindful of your surroundings.

If you are not used to drinking heavily, the combination of the Drinks Package and the hot Caribbean Sun can be quite extreme. Do you really want to be the center of attention in that funny cruise video shared on social media?

Yes, that’s the kind of crazy thing that happens when you mix Sun, booze, and folks that don’t quite know how to handle their drink.

On that note, don’t forget that a cruise is more than just drinking. There are plenty of activities and entertainment options available, such as shows and pools, that cater to all ages. So, whether you’re looking to relax by the pool or dance the night away, there’s something for everyone on a cruise.

So now you know the drinking age on cruises for all major cruise lines and regions. Remember to drink responsibly and follow the rules set by your cruise line.

Cheers to a safe and enjoyable voyage!

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