As a seasoned cruiser, I know firsthand that the cost of drinks onboard a cruise ship can quickly add up. And let’s face it, no one wants to break the bank on booze while on vacation. While many cruise lines prohibit passengers from bringing their own alcohol onboard, that doesn’t stop many of us from trying.
Sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship has become somewhat of an art form, and with a little creativity, it can be done. In this article, I’ll share some of the top tips and tricks for sneaking alcohol onboard a cruise ship, along with the risks involved and the consequences of getting caught. So, if you’re looking to save a few bucks and enjoy a drink or two (or more) on your next cruise, keep reading.
From hiding alcohol in mouthwash bottles to stuffing it in our checked luggage, there are endless ways to sneak alcohol onboard a cruise ship. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of sneaky tactics, let’s first talk about why it’s important to know how to do it.
For many of us, cruising is a way to escape the real world and let loose a little. And let’s be honest, a few drinks can help us do just that. But with the high cost of onboard drinks, it’s no wonder so many of us turn to sneaky tactics. So, whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned pro, read on to learn the top tips and tricks for sneaking alcohol onboard a cruise ship and enjoy a little extra freedom (and a little extra cash in your pocket).
- Sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship is prohibited, but many passengers still attempt it.
- There are various ways to hide alcohol, including using disguised flasks, rum runners, and wine bottles.
- If caught, cruise lines may confiscate and discard the alcohol, and guests may face consequences such as being denied boarding or disembarked at their own expense.
- Purchasing a drinks package from the cruise line may be a better value and avoid the risks of sneaking alcohol on board.
Drinks Prices
I always check the drinks prices on a cruise ship before deciding whether to sneak alcohol on board or purchase a drinks package. Some cruise lines charge exorbitant prices for drinks, which can quickly add up and blow your budget out of the water.
That’s why it’s important to research the drinks prices beforehand and decide whether it’s worth it to splurge on drinks or look for alternatives. One of the best ways to save on drinks is by purchasing a drinks package. Most cruise lines offer packages that allow you to enjoy unlimited drinks for a set price. While it may seem expensive at first glance, it can actually save you a lot of money in the long run, especially if you plan on enjoying a few drinks each day.
Alternatively, you could also opt for non-alcoholic drinks, such as sodas, juices, and mocktails, which are often included in the cruise fare. By finding ways to save on drinks, you can enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank.
Prohibited Items
Prohibited items on a cruise ship include all drinks except for those allowed by certain cruise lines for medical or religious reasons. Sneaking alcohol on board can result in serious consequences, including being denied boarding or being disembarked at your own expense. However, some passengers still try to bring their own booze on board to save money.
Here are some creative solutions that people have tried:
- Using umbrella flasks, tampon flasks, shampoo bottles, binocular flasks, and mouthwash bottles to hide alcohol in luggage
- Bringing wine bottles on board (most cruise lines allow one bottle per person)
- Using rum runners, which are specially-made alcohol containers for cruises that have had success in sneaking alcohol on board
- Using hidden containers such as fake beer bellies and wine rack bras
- Bringing alcohol on board midway through the cruise, as it may be easier to avoid detection
However, it’s important to note that cruise line enforcement is strict. All luggage is checked for prohibited items during embarkation, and cruise ship scanners can detect alcohol hidden in luggage. Crew may inspect wine bottles to ensure they contain wine and not spirits. If caught, your alcohol may be confiscated and thrown away with no compensation. So, while sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship may seem like a good way to save money, it’s important to consider the risks and consequences before attempting it.
Bringing Your Own Drinks
Bringing your own drinks on a cruise can be a great way to save money and enjoy your favorite drinks on board. Many cruise lines have policies in place to allow passengers to bring a certain amount of alcohol on board, which can vary depending on the cruise line and destination. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular cruise lines and their alcohol policies:
| Cruise Line | Policy | Legal Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Carnival | Passengers can bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person. | 750ml |
| Royal Caribbean | Passengers can bring two bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom. | 750ml |
| Norwegian | Passengers can bring one bottle of wine per person. | 750ml |
| Princess | Passengers can bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person. | 750ml |
| MSC Cruises | Passengers are not allowed to bring any alcohol on board. | N/A |
While bringing your own drinks on board can be a great way to save money, it’s important to note that cruise lines do have legal limits on the amount of alcohol that can be brought on board. Additionally, DIY flasks and other sneaky ways to bring alcohol on board are not recommended as they can result in serious consequences if caught. It’s always best to follow the cruise line’s policies and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Drinks Packages
Drinks packages offered by cruise lines can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of beverages on board. Here are some benefits of purchasing a drinks package:
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Variety: Drinks packages often include a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, cocktails, soft drinks, and specialty coffees.
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Value for money: Depending on the cruise line, drinks packages can be a great way to save money compared to purchasing individual drinks. Some packages even include unlimited drinks for the duration of the cruise.
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Ease of use: With a drinks package, there’s no need to carry cash or worry about the cost of each drink. Simply show your package card and enjoy your drinks.
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Peace of mind: Purchasing a drinks package can help you budget for your cruise and avoid unexpected expenses.
When deciding whether to purchase a drinks package or bring your own drinks on board, it’s important to consider the cost comparison. While bringing your own drinks may seem like a cheaper option, it’s important to factor in any corkage fees, the hassle of smuggling alcohol on board, and the risk of having your alcohol confiscated. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and budget.
Checked Luggage
I always make sure to pack my checked luggage strategically when going on a cruise, especially when it comes to bringing along any beverages. Sneaking alcohol onto a cruise ship can be a fun challenge, but getting caught can lead to serious consequences. That’s why I’ve compiled a table of tips for packing alcohol in your checked luggage, along with ways to avoid detection by cruise ship staff.
| tip | Description | How to Avoid Detection |
|---|---|---|
| Use Rum Runners | These flat bags are designed to look like ordinary toiletry items on x-rays | Don’t include more than one in your luggage |
| Wrap Bottles | Use bubble wrap or inflatable protectors to prevent breakage | Keep the wrapped bottles away from other items in your luggage |
| Hide in Containers | Use empty sunscreen or lotion bottles to hide your alcohol | Choose opaque containers that won’t show the contents |
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of bringing your favorite drinks on board without getting caught. Remember to always check your cruise line’s alcohol policy before packing, and to be discreet when drinking on board. Happy cruising!
Disguised Flasks
Moving on from hiding alcohol in checked luggage, let’s talk about the more creative options for sneaking booze on a cruise ship. Disguised flasks have become increasingly popular, and there are many different types to choose from. These flasks are designed to look like everyday objects, such as sunscreen bottles, binoculars, and even tampons.
While disguised flasks can be effective, it’s important to compare their effectiveness to other methods. For example, a rum runner is a specially-made container for alcohol that’s been successful in sneaking booze on board. However, some disguised flasks may be more obvious than others and may raise suspicion during the luggage scanning process. It’s important to consider the pros and cons before deciding on a method to sneak alcohol on board.
tips for using disguised flasks effectively:
- Choose a flask that isn’t too obvious or out of place.
- Practice filling and emptying the flask beforehand to avoid spills.
- Keep the flask hidden in your luggage until you’re on board.
Risks of using disguised flasks:
- Disguised flasks may be more obvious than other methods.
- Crew members may be familiar with popular disguised flasks and may be more vigilant in checking for them.
- If caught, the consequences may be more severe, such as being denied boarding or disembarked at your own expense.
Potential Risks
Using disguised flasks to sneak alcohol on a cruise ship may seem like a good idea, but there are potential risks that should be considered. While it may be tempting to try and bring your own alcohol on board, it is important to remember that cruise lines have strict policies against it. Getting caught can have legal implications and result in serious consequences.
To illustrate the potential risks, I have created a table below:
| Potential Risks of Sneaking Alcohol on a Cruise Ship |
|---|
| Legal implications and consequences of getting caught |
| Embarrassment and public humiliation |
| Higher ticket prices due to cruise lines relying on selling drinks |
| Alcohol may be confiscated with no compensation |
| Denial of boarding or disembarkation at own expense |
It is important to weigh the potential risks before attempting to sneak alcohol on a cruise ship. While the idea of saving money on drinks may be appealing, it is not worth the legal and financial consequences that could result. Instead, consider purchasing a drinks package or taking advantage of the one bottle per person allowance on most cruise lines. Remember to always drink responsibly and follow the rules set by the cruise line.
Where to Hide Alcohol
Now that we know the potential risks of sneaking alcohol on board a cruise ship, it’s time to discuss where to hide it. As someone who’s successfully smuggled alcohol on board a cruise ship, I can tell you that there are many creative ways to do so.
Here are some of my favorite hiding spots and smuggling techniques:
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Inside a shampoo bottle: While not the most foolproof method, hiding alcohol inside a shampoo bottle can work if you’re careful. Just make sure to rinse it out thoroughly and dry it before filling it with your favorite drink.
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In a rum runner: Rum runners are specially made bags that are designed to look like ordinary items, such as sunscreen or lotion. They can be a bit pricey, but they’re worth it if you want to bring a lot of alcohol on board.
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Inside a wine bottle: Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring one bottle of wine on board per person. If you want to bring more, try filling an empty wine bottle with your favorite liquor and re-corking it. Just make sure to wrap it in bubble wrap to prevent it from breaking.
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In a hidden container: There are many hidden containers available on the market that are designed to look like ordinary items, such as a book or a can of soda. These can be a bit pricey, but they’re a great way to smuggle alcohol on board without raising suspicion.
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In checked luggage: This is probably the easiest way to bring alcohol on board a cruise ship. Just make sure to wrap your bottles in bubble wrap and pack them tightly so they don’t break.
With these hiding spots and smuggling techniques, you can bring your favorite drinks on board a cruise ship without getting caught. Just remember to be careful and not to bring too much, as it can lead to serious consequences. Happy cruising!
Getting Caught
Luckily, I haven’t been caught sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship, but it’s important to know the consequences if you are. Firstly, the cruise line can confiscate and discard your alcohol, leaving you without your favorite drinks for the rest of the trip.
Additionally, you may be denied boarding or even disembarked at your own expense. This can be a major inconvenience and financial burden. To avoid getting caught, there are a few ways to be more discreet with your sneaky alcohol.
One option is to use disguised flasks or rum runners that can be easily hidden in your luggage. Another way is to bring alcohol on board midway through the cruise, when security may not be as strict. It’s also important to be aware of each cruise line’s policies on bringing alcohol on board and not exceed the allowed limit.
By being cautious and smart about your sneaky alcohol, you can enjoy your drinks without facing any unwanted consequences.
Cruise Line Policies
I always make sure to research the specific alcohol policies of the cruise line I’m sailing with before packing any drinks in my luggage. Cruise line restrictions can vary widely, with some allowing passengers to bring a limited amount of alcohol on board, while others prohibit any outside drinks entirely. It’s important to know these policies beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises during embarkation.
If a cruise line does allow outside alcohol, it’s still important to be cautious and use alcohol smuggling techniques discreetly. Rum runners and disguised flasks can be effective, but it’s important to remember that cruise ships will scan luggage with an x-ray and may open it for a manual search. Bringing excess alcohol can result in confiscation, denial of boarding, or even being disembarked at your own expense.
So, while sneaking alcohol on a cruise can be tempting, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to always follow the rules of the cruise line.
Alternative Methods
Researching and utilizing alternative methods for bringing alcohol on board a cruise can provide a sense of excitement and adventure, while also ensuring that one follows the rules and avoids potential consequences. Here are some creative ideas and popular choices to consider:
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Flask Bracelets – These bracelets are designed to hold alcohol and can be worn as a fashion statement. They come in different styles and sizes, making them a discreet way to carry alcohol on board.
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Alcohol Pouches – Similar to Capri Sun pouches, these are designed to hold alcohol and can be easily hidden in luggage or clothing. They are durable and can hold up to 8 ounces of alcohol.
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Wine Tote Bags – These bags are designed to hold wine bottles and can be easily disguised as a regular tote bag. They come in different sizes and colors, making them a stylish way to bring wine on board.
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Alcohol-Infused Snacks – Some companies offer alcohol-infused snacks such as popcorn, gummies, and chocolate. These can be easily packed in luggage and provide a fun and tasty way to enjoy alcohol on board.
By getting creative with how to bring alcohol on board, one can avoid the risk of getting caught and enjoy a more affordable and enjoyable cruise experience.
Corkage Fees
When considering bringing alcohol on board a cruise, it’s important to be aware of any corkage fees that may apply for bringing your own drinks into restaurants or bars on the ship.
Some cruise lines allow guests to bring a certain amount of wine on board, but it’s important to check the policy beforehand and be aware of any restrictions or fees.
It’s also important to consider restaurant etiquette when bringing your own alcohol. Some restaurants may charge a corkage fee for opening and serving your own bottle of wine, and it’s important to be respectful of the establishment’s policies and staff.
Before deciding to bring your own alcohol on board, it’s important to weigh the potential costs and benefits.
While bringing your own drinks may save money on expensive cruise ship cocktails, it’s important to consider the impact on the cruise line’s revenue and the potential consequences of breaking the rules.
It’s also important to be mindful of the potential for overindulgence and negative behavior, as alcohol consumption can be a significant part of the cruising experience.
Ultimately, it’s up to each individual guest to decide whether bringing their own alcohol is worth the potential costs and risks.
Single Traveler Meet-Ups
Attending single traveler meet-ups on a cruise can be a great way to explore ashore with other like-minded guests. As a solo traveler myself, I’ve found these groups to be a fantastic way to connect with others and make new friends.
These groups often organize shore excursions together, which can be a more affordable and enjoyable way to explore the ports of call. Not only do these groups provide a chance to meet new people, but they also offer a sense of security and companionship while on board.
It can be daunting to explore a new destination alone, but with the help of solo traveler groups, I’ve felt more confident in my travels. So, for any solo travelers out there, I highly recommend checking out these groups on your next cruise.
Social Media Accounts
I love following Cruise Tips on social media. Did you know that they have over 1 million monthly followers who rely on their expertise for cruise planning? As someone who loves to travel and explore new places, I find their content to be incredibly informative and engaging.
Their social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn are all filled with helpful tips and tricks for making the most out of your cruise experience. One of the things I appreciate most about Cruise Tips is their focus on building a following through influencer marketing.
By sharing their knowledge and experience with others, they have become a trusted source of information for anyone planning a cruise. In addition to their regular posts, they also offer exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with cruise industry experts.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, following Cruise Tips on social media is a must for anyone looking to make the most out of their next cruise adventure.
Disclaimer and Comment Section
The disclaimer at the end of the article is a necessary reminder to readers that sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship is not recommended. While the article provides tips and tricks for those who want to enjoy their own drinks on board, it’s important to remember that cruise lines have strict policies in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. Getting caught with excess alcohol could result in serious legal implications, not to mention the embarrassment and public humiliation that comes with being caught breaking the rules.
As a moderator for the comments section, I will be keeping a close eye on any comments that promote illegal behavior or encourage guests to sneak alcohol on board. It’s important to keep the conversation respectful and informative, while also acknowledging the legal and ethical implications of breaking the rules. Let’s focus on sharing our experiences and tips for enjoying a cruise without breaking the rules, rather than advocating for behavior that could result in serious consequences.
| Advantages of Bringing Alcohol | Disadvantages of Bringing Alcohol |
|---|---|
| – Save money on expensive drinks | – Risk getting caught and facing legal consequences |
| – Enjoy your favorite drinks on board | – May result in higher ticket prices for all passengers |
| – Avoid long lines at the bar | – Could result in public humiliation if caught |
| – More control over your drinking | – Could result in having alcohol confiscated with no compensation |
Are there any cruise lines that allow guests to bring spirits on board?
Some cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, allow guests to bring two bottles of wine per stateroom, but most prohibit guests from bringing spirits on board. Pros and cons of buying drinks on the ship vary depending on the cruise line policies on alcohol.
What are some alternative methods for sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship besides disguised flasks and rum runners?
As a seasoned cruiser, I’ve discovered a few DIY alcohol alternatives and creative smuggling techniques. One of my favorites is using a sunscreen bottle to hide vodka. Just be sure to clean it thoroughly beforehand!
Will cruise lines charge a corkage fee if guests bring their own wine into a restaurant?
I’ve found that some cruise lines charge a corkage fee for bringing wine into restaurants, but there are alternatives. Bringing wine on board without fees is possible by following the cruise line’s policy on wine allowances and purchasing drinks packages.
Do any cruise lines offer single traveler meet-ups for guests who want to explore ashore with others?
Yes, many cruise lines offer single traveler events and group excursions for guests who want to explore ashore with others. It’s a great way to meet new people and make the most out of your cruise experience.
What is the purpose of the disclaimer in the article about sneaking alcohol on a cruise ship?
As a travel writer, I understand the importance of disclaimers in articles about breaking rules on vacation. It’s crucial to balance the desire for freedom with ethical considerations. A well-placed disclaimer can remind readers of the potential consequences and encourage responsible decision-making.