All cruise lines have alcohol policies that must be adhered to with strict rules for guest conduct rules. If you are caught sneaking alcohol onboard, you can be absolutely certain that the alcohol will be confiscated and not returned.

While "sneaking" alcohol onto a cruise is a common topic in travel forums, it is highly discouraged in 2026 due to advanced screening technology and strict penalties. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian use industrial X-ray scanners and "density sensors" that can easily distinguish between water and high-proof spirits, even if they are hidden in "shampoo" bottles or mouthwash containers. If caught, the alcohol is confiscated and usually discarded or held until the end of the cruise, and you may be flagged for additional security searches. More seriously, some lines now impose fines or even "denial of boarding" for passengers who flagrantly violate the code of conduct. Instead of smuggling, a much safer approach is to utilize the "allowance": most major cruise lines allow each adult to bring one or two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne in their carry-on luggage on embarkation day (often subject to a corkage fee if consumed in a dining room). In 2026, many cruisers find that purchasing a "beverage package" during a pre-cruise sale is a more relaxed and cost-effective way to enjoy drinks without the stress of potential confrontation with ship security or the risk of having their vacation cut short.