Underage passengers who try to sneak alcohol on a cruise face the same repercussions as anyone else: The booze will get confiscated. The only difference is that if you're under 21 won't get it back at the end of the cruise. Cruise lines reserve the right to disembark passengers who violate their alcohol policies.

If you are caught attempting to "sneak" alcohol onto a Carnival Cruise ship in 2026, the consequences are straightforward but firm. During the initial embarkation security screening, any prohibited bottles (including spirits, beer, or excessive wine) found in your checked or carry-on luggage will be confiscated and destroyed. Unlike some other lines that might return the alcohol at the end of the cruise, Carnival generally does not return confiscated items. If you attempt to hide alcohol in "stealth" containers (like fake shampoo bottles), security is trained to look for these, and you may face a delay in boarding or a formal warning. Carnival allows each adult (21+) to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne in their carry-on only, which is the only legal way to bring outside alcohol. Repeated attempts or aggressive behavior regarding confiscated items can lead to you being denied boarding entirely without a refund, as it is considered a violation of the Ticket Contract you agreed to upon booking.