Can You Bring Beer on Princess Cruise Line A Complete Guide

You cannot bring beer or any alcohol on board Princess Cruise Line at embarkation or during the cruise, as their strict policy prohibits outside alcohol, including beer, to maintain safety and support onboard revenue. Exceptions exist for special dietary or medical needs with prior approval, but all other beverages are subject to confiscation and returned at the end of the voyage.

Key Takeaways

• No outside beer allowed: Princess Cruises prohibits bringing beer onboard at embarkation.
• Purchase onboard or in ports: Buy beer at ship bars or during shore excursions.
• Special occasions exception: One bottle of wine/champagne permitted with dinner; beer still banned.
• Check alcohol policy updates: Review the latest rules before sailing as policies may change.
• Use drink packages wisely: Consider unlimited beverage packages for frequent beer drinkers.
• Declare all alcohol purchases: Report duty-free alcohol bought in ports to avoid confiscation.

Can You Bring Beer on Princess Cruise Line: A Complete Guide

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is about bringing their own alcohol onboard. For beer lovers, the idea of sipping a cold craft brew while watching the sunset over the ocean is a dream come true. However, cruise lines have strict policies regarding alcohol, and understanding these rules is essential to avoid disappointment or fines. Princess Cruise Line, known for its exceptional service and global itineraries, has specific guidelines about bringing beer and other alcoholic beverages onboard. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing the ins and outs of Princess Cruise Line’s alcohol policy can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about bringing beer on a Princess cruise, covering everything from boarding rules to onboard purchasing options, alternative solutions, and even tips for maximizing your beer experience. We’ll break down the policies, highlight key exceptions, and provide practical advice to help you plan ahead. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make informed decisions about beer—and other drinks—on your next Princess Cruise adventure.

Understanding Princess Cruise Line’s Alcohol Policy

Princess Cruise Line, like most major cruise lines, has a detailed and strictly enforced alcohol policy designed to ensure safety, compliance, and a positive guest experience. The rules are not arbitrary; they are in place to prevent excessive consumption, maintain security, and comply with international regulations. Understanding these policies is the first step in planning your beer strategy for the cruise.

General Alcohol Restrictions

The primary rule is that guests are not permitted to bring any alcoholic beverages onboard at embarkation or during the cruise. This includes beer, wine, spirits, and any other intoxicating drinks. The only exception is a limited allowance for wine and champagne, which we’ll cover in detail later. This policy applies to all embarkation ports, including major hubs like Fort Lauderdale, Los Angeles, Seattle, and international locations such as Sydney, Vancouver, and Southampton.

• Any beer discovered during boarding will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.
• Security personnel and x-ray machines scan all carry-on and checked luggage.
• Attempting to smuggle alcohol can result in fines or being denied boarding.

For example, if you arrive with a 12-pack of craft beer in your suitcase or cooler, it will be taken by the cruise staff and stored in a secure area. You’ll receive a claim ticket and can retrieve it when you disembark. This policy is consistent across all Princess ships, including the Royal-class and MedallionClass vessels.

Why the Strict Policy?

There are several reasons behind this restriction:

• Revenue Protection: Cruise lines rely heavily on onboard sales of drinks, including beer, cocktails, and wine. Allowing guests to bring unlimited alcohol would significantly impact their income from beverage packages and bar sales.
• Safety and Liability: Unmonitored alcohol consumption increases the risk of intoxication, accidents, and disruptive behavior. By controlling the supply, Princess can better manage guest safety.
• Customs and Port Regulations: In many countries, bringing alcohol into port cities without declaring it can violate local laws. Cruise lines must comply with international customs agreements.

While the policy may seem restrictive, it’s designed to balance guest enjoyment with operational efficiency and legal compliance. The good news? There are plenty of ways to enjoy beer on a Princess cruise—just not by bringing your own in unlimited quantities.

Exceptions: Wine, Champagne, and Special Occasions

While beer is generally prohibited, Princess Cruise Line does allow a limited exception for wine and champagne. This is a key point for travelers who want to bring a celebratory bottle onboard, especially for anniversaries, honeymoons, or milestone birthdays.

Wine and Champagne Allowance

Guests are permitted to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person at embarkation. This allowance applies to guests who are of legal drinking age (21 in the U.S., 18 in some international regions). The bottle must be unopened and in its original packaging. Here’s what you need to know:

• Quantity: One bottle per person, regardless of age (minors cannot bring alcohol, even if it’s for someone else).
• Type: Only wine or champagne—beer, hard cider, spirits, and other liquors are not included in this exception.
• Storage: The bottle will be tagged and stored by the cruise staff during embarkation. It will be delivered to your stateroom on the first evening of the cruise.
• Service Fee: A corkage fee of $15 per bottle applies if you choose to drink it in a restaurant or bar. Drinking it in your stateroom incurs no additional charge.

For example, if you’re celebrating your 25th wedding anniversary, you could bring a bottle of vintage champagne and enjoy it in your suite with room service—no extra cost. If you want to share it during dinner at Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, the $15 fee will be added to your bill.

Special Occasions and Celebrations

Princess encourages guests to celebrate special events onboard. If you’re marking a significant occasion, you can:

• Contact Guest Services in advance to arrange a complimentary toast with sparkling wine (non-alcoholic options available).
• Order a bottle from the onboard wine list and have it delivered to your stateroom or a dining venue.
• Take advantage of the Princess Celebrations program, which offers packages for birthdays, anniversaries, and more, including cake, decorations, and premium wine or champagne.

Tip: If you want to bring a craft beer from your local brewery as a gift or for personal enjoyment, consider shipping it to the cruise terminal in advance (if allowed by the port) or purchasing it onboard and having it delivered to your stateroom. Some ports have specialty shops where you can buy unique local beers—more on that later.

Onboard Beer Options and Purchasing

If you can’t bring your own beer, don’t worry—Princess Cruise Line offers a wide variety of beer options onboard. From domestic favorites to international imports and craft brews, there’s something for every palate. The key is knowing where to find it and how to save money while enjoying your favorite drinks.

Beer Selection on Princess Ships

Princess partners with major brewers and regional suppliers to offer a diverse beer menu. You’ll find:

• Domestic Beers: Budweiser, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Michelob Ultra, and others.
• Imported Beers: Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois, Guinness, and more.
• Craft and Specialty Beers: Rotating taps with local and craft options, especially on longer itineraries or ships based in craft beer hubs like Seattle or San Diego.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Heineken 0.0, Athletic Brewing, and other zero-proof beers for designated drivers or health-conscious travelers.

For example, on a Princess Alaska Cruise, you might find Alaskan Amber Ale or Midnight Sun Brewing Co. beers in the bars. On a Mediterranean itinerary, look for Italian Peroni or Spanish Estrella Damm.

Beverage Packages for Beer Lovers

To save money on beer and other drinks, Princess offers several beverage packages. The most popular is the Premier Beverage Package, which includes:

• Unlimited beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits (up to $15 per drink).
• Premium coffee, smoothies, and bottled water.
• 20% discount on bottles of wine over $15.

Cost: Approximately $70–$80 per person per day (varies by itinerary and booking time).

Other options include:

• Cheers! Beverage Package: $59–$65 per day, includes beer, wine, and cocktails up to $11.
• Non-Alcoholic Package: $25–$30 per day, includes mocktails, soda, and specialty coffees.

Tip: If you plan to drink more than 4–5 beers per day, a beverage package is usually cost-effective. Use the onboard drink calculator to compare prices and choose the best option for your habits.

Where to Enjoy Beer Onboard

Beer is available in multiple venues:

• Bars and Lounges: Wheelhouse Bar, Crooner’s Lounge, and Salty Dog Pub (on select ships).
• Poolside Bars: Perfect for a cold drink during a day at sea.
• Specialty Dining: Some restaurants, like Crown Grill, offer craft beer pairings.
• Room Service: Order a beer to enjoy on your balcony or in your suite.

Many ships also host Beer Tasting Events or Brewmaster Talks during sea days, where you can sample rare brews and learn about brewing techniques.

Port Shopping: Buying Beer in Destinations

One of the best ways to enjoy local beer on a Princess cruise is to buy it in port. While you can’t bring beer back onboard (it will be confiscated), you can purchase it during shore excursions and enjoy it in port cities or on private beach days.

Best Ports for Beer Enthusiasts

Here are some top destinations for beer lovers:

• Seattle, USA: Home to over 150 craft breweries. Visit Pike Place Brewery or Georgetown Brewing during a pre-cruise stay.
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: Try Heineken Experience or local craft bars like De PilsVinder.
• Portland, Oregon: Famous for its craft beer scene. Stop by Deschutes Brewery or Hair of the Dog.
• Dublin, Ireland: Tour the Guinness Storehouse and enjoy a pint in Temple Bar.
• Brussels, Belgium: Sample Trappist ales and lambics at Delirium Café.

Tip: Use the Princess Shore Excursions website to book a Beer Tasting Tour or Brewery Visit in many ports. These are led by local guides and often include transportation and tastings.

Rules for Bringing Beer Back to the Ship

Important: Any beer purchased in port will be confiscated at the gangway and returned at the end of the cruise. This includes:

• Bottles, cans, growlers, and kegs.
• Open or unopened containers.
• Beer in duty-free shops (unless it’s wine or champagne).

However, you can:

• Drink beer in port bars, restaurants, or on private excursions (e.g., beach clubs).
• Buy beer for consumption during a private island visit (e.g., Princess Cays in the Bahamas).
• Ship beer home using postal services (check local shipping regulations).

Example: On a Caribbean cruise, you could buy a six-pack in St. Thomas and enjoy it during a beach day at Magens Bay, but you can’t bring the leftovers back to the ship.

Alternatives and Creative Solutions

If the beer policy feels restrictive, there are creative ways to enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the rules. Here are some practical alternatives and insider tips.

Pre-Cruise and Post-Cruise Planning

Maximize your beer experience before or after the cruise:

• Pre-Cruise Stay: Arrive a day early and visit local breweries near the port. For example, stay in Fort Lauderdale and tour Funky Buddha Brewery.
• Post-Cruise: Extend your trip in the final port. In Vancouver, explore Granville Island Brewing or Brassneck Brewery.
• Ship It Home: Buy rare beers in port and ship them directly to your home address. Many ports have shipping services at the terminal.

Onboard Workarounds

While you can’t bring beer onboard, you can:

• Use Beverage Packages: As mentioned, the Premier Package is the best value for frequent beer drinkers.
• Join Themed Cruises: Princess occasionally offers Beer Lovers’ Cruises or Craft Beer Festivals with special menus and events.
• Attend Happy Hour: Many bars offer discounted drinks during early evening hours.
• Ask for Local Brews: Request regional beers at bars—staff often have access to limited-edition options not on the menu.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Options

For guests who want the taste of beer without alcohol:

• Princess carries a selection of non-alcoholic beers, including Heineken 0.0 and Athletic Brewing.
• These are included in non-alcoholic beverage packages and can be ordered at bars.
• They’re also a great option for designated drivers or guests managing health conditions.

Tip: Bring your own non-alcoholic beer if you have a specific brand preference—Princess may not carry it.

Data Table: Beer Options and Costs on Princess Cruise Line

Option	Description	Average Cost	Notes
Domestic Beer	Budweiser, Coors, etc.	$7–$9	Available at all bars
Imported Beer	Heineken, Corona, Guinness	$8–$11	Premium pricing for imports
Craft Beer	Rotating taps, local brews	$10–$14	Available on select ships
Premier Beverage Package	Unlimited drinks up to $15	$70–$80/day	Best for frequent drinkers
Non-Alcoholic Beer	Heineken 0.0, Athletic Brewing	$6–$8	Included in non-alc package
Port Beer (Consumed in Port)	Local purchases in destinations	Varies	Cannot be brought onboard

Conclusion

Bringing beer on a Princess Cruise Line is not allowed under the standard alcohol policy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great beer during your vacation. By understanding the rules, leveraging onboard options, and exploring creative alternatives, you can still savor your favorite brews—whether it’s a cold domestic can by the pool, a craft beer at a port bar, or a champagne toast in your stateroom.

Remember the key takeaways:

• No beer can be brought onboard at embarkation or in port.
• One bottle of wine or champagne per person is allowed (with a corkage fee for restaurant service).
• Beverage packages offer the best value for frequent beer drinkers.
• Port excursions and local tastings provide unique beer experiences.
• Always declare alcohol at the gangway—confiscated items are returned at the end of the cruise.

Princess Cruise Line’s policies are designed to enhance your safety and enjoyment, not limit it. With a little planning, you can turn your cruise into a beer lover’s paradise—without breaking any rules. So pack your bags, leave the beer at home, and get ready to explore the high seas with a cold drink in hand. Cheers to your next adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring beer on Princess Cruise Line?

No, Princess Cruise Line does not allow passengers to bring beer or any alcoholic beverages onboard. This policy is strictly enforced during embarkation and at port stops to maintain consistency with their beverage program.

What is the alcohol policy for bringing beer on a Princess cruise?

The Princess Cruise Line alcohol policy prohibits guests from bringing beer, wine, or liquor onboard at the start of the cruise or in ports. Any alcohol purchased in ports or from the ship’s shops will be held until the final day of the cruise.

Are there exceptions to the beer policy on Princess Cruises?

No exceptions are made for beer, even for special occasions or personal use. However, you can enjoy beer from the ship’s bars, dining rooms, or through their drink packages, which offer flexible options for onboard consumption.

Can you bring beer on Princess Cruise Line if it’s in your checked luggage?

No, beer is not permitted in either carry-on or checked luggage. Security checks during embarkation will confiscate any alcohol, including beer, and it will not be returned during the cruise.

What happens if you try to sneak beer on a Princess cruise?

Attempting to bring beer onboard may result in the alcohol being confiscated and stored until the end of the voyage. Repeated violations could lead to additional penalties, including restrictions on future alcohol purchases.

Does Princess Cruise Line offer beer packages instead?

Yes, Princess Cruises offers beer and beverage packages, including the Premier Beverage Package, which includes draft and bottled beer. These packages are a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy beer throughout your cruise.

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