Can You Bring Water Bottles Onto Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Yes, you can bring water bottles onto Royal Caribbean cruise ships, but they must be factory-sealed and non-alcoholic to comply with security policies. Each guest is allowed up to 12 standard-sized bottles, making it easy to stay hydrated without relying on costly onboard purchases.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can bring water bottles on Royal Caribbean cruises, but check size and quantity limits first.
• Pack reusable bottles to save money and reduce plastic waste onboard.
• Glass bottles are prohibited for safety; opt for plastic or metal instead.
• Pre-purchase bottled water via Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages for convenience.
• Declare all liquids at security to avoid confiscation or delays.
• Refill stations are available on most ships—bring an empty bottle to use them.

Can You Bring Water Bottles Onto Royal Caribbean Cruise Line: What You Need to Know

Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise is an exciting adventure, filled with sun-soaked decks, world-class entertainment, and endless dining options. But one question that often arises for first-time and seasoned cruisers alike is: Can you bring water bottles onto Royal Caribbean Cruise Line? Whether you’re a health-conscious traveler, trying to save money, or simply prefer the taste of your own purified water, knowing the cruise line’s policies on bringing your own beverages can make a big difference in your overall experience.

Royal Caribbean, like many major cruise lines, has specific rules about what you can and cannot bring onboard, especially when it comes to food and drinks. These policies are in place for safety, security, and to protect the cruise line’s onboard revenue streams. However, there are nuances to these rules—especially regarding water bottles—that every cruiser should understand before packing. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the current policies, explain what types of water bottles are allowed, explore the reasoning behind the restrictions, and offer practical tips to help you stay hydrated without breaking the rules or your budget. From reusable bottles to sealed factory-packed water, we’ll cover it all.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Beverage and Water Bottle Policy

Royal Caribbean’s official policy on bringing beverages onboard is designed to balance passenger convenience with operational and financial considerations. While the cruise line offers a wide array of drink packages and onboard bars, they do allow certain types of drinks to be brought on during embarkation—but with important limitations.

General Beverage Policy Overview

According to Royal Caribbean’s current Carry-On Beverage Policy, passengers are permitted to bring non-alcoholic beverages onboard during embarkation, but these must meet specific criteria. The key points include:

• Each guest may bring up to two sealed, unopened 12-ounce (355 ml) cans or bottles of water, soda, or juice per day of the cruise.
• These beverages must be in original, factory-sealed packaging and not in reusable or refillable containers.
• Liquids over 100 ml (3.4 oz) must comply with TSA liquid restrictions when flying to the cruise port, but once at the terminal, Royal Caribbean’s policy applies.
• Alcohol is not permitted in carry-on luggage during embarkation (though it can be purchased and brought on later under certain conditions).

This means that if you’re on a 7-night cruise, you can legally bring up to 14 sealed water bottles (2 per day x 7 days) in your carry-on luggage. However, this does not include reusable water bottles filled with water before embarkation.

Why the Restrictions Exist

Royal Caribbean enforces these rules for several reasons:

• Security: Sealed containers reduce the risk of tampering or smuggling of contraband.
• Health and Safety: Unsealed bottles could be contaminated or pose a hazard if dropped.
• Revenue Protection: Beverage sales, especially premium drinks and water, are a significant source of onboard revenue. Allowing unlimited personal water would impact profitability.
• Operational Efficiency: Managing thousands of passengers with open containers creates logistical challenges during embarkation and security screening.

It’s also worth noting that these policies are enforced at the terminal by Royal Caribbean staff, not just by security personnel. If your bag is flagged during the x-ray scan, staff may inspect and confiscate non-compliant items.

Types of Water Bottles Allowed and Not Allowed

When it comes to water bottles, the distinction between factory-sealed and reusable is crucial. Understanding this difference can save you from having your water confiscated at the terminal.

Allowed: Factory-Sealed Water Bottles

You can bring the following types of water bottles onboard:

• Commercially bottled water in plastic or glass, such as Dasani, Aquafina, Fiji, or Evian.
• Bottles must be completely sealed with the manufacturer’s tamper-evident cap or seal.
• Maximum size: 12 ounces (355 ml) per bottle.
• No homemade or refilled bottles—even if they appear sealed.

Example: A 12-pack of 12-ounce Dasani water bottles in a sealed case is acceptable. You can bring one pack per day of your cruise (e.g., 7 packs for a 7-night trip).

Tip: Pack these in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags. Checked bags are not screened at the terminal, but carry-ons are, and staff will remove non-compliant items before boarding.

Not Allowed: Reusable or Refillable Water Bottles (Initially)

You cannot bring a reusable water bottle filled with water at embarkation. This includes:

• Stainless steel bottles (e.g., Hydro Flask, Yeti, Klean Kanteen)
• Glass or BPA-free plastic refillable bottles
• Collapsible silicone bottles
• Any bottle with water in it—even if it’s empty but previously used

Why? These are considered “open containers” and are not permitted under the carry-on beverage policy. However, there’s a workaround (covered below).

Important: Empty reusable bottles are allowed and highly recommended. You can pack them dry in your luggage or carry-on, and fill them once onboard.

Smart Strategy: Use Reusable Bottles Onboard

While you can’t bring a filled reusable bottle, you can bring an empty one and use it throughout your cruise. Royal Caribbean provides:

• Fresh drinking water stations on every deck, especially near the elevators and public restrooms.
• Water fountains in most public areas, including the pool decks and fitness centers.
• Complimentary water at all dining venues (main dining room, Windjammer Café, etc.).

Pro Tip: Bring a collapsible silicone bottle or a lightweight stainless steel bottle with a leak-proof cap. These are easy to pack, durable, and perfect for excursions. Just remember to empty it before disembarking for shore visits if you’re not allowed to carry liquids on the tender or shuttle.

Cost Comparison: Bringing Water vs. Buying Onboard

One of the biggest motivators for bringing water onboard is cost. Let’s break down the financial implications to help you decide the best strategy for your cruise.

Onboard Water Pricing

Royal Caribbean sells bottled water at premium prices. Here are typical costs (as of 2024):

• 12 oz bottled water: $3.50 – $4.50 per bottle
• 16.9 oz (500 ml) water: $5.00 – $6.00
• Water packages: $15 – $30 per day (includes 10–15 bottles, refillable bottle, and sometimes a discount)

For a family of four on a 7-night cruise, buying water daily could cost:

• 2 bottles per person per day x 4 people x 7 days x $4 = $224
• With a water package: $20/day x 4 people x 7 days = $560 (but includes extras)

This makes bringing your own water a potentially huge savings—especially if you’re traveling with kids or have high water consumption needs.

Cost of Bringing Your Own Water

Let’s compare:

• 12-ounce bottled water (store price): $0.50 – $1.00 per bottle
• For 14 bottles (2 per day for 7 days): $7 – $14 total
• Shipping or delivery to cruise port: $0–$20 (if using a service like Ship & Shore or Port Everglades Delivery)

Net Savings: You could save $200–$500 by bringing your own water, depending on your consumption and package options.

Data Table: Water Cost Comparison for a 7-Night Cruise (Family of 4)

Option	Quantity	Cost per Unit	Total Cost	Notes
Buy onboard (12 oz)	56 bottles	$4.00	$224	2 bottles/person/day
Buy onboard (water package)	4 packages	$20/day	$560	Includes 10 bottles/day/person + refillable bottle
Bring own (12 oz sealed)	56 bottles	$0.75	$42	Purchased locally; no shipping
Bring own + delivery	56 bottles	$0.75 + $20 fee	$62	Delivered to port via third party
Use reusable + free water	0 bottles	$0	$0	Fill onboard; best for low-consumption travelers

Takeaway: Bringing your own sealed water is significantly cheaper than buying onboard. Even with delivery fees, you’ll save at least 70% compared to onboard pricing. For light drinkers, using a reusable bottle and refilling at water stations is the most economical (and eco-friendly) option.

Smart Packing Tips: How to Bring Water Without Issues

Now that you know the rules and benefits, let’s talk strategy. How can you bring water onboard without running afoul of security or losing your bottles at the terminal?

1. Pack in Carry-On Only

Never pack sealed water bottles in your checked luggage. While checked bags aren’t screened for liquids at the terminal, if your bag is randomly selected for inspection, non-compliant items may be removed. More importantly, you won’t have access to your water until your room is ready (usually 1–2 PM). Carry-on ensures you have water immediately after boarding.

Tip: Use a lightweight backpack or tote bag specifically for your beverages and essential items.

2. Use a Water Delivery Service

If you’re flying to your departure port and can’t bring water through TSA, consider using a port delivery service. Companies like:

• Port Everglades Delivery (Fort Lauderdale)
• Port Canaveral Express
• Cruise & Ship (Miami, Port Canaveral, Galveston)

…will deliver sealed water, snacks, and other essentials directly to your cabin on embarkation day. Prices range from $15–$30 for delivery, plus the cost of the items. This is a convenient option for families or large groups.

3. Buy at the Port Terminal

Most major cruise terminals (e.g., PortMiami, Port Everglades, Port Canaveral) have convenience stores or vending machines inside or just outside the terminal. You can purchase sealed water bottles there and carry them on immediately. While slightly more expensive than grocery stores, it’s still cheaper than onboard prices.

Pro Tip: Arrive early and buy water before the security line gets long. Keep your receipt in case you’re questioned.

4. Use a Refillable Bottle with a Filter

For eco-conscious travelers, consider a water bottle with a built-in filter (e.g., LARQ, Brita Stainless). These bottles purify tap water, allowing you to refill from any sink or fountain. While you can’t bring a filled one on, you can fill it once onboard and use it throughout the cruise. This reduces plastic waste and saves money.

Note: Some ports (e.g., Caribbean islands) have tap water that’s safe to drink. Others may not. Always check local advisories or use bottled water for excursions.

5. Label Your Water Clearly

To avoid confusion, label your water bottles with your name and room number (use a sticker or marker). This helps if your bag is searched or if you’re storing bottles in a shared cabin fridge.

Special Considerations: Families, Medical Needs, and Excursions

Some passengers have unique needs that require special attention when it comes to water. Here’s how to navigate these situations.

Families with Young Children

Parents of infants or toddlers may need to bring formula, baby water, or juice. Royal Caribbean allows:

• Unopened bottles of baby formula, water, or juice in factory-sealed containers.
• No limit on quantity for infants, but must be for personal use.
• Breast milk and baby food are permitted in any quantity, even if unsealed (declare at security).

Tip: Pack extra bottles in your carry-on for late-night feedings. The main dining room can heat bottles upon request.

Medical and Dietary Needs

If you require specialty water (e.g., distilled, alkaline, or electrolyte-enhanced), you may bring sealed bottles as long as they meet the 12-ounce limit. For larger medical needs:

• Contact Royal Caribbean’s Special Services team before your cruise.
• Submit a request for accommodations, including extra water, refrigeration, or delivery to your cabin.
• They may allow exceptions for medical conditions (e.g., kidney disease, dehydration risk).

Example: A passenger with diabetes may request additional water for hydration and insulin storage. Royal Caribbean is generally accommodating with documentation.

Water for Shore Excursions

On port days, staying hydrated is crucial—especially in hot climates. Here’s how to manage:

• Fill your reusable bottle at the water stations before leaving the ship.
• Check local tap water safety. If unsafe, buy bottled water at the port.
• Bring a collapsible water bottle or insulated bottle to keep water cold.
• Some excursions provide water—check your tour details.

Pro Tip: Many Royal Caribbean excursions include bottled water. If not, carry at least 16–20 oz per person, especially for walking or adventure tours.

Final Thoughts: Stay Hydrated, Save Money, and Cruise Smart

So, can you bring water bottles onto Royal Caribbean Cruise Line? The answer is a nuanced yes—but with important caveats. You can bring up to two sealed, factory-packed 12-ounce water bottles per day of your cruise, and you can (and should) bring an empty reusable bottle to use onboard. While you can’t bring a filled reusable bottle at embarkation, the free water stations and dining options make staying hydrated easy and affordable.

By understanding the policy, planning ahead, and using smart packing strategies, you can save hundreds of dollars, reduce plastic waste, and ensure you and your family stay refreshed throughout your voyage. Whether you choose to bring sealed bottles, use a delivery service, or rely on onboard refills, the key is preparation.

Remember: Royal Caribbean’s rules are designed for safety and fairness, but they also offer flexibility. With a little foresight, you can enjoy your cruise with peace of mind—and a full water bottle in hand. Bon voyage and stay hydrated!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring water bottles onto Royal Caribbean Cruise Line?

Yes, Royal Caribbean allows passengers to bring sealed, non-alcoholic beverages like water bottles onboard in their carry-on luggage. However, they must be in original, unopened packaging to comply with security policies.

What are the size limits for water bottles on Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean permits water bottles in standard sizes (typically up to 1 liter per bottle) as long as they’re factory-sealed. Oversized containers or bulk quantities may be subject to inspection or confiscation.

Can I bring reusable water bottles on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Absolutely! Reusable water bottles are encouraged to reduce waste, and you can refill them at onboard water stations or dining areas. Just ensure they’re empty during security screening to avoid issues.

Are there restrictions on how many water bottles I can bring on Royal Caribbean?

While Royal Caribbean doesn’t specify a strict quantity limit, they recommend reasonable amounts for personal use. Excessive quantities (e.g., cases of water) may be treated as commercial shipments and denied.

Can you bring water bottles onto Royal Caribbean flights for cruise transfers?

TSA rules apply during flights: empty reusable bottles can pass through security, but filled ones must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Pack sealed water bottles in checked luggage to avoid disposal.

Does Royal Caribbean charge for water, and should I bring my own?

Complimentary drinking water is available at dining venues and hydration stations. Bringing a reusable bottle saves time and money, though sealed bottled water is also sold onboard.