Can You Take Soda on Norwegian Cruise Line A Complete Guide

Yes, you can bring soda on Norwegian Cruise Line, but only in limited quantities—up to 12 standard 12-oz cans or bottles per person—and they must be carried on during embarkation, not checked in. Glass containers and alcoholic beverages are prohibited, so pack smart to avoid confiscation and enjoy your favorite drinks at sea.

Key Takeaways

• Bring unopened soda: Norwegian Cruise Line allows sealed, non-alcoholic beverages like soda in carry-ons.
• Check size limits: Each soda container must be 12 oz or smaller to comply with policies.
• No glass bottles: Only plastic or aluminum soda containers are permitted onboard.
• Purchase onboard: Save hassle by buying soda via drink packages or à la carte options.
• Declare at security: Always declare soda to avoid confiscation during embarkation checks.
• Limit quantities: Pack reasonably—excessive amounts may be denied at boarding.

Why Bringing Your Own Soda Matters on a Cruise

Imagine this: you’ve just boarded the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship, the sun is setting, and you’re ready to relax with your favorite soda. But as you head to your stateroom, you realize you forgot to pack it. You head to the onboard café, only to discover that a single can of soda costs $3.50. Multiply that by 7 days, 3 drinks a day, and suddenly, you’re looking at a $70+ soda bill. That’s where the question “can you take soda on Norwegian Cruise Line” becomes more than just a passing thought—it’s a budget-saving necessity.

For many cruisers, soda is more than a drink; it’s comfort, routine, and sometimes even a caffeine fix. Whether you’re a die-hard Diet Coke lover, a root beer fanatic, or someone who just can’t start the day without an iced tea, the idea of paying premium prices for something you usually get for a dollar at home can feel frustrating. But here’s the good news: NCL’s policies around bringing your own food and drinks aren’t as strict as some other cruise lines. That means with a little planning, you can bring soda onboard—and save a bundle in the process.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Official Policy on Bringing Soda

Let’s cut to the chase: yes, you can take soda on Norwegian Cruise Line ships—with some important rules and limitations. Unlike cruise lines that ban all outside food and drinks, NCL has a more relaxed approach, especially when it comes to non-alcoholic beverages. But don’t just assume you can roll up with a 24-pack of Pepsi and call it a day. There are specific guidelines you need to follow to avoid disappointment (or confiscation) at embarkation.

What the Policy Says

According to Norwegian Cruise Line’s official website, guests are allowed to bring non-alcoholic beverages onboard during embarkation day. This includes:

• Canned or bottled soda (plastic or aluminum)
• Juices in sealed containers
• Water bottles (up to 12 per person)
• Sports drinks and energy drinks

However, there are strict limits on the volume and type of beverages allowed. You can bring up to 12 standard-sized (12 oz) cans or bottles per person on embarkation day. This limit applies to all non-alcoholic drinks combined, not just soda. So if you bring 6 cans of soda and 6 bottles of water, you’re at the limit.

What’s Not Allowed

While soda is permitted, there are a few exceptions and items that are prohibited:

• Glass bottles (even if unopened) – these are banned due to safety concerns
• Alcoholic beverages (including beer, wine, and spirits) – these are confiscated at security and returned at the end of the cruise
• Large containers (e.g., 2-liter bottles) – these exceed the 12 oz size limit and are not permitted
• Homemade or opened drinks – all beverages must be factory-sealed

One cruiser shared a story of bringing a 2-liter bottle of Dr Pepper “because it was on sale.” Security politely explained the rules and had to confiscate it. “I learned my lesson,” they said. “Stick to 12 oz cans—it’s the only way.”

How Security Handles Outside Beverages

When you arrive at the port, your luggage and carry-ons go through a security screening process similar to an airport. Security personnel will check for prohibited items, including glass and large containers. They’re trained to look for sealed, non-glass beverages within the 12-can limit. If you exceed the limit or bring something not allowed, they’ll either ask you to discard it or store it for the duration of the cruise (and return it on disembarkation).

Pro tip: pack your soda in clear, resealable bags or a transparent tote. This makes it easier for security to see what you’re bringing and speeds up the screening process. I once saw a family try to sneak in a case of soda in a duffel bag—security opened it, counted the cans, and made them leave half behind. A clear bag would have saved them time and hassle.

Smart Ways to Bring Soda Onboard Without Breaking the Rules

Now that you know the rules, let’s talk strategy. Bringing soda on a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation doesn’t have to be stressful or wasteful. With a few smart moves, you can stay hydrated (or caffeinated) without overspending or running afoul of the rules.

1. Stick to the 12-Can Limit Per Person

The golden rule: 12 cans or bottles per guest. This includes everyone in your stateroom—kids, adults, even infants. If you’re a family of four, that’s 48 cans total. That’s a solid supply for a 7-day cruise, especially if you’re also using the free water stations and coffee/tea service.

Example: A family of four planning a 7-day cruise could bring:

• 12 cans of soda per person = 48 cans
• Plus 12 water bottles per person (if desired)
• Or mix in juice boxes for kids

This gives you flexibility without breaking the rules.

2. Choose Canned Soda Over Bottles

While both are allowed, aluminum cans are the safer bet. They’re lighter, easier to pack, and take up less space. Plus, NCL’s staterooms have small refrigerators, and cans stack neatly. Plastic bottles can leak (especially if they’ve been in a hot car), and glass is a no-go.

Bonus: many cruise ports have recycling bins, so you can dispose of cans responsibly.

3. Pack Smart: Use a Cooler Tote or Insulated Bag

Don’t just throw your soda in a random bag. Use a collapsible insulated cooler tote or a reusable shopping bag with a lining. These keep drinks cool during transit and make it easier to carry them from the port to your stateroom. I recommend something with a zipper or drawstring to prevent spills.

One cruiser I spoke with used a soft-sided cooler with wheels—perfect for families with multiple drinks. “It doubled as a beach bag later in the cruise,” she said. “Two birds, one stone.”

4. Consider Shipping Soda to the Port (Advanced Option)

For those with a longer cruise or special dietary needs (e.g., sugar-free, rare flavors), consider shipping soda directly to the port. Many major cruise ports (like Miami, Port Canaveral, and Seattle) have package receiving services. You can order from Amazon, Walmart, or a local store and have it delivered to a partner locker or hotel near the terminal.

Important: check with the port’s official website or NCL’s customer service to confirm if they accept outside deliveries. Some require you to use a specific courier or pickup location.

5. Use Your Luggage Strategically

If you’re checking a suitcase, you can pack soda in the bottom layer, wrapped in clothes to prevent crushing. But remember: only bring soda on embarkation day. If you’re on a multi-day cruise with a turnaround port (like a repositioning cruise), you can’t bring more soda on during the trip. The 12-can limit applies only at the start.

Onboard Alternatives: Soda Packages and Free Options

While bringing your own soda is a great cost-saver, it’s not the only way to enjoy drinks on NCL. The line offers several onboard alternatives that might suit your needs—especially if you don’t want to lug cans through the airport.

The Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP)

NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package is one of the most comprehensive in the industry. For a daily rate (usually $99–$119 per person, depending on the cruise), you get unlimited access to:

• All soda brands (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Sprite, etc.)
• Specialty coffees and teas
• Wine, beer, and cocktails (up to $15 per drink)
• Non-alcoholic cocktails and smoothies

Is it worth it? For soda lovers, the math can work out. If you drink 3 sodas a day at $3.50 each, that’s $24.50 for a 7-day cruise. The UBP pays for itself if you’re also enjoying alcohol or specialty drinks. But if you only want soda, the package is overkill.

Free Soda and Water Stations

NCL has complimentary soda and water stations on every ship, usually located in the main atrium or buffet areas. These offer:

• Fountain soda (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.)
• Filtered water
• Iced tea and lemonade (varies by ship)

You can refill your reusable water bottle or use a cup from the station. This is a great option for staying hydrated between meals or during shore excursions. Just remember: you can’t take a full cup back to your stateroom—it’s for immediate consumption only.

Coffee, Tea, and Juice at the Buffet

The main dining room and buffet offer free coffee, tea, milk, and fruit juices at breakfast and lunch. While not soda, these are good alternatives for non-cola drinkers. Some ships even have self-serve iced tea and lemonade dispensers.

Specialty Soda and Imported Brands

If you’re a fan of niche sodas (like Mexican Coke, craft root beer, or imported ginger beer), you’re out of luck with the free stations. But NCL’s bars and lounges often sell these at a premium. Expect to pay $5–$8 per bottle. For true soda connoisseurs, this might be worth it—but it’s not a budget option.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even seasoned cruisers make mistakes when bringing soda onboard. Here are the most common pitfalls—and how to dodge them.

Mistake #1: Bringing Glass Bottles

This is the #1 error. Glass is fragile, heavy, and banned on all cruise lines for safety reasons. Even if it’s unopened, security will confiscate it. Stick to aluminum or plastic.

Real story: A couple brought a case of glass-bottled root beer as a gift for their stateroom attendant. It was confiscated at security. They ended up buying a bottle onboard instead—for $12. Lesson: save the glass for home.

Mistake #2: Exceeding the 12-Can Limit

Some families think they can “split” a case of soda among four people. But the limit is per person, not per group. If you bring 24 cans for a family of two, security will make you leave 12 behind. Count carefully before you pack.

Mistake #3: Bringing Soda Mid-Cruise

The 12-can rule applies only on embarkation day. If you’re on a 14-day cruise and stop in a port, you can’t bring more soda onboard during the trip. The only exception: if you’re on a repositioning cruise with a new embarkation point, you may get a new allowance—but check with NCL first.

Mistake #4: Forgetting About Kids’ Drinks

Kids count toward the 12-can limit. If you have two adults and two kids, you get 48 cans total. Don’t assume you can bring extra for the kids. Plan accordingly—maybe include juice boxes or flavored water to stretch your supply.

Mistake #5: Not Checking Ship-Specific Rules

While NCL’s policy is consistent across most ships, there may be minor differences based on the itinerary or port of origin. For example, cruises departing from Europe may have stricter customs regulations. Always check NCL’s Guest Travel Information email or website before packing.

Data: Cost Comparison – Bringing vs. Buying Soda on NCL

To help you decide whether bringing soda is worth it, here’s a cost comparison based on a 7-day cruise for a family of four.

Option	Quantity	Cost (Est.)	Notes
Bring Your Own (12 cans/person)	48 cans	$24–$30 (at $0.50–$0.65/can)	Must follow NCL’s rules; no glass, max 12 oz
Buy Onboard (à la carte)	48 cans	$168 (at $3.50/can)	Available at bars, cafés, and room service
Ultimate Beverage Package	Unlimited	$693–$833 (4 people x $99–$119 x 7 days)	Best for drinkers who also want alcohol
Free Soda Stations	Unlimited (fountain only)	$0	No cans; only for immediate consumption

As you can see, bringing your own soda saves up to $140+ for a family of four. Even if you only drink half the cans, it’s still a smart move. The free stations help, but they don’t replace the convenience of having your favorite brand in your stateroom.

Final Tips: Making the Most of Your Soda Strategy

Bringing soda on a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation can be a game-changer for your budget and comfort. But it’s not just about saving money—it’s about planning, preparation, and knowing the rules.

Here’s my final advice:

• Pack early—don’t wait until the night before. Buy your soda a few days in advance so it’s not sitting in a hot trunk.
• Label your bags—use a luggage tag with your name and stateroom number. This helps if your bag gets misplaced.
• Use the fridge wisely—NCL staterooms have a small fridge, but space is limited. Prioritize your favorite drinks.
• Be kind to the crew—don’t ask your stateroom attendant to store extra soda. They’re not allowed to, and it’s not fair to put them in that position.
• Have a backup plan—even if you bring soda, use the free stations for water and tea. It’s a smart way to stretch your supply.

At the end of the day, the answer to “can you take soda on Norwegian Cruise Line” is a resounding yes—but with smart planning. Whether you’re a soda snob, a budget-conscious cruiser, or just someone who likes to keep things simple, bringing your own drinks is a small step that makes a big difference. So pack those cans, enjoy your favorite fizz, and sail away knowing you’ve got the inside scoop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take soda on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) allows passengers to bring non-alcoholic beverages, including soda, onboard in reasonable quantities for personal consumption. However, large cases or bulk amounts may be confiscated at the discretion of security.

What is the limit for bringing soda on Norwegian Cruise Line?

NCL doesn’t specify an exact volume limit, but soda must be in sealed, unopened containers and for personal use only. Excessive quantities (e.g., multiple cases) may be treated as commercial use and prohibited.

Are there any restrictions on the type of soda I can bring on an NCL cruise?

You can bring regular or diet soda, but all drinks must be in original, factory-sealed containers. Homemade, opened, or repackaged beverages are not permitted.

Can you take soda on Norwegian Cruise Line if it’s part of a special package or promotion?

Even if you’ve purchased a beverage package, you can still bring soda onboard, but it must follow the same rules: sealed, unopened, and for personal use. The package doesn’t override the cruise line’s beverage policy.

Is there a fee for bringing soda on Norwegian Cruise Line?

No, NCL doesn’t charge a corkage or handling fee for personal soda. However, if you try to bring excessive amounts or sell drinks onboard, penalties may apply.

Can I bring soda on Norwegian Cruise Line for my kids?

Absolutely! Parents can pack soda for children in sealed, unopened containers. Just ensure it’s for personal use and not in bulk quantities that could raise concerns.