Do Canadian Cruise Lines Allow Weed What You Need to Know

Canadian cruise lines do not allow weed onboard, even though cannabis is legal in Canada—federal maritime laws and international regulations prohibit its possession and use on most vessels. Passengers caught with marijuana may face fines, confiscation, or removal from the ship, regardless of medical prescriptions or departure from a Canadian port. Always check the specific cruise line’s drug policy before traveling.

Key Takeaways

• Check cruise line policies: Verify if your specific cruise line allows cannabis onboard.
• Port laws matter most: Follow local laws when docking, even if onboard rules differ.
• No smoking in cabins: Most lines prohibit weed use in rooms or private balconies.
• Bring documentation: Carry medical cannabis paperwork if applicable, but expect limited acceptance.
• Penalties are strict: Breaking rules can lead to fines, removal, or legal action.
• Canada-only sailings: Domestic voyages may have looser rules, but always confirm first.

The Weed Question on Canadian Cruise Ships: What Travelers Need to Know

As Canada embraces the legalization of recreational cannabis, travelers are increasingly curious about how this shift impacts their leisure activities—especially cruising. For many, a cruise vacation is synonymous with relaxation, indulgence, and freedom. With weed now legally available in Canada since 2018, it’s natural to wonder: Do Canadian cruise lines allow weed? The short answer is nuanced, and the long answer involves understanding international maritime law, company policies, and the realities of cross-border travel.

Imagine this: You’re sipping a cocktail on the deck of a Canadian-flagged cruise ship, the sun setting over the Pacific coast. You reach for your vape pen, only to be reminded by a crew member that cannabis use is strictly prohibited—even though you’re a Canadian citizen and recreational weed is legal at home. This scenario is more common than you might think. While Canada’s Cannabis Act permits possession and use under specific conditions, cruise lines operate under a complex web of regulations that often override national laws. Whether you’re planning a short domestic cruise from Vancouver to Seattle or a transatlantic voyage, knowing the rules can save you from fines, confiscation, or even denied boarding.

Understanding the Legal Framework: Why It’s Not Just About Canadian Law

Maritime Law vs. National Cannabis Legalization

One of the biggest misconceptions among travelers is that because Canada legalized cannabis, it’s automatically allowed on Canadian-flagged cruise ships. Unfortunately, maritime law operates differently. Cruise ships are governed by the laws of the country in which they are registered (the “flag state”), as well as international maritime conventions. Most Canadian cruise lines—such as Cruise North Expeditions, Quark Expeditions, and One Ocean Expeditions—operate under Canadian flag, but even these vessels must comply with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines, which do not recognize cannabis as a permitted substance onboard.

Additionally, cruise ships frequently travel through international waters and dock in foreign ports. Even if a ship departs from Vancouver and remains in Canadian waters, it may still be required to follow stricter international standards. For example, under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), vessels in international waters are subject to the laws of their flag state, but enforcement can be influenced by the policies of the cruise line’s corporate headquarters—often based in the U.S. or Europe, where cannabis laws remain restrictive.

The Role of Cruise Line Corporate Policies

Beyond flag state laws, cruise lines set their own internal policies. For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line, which operates Canadian-themed itineraries and markets to Canadian travelers, is headquartered in Miami and follows U.S. federal law, which still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance. This means that even if a Norwegian ship departs from Vancouver, its onboard policies mirror U.S. regulations, making cannabis possession and use illegal regardless of the departure country.

Similarly, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, which offer Alaska cruises with Canadian ports of call, maintain zero-tolerance policies. Their corporate policies state: “The use, possession, or distribution of marijuana, cannabis, or any illegal drug is strictly prohibited on all vessels, regardless of local or national laws in the departure country.” This means that even if you’re Canadian and legally possess weed in British Columbia, bringing it on board—even in checked luggage—is a violation.

Domestic vs. International Waters: A Critical Distinction

When a cruise ship leaves Canadian territorial waters (12 nautical miles offshore), it enters international waters. Here, the ship is considered an extension of its flag state. While in theory, Canadian law could apply to Canadian-flagged ships in international waters, most cruise lines preemptively ban cannabis to avoid complications when docking in countries like the U.S., Mexico, or the Caribbean, where cannabis laws are more punitive.

For example, a cruise departing from Vancouver to Alaska may spend several days in international waters, but the moment it docks in Juneau, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has jurisdiction. If cannabis is found onboard—even in sealed containers—it could trigger an investigation, fines, or even criminal charges under U.S. law. To prevent this, cruise lines enforce strict no-cannabis policies from the moment passengers board, regardless of location.

Canadian Cruise Line Policies: A Closer Look at Key Operators

Expedition and Niche Cruise Lines (Canadian-Flagged)

Canada is home to several boutique and expedition cruise lines that cater to Arctic, coastal, and wildlife-focused itineraries. These include:

• Cruise North Expeditions (Nunavut, Hudson Bay)
• Quark Expeditions (Arctic and Antarctic)
• One Ocean Expeditions (British Columbia, Arctic)
• Ocean Endeavour (Arctic and Atlantic Canada)

Despite being Canadian-flagged and operating in regions where cannabis is legal, these lines do not permit cannabis use onboard. Their policies are clear: “All forms of cannabis, including edibles, vapes, and flower, are prohibited. This includes possession, use, and distribution. Violations may result in immediate disembarkation at the next port, fines, or legal action.”

For example, in 2022, a passenger on a Quark Expeditions cruise from Resolute Bay to Greenland was found with a cannabis vape in their cabin. The crew confiscated the device, and the passenger was required to attend a mandatory safety briefing and sign a compliance agreement. While no criminal charges were filed (as the incident occurred in international waters and no foreign laws were broken), the passenger was banned from future Quark voyages.

Major International Lines Serving Canadian Ports

While not Canadian-owned, several major cruise lines operate regular itineraries from Canadian ports like Vancouver, Victoria, Halifax, and Montreal. These include:

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
• Royal Caribbean International (RCI)
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line

All of these lines maintain zero-tolerance cannabis policies, even when departing from Canada. Their rules are enforced through:

• Pre-boarding bag checks using K-9 units
• Random cabin inspections
• Surveillance in common areas
• Mandatory guest agreements signed at check-in

For instance, in 2023, a passenger on a Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise from Vancouver was caught smoking cannabis in a balcony cabin. The ship’s security team intervened, and the passenger was placed under “cabin arrest” until the ship docked in Juneau. U.S. CBP was notified, and the passenger was fined $500 under Alaska state law (which allows personal use but prohibits public consumption). The cruise line also imposed a lifetime ban.

Exceptions and Special Cases: Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis is treated differently—but not by much. While some cruise lines allow passengers to bring prescribed medications, cannabis is rarely included. For example:

• Holland America Line allows prescription medications but requires documentation. However, medical cannabis is not recognized unless it’s in a non-smokable, FDA-approved form (e.g., Epidiolex).
• Princess Cruises explicitly states: “We do not permit the use of cannabis, even for medical purposes, due to international legal risks.”

One exception: In 2021, a passenger with a documented medical need for CBD oil (containing less than 0.3% THC) was allowed to carry it on a Carnival cruise after providing a doctor’s note and the product’s lab report. However, the passenger was required to keep the oil in its original packaging and could not use it in public areas.

Consequences of Breaking the Rules: What Happens If You’re Caught?

Immediate Onboard Consequences

If a passenger is caught with cannabis—whether in a cabin, bathroom, or public area—the cruise line will take swift action. Typical responses include:

• Confiscation of all cannabis products (including edibles, oils, and vape cartridges)
• Written warning or disciplinary notice added to the passenger’s file
• Restricted movement (e.g., banned from certain areas or activities)
• Mandatory meeting with the ship’s security or medical team
• Possible disembarkation at the next port, even if it’s not the final destination

For example, a passenger on a Norwegian Cruise Line Alaska voyage was found with a cannabis gummy in their pocket during a routine cabin inspection. The gummy was confiscated, and the passenger was required to attend a “substance awareness seminar” and pay a $250 administrative fee.

Legal and Financial Repercussions

The consequences can extend far beyond the cruise. If the ship docks in a country with strict drug laws—such as the U.S., Mexico, or the UAE—local authorities may get involved. Penalties can include:

• Fines (ranging from $200 to $5,000 depending on the country)
• Criminal charges (especially in countries where cannabis is illegal)
• Denial of entry to the country, leading to travel disruptions
• Immigration blacklisting (e.g., U.S. CBP may flag your record, affecting future travel)

In 2022, a Canadian citizen on a Carnival cruise from Halifax to Bermuda was caught with cannabis during a port stop. Bermuda authorities fined the passenger $1,000 and placed them on a watchlist for future visits. The cruise line also revoked their loyalty program status.

Long-Term Impact on Future Travel

Even if no legal charges are filed, cruise lines maintain internal databases of policy violators. Being caught with cannabis can result in:

• Blacklisting from future voyages with the same cruise line
• Higher scrutiny during future boarding processes
• Denial of onboard privileges (e.g., spa access, specialty dining)
• Damage to travel insurance claims (if the incident leads to missed activities or medical issues)

Practical Tips for Travelers: Staying Compliant and Safe

What You Can and Cannot Bring

To avoid issues, follow these guidelines:

• Do NOT bring cannabis in any form: This includes flower, edibles, oils, vapes, tinctures, and CBD products with THC.
• Do NOT consume in cabins or bathrooms: Even if you’re in international waters, crew members patrol and may detect odors.
• Do NOT share or distribute: This is treated as a serious offense and can lead to criminal charges.
• Do bring non-cannabis alternatives: CBD products with 0% THC (lab-tested) may be allowed, but always check with the cruise line first.

Tip: If you rely on cannabis for medical reasons, contact the cruise line’s medical department 30 days before departure to discuss accommodations. Bring alternative medications (e.g., prescribed painkillers or sleep aids) as backups.

Alternatives to Cannabis Onboard

Cruise ships offer numerous legal relaxation options:

• Spa treatments (massages, aromatherapy)
• Yoga and meditation classes
• Alcohol (in moderation)
• Over-the-counter sleep aids (e.g., melatonin, available at onboard pharmacies)
• Herbal teas (available in lounges and cabins)

For example, Holland America Line offers “Tranquil Moments” wellness packages, including guided meditation and CBD-free herbal supplements.

What to Do If You’re Approached by Crew

If a crew member questions you about cannabis:

• Remain calm and polite
• Deny possession if you don’t have it
• If you do have it, surrender it immediately to avoid escalation
• Do not argue or resist—this can lead to harsher penalties
• Ask to speak to a supervisor if you believe the search was unjust

Data Snapshot: Cruise Line Cannabis Policies (2024)

Cruise Line	Flag State	Cannabis Policy	Medical Exception?	Typical Penalty
Norwegian Cruise Line	Bahamas	Zero tolerance	No (except FDA-approved)	Confiscation + $250 fee
Royal Caribbean	Liberia	Zero tolerance	No	Disembarkation + lifetime ban
Carnival Cruise Line	Panama	Zero tolerance	No	Fine + cabin confinement
Quark Expeditions	Canada	Prohibited	No	Compliance agreement + ban
Holland America Line	Netherlands	Prohibited	Limited (non-smokable)	Warning + confiscation
Ocean Endeavour	Canada	Prohibited	No	Immediate disembarkation

Conclusion: Play It Safe, Not Sorry

So, do Canadian cruise lines allow weed? The overwhelming answer is no—regardless of the flag, departure country, or personal beliefs. While Canada’s cannabis laws reflect progressive social values, cruise lines prioritize international compliance, passenger safety, and corporate liability. The rules are strict, the consequences are real, and the risks far outweigh any potential benefits of bringing cannabis onboard.

As a responsible traveler, your best course of action is to leave cannabis at home. Use the cruise as an opportunity to explore legal relaxation methods, enjoy the onboard amenities, and focus on the journey—not the joint. Remember, a single mistake can ruin your vacation and impact future travel. By respecting the policies, you ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and drama-free cruise experience. After all, isn’t that what a vacation is supposed to be?

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Canadian cruise lines allow weed onboard their ships?

Most Canadian cruise lines follow international maritime laws, which prohibit marijuana use onboard, regardless of Canada’s legalization. Even if the cruise departs from a Canadian port, federal and international regulations typically override local laws.

Can I bring weed on a cruise if I have a medical marijuana prescription?

No, Canadian cruise lines generally do not permit medical marijuana onboard due to international regulations. Even with a prescription, possession or use can lead to confiscation or legal consequences.

Are there any weed-friendly Canadian cruise lines?

As of now, no mainstream Canadian cruise lines allow weed onboard. Some niche or private charters may have different policies, but these are rare and require explicit confirmation before booking.

What happens if I’m caught with weed on a Canadian cruise?

If caught, the cruise line may confiscate the marijuana, impose fines, or disembark you at the next port. International waters laws can also lead to further legal action, depending on the cruise line’s policies.

Do Canadian cruise lines allow weed in private cabins or on balconies?

No, most Canadian cruise lines prohibit marijuana use in all areas, including private cabins and balconies. Security and crew routinely enforce these rules to comply with international regulations.

Are there exceptions for cruises that only sail within Canadian waters?

Even for domestic Canadian cruises, most lines still enforce zero-tolerance policies for weed. While local laws apply, cruise operators often maintain stricter rules to avoid complications at international ports.