Can You Drink Alcohol on a Cruise Ship at 18?

By Alice Nichols

The legal drinking age in the United States is 21, but can you drink alcohol on a cruise ship at 18? The answer depends on the cruise line, as different companies have different policies. Some cruise lines allow passengers 18 and over to consume alcohol on board with parental consent, while other may only permit passengers 21 and over to drink.

Cruise lines that allow 18-year-olds to drink typically require the presence of a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must be of legal drinking age in their home country, and they must also accompany the 18-year-old passenger while they are consuming alcohol.

The parent or guardian must also sign a document giving their permission for their child to drink. It is important to note that even if a passenger is allowed to consume alcohol, they may still be subject to certain restrictions such as being limited to beer or wine only.

On some ships, 18-year-olds may be permitted to purchase alcoholic beverages with proof of age such as a passport. However, this is not always the case and it is important for passengers under 21 to check with their cruise line prior to embarking on their voyage regarding the policy for consuming alcoholic beverages onboard. It is important to be aware that underage drinking can result in penalties including fines or even disembarkment from the ship at the next port of call.

Conclusion

Can You Drink Alcohol on a Cruise Ship at 18?

The answer depends on the specific cruise line and policies in place by each company. Some cruise lines allow passengers 18 and over to consume alcohol with parental consent while others may only permit passengers 21 and over to drink. It is important for passengers under 21 to check with their cruise line prior to embarking on their voyage regarding the policy for consuming alcoholic beverages onboard.