Are you planning to go on a Holland America cruise but wondering if you can bring your own alcohol? This is a common question among travelers who want to save money or prefer a specific type of drink. Let’s examine the policy of Holland America Line regarding bringing alcohol onboard.
What is Holland America’s Alcohol Policy?
Holland America Line strictly prohibits passengers from bringing any alcoholic beverages aboard their ships. This includes beer, wine, and spirits. The only exception is for guests who want to bring wine or champagne on board for a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon. In this case, the wine or champagne must be packed in carry-on luggage and limited to one bottle per person.
Why Does Holland America Have This Policy?
There are several reasons why cruise lines like Holland America prohibit passengers from bringing their own alcohol onboard. One reason is safety. Alcohol consumption can lead to accidents and injuries, especially if passengers become intoxicated and lose their balance while walking on the ship’s slippery decks.
Another reason is revenue. Cruise lines make a significant amount of money from selling alcoholic beverages onboard. By prohibiting passengers from bringing their own drinks, they can ensure that they maintain control over the prices and availability of alcohol.
What Happens If You Try To Bring Your Own Alcohol?
If you try to bring your own alcohol on board a Holland America ship, it will be confiscated at the security checkpoint. The alcohol will be stored in a secure area until the end of the cruise when it will be returned to you.
In addition, Holland America has the right to revoke your boarding privileges without refund if you violate their alcohol policy. So it’s best to comply with their rules and regulations in order to avoid any inconvenience or additional expenses.
Can You Buy Alcohol Onboard?
Yes, you can buy alcoholic beverages onboard a Holland America ship. They offer a wide selection of drinks including beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits. The prices are comparable to those at a typical bar or restaurant on land.
If you plan to consume alcohol during your cruise, it’s important to budget accordingly as the prices can add up quickly. You may want to consider purchasing a beverage package which can save you money if you plan to drink frequently.
Conclusion
In summary, Holland America Line does not allow passengers to bring their own alcohol onboard their ships except for special occasions with one bottle of wine or champagne per person. The policy is in place for safety and revenue reasons.
If you violate the policy, your alcohol will be confiscated and you may lose your boarding privileges without refund. However, you can buy drinks onboard at prices similar to those on land.