Can Cruise Scanners Detect Alcohol?

By Robert Palmer

When it comes to cruising, many people wonder about the level of scrutiny they will face regarding their alcohol consumption. One common question that arises is whether cruise scanners can detect alcohol in a passenger’s belongings or bloodstream.

It’s important to note that cruise lines have varying policies on alcohol consumption onboard their ships. Some allow passengers to bring their own alcohol, while others prohibit it entirely. Additionally, many cruises offer unlimited drink packages for an additional fee.

So, can cruise scanners detect alcohol? The answer is both yes and no.

First, let’s discuss the scanners used for baggage screening. These machines are primarily looking for prohibited items such as weapons or illegal drugs. While some cruise lines prohibit passengers from bringing their own alcohol onboard, this is typically due to safety concerns rather than the ability of scanners to detect it.

That being said, if a passenger were to try and sneak alcohol onboard in a container disguised as another item (such as a shampoo bottle), there is a chance that the scanner could pick up on the discrepancy in the container’s density. However, this is not a foolproof method and would likely only work for small amounts of alcohol.

Now let’s talk about detecting alcohol in a passenger’s bloodstream. While cruise ship medical centers are equipped to handle emergencies and illnesses, they do not conduct routine blood tests on passengers for alcohol consumption.

However, if a passenger exhibits signs of extreme intoxication or becomes disruptive due to excessive drinking, they may be subjected to further scrutiny by ship security. This could include breathalyzer tests or other means of determining their blood-alcohol level.

It’s important to understand that excessive drinking can not only lead to dangerous behavior but also put other passengers at risk. Cruise lines have strict policies in place regarding intoxication and reserve the right to remove passengers who pose a threat to themselves or others.

In conclusion, while cruise scanners are primarily used for baggage screening and not specifically designed to detect alcohol, there are still measures in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers onboard. It’s always best to familiarize yourself with your specific cruise line’s alcohol policies and drink responsibly while enjoying your vacation at sea.