This is the alcohol policy of "cheap fun" people - read why some do it anyway.
In the "Carnival case", besides the "thrill of sneaking something" (alcohol or whatever), most "smugglers" do it because alcohol prices on Carnival cruise ships are not cheap enough. Even if you order liquor through Bon Voyage/Fun Shop (prior to sailing) it's 2-3 times more expensive than if you purchase it at your local liquor store. But - for what is what - some do it simply because Carnival doesn't supply their favorite brand. This "noble crime" case involves people who drink very expensive alcohol and CCL carry's very "mid" shelf liquor brands as their "top" shelf.
The Carnival Bon Voyage/Fun Shops service allows guests to purchase liquor and have it delivered to their staterooms the second day of the sailing. All you need to do is to dial the Carnival Bon Voyage department number (800-522-7648). Remember that the deadline is 1 week prior to sailing. And here's the link to the Carnival Bon Voyage/Fun Shop liquor prices.
Two useful "bringing alcohol on Carnival cruise" tips:
- If you purchase your alcohol from the Fun Shops, you will be allowed to put your booze in a stainless steel flask (or a Carnival tumbler) and carry it around the ship. Be sure not to take it with you while leaving the ship in port - if Carnival personnel find it, they will confiscate the flask when you get back on board! Of course, only if there's alcohol in it! Pack your empty flask in the carry-on bag - if you pack it in checked baggage you'll most probably get called to the "naughty guys room" to open luggage for inspection.
How to smuggle alcohol on Carnival cruises?
This is the smuggler's know-how for sneaking alcohol on Carnival (and all the rest non-all-inclusive (alcohol) cruise lines.
The question how to smuggle alcohol on cruise ships is one of the oldest in the industry. Smuggling alcohol on Carnival cruise ships is against the line's policy - t's forbidden, it's illegal, it's a dangerous for your emotions endeavor - don't do it! Their personnel will check your luggage, and if you get caught the hooch will be confiscated - and basically that's all.
- The confiscated bottle(s)/cans will stored for safekeeping until the morning of the last debarkation (at the end of the sailing, of course), but the "illegal" liquor/water/soda/wine must be in original manufacturer sealed containers (other containers won't be returned). All unsealed liquids will be discarded, without any compensation. The "Rum Runner flask" (which costs around $10) have the best chance to go through security. These flasks are usually smuggled in checked baggage and are almost undetectable. However, if security check your bags for another reason and sees them, the flasks will be taken and not returned. The latest hit is the "Wine Rack"! This is the boob enhancing alcohol bra (on the nice looking lady on the right) for over 25oz/750ml boobs booze of your choice. Turn the pricey fun ship drink deal into your best cheap cruise alcohol deal ever with this revolutionary boob (sorry) booze smuggling device. They are absolutely right by saying this is way better than a regular boob job, and way more cheaper too! Beautiful women look even more beautiful, and save lots of cash on over priced cruise drinks! The sneaking alcohol tool price - now only for US$30! Ahhhhhhhh, same goes with the "BeerBelly" (at US$30, capacity up to 80oz/2,4L). Adults with a record of sneaking alcohol on Carnival ships, buying it for consumption by underage passengers, or with other regular violations of the CCL's beverage policy may end up even with an "early" no-compensation disembarkation.
Summary - you may buy and drink almost all the quantity applicable with the "rules of civility and decent behavior", but only at the onboard bars-lounges-restaurants. Or simply don't drink so much on the boat if prices don't suite you - there are enough call ports on the itinerary, you know! And considering the smuggling/sneaking of alcohol on board - common, you guys, do some splurging while on vacation! It's your Fun Ship time of the year, so pay some respect to the company that provides it, and to all the people working for you on that ship! Be a nice guy, don't be stingy, be fun!
You can share/like/rate our review of the Carnival Cruise Beverage and Alcohol Policy (and our sneaking alcohol on Carnival cruise booze lessons) via the social buttons. Happy Carnival sailings (without or with alcohol included) and cheers to all guys having their best Carnival fun at sea right now!