Is there free drinking water on cruises?

Quench Your Thirst and Keep Your Wallet Happy: Drinking Water on Cruises

Planning a cruise often involves budgeting for excursions, specialty dining, and perhaps a few tempting cocktails by the pool. But there’s one cost you can almost certainly skip: bottled water. Despite what you might assume, you don’t need to purchase overpriced plastic bottles to stay hydrated on your cruise. The truth is, access to safe and free drinking water is readily available onboard most cruise ships.

Forget the myths you might have heard about suspect tap water. Cruise ships employ sophisticated water purification systems that often exceed the standards of municipal water systems. These systems typically utilize processes like reverse osmosis and UV sterilization to ensure the water is clean, clear, and safe for consumption.

The Tap is Your Friend:

The most convenient source of free water is right in your cabin. Yes, the tap water in your cabin bathroom is perfectly fine to drink. Cruise lines understand the importance of hydration and prioritize providing potable water throughout the ship. Think of it this way: if the water wasn’t safe, they wouldn’t pipe it directly to every guest room.

Comparable Quality, Superior Value:

Many passengers are surprised to learn that the quality of cruise ship tap water is often comparable to, and in some cases, even better than, bottled water. Blind taste tests have even been conducted on some cruises, with participants unable to distinguish between the two. When you consider the environmental impact of plastic waste and the exorbitant cost of bottled water onboard, the clear choice becomes even clearer.

Beyond the Cabin:

Beyond your cabin, you’ll typically find water dispensers available in various locations throughout the ship, such as the buffet areas, fitness centers, and sometimes even on the pool deck. These dispensers usually offer both chilled and room-temperature water, making it easy to fill up your reusable water bottle before heading out for the day.

Hydrate Smart, Not Hard:

Instead of shelling out for unnecessary bottled water, bring a reusable water bottle from home. This is not only a cost-effective approach but also an environmentally conscious one. Take advantage of the readily available and safe tap water, and the conveniently located water dispensers.

So, when you’re packing for your cruise, leave the bulk bottled water at home. Save your money for more exciting experiences, and stay hydrated the smart way. Enjoy your voyage knowing that quenching your thirst won’t break the bank.