Can I drink on Royal Caribbean with parental consent?

The Unwavering Rule: No Underage Drinking on Royal Caribbean, Parental Consent Aside

Dreaming of a Royal Caribbean cruise with the family? Visions of sunny decks, exciting excursions, and maybe even a celebratory drink in hand? While the cruise line promises adventure for all ages, there’s one rule that remains steadfast, regardless of parental wishes: guests under the age of 21 are prohibited from consuming alcohol on Royal Caribbean cruises, even with parental consent.

This policy is not just a suggestion; it’s a strict regulation enforced across the entire Royal Caribbean fleet and even extends to their private destinations like CocoCay and Labadee. Forget the romantic idea of sharing a celebratory toast with your teenager on vacation; it’s simply not allowed.

While some countries and even individual US states might allow underage drinking with parental permission in certain circumstances, Royal Caribbean operates under its own set of rules, governed by maritime law and aiming to maintain a consistent and safe environment for all passengers. This means that even if you, as a parent, legally condone your child drinking in your home state, that authority doesn’t extend to the cruise ship.

Why is this policy so strict?

Royal Caribbean’s unwavering stance stems from a number of key considerations:

• Legal Compliance: Navigating the complexities of international maritime law requires a clear and consistent policy. Enforcing a blanket prohibition is simpler and more legally defensible than trying to track and adhere to the varying alcohol laws of every port and passenger’s home country.
• Safety and Security: Responsible alcohol consumption is crucial in a confined environment like a cruise ship. Underage drinking increases the risk of disruptive behavior, accidents, and even altercations. By enforcing a strict policy, Royal Caribbean aims to minimize potential safety concerns for all guests.
• Corporate Responsibility: Cruise lines have a responsibility to promote responsible alcohol consumption and discourage underage drinking. By setting a clear and firm boundary, Royal Caribbean reinforces this message to its guests.
• Staff Consistency: Trying to implement a policy that distinguishes between passengers with and without parental consent would be extremely difficult for bartenders and other crew members to manage consistently. This could lead to confusion, errors, and potential legal complications.

What are the Alternatives?

While underage guests can’t partake in alcoholic beverages, Royal Caribbean offers a plethora of non-alcoholic options to enjoy. From mocktails and smoothies to specialty coffee and sodas, there are plenty of exciting and refreshing choices available. Encourage your younger family members to explore these options and discover new favorites.

Planning Your Royal Caribbean Cruise:

Before setting sail, it’s essential to understand and respect Royal Caribbean’s alcohol policy. This will help avoid any confusion or disappointment onboard and ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for everyone. Keep in mind that attempting to circumvent the rules, such as providing alcohol to a minor, can result in serious consequences, including being disembarked from the ship.

Ultimately, a Royal Caribbean cruise offers a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. While underage drinking might be off the table, the abundance of activities, entertainment, and delicious food ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can have an unforgettable vacation. Focus on exploring the destinations, enjoying the onboard amenities, and creating quality time together – that’s what truly makes a cruise special.

#Drinkingage #Parentalconsent #Royalcaribbean