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The minimum age for drinking alcoholic beverages on board ships is generally dependent upon the area of the world you are visiting and destinations served. Learn more below...
In general terms the minimum age for cruises sailing from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand is 18 years and from North America is 21 years.
This is due to the differences in international laws when it comes to the legal age for Alcohol consumption which must be respected in the same way whilst at sea as they do on land.
There are some cruise lines such as Holland America who have a strict policy of 21 years for all ships and destinations, but this is not always the case as others, such as Royal Caribbean, vary their restrictions dependent upon the destination i.e. Apply an age policy of 21 years for cruises departing from the USA, but reduce this to 18 years for non-US destinations.
There are also some cruise lines such as Azamara Club Cruises and Celebrity Cruises who have a general policy of 21 years, however , where the legal drinking age of the destination is lower than 21, a parent sailing with a child aged between 18 and 20 years old can sign a waiver or consent form allowing them to consume alcohol on board.
Bringing your own alcohol on board is also not generally permitted and if found may be confiscated only to be returned to you at the end of your cruise. Some cruise lines will, however, such as P&O Cruises, permit one or two bottles to be brought on board to be consumed in your cabin.
You should always refer to your individual cruise line policy before travelling – ask our Cruise Experts for the most up to date Alcohol policies for your chosen cruise. Call us today on 0800 019 0063.
Abbie was amazing, so patient and explained everything. Other two ladies were chatty and friendly.
Mrs McBain / April 2026
Always get an excellent service from Stewart Travel Helensburgh staff always courteous and helpful
Mr Wilson / April 2026
Sean from the Belfast branch was great the whole way throughout. We kept making changes to dates and how may people were going which messed up rooms and hotels and Sean never batted an eyelid to help us. He has done us big turn really appreciate it. He’s got the whole thing booked for us under budget and staying in far nicer places than we were expecting will definitely be back because of it. Was always available to help whether it was in the branch, over the fone or email, were all bizz with the holiday. Big shout out to Eamon in the same branch who was another great help and really enjoyed his company as well. Great team and a great run company will 100% be booking all my big holidays through here.
Mr south america holiday / April 2026
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