Can I Bring Bottled Water on a Cruise? Policies for Every Major Cruise Line
Bringing water onto a cruise ship seems like a simple question, but policies vary significantly by cruise line. Here's what's allowed, what's not, and the smartest strategies for staying hydrated without paying ship prices.
Cruise Line Water Policies
**Royal Caribbean:** Does not allow passengers to bring bottled water. Sell water packages onboard or sell single bottles. Reusable bottles with tap water are allowed.
**Carnival:** Allows 1 case (12 × 12 oz) of bottled water per person in carry-on luggage at embarkation.
**Norwegian Cruise Line:** Does not allow outside beverages other than wine/champagne. Sells water packages and single bottles onboard.
**Celebrity Cruises:** Does not allow water; water packages available for purchase.
**Princess Cruises:** Allows 1 case (24 × 16.9 oz) of water per person in carry-on at embarkation.
**MSC Cruises:** Does not allow outside water bottles; onboard purchase required.
*Policies change — always verify with your specific cruise line before sailing.*
Is Tap Water Safe on Cruise Ships?
Yes. Cruise ship tap water is treated and tested to meet or exceed international health standards. The water is safe to drink directly from the tap in your cabin or from dispensers throughout the ship.
This means the simplest and most sustainable solution is a reusable water bottle — bring it empty, fill it from the cabin tap or filtered water stations onboard.
Buying Water Onboard
If your cruise line doesn't allow outside water, you have options:
- **Buy a water package:** Most lines sell packages of 12–24 bottles for $4–$10 (significantly cheaper per bottle than buying individually) - **Purchase a mini-fridge stocked with water** (available from housekeeping on some ships) - **Use the complimentary beverages:** Coffee, tea, juices at meals, and lemonade/fruit punch at pool bars are typically included
Can I bring water on a cruise in my checked luggage?
Checked luggage is X-rayed and liquid-heavy bags can be flagged. Most cruise lines that allow water specify it must be in carry-on luggage at embarkation. Check your specific cruise line policy.
Can I bring sparkling or flavored water?
This varies by cruise line. Lines that prohibit outside beverages typically apply this rule to all drinks, including sparkling water and flavored drinks. Lines that allow water may also allow sparkling water.
Are water packages worth it on a cruise?
For one-week sailings, water packages are reasonable. If you're fine with tap water in a reusable bottle, you can skip the package entirely.