Expert: Linda - 3/24/2009

Question
Hey Linda.  You answered a question for me a month ago about the price of alcoholic drinks onboard the cruise.  Me and my boyfriend are pretty big drinkers and we are all about trying not to go bankrupt from the bars on this cruise.  You mentioned smuggleing bevs onboard.  I know I have read that if alchoholic bevs are found during checking in that they will be confiscated but that is the least of our worries.  I am interested in knowing what would happen (besides loosing your drinks)if you are caught smuggleing.  Is there any risk of being not allowed on the ship?   
If there is no risk of being not allowed onboard the cruise, what have you found is the best way to smuggle onboard?  I have a friend who says she pilled in 30 cans of beer in her suitcase that she checked in.  If you are able to sneak that in do you have a fridge or ice available in your cabin where you can keep the drinks cold?

Thanks for your thoughts!

Sarah

Answer
Sarah, we smuggle booze on board and STILL spend almost the amount of the cruise (for one of us)

I drink wine, so put 2 boxes of wine in my checked luggage.  Hubby brings vidka in water bottles still with the plastic on (6 pack).

Yes, if caught, they will be confiscated, but you won't be denied boarding.  Cruise lines used to allow liquor on board, but of course, there always needs to be people that spoil it for the masses.

depends on your ship, read the brochure about the fridge.  As far as ice, it's never farther away than a call to your room steward.  If you and boyfriend drink at certain times of the day, say 2 PM, before dinner at 8...then ask your steward if he can have a bucket of ice waiting for you at these times.  also make sure you buy a drink from one of the OUTSIDE bars so you get the plastic glass that you can then take back to your room if you wish.  No glass is served outside...for obvious reasons...

Just plan on spending a lot more than you think you will for booze and don't worry about it...it's your vacation.....

Linda