If you’re planning to go on a cruise, it’s important to know what you can and cannot bring onboard. In addition, there are a few essential items that will make your trip much more comfortable. In this article, we’ll cover both of these important aspects.
What You Cannot Bring Onboard
Before packing your bags, it’s crucial to know the restrictions on prohibited items on cruises. Besides the usual items like firearms, explosives, illegal drugs, and flammable products, sharp objects such as knives and scissors are also banned. Some less obvious items might surprise you as well.
- Alcoholic beverages purchased outside the ship (including at ports of call – if you were thinking of bringing home a bottle as a souvenir, it’s better to change your plan).
- Hairdryers are not allowed onboard (as well as other heat-producing appliances).
Drones Are Prohibited on Cruises
Based on our research, drones are prohibited on almost all cruise lines. However, there are some differences in policy that we only found out about after booking our trip.
Drone Ban on MSC Cruises
According to MSC’s contract, if a drone is found in your luggage, you will be asked either to disembark with the drone or dispose of the device in order to board. It is not possible to store the drone with the crew and retrieve it at the end of the trip. For this reason, we decided not to bring our drone, since even though we could have used it in Miami before and after the cruise, there was no safe place to store it for the seven days we were at sea.
Drone Ban on Royal Caribbean Ships
Although Royal Caribbean also prohibits drones during the cruise, it apparently allows passengers to hand them over to the crew for safekeeping and pick them up upon disembarkation. If we had known this before booking, we might have chosen differently. Be sure to confirm the most up-to-date information directly on their website.
What You Should Bring
While every traveler has different needs, there are a few essentials that most passengers should pack for a cruise. Sunscreen is a must, especially if you’re heading to a sunny destination. Another useful item is a universal power adapter so you can charge your devices without issues. A reusable water bottle is also a great idea to stay hydrated throughout the day. And don’t forget to pack a good pair of comfortable shoes for exploring ports of call on land.
Now that you know what you cannot bring onboard and what’s important to pack, you’re ready to make your suitcase and enjoy your cruise to the fullest. Remember to check the specific policies of your cruise line to ensure compliance with their rules.
For more tips about Cruises, read:
Cozumel Travel Guide: Best Tours and Things to Do from the Cruise Port
Ocean Cay: What to Do on MSC Cruises’ Private Island in the Bahamas
Planning a Caribbean Cruise: Documents, Insurance and Packing Guide
If you’d like more tips like these, follow us on Instagram @beradatravel.
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