Carnival Cruise Lines will stop passengers from bringing bottled water, bottled soda and other bottled nonalcoholic drinks onboard, effective July 9.
Carnival's Liquor and Beverage Consumption Policy Guest has long prohibited guests from bringing alcoholic beverages onboard. But one can still carry on up to 12 unopened cans or cartons of water, soda and non-alcoholic beverages per person during embarkation, the cruise line said in a statement.
The line released the new policy today in a letter sent to travel agents and booked passengers. Signs will be posted at embarkation ports, and Carnival will update its website to reflect the change.
The company cites delays in the boarding process as one reason why they are enacting the new policy.
"Bottled beverages are the most common means by which guests attempt to smuggle alcohol on board which necessitates bottles is individually examined by security personnel. This delays the embarkation process and requires security resources dedicated to checking bottled beverages," says the statement.
In addition, all staff members who man security points and metal detectors in ports will be trained to confiscate bottled water and soda before passengers get back onboard.
In a letter being sent to passengers, Carnival said bottled beverages have become a prime means of bringing unauthorized alcohol on cruises.
"We sincerely apologize for any disappointment these changes may cause," said the letter, signed by Arlene Marichal, senior director, solutions and special services. "However, we firmly believe this will result in a safer environment while also improving the embarkation process and the overall guest experience."