How strict is Royal Caribbean on drinking?

Royal Caribbean’s Relaxed Approach to Alcohol: A Self-Regulation System

Royal Caribbean International cruises are known for their vibrant atmosphere, and a significant part of that experience revolves around onboard beverage options. But how strictly does the cruise line enforce alcohol consumption? The answer might surprise you: surprisingly leniently. Unlike some establishments with strict drink limits or zero-tolerance policies, Royal Caribbean operates on a largely self-regulatory system, trusting its passengers to consume responsibly.

While the cruise line certainly promotes responsible drinking and has measures in place to address excessive intoxication, there aren’t overt, enforced limits on the amount of alcohol an individual can consume. This applies across the board, whether guests are purchasing drinks individually, opting for one of Royal Caribbean’s various beverage packages (which can offer significant cost savings for heavy drinkers), or enjoying complimentary drinks earned through casino loyalty programs.

This approach differs significantly from some land-based resorts or even other cruise lines, which might implement stricter limitations such as drink tokens or a limited number of complimentary beverages per day. Royal Caribbean’s policy effectively places the onus of responsible drinking on the individual guest. This is not to say there are no consequences for irresponsible behavior; blatant intoxication, disruptive behavior, or underage drinking will be addressed by the ship’s security and staff. However, the initial focus is on promoting responsible consumption through readily available information and staff training, rather than preemptive restrictions.

This laissez-faire approach might lead some to question the safety and order onboard. However, Royal Caribbean mitigates potential risks through several key strategies:

• Visible staff training: Crew members are trained to identify and respond to signs of intoxication. They are empowered to intervene if a guest appears to be excessively intoxicated, potentially refusing further service or alerting security personnel.
• Clear communication: Information about responsible drinking is readily available, often emphasized in pre-cruise communications and onboard materials. This encourages guests to be mindful of their consumption.
• Security presence: A visible security presence throughout the ship provides an added layer of safety and helps to deter disruptive behavior stemming from alcohol consumption.

Ultimately, Royal Caribbean’s approach reflects a trust in its passengers to act responsibly. While the lack of enforced limits might seem unusual, the cruise line’s emphasis on responsible drinking, coupled with its measures to address excessive intoxication, appears to be a successful strategy in maintaining a fun and safe onboard environment. Guests should, however, remember that personal responsibility is paramount and that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to unpleasant consequences, regardless of the cruise line’s policy.