Planning an exciting adventure on a Disney cruise ship and wondering about their alcohol policies? You’re not alone! As of the date of this answer, Disney Cruise Line’s alcohol policy allows guests 21 years of age and older to bring a limited amount of adult beverages onboard. Whether sailing on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, or the newest addition to the fleet, the Disney Wonder, understanding Disney’s policy regarding alcohol is essential for your Disney Cruise Line vacation.
Disney Cruise Line Alcohol Policy Overview
The official policy is relatively straightforward: Disney Cruise Line guests can bring two bottles of wine or champagne (750 ml or smaller) or six bottles of beer on embarkation day and from each port of call. This is often the only way to ensure you have your preferred drinks without an additional charge. For the latest information, you can always check the DCL website or use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to access the most current guidelines.
Age Restrictions and Important Guidelines
The drinking age aboard all Disney Cruise Line ships is strictly 21, with one exception: when cruising from European countries with lower drinking ages, parents can sign a unique form allowing those 18-20 to consume alcoholic drinks while accompanied by an adult. You’ll need a valid ID for any alcohol-related activities, whether enjoying a glass of wine in the main dining rooms or participating in happy hours.
Some additional guidelines to keep in mind:
- All alcohol must be in its original unopened container
- Pack your bottles of wine or other fragile items carefully in your carry-on
- Your drinks must be consumed in your stateroom, not in any public area
- There’s a corking fee if you wish to enjoy your liquor in restaurants
- Hard seltzers follow the same rules as beer
Onboard Drinking Options
Each Disney ship offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy adult beverages throughout your cruise. You’ll find specialty and popular “drink of the day” specials from the first to the formal night. While Disney doesn’t offer a traditional Disney Cruise drink package or wine package, there are several ways to save:
- Purchase a glass beer mug for refills at a reduced additional cost
- Watch for happy hours in various locations
- Check the duty-free shop for deals on bottles to take home at the end of your cruise
- Consider onboard gifts like wine packages for special occasions
Beverage Locations and Amenities
You’ll find numerous spots to enjoy alcoholic drinks across the ship:
- Pool deck bars
- Main dining rooms
- Specialty restaurants (additional cost may apply)
- Adult-exclusive lounges
- Room service (for an additional charge)
- Beverage station for soft drinks and other non-alcoholic options
- Castaway Cay (Disney’s private island) features several bars
Don’t forget to mention the free drinks, such as water bottles, at the beverage stations and the complimentary ice cream on the pool deck during your free time!
Photo by Corina Rainer on Unsplash
Tips for Bringing Your Alcohol
“As someone who’s sailed on every Disney ship multiple times, I always bring a couple of bottles of wine to enjoy on my balcony during sail away or before dinner,” says Mallory Lindsly, a certified cruise specialist. “It’s a great way to save money while enjoying the luxury of sipping your favorite wines. Just pack them carefully in your carry-on with bubble wrap or wine sleeves – the last thing you want is broken glass in your luggage!”
If you’re planning to bring your drinks, here’s a good idea for keeping track of everything:
- Use the question button in the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for quick reference to alcohol policies
- Save any email communication about your excess wine or additional questions
- Check the question dialogue box on the DCL website for policy updates
Duty-Free Purchases
When making a duty-free purchase in port or onboard, remember:
- Items bought in the duty-free shop will be held until the end of your cruise
- Purchases made in ports of call must be declared
- There may be limits on alcohol content for certain beverages
- Consider any additional cost for taxes upon return
Special Considerations
Disney Vacation Club Members
As a Disney Vacation Club member, you’ll follow the same alcohol guidelines as other guests, though you may have access to special member lounges on some ships, which are fun places to enjoy outdoor activities and specialty drinks.
Family Considerations
If you’re traveling as a “Disney husband” (the designated carrier of drinks and supplies), here’s a primary reason to plan: knowing where and when you can access your liquor can help you better plan your Disney Cruise Line adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing the specifics about bringing alcohol onboard is essential when planning a Disney cruise. Here’s a helpful breakdown of the most common questions.
What are the rules for bringing alcohol on a Disney Cruise?
Guests 21 and older can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or champagne (a maximum of 750 ml each) or six 12-ounce beers at the beginning of the voyage and each port of call.
Are any alcohol packages available on Disney Cruises, and how much do they cost?
Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer traditional alcohol packages like other cruise lines. However, there are special offers like the beer mug program, where you can purchase a beer mug for $16 and get refills at a lesser price throughout the cruise.
Can I bring bottled beer or wine aboard a Disney Cruise, and are there limits?
Yes, bottled beer and wine can be brought onboard. At embarkation and every port of call, the limit is two bottles of unopened wine or champagne (not exceeding 750 ml each) or six 12-ounce beers per person aged 21 or older.
Can guests bring their soda or water on a Disney Cruise?
Guests can bring their soda and water aboard a Disney Cruise. When packed in carry-on luggage, these items must be in their original, unopened packaging.
What types of alcoholic beverages are prohibited on Disney Cruises?
Disney Cruise Line prohibits hard liquor and spirits from being brought onboard. Any other alcoholic beverages that are not sealed or are partially consumed are also prohibited.
How does Disney Cruise Line handle alcohol brought onboard at embarkation?
Alcohol must be brought in carry-on luggage and not in checked bags. Any alcohol found in checked luggage will be removed and not returned. This policy ensures all items comply with Disney Cruise Line’s safety regulations.
What should I do if I accidentally break a bottle of wine in my carry-on?
If you break a bottle of wine in your carry-on, immediately notify Disney Cruise Line staff or port personnel and let them handle the cleanup – don’t try to deal with broken glass yourself. They’ll help dispose of the broken bottle safely and provide bags to separate wet and dry items.
