Carnival's bottled water policy: what you can and cannot bring aboard
Carnival Cruise Line does not allow you to bring your own bottled water in your carry-on or checked luggage. The cruise line prohibits outside beverages of all kinds—including water, juice, soda, and alcohol—as part of its standard boarding rules. This applies whether you're bringing sealed, unopened bottles or opened containers.
The reasoning behind this policy is straightforward: Carnival generates revenue from onboard beverage sales and wants to control what passengers consume. The rule is enforced at the security checkpoint when you board, and staff will confiscate any bottled water they find during bag screening.
However, there are legitimate ways to get drinking water once you're on the ship, and you do have options that won't cost you extra money.
Key Takeaways
- Carnival prohibits bringing bottled water in carry-on or checked bags, and staff will remove it at boarding.
- Tap water from your cabin and public water fountains throughout the ship are free and safe to drink.
- You can purchase bottled water at the ship's convenience store, or bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it after boarding.
- Beverage packages sold by Carnival include bottled water and may save money if you plan to drink multiple beverages daily.
- Some passengers bring empty bottles in checked luggage and fill them with tap water once aboard to avoid the purchase cost.
Free drinking water sources on Carnival ships
Every cabin on a Carnival ship has a bathroom with tap water that is safe to drink. The ship's water system meets U.S. Coast Guard and public health standards. Many passengers straightforward use the tap water in their room for drinking and refilling bottles throughout the day.
In addition to cabin tap water, Carnival ships have water fountains and water stations in public areas—typically near the pool deck, dining areas, and fitness centers. These are free to use and available 24 hours a day. You can refill a cup or bottle at any of these locations without charge.
If you're concerned about tap water quality or prefer filtered water, bringing an empty reusable water bottle in your checked luggage is allowed. Once you board and pass through security, you can fill it with tap water from your cabin or a public water station.
Purchasing bottled water onboard
If you want bottled water rather than tap water, Carnival's onboard convenience store (called the Marketplace or similar, depending on the ship) sells individual bottles of water, typically in 16-ounce or 20-ounce sizes. Prices vary by ship but generally range from $2 to $4 per bottle—higher than you'd pay at a store on land.
Buying individual bottles throughout a week-long cruise can add up quickly. If you drink multiple bottles per day, a beverage package may be more economical. Carnival offers several beverage packages that include bottled water, soft drinks, coffee, and other beverages for a flat daily rate.
Beverage packages and what they include
Carnival sells beverage packages at different price points. The most basic packages typically include bottled water, sodas, coffee, tea, and juice. Premium packages add alcoholic beverages. You can purchase a package for your entire cruise or by the day.
The cost of a beverage package depends on the length of your cruise and when you purchase it. Buying before your cruise is usually cheaper than purchasing onboard. If you're a frequent Carnival cruiser or plan to drink multiple beverages daily, a package can be worth the investment compared to buying individual bottles.
Check Carnival's website or your cruise documents for current package pricing and what each tier includes. You can also ask about packages when you check in at the terminal.
What happens if you try to sneak water past security
Carnival staff screen all carry-on bags and many checked bags at the security checkpoint before boarding. If they find bottled water, they will confiscate it—you won't get it back, and you won't receive a refund. The item is straightforward removed and discarded.
Attempting to hide beverages in other containers or luggage compartments is not recommended. Security screening is thorough, and the cost of replacing confiscated water is not worth the hassle. It's simpler and more reliable to plan on using tap water or purchasing water once aboard.
Bringing water for medical or dietary reasons
If you have a medical condition that requires specific bottled water or a particular type of beverage, contact Carnival's guest services before your cruise. Explain your situation and ask whether an exception can be made. Carnival may grant special permission for documented medical needs, though this is handled case-by-case.
Similarly, if you follow a specific diet or have allergies, reach out to Carnival in advance. The cruise line has medical and dietary accommodations available, and staff can often work with you to meet your needs without requiring you to bring items from home.
Tips for staying hydrated without extra cost
Use tap water from your cabin as your primary source. It's free, available anytime, and safe. Keep a reusable bottle with you during the day and refill it at water stations around the ship.
Drink water at meals. Dining venues serve complimentary water, coffee, tea, and juice at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Taking advantage of these free beverages during scheduled meal times reduces how much you need to purchase separately.
If you're concerned about tap water taste, bring an empty reusable bottle in checked luggage and fill it after boarding. Some passengers also bring water-flavoring packets (like powdered drink mixes) in their luggage, which are allowed, to make tap water more appealing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring an empty water bottle and fill it after I board?
Yes. Empty bottles are allowed in checked and carry-on luggage. Once you pass through security and board the ship, you can fill it with tap water from your cabin or a public water station. This is a common and cost-free way to have bottled water throughout your cruise.
Is the tap water on Carnival ships safe to drink?
Yes. Carnival's water system meets U.S. Coast Guard standards and is regularly tested. The tap water in your cabin and at public water fountains is safe for drinking and cooking. If you have concerns about water quality, you can use a water filter bottle or bring bottled water purchased onboard.
What if I have a medical condition and need specific water?
Contact Carnival's guest services before your cruise and explain your medical need. Provide documentation if required. Carnival may grant exceptions for documented medical reasons, though approval is not may provide. It's best to reach out early rather than at the terminal.
Are water fountains available 24 hours a day?
Yes. Water stations and fountains throughout the ship are accessible around the clock. You can refill your bottle or cup at any time, day or night, without charge.
How much does a beverage package cost?
Pricing varies by cruise length and when you purchase. Packages are generally cheaper when bought before your cruise than when purchased onboard. Check Carnival's website or your cruise documents for current rates, or ask at the terminal during check-in.