Norwegian Cruise Line bans most carry-on beverages

Norwegian
Cruise Line said that effective July 15 it will bar passengers from bringing
aboard any beverages in checked or carry-on luggage.

The
sweeping policy has only a few exceptions. Guests may still bring sealed
bottles of wine for personal use, subject to screening and a corkage fee.

Also
allowed is purified or distilled water in factory-sealed
containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the
reconstitution of infant formula.

A memo from Norwegian’s business
development team being e-mailed to all booked guests said the step is being
taken “to ensure a safe and enjoyable onboard
environment for all.”

The memo also said
the prohibition “reduces the need for
individual time-consuming screening and package inspection of large volumes of
beverages.”

Last year, Carnival Cruise Lines
cited similar reasons when it banned passengers from bringing bottled beverages
(wine excepted) aboard. However, Carnival continued to allow a limited number
of cans or cartons at embarkation. 

Norwegian also said any unfinished
open beverages must be finished or discarded before guests embark to
start the voyage or embark at ports of call.