Popular Caribbean cruise port temporarily bans on alcohol

Travelers who will be in the Bahamas on May 12 won't be sipping on a beachside cocktail, even if they're on a cruise line's private island.

According to Bahamian law, the sale of "any intoxicating liquor" is suspended throughout the country on election days. This year, the general election falls on May 12.

This applies to the private islands owned by cruise lines as well, such as Royal Caribbean's CocoCay. Reopened in 2019 following a $250 million renovation, CocoCay is "the No. 1 highest-rated destination" out of the 250 ports visited by Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise line operator told USA TODAY in Oct. 2024.

"Royal Caribbean is respecting and complying with all local laws and regulations, as we do with every destination we visit," a spokesperson for the cruise line told USA TODAY in an email.

The cruise line's Wonder of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are slated to be docked in the Bahamas on May 12. Alcohol will still be available aboard the ship.

Although alcoholic drinks won't be served onshore, guests can still enjoy the other amenities at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island and Perfect Day at CocoCay, like the waterpark, beach and food.

Those who purchased a day pass with an unlimited drink package at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island for May 12 will receive either a 50% refund or onboard credit, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel.

Royal Caribbean isn't the only cruise line with a private island in the Bahamas, a popular cruise destination.

Norwegian Cruise Line's island is called the Great Stirrup Cay while Carnival Cruise Line has Celebration Key. MSC Cruises' more conservation-focused private island is Ocean Cay. Disney Cruise Line has two: Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

MSC, Norwegian, Disney and Carnival did not respond to USA TODAY's request for comment.