Bahamas Election Alcohol Ban Disrupts Cruise Lines' Private Islands
Cruise lines are rerouting or refunding guests as the one-day ban blocks alcohol sales at private islands and shore stops, affecting major operators.
- On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, the Bahamas will enforce a nationwide alcohol sales ban during the general election, prohibiting distribution at private islands including Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.
- The Commonwealth of The Bahamas' Ministry of National Security issued a notice under the Parliamentary Elections Act, suspending all liquor licenses during general election hours from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Royal Caribbean confirmed compliance, offering affected guests a 50% refund or onboard credit for pre-purchased day passes; Disney Cruise Line has not issued a statement regarding the policy.
- Norwegian Cruise Line delayed its Great Stirrup Cay visit to May 13 to avoid the restriction, while Carnival Cruise Line rerouted the Carnival Vista to Grand Turk, contrasting with Royal Caribbean's maintained schedule.
- Despite the onshore suspension, cruise lines confirmed that onboard alcohol service will continue uninterrupted, and guests retain full access to island amenities including waterparks, beaches, and food services.
12 Articles
12 Articles
Temporary Alcohol Ban in Popular Caribbean Country Will Apply to Tourists from Cruise Ships
Alcohol sales will be banned across all Bahamian islands on May 12 due to the general election. Royal Caribbean’s private island Coco Cay will comply with the ban but alcohol will remain available on their ships.
Las Vegas Review-Journal
Orlando SentinelBahamas-bound cruise passengers face alcohol ban next week, including Royal destinations
Passengers sailing on Royal Caribbean and other Bahamas-bound cruises next week can’t drink alcohol on Tuesday due to a one-day ban on “intoxicating liquor.”
There's one day this month that cruise lines can't serve alcohol at their private islands
Guests on an upcoming MSC Cruises sailing have learned that alcohol sales are banned from the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas on the day of their scheduled visit. Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a stunning island in The Bahamas, located about 65 miles east of Miami, Florida. Unlike competitors' islands, the area is more focused on its natural beauty. As such, there's a purposeful undeveloped feel to the island since it lacks water sl…
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