In travel news for June 20th, 2023 we talk about the major Cruise lines clarifying their positions on Marijuana and CBD.
Cruise ship vacations are a favorite way to unwind for many travelers, but a new wave of regulations regarding Cannabis and CBD use is making waves in the cruise industry. Prominent cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and even Disney Cruise Line have now articulated their policies on these substances.
When setting sail from a United States port, passengers must comply with U.S. federal law. Although some states permit the possession of certain quantities of Marijuana, there is no federal law that allows it. Therefore, to help maintain order and safety onboard, Cruise lines are enforcing strict rules on a range of substances.
Carnival Cruise Line has an explicit written policy. They state that although some CBD products may be legal in the U.S. for medicinal use, these products are not universally legal at all the ports they visit. As such, these items are considered prohibited. The company advises guests to consult their physicians for suitable alternatives.
Similarly, Norwegian Cruise Line includes Marijuana in its list of prohibited items. The cruise line's policy specifically includes all "illegal narcotics/drugs, including marijuana prescribed for medical purposes, and other items used as drug paraphernalia." Furthermore, this ban encompasses all products containing CBD, oils, candies, gummies, or any product with THC content.
Disney Cruise Line also follows a strict no-narcotics policy. According to the company's guidelines, "illegal narcotics—including synthetic designer drugs—and Marijuana (even if legal where you reside or medically prescribed)—are prohibited on board the ships and on Disney Castaway Cay." This rule is in line with United States federal regulations and local laws in the destinations they visit.
Understanding these rules can be complex. A common misunderstanding is that the legal drinking age on a Cruise is determined by the laws of the countries visited. However, that's not the case. If you embark from a United States port like Port Canaveral or Miami, U.S. federal law applies, and the drinking age is set at 21. Interestingly, passengers can engage in gambling activities on a cruise ship at the age of 18.
To avoid complications, travelers are advised not to bring any Marijuana or CBD products on board. Even if such substances are legal in your home state, such as Illinois, possessing them on a Cruise ship can lead to legal issues. Therefore, the simplest rule of thumb for cruisers is to leave these products at home and fully enjoy the journey in compliance with the rules. Ensuring a seamless vacation experience starts with understanding and adhering to these policies.
