Bahamas-bound cruise ships to face temporary alcohol ban

If you like Piña Coladas, you may be disappointed in a temporary alcohol ban in the Bahamas next week.

The sale and distribution of alcohol throughout the Bahamas will be banned from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday during the country’s general election, in accordance with Bahamian law. The temporary restriction is part of longstanding election rules designed to maintain order during voting hours.

“There is a public notice issued by the Ministry of National Security in The Bahamas that prohibits the distribution of alcohol during national elections,” a letter sent to guests by Royal Caribbean states, the Orlando Sentinel reports. “We’ve explored whether any exceptions could be made; however, this restriction applies nationwide throughout The Bahamas.”

The restriction applies not only to land in places like Nassau and Grand Bahama, but also to popular cruise destinations and private island resorts used by major cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The cruise line’s Wonder of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are all scheduled to dock in the Bahamas on the day of the election. While restrictions may apply onshore, passengers will still be able to purchase and consume alcohol while onboard the ships.

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

Guests who purchased passes for Royal Beach Club Paradise Island on May 12 will receive a 50 percent refund in the form of onboard credit. Passengers can also visit the ship’s shore excursions desk or use Royal Caribbean’s website to book alternative activities, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

MSC Seaside and Caribbean Princess are both scheduled to visit Nassau on Tuesday, according to CruiseMapper. Meanwhile, some cruise lines are adjusting itineraries to avoid destinations affected by the temporary alcohol ban, the Orlando Sentinel reports.

Several other major cruise lines operate private island destinations in the Bahamas, including Great Stirrup Cay owned by Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebration Key from Carnival Cruise Line and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve operated by MSC Cruises.

Disney Cruise Line also has two private destinations in the country, Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.