Fun Fact: Alcohol Banned from Cruise Line Private Islands on This Day

Heading to the Bahamas on a cruise this May 12? There’s something important you should know before you pack your sunscreen.

No Alcohol at Cruise Line Private Islands on May 12

The Bahamas is holding its general election on May 12, 2026. Under Bahamian law, the sale of alcohol is banned across the entire country on election day. That means no cocktails, no beer, and no wine — anywhere on Bahamian soil.

This law applies to cruise line private islands too. So if your ship is stopping at a favorite spot like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, don’t expect a frozen drink on the beach that day.

Which Ships Are Affected?

Royal Caribbean has three ships scheduled to be in the Bahamas on May 12. Those ships are the Wonder of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Utopia of the Seas. All three are set to dock at Bahamian destinations that day.

Royal Caribbean told USA TODAY they are fully on board with the rules. As a spokesperson said, “Royal Caribbean is respecting and complying with all local laws and regulations, as we do with every destination we visit.”

What Can You Still Do Onshore?

No alcohol doesn’t mean no fun. Guests visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay or Royal Beach Club Paradise Island can still enjoy plenty of activities. The waterpark, beach, and food options will all still be available.

CocoCay is no small attraction. After a $250 million makeover that finished in 2019, it became Royal Caribbean’s top-rated destination out of 250 ports worldwide. There’s still a lot to love about it — drinks or not.

What About Refunds?

If you already bought a day pass with an unlimited drink package at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island for May 12, you’re not out of luck. According to the Orlando Sentinel, guests in that situation will receive either a 50% refund or onboard credit.

Also worth noting — alcohol will still be served onboard the ships themselves. The ban only applies to sales on land in the Bahamas.

Other Cruise Lines With Bahamian Private Islands

Royal Caribbean isn’t the only cruise line with a private island in the Bahamas. Several other popular cruise lines have their own spots there too. Here’s a quick look:

• Norwegian Cruise Line – Great Stirrup Cay
• Carnival Cruise Line – Celebration Key
• MSC Cruises – Ocean Cay Marine Reserve
• Disney Cruise Line – Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

MSC, Norwegian, Disney, and Carnival did not comment on how they plan to handle the alcohol ban. If you’re sailing with any of these lines and stopping in the Bahamas on May 12, it’s smart to check with your cruise line directly for updates.

The Bottom Line

If your cruise includes a Bahamas stop on May 12, expect a dry day on the island. It’s a good idea to enjoy a drink onboard before heading ashore. The good news is that the beaches, food, and activities will still be open and waiting for you.