Multiple cruise lines are suspending alcohol sales at their private islands today, May 12, 2026. The temporary alcohol ban is related to the Bahamian national elections which prohibits the distribution of alcohol from 8am to 6pm.
Royal Caribbean issued a statement which said, “There is a public notice issued by the Ministry of National Security in The Bahamas that prohibits the distribution of alcohol during national elections. We’ve explored whether any exceptions could be made; however, this restriction applies nationwide throughout the Bahamas. “As a result, alcoholic beverages will not be served at Perfect Day at CocoCay during your visit.” The cruise line stated the destination would remain open, and guests would still be able to all its amenities. Other cruise lines issued similar statements to their guests.
The ban affects all private islands and destinations in the Bahamas, including Carnival Cruise Line’s Celebration Key and RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay; Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay and Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point; Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay; and MSC Cruises’ Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Affected ships at private destinations include:
- Oasis of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas–Perfect Day at CocoCay
- MSC Seashore–Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
- Carnival Glory and Carnival Vista–Celebration Key
- Disney Wish–Castaway Cay
- Disney Fantasy–Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point
Also affected are MSC Seaside, Utopia of the Seas, and Caribbean Princess which will port in Nassau for the day. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway was expected to visit Great Stirrup Cay, but shifted its itinerary to visit the private destination on May 13, 2026, instead; while Carnival Cruise Line replaced Carnival Vista’s visit to RelaxAway Half Moon Cay with a port stop at Grand Turk.
The alcohol ban will affect all stores, bars, private islands; however, alcohol can be purchased and consumed while onboard the ship. Shore excursions are also affected.