Quick Read
- The Bahamas will enforce a nationwide ban on alcohol sales from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on May 12 due to general elections.
- Major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean have confirmed that the ban applies to private islands, forcing itinerary adjustments and partial refunds for shore excursions.
- The CDC is simultaneously investigating a norovirus outbreak on the Caribbean Princess, which has sickened over 100 passengers during its current Caribbean voyage.
NASSAU (Azat TV) – Thousands of cruise passengers visiting The Bahamas are facing sudden changes to their travel plans as the nation prepares to implement a strict, nationwide ban on the sale of alcohol on Tuesday, May 12. The prohibition, ordered by the Parliamentary Commissioner, will remain in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to coincide with the country’s general election.
Impact on Major Cruise Destinations
The restriction, which applies to all Bahamian islands, explicitly includes private destinations managed by major cruise lines. Royal Caribbean has confirmed that the ban will affect operations at its popular private island, CocoCay. Passengers aboard the Oasis of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, which are scheduled to dock at the island during the polling window, have been notified that alcohol sales on shore will be prohibited. Other vessels, including the Utopia of the Seas, MSC Seaside, and Caribbean Princess, are also expected to be in port at Nassau during the restricted hours.
Passenger Response and Logistics
The announcement has sparked frustration among travelers, with many taking to social media to express disappointment over the lack of advance notice regarding the logistical shift. While alcohol service will continue as normal aboard the ships, guests visiting Bahamian ports will be unable to purchase drinks while ashore. In response to the disruption, Royal Caribbean has informed guests who pre-purchased access to the Royal Beach Club for May 12 that they will receive a 50% refund in the form of onboard credit. Some cruise operators, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, have reportedly adjusted itineraries to circumvent the affected dates entirely, pushing visits to private islands like Great Stirrup Cay to the following day.
Public Health and Safety Oversight
The election-related disruption comes as cruise lines are already managing heightened health protocols. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is currently monitoring a norovirus outbreak on the Caribbean Princess, which departed Fort Lauderdale on April 28. With over 100 passengers and 13 crew members reporting symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, the vessel has implemented intensive cleaning and isolation measures. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program is conducting an environmental assessment to mitigate the spread as the ship prepares to conclude its voyage.
The confluence of a localized alcohol prohibition and ongoing public health monitoring reflects the complex operational environment cruise lines face when navigating international regulations and passenger safety protocols simultaneously.