What Happens If Cruise Port Finds Contraband?

Cruise planner Mandy, known as @mandythecruisepla on TikTok, highlights the prevalence of social media in creating survivors bias when it comes to smuggling contraband on cruise ships. Security measures are highly effective in detecting contraband, and passengers should be aware that attempting to sneak alcohol or other prohibited items onboard could undermine the cruise industry’s business model. Cruise lines want passengers to either pay for their drinks packages or buy their drinks individually.

Reality shows have shown that allowing passengers to bring as much booze onto the ship as they want would undermine this. At the U.S.-Mexico border, CBP has broad powers to search vehicles and assess not only legal status to enter the U.S. but also whether they are bringing any type of contraband.

Cruise ships cross international and national jurisdictions, visiting many different ports on their voyage. It is no surprise that people have always tried to sneak contraband items on board, with liquor being the biggest offender. If you commit a crime, you will be detained, and the ship will hand you off to law. If you are caught breaking one of their rules, the cruise ship will abandon you in another country.

The idea of sneaking contraband items on board a ship headed for international waters sounds conspiratorial and dangerous, but in reality, it is actually a safe and efficient way to avoid consequences. If you bring back wine or alcohol, you will be directed to take the contraband to the table to be picked up the morning of your departure. Missing the ship at port or booking excursions with outside operators could be costly and risky.

Cruise lines have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drugs, and if your contraband alcohol is discovered on board the ship, you might be called down to a crew area to comply with your rule.