April 15, 2026, 2:41 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Cruises are the perfect blend of comfort and adventure for many: a new port every day—without constantly having to pack a suitcase. But first-time cruisers quickly realize: A cruise ship is not an ordinary hotel. Even at check-in, it’s clear that there are unique safety and house rules—especially concerning luggage. We’ll tell you which items are prohibited in your luggage on a cruise.
Ship travel is very popular and attracts millions of vacationers every year. But before you even board the cruise ship, there’s a security check. Upon boarding, luggage is scanned like at an airport. Items that are not allowed are confiscated—and in the worst case, a violation can even prevent guests from embarking on the trip. Cruise lines have very specific regulations in their terms of carriage about what items are allowed on board and which are off-limits.
Overview
1. Drugs–Including Cannabis and CBD
Narcotics are generally prohibited on cruise ships. This also applies to cannabis products—even if they are legal or tolerated in the country of departure. Cruise lines rely on their house rules and international regulations.
Products with CBD (cannabidiol) are particularly tricky. Although they are freely available in Germany and are considered to have anxiety-relieving and pain-relieving properties, many cruise lines prohibit their carriage. The far-reaching consequences are illustrated by a case from Carnival Cruise: An American woman was caught at check-in with CBD-infused gummy bears—and was subsequently banned for life from the cruise line. AIDA also explicitly states in its terms of carriage that narcotics and similar substances are not allowed on board and can lead to the termination of the “employment relationship.”
2. Weapons–Including Toy Weapons
Firearms, knives, or other weapons are, of course, off-limits. But even toy weapons or deceptively realistic replicas are not allowed on board. Surprising? It’s for safety. They are confiscated during the security check. The X-ray machines on board are as powerful as those at the airport—they detect even the smallest items.
3. Sharp or Pointed Objects
Small pocket knives, larger scissors, or certain tools are also problematic. Similar to airport security, the security personnel decide what is allowed and what is not. Many items are stored until the end of the trip and returned to the owner upon disembarkation. Even with adapters and personal outlets, it’s advisable to check with the respective cruise line before the trip—regulations can vary from provider to provider.
4. Travel Irons, Kettles, and Electric Blankets
Fire safety is a top priority on a ship. Therefore, devices that can become very hot are generally prohibited. This includes irons, kettles, or even an electric blanket. Due to the high fire risk, anything that can heat up significantly is banned on a cruise ship.
Even with adapters or personal outlets, it’s advisable to check with the respective cruise line before the trip—regulations can vary from provider to provider. The same goes for small hair dryers and curling irons. Before the trip, check which devices are allowed.
5. Brought Alcohol
Spirits are generally not allowed to be brought on board. If found in luggage, they are usually confiscated until the end of the trip. The reason is simple: beverages are an important revenue factor on board. At AIDA, guests are generally not allowed to bring alcohol on board upon arrival. Only if you buy alcohol ashore during the trip is it allowed to bring a limited amount on board—a maximum of 1 liter per person (over 18). Mein Schiff also has clear rules about bringing alcohol, which can vary depending on the trip and the cruise line’s requirements—it’s worth checking the respective travel information.
6. Perishable Food
Packaged snacks like granola bars or sweets are generally allowed. However, homemade jam, fresh fruit, or homemade cake are confiscated at the security check—hygiene regulations and international import regulations play a role here.
Reasons for a Lifetime Ban from Cruise Ships
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7. Drones (Only Partially Allowed)
The operation of drones is generally prohibited on board. Some cruise lines allow them to be brought on board, but store the devices during the trip and only release them for shore excursions. The exact regulations vary—it’s advisable to check the guidelines.
8. Clothing with Offensive or Discriminatory Messages
What many don’t expect: Clothing can also violate onboard rules. Textiles with racist, discriminatory, or violence-glorifying statements are prohibited by many cruise lines. Guest guidelines indicate that offensive clothing is not tolerated.