Food and drink

Think cruising is all about cocktails and bottomless booze? Think again.
Whether you’re sober-curious, in recovery, or just don’t drink, you can still have an amazing time at sea, without a single sip.

As someone who’s cruised alcohol-free while pregnant and with a husband who doesn’t drink, I’ve got plenty of tips to help you stay strong and still enjoy every minute of your holiday.

Here’s how to cruise sober without missing out on the fun.

Sober Cruises

Sober cruises do exist, although they don’t typically have entire cruises where no alcohol is served. Instead, they are itineraries planned where groups of sober passengers can travel together and support each other, avoiding the alcohol sold on board.

As well as specially organised sober cruises, there are regular cruises where you may be able to attend AA meetings, sometimes referred to as “Friends of Bill W” meetings or FOB meetings. Anyone looking to stay sober on a cruise can use these groups as a support network.

If you want to stay sober on a cruise and you’re worried about the temptation of alcohol, it’s best to book through a dedicated travel agent that organises these cruises. 

That way, you’ll either be able to travel with a larger group of sober passengers, meaning you know there won’t be as much of a ‘drinking party’ atmosphere on the ship. And you can get tailored support to ensure you have plenty of sober activities to look forward to.

If that’s not an option – the dates don’t work for you, or your preferred cruise is sold out already – then you can look at a regular cruise and use forums and social media to find sober groups who will be travelling.

While you might have the option to drink alcohol on those cruises, you can help to remove that temptation by connecting with a support group.

What To Expect On A Sober Cruise

If you’re someone who doesn’t drink, that certainly does not stop you from enjoying an amazing cruise holiday, especially if you choose a sober cruise.

I won’t lie, there are bars everywhere on a cruise ship, and there are often special offers on cocktails of the day posted on your daily updates. So, if you’re someone trying to enjoy a sober cruise but you don’t travel on an organised event or with a support group, it can be a challenge.

And yet, there is so much to do on a cruise ship that isn’t alcohol themed that you can definitely keep yourself entertained without a drink.

Cruise ships are becoming more and more packed with things to do on board. It’s not like classical ships where sunbathing with a cocktail was all you had to do between meals on a sea day.

Instead, here’s a snapshot of just SOME of the activities you could enjoy on a cruise that don’t involve alcohol:

• Riding waterslides
• Playing mini-golf
• Rock-climbing walls
• Riding go-karts
• A roller-coaster around the ship
• Escape rooms
• Interactive, Augmented Reality (AR) activities
• Movies on a big screen on the open deck
• Live theatre shows
• Skydiving simulators
• Spa treatments, wellness activities and gym workouts

In fact, for many of these activities, you have to be alcohol-free to take part. Cruise lines will turn away anyone who’s intoxicated.  I was actually turned away from the high ropes course on Arvia because I had drunk half a pint of lager. 

The very latest ships are full-on floating entertainment resorts and you can find enough to keep you busy, without drinking alcohol, even if you didn’t step ashore for the entire time.

But when you do head into your ports of call to explore, you’ll find even more to do, including sightseeing tours around Mediterranean cities, exciting water sports in the Caribbean, hikes around some incredible natural scenery in Northern Europe or Alaska, and so on.

Despite the fact that cruise ships do have a bit of an alcohol culture to them on regular sailings, cruises are still some of the best options for a sober holiday because you have more entertainment options on hand, and your scenery (and choice of activities) changes with each new port you visit.

Finally, cruises do host meetings to help anyone who wants to stay sober on a cruise. They’re just a little more subtle about it – look out for those “Friends of Bill W” meetings.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages Aplenty

Teetotalers are spoilt for choice when it comes to non-alcoholic drinks. Gone are the days when you’d feel lucky to get your hands on a Becks Blue!

Nowadays, most cruise ship bars have a choice of at least three mocktails on the menu as well as several different bottles of zero-proof beers. Many also have alcohol-free wine, cider and gin on the menu.

And just because you don’t drink alcohol, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a drink package. Most cruise lines also offer non-alcoholic drinks packages so you can fill up on mocktails, smoothies, fruit juices, soft drinks, teas, coffees and bottled water.

Where To Find Sober Cruises

You can find sober cruises online – there are a number of organisations that arrange sailings. Here are some of the more popular providers of sober cruise itineraries, including some sober cruise 2025 options:

Sober Celebrations

Sober Celebrations is a US-based travel company specialising in organising group trips for sober vacationers. They offer regular cruise holidays, including an annual cruise break around Halloween.

For 2025, Sober Celebrations has arranged cruises with Royal Caribbean to Alaska and the Caribbean.

Find out more at sobercelebrations.com

One Day At A Time Cruises

One Day At A Time Cruises is run by two American travel agents who want to help guests find a great cruise where they can be sober.

Rather than arranging group sober cruises, they are more aimed at providing tailored itineraries to guests who want to enjoy travel without the alcohol, including cruise holidays.

Find out more at onedayatatimecruises.com

Travel Sober

Travel Sober organises multiple sober cruise holidays every year across a variety of destinations. They are aimed at people who just want to relax without alcohol, or those who are on a more intensive sober recovery journey.

Cruises in 2025 are available with Noweigan Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and AMA Waterways, including destinations all over the world.

Find out more at travelsober.com

Sober Vacations

Sober Vacations is an organisation that doesn’t exclusively deal with cruises, but they do offer some of the more exotic itineraries for sober guests, where you can thrill in the destination, ideal for distracting yourself from any boozy atmosphere onboard.

Upcoming trips in 2025 include a trip to Alaska onboard Celebrity Solstice and a French river cruise onboard AMAKristina.

Find out more at sobervacations.com

Fellow-Ship

Fellow-Ship is specifically aimed at those in recovery from alcohol, helping to create a fun-packed cruise where you can focus more on wellness and health whilst enjoying a variety of activities.

Their next cruise is a 9-night trip from Istanbul, Turkey.

Find out more at fellow-ship.org

The Bottom Line

While it is true that alcohol is freely available on cruise holidays, that doesn’t rule out this type of getaway if you are someone who is recovering from alcohol addiction, or you are just someone who isn’t fond of drinking and wants to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

It’s best to book a cruise with a sober cruise group, but if you can’t, the best advice I have is to avoid cruise lines with more of a party atmosphere – Carnival and Virgin Voyages being two of the most prominent for that sort of lifestyle. There are no alcohol free cruise ships, but some are definitely more suited to an alcohol free cruise.

And make sure you check forums and social media groups to find other sober passengers on your sailing, so you can find support if you need it.

Related Posts:

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

Buffets at sea are legendary – piles of food, endless choice, and zero judgment when you go back for thirds.

But that freedom also means chaos if people forget their manners. And cruise buffets, as glorious as they are, aren’t a lawless land.

So here’s a refresher on how to enjoy the feast without being that person…

1. Wash Your Hands – Yes, Every Time

Before you even think about grabbing a plate, hit the sink or sanitizer station.

We get it – you’re excited for pancakes. But a cruise ship can become a petri dish if you’re not careful- and skipping the soap is the fastest way to spread nasties like norovirus.

Keep yourself and everyone else healthy by scrubbing up like you mean it. It’s not optional, it’s hygiene 101.

2. Follow the Flow – Don’t Go Against the Grain

Buffets are set up like a one-way street for a reason.

The layout is designed to keep people moving, not weaving around like it’s a bumper car ride.

Going backwards, darting sideways, or cutting across stations just slows things down and irritates everyone else. Take a lap, figure out what you want, and stick to the path. Simple.

The only time I’d say different is if you’re just nipping back in for one specific thing, and you can see a gap. That’s OK. But don’t be darting in and out at different sections, bobbing and weaving like some kind of hungry boxer.

3. Don’t Hog a Giant Table If You’re Flying Solo

We’ve all seen it – one person sipping coffee at a six-seater table like they own the place.

If it’s busy, and you’re a party of one or two, try not to claim the largest table in the venue just because it’s got a nice view.

Especially if your friends “might join later” but actually won’t show up for another hour. Buffets get crowded. Be fair. Share the space.

4. Keep a Close Eye on the Kiddos

Buffets are a sensory playground for kids – shiny trays, unlimited desserts and grab-friendly finger foods. But they need supervision.

That means helping them through the line, making sure they don’t grab food with their hands, and making sure they don’t get so excited that they atart running!

It keeps everyone safer and avoids dangerous collisions with people carrying hot soup.

5. Use the Serving Utensils – No Hands, Ever

This one should be obvious, but you’d be surprised.

Always use the provided tongs, spoons, or ladles. Don’t touch anything with your fingers, even if it’s “just a roll.”

It’s not your kitchen, it’s a shared space. Touching food with bare hands, even for a second, is a fast-track to spreading germs – and grossing everyone else out.

6. Don’t Mix Up the Tongs

Every set of tongs or utensils is there for a reason.

Using the same pair on multiple dishes might seem harmless, but it’s a nightmare for people with allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions.

Think about the vegetarian behind you before you use the bacon tongs for the eggs. Just… don’t.

7. Be Sensible With Portions

Yes, you’re technically allowed to take 12 slices of French toast. But should you? Probably not.

Cruise buffets are generous, and food will be replenished. Take a little of what you want, try it, and come back if you love it.

Overloading your plate just to scrape half of it into the bin is wasteful – and honestly, a little rude.

8. Grab a New Plate Each Time

Going back for seconds (or thirds) is part of the buffet charm – just do it with a clean plate.

Reusing your dirty dish might seem like you’re saving effort or being eco-conscious, but it risks transferring germs to the buffet line.

Fresh plate, fresh start. The same goes for your glass.

9. No Sampling While You Wait

We know the temptation is real – especially if something smells amazing.

But snacking before you’ve even reached your table isn’t a good look.

For hygiene reasons (and basic manners), wait until you’re seated before digging in. You’re not at a supermarket tasting booth – you’re at a shared buffet.

10. Queue Like a Civilised Human

Patience is a virtue, especially in a buffet line.

If someone’s taking forever deciding between scrambled eggs or an omelette, just wait your turn.

Or if you really need to reach something quickly, ask politely – don’t just barge through. A little courtesy makes the whole experience smoother for everyone.

11. Don’t Hang Around After Closing Time

Cruise buffets tend to stay open a long time – most of the day, in fact. But if the food is being removed, and staff are wiping things down, that’s your sign: it’s over.

Hovering while the buffet is being packed up is awkward for everyone – especially the crew, who want to reset for the next meal. Respect their schedule. There will be another buffet. Always.

12. Skip the Buffet If You’re Feeling Unwell

If your stomach’s off, you’re coughing, or you’re just not feeling right, stay in your cabin – or at the very least, skip the communal dining.

Most ships have room service or alternate dining options that don’t involve touching the same serving spoons as 500 other people.

You’ll recover faster, and you’ll keep everyone else safe.

13. Speak Up About Dietary Needs

Most cruise buffets do a decent job labelling allergens and offering options for various diets, but they’re not mind-readers.

If you’re unsure whether something is gluten-free, low sodium, or nut-safe, just ask.

Staff are trained for this and will usually go out of their way to help – but only if you speak up.

14. Don’t Treat It Like a Game Show

This isn’t a timed challenge or an all-you-can-grab supermarket dash.

You’re allowed to go back. You’re encouraged to try new things. So slow down. Breathe.

You don’t need a bit of everything on your plate all at once. (And no, you don’t need three bread rolls – they’ll still be there in ten minutes.)

15. Don’t Rock Up In Swimwear or a Robe

Swimwear, your PJs or bathrobes don’t belong in the buffet.

I know it can be tempting to just pop in for a quick snack while you’re by the pool, or you just aren’t feeling that desire to get properly ready before breakfast. But that doesn’t mean you get to flaunt the rules on dress code.

You need to be dressed in actual clothes for a reason – it’s more hygienic than having your bits almost hanging out.

Plus, it’s basic respect for others to be a little bit presentable. Some cover-ups are fine, it doesn’t have to be your Sunday best. But you’re not in your own home – you’re in a restaurant, even if it’s a casual one. Dress like it.

Final Word

I know it’s a long list of ‘rules’ to follow but, really, are they any more than just common sense?

Unfortunately I know that a lot of cruisers don’t seem to follow all of these rules, and it can be quite frustrating for others.

So, make sure you stick to these. Be hygienic, be respectful, and you’ll have no trouble enjoying as much food as you want.

Related Posts

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me

There’s a rumour circulating online that cruise ship chefs intentionally put laxatives in food to keep the ship’s plumbing working properly.

This belief may have been fuelled by the fact that certain food items served on board, like those high in fat, can have a laxative effect.

But surely – surely – they can’t be actually putting laxatives into the food they’re preparing just to make sure the ship’s plumbing runs smoothly… Right?

Breaking Down the Myth: Cruise Ships and Laxatives

Of course cruise ships don’t put laxatives in the food!

Any connection with that sort of ‘laxative effect’ of high fat foods is purely coincidental and not a deliberate attempt by the crew members to prevent the plumbing from getting clogged or backed up!

Cruise lines have strict food safety protocols in place. The emphasis is on maintaining a clean and safe environment, rather than resorting to dubious methods to ensure that the plumbing works properly.

The myth that laxatives are covertly added to cruise ship food is often circulated among first-time cruisers. However, this is a complete fabrication. There is no need for laxatives as cruise ship toilets are designed well enough to handle large quantities of pee, poop and paper. 

And of course, it would be both unethical and illegal for chefs to add laxatives to food without the knowledge or consent of the guests.

That said, my friend Emma Cruises discovered on a Royal Caribbean cruise in Japan, that Coca-Cola Plus is often served instead of Coke Zero – and this drink can indeed have a laxative effect due to the extra fibre!

Reasoning Behind the Myth: Do Cruisers Need Laxatives?

One theory behind this myth is that the change in diet, sparked by the abundance and variety of food on a cruise ship, can lead to irregular bowel movements.

The introduction of certain foods, such as powdered eggs, can naturally stimulate the digestive system without the need for laxatives.

Plus, with drink packages, most cruisers will consume more alcohol and sugar-free soft drinks than they usually would at home – both of which can have a laxative effect when consumed in excess.

Any initial discomfort experienced by passengers is often short-lived and can be managed with balanced eating and regular exercise. The cruise ship medical team are also on hand to provide advice and assistance, should any more serious concerns arise.

Ultimately, it’s important to remember that while a cruise ship vacation may involve indulging in a variety of rich and exotic foods, moderation is key. This will not only ensure a comfortable journey but also dispel any fears of unwanted laxative effects.

What To Be Cautious Of To Avoid Stomach Upsets

Sometimes, diarrhoea at sea can be the result of a mild stomach bug, rather than laxatives. Diseases like norovirus may spread more quickly at sea where people are in close contact.

1. The Pools And Hot Tubs

You can easily catch germs from using the pool or hot tub with someone who has an upset stomach. So for that reason, if you ever experience diarrhoea on a cruise ship, it’s vital that you avoid swimming for at least two weeks.

Yes, I know, that’s probably the rest of your cruise. But honestly, it’s only fair that you don’t pass your bacteria or viruses onto anyone else. Serious germs can survive in chlorinated water for days, and could cause others to become very sick if they swallow even a tiny amount of contaminated water.

According to US Law, children in swim diapers are not allowed to use cruise ship pools.

On British-owned cruise ships like those owned by P&O Cruises, kids in swim nappies are allowed in some of the largest, deepest pools. But ships like this are rare, and in most cases, toddlers are confined to a small splash area.

2. Touching Surfaces

If someone with an upset stomach has germs on their hands and then touches a surface, those germs can spread like wildfire. The most common culprits are the elevator buttons, stairway handrails and drinks machines in the buffet.

To avoid picking up anything nasty here, I always use my knuckle rather than my finger to call the elevator. You should avoid using handrails unless you have to. If the sea is rough, you can rest your wrist on the handrail so that you can quickly grab it if you need to steady your balance.

When it comes to the buffet or restaurant, be sure to always wash your hands before you visit. There’s usually a handwashing station available.

Older cruise ships don’t always have handwashing stations, but they should always have sanitiser. That said, it doesn’t hurt to sanitise your hands again in between pressing the button on the water machine and touching your bread roll. 

3. The Salad Bar

Many of us enjoy a good salad, especially when we’re trying to eat healthy on vacation. But, you should be cautious when it comes to pre-made salads on cruise ships. There is always a risk of cross-contamination. The vegetables in the salad could have come in contact with meat or other food that is not safe without being cooked.

Of course, there are strict rules in place to prevent cross-contamination between meat and salad, but as you’ll see from the case of the MSC Seaside that has in the past failed a hygiene inspection, those rules aren’t always followed.

Most cruise ships are incredibly clean though, so if you’d like to put your mind at rest before your next cruise, be sure to take a look at this list of the cleanest cruise ships in the world.

Understanding Cruise Ship Food Standards

While you may have heard stories of cruise ships secretly adding laxatives to their passengers’ food in cruise forums, these are just rumours.

There’s no concrete evidence to support these claims. It’s highly unlikely that cruise ships would resort to such measures, given the strict regulations and inspections they are subjected to.

Rest assured, cruise ship food standards are stringent. They aim to provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all their guests. So, while it’s essential to be cautious about what you eat and how you avoid germs, it’s also important not to let unfounded rumours spoil your cruise experience.

How To Deal with Unexpected Food-Related Problems on Board

Food-related issues on a cruise ship can range from minor digestive discomfort to serious illnesses. While the myth of laxatives in food is debunked, over-indulgence in the rich and diverse food offerings can indeed lead to bowel problems.

This is not due to the cruise line adding anything to the food, but rather a result of poor dietary choices and portion control.

It’s important to be mindful of your eating habits while on board. Moderation is key, and it’s recommended to balance indulgent meals with healthier options.

In case of any food-related problems, cruise ships have medical facilities on board equipped to handle most situations. But if you’re worried about being caught short, then you may wish to pack some medication in your bag, just in case.

Related Topics

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me