Water, water everywhere…

Staying hydrated on a cruise is extremely important. But not sure what options are available to you? Most cruise lines provides several safe and convenient drinking water options onboard.

Complimentary Tap Water

• Availability: Free and accessible throughout the ship—at the buffet, main dining rooms, bars, cabins, and drink stations  .
• Quality: Shipboard water is potable. It is treated via reverse osmosis or shore-side treatment. The water meets CDC standards and is chlorinated. It is regularly tested and completely safe for drinking .

Bottled Water (Purchased)

• Purchased Options:
  
  • Cabin Deliveries: 12-pack of 16.9 fl oz bottles (~500 ml) for about $17.64 on Carnival .
  • On‑board Bars/Stores: Individual bottles available for purchase 
  • Check your cruise manager to order bottled water for your cabin.
  • Most cruise lines include a complimentary bottle of water for gold+ loyalty members

Bringing Your Own Canned Water

• Allowed: ON CARNIVAL – Each guest may bring up to 12 cans. Each can must be 12 oz or less. These must be carried on. NO BOTTLES ARE ALLOWED TO CARRY ON.
• Smart Tip: Reusable water bottles can be refilled at water stations—eco-friendly, cost-effective, and convenient  .

Water Dispensers & Ice

• Self-serve water stations (cold water) are available in public areas
• Ice machines provide drinkable ice near most staterooms 
• The ice water in your cabin ice bucket is clean and good to drink as it melts throughout

TIP: I bring a slim hydro flask to refill. When going on the islands I fill my flask with ice only. As it melts throughout the day I have good, cool water to drink.

Carnival Cruise Drink Packages with Bottled Water Included

• Cheers! Package ($85+): Includes alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, energy drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water (≤500 ml)  .
• Bottomless Bubbles (≈$11 day adults): Unlimited fountain sodas & juices—but does not include bottled water  .

What to Do?

• Just need water? Use tap water and refillable bottles—completely free and accessible.
• Prefer convenience or brand-name bottles? Buy a 12-pack delivered to your stateroom or grab a bottle on the go.
• Planning to enjoy drinks regularly? Consider the Cheers! package to include bottled water plus other beverages.

Why Hydration Matters on a Cruise

Sun & Salt Air Exposure

• Cruises often involve lots of time in the sun. The salty sea air can also dry out your skin and body.
• Even just sitting by the pool or walking around port can lead to fluid loss through sweating.

Alcohol & Caffeine

• Many cruisers enjoy alcoholic beverages or caffeinated drinks, both of which are diuretics (they cause you to lose more fluids).
• You may feel fine in the moment, but alcohol can mask early signs of dehydration.

Air Conditioning

• Ship interiors are heavily air-conditioned, which can dry out your respiratory system and skin, causing mild dehydration without obvious thirst.

Unusual Schedules & Distractions

• Cruises are packed with activities, shows, and excursions. It’s easy to forget to drink water regularly.
• You might also sweat more during activities like dancing, walking in port cities, or using the gym.

Motion Sickness or Illness

• If you get seasick, you might lose fluids through vomiting or diarrhea. You might also avoid drinking for fear of nausea. Both increase dehydration risk.
• Some medications or patches can also dry out your mouth or eyes, increasing the need for fluids.

Signs of Dehydration at Sea

• Dry mouth or lips
• Headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Dark urine or infrequent urination
• Muscle cramps

Here’s a group just for new cruisers and others! No judgment with correct answers to your questions. Lots of in-depth information, tips and personal advice! 

Carnival Cruising for First Timers & Seasoned Sailors