Travelers visiting the Bahamas on May 12 may notice something unusual: alcohol sales across the country will temporarily stop for the day because of the nation’s general election.
The restriction applies throughout the Bahamas, including major tourist areas and private cruise islands operated by cruise lines.
Cruise passengers visiting private islands will also be affected
The temporary alcohol ban will impact visitors stopping at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in the Bahamas.
The cruise line confirmed that the island will follow local Bahamian law during the election period. That means bars and alcohol service on the island itself will not operate that day.
Alcohol will still be served onboard Royal Caribbean ships
While the ban applies on land, cruise passengers will still be able to order drinks onboard ships operated by Royal Caribbean.
According to the cruise line, ships visiting CocoCay on May 12, including Wonder of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas, will continue regular onboard beverage service.
The beach clubs and attractions will remain open
Even though alcohol sales will pause onshore, attractions at Perfect Day at CocoCay are expected to remain open.
Guests will still be able to use beaches, pools, waterslides, cabanas, and other attractions during their visit.
The same applies to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, Royal Caribbean’s newer beach club destination near Nassau.
Election-related alcohol bans are common in some countries
Temporary alcohol restrictions around elections are not unusual in parts of the Caribbean and other countries worldwide.
Governments sometimes pause alcohol sales during voting periods as a public safety measure intended to reduce disturbances and encourage orderly elections.
For most tourists, the change is temporary and only affects one day.
Royal Caribbean continues expanding in the Bahamas
The news comes as Royal Caribbean continues investing heavily in Bahamian destinations and cruise expansion.
The company recently expanded its private destination offerings with Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which features beaches, pools, restaurants, and swim-up bars.
The cruise line also recently announced additional ships in its massive Icon Class fleet.
Royal Caribbean’s giant Icon-class ships continue growing
The cruise company confirmed more vessels are joining the Icon Class lineup, which includes Icon of the Seas, currently considered the world’s largest cruise ship.
Upcoming ships include Legend of the Seas, expected to debut in 2026, and Hero of the Seas, planned for 2027.
Cruise demand remains extremely strong worldwide
The temporary Bahamas alcohol ban comes during continued growth for the cruise industry overall.
Industry data from the Cruise Lines International Association showed global cruise passenger numbers reached more than 37 million travelers last year, with most cruisers saying they plan to sail again in the future.
