Texas liquor rules limit drink choices on cruises departing Galveston
Royal Caribbean beverage packages remain valid on embarkation day, but alcoholic selections are reduced until ships reach international waters.
Cruises departing from Galveston must follow Texas liquor laws while sailing within the state’s territorial waters, which extend 12 miles offshore, according to the report.
The rules allow ships to serve only alcoholic beverages on which Texas taxes have been levied, regardless of where the products were made. As a result, passengers may find a smaller selection of beer, wine and liquor before their ship enters international waters.
Royal Caribbean passengers can still use each of the company’s three primary beverage packages on embarkation day. However, travelers with the Deluxe Beverage Package will have fewer alcoholic options while the ship remains in Texas waters.
The restrictions described in the report do not apply to non-alcoholic drinks, including mocktails. Once the cruise ship reaches international waters, its full bar selection becomes available.
