A new drinks policy for embarking passengers is now in place on P&O Cruises ships.

Passengers can no longer bring spirits or beer on board at any time, but can still bring up to one litre of wine or Champagne per person on embarkation day only. This applies to passengers who are over 18 year for European homeports and over 21 for US homeports.

The new policy came into effect on 7 May for new departures. Policies are not changing mid-cruise for sailings that started before 7 May, but will be implemented at the next embarkation.

The cruise line has issued a list of frequently asked questions on its website so passengers understand the new changes.

The FAQs section reminds passengers that guests consuming their permitted one litre of wine or Champagne in the dining rooms, bars, restaurants or lounge areas, there is a £20 corkage charge per bottle, per occasion.

If a bottle of wine or Champagne has been bought for a guest through P&O Cruises gifts, guests must carry the gift card with them to avoid having a corkage charge applied to their on-board account.  

Anyone who brings more than the allowed amount on embarkation day will have to hand it in and will get it back at the end of the cruise.

Alcoholic drinks bought on ports of call cannot be consumed on board and must also be handed in and will be returned on disembarkation. The same applies to duty free alcohol bought in an on-board shop.

There is no charge for storage.