Despite the legal status of CBD in various states, bringing CBD gummies onto a cruise ship is generally prohibited. Major cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Disney Cruise Lines, maintain strict policies against cannabis in all forms, encompassing CBD-infused products. This uniform stance is primarily to avoid contravening laws or regulations in the countries they visit.
In a striking incident, a woman was banned for life from Carnival Cruise Line for carrying CBD gummies, despite their legality in her home state of Florida. The gummies, intended as a sleep aid, were detected during security checks. Carnival’s policy explicitly prohibits all CBD products, reflecting a cautious approach to varying state and international laws.
The Complications of International Waters
International waters, or the open ocean, start 12 miles off the coast of any country and are not under the jurisdiction of any state or country. This unique legal environment raises questions about the legality of possessing cannabis on board a ship in these waters.
Despite the lack of jurisdiction in international waters, vessels are still subject to the laws of the state to which they are registered. This means that the legality of marijuana on a ship in international waters is determined by the laws of the country where the ship is registered. If a ship is registered in a state where cannabis is legal, it might be permissible on board, provided the crew consents.
The overarching challenge is that marijuana remains federally illegal. Thus, vessels registered in the United States are technically committing a federal crime by allowing cannabis onboard, even in international waters. The U.S. Coast Guard has the authority to enforce federal laws and may board any vessel to conduct safety inspections. If marijuana is found during these inspections, it can lead to fines and federal prosecution.
Understanding the Legal Framework
Cruise lines have explicit policies prohibiting the possession and use of THC gummies and other marijuana products, regardless of whether they are for medical or recreational use. This ban includes all forms of marijuana, including edibles and cartridges. Even if a cruise ship departs from or sails to destinations where cannabis is legal, these rules are enforced due to the federal illegal status of marijuana in many countries, including the United States.
Despite the legalization of recreational marijuana in nearly half of the U.S. states, it remains illegal to use or possess pot on cruise ships. This holds true even for cruises that board in states where cannabis is legal. Cruise companies, like Carnival Cruise Line, have been vocal in clarifying these regulations.
Conclusion
Bringing THC gummies on a cruise presents a complex legal challenge. While the idea of enjoying cannabis-infused edibles on the high seas is appealing, the reality is fraught with legal risks. Cruise lines maintain strict policies against marijuana, regardless of its legal status in certain states or countries. Additionally, the jurisdiction of international waters does not provide a legal safe haven due to the enforcement of federal laws by agencies like the U.S. Coast Guard. Therefore, it’s advisable to err on the side of caution and leave THC gummies at home when setting sail on a cruise.