On most boats yes, after the last dive. Some destinations (Maldives, Red Sea) are stricter — alcohol may be paid extra or BYOB.
Alcohol policies vary widely by destination and operator
The general rule worldwide is: no alcohol before the last dive of the day, then social drinking is welcomed and alcohol is available for purchase. Some destinations have stricter rules due to local law.
International norm
After the last dive of the day, beer, wine and spirits become available at the boat's bar. Cocktails and mixed drinks are common at sunset hour. The boat sets a cut-off (usually around 10–11pm) and night-cap drinks are settled in cash on the last evening. Prices typically $3–$8 per drink — beer cheapest, wine and cocktails more.
Maldives
Officially a dry country — alcohol is not legal for general sale. Most Maldives liveaboards operate as 'dry boats' on paper but in practice import alcohol under duty-free licenses for guest consumption on board. Beer, wine, spirits and cocktails are usually available, sometimes included in the trip price (more common on premium operators), sometimes paid extra ($4–$8/drink). Strictly no alcohol on Maldivian inhabited islands or resorts that don't have liquor licenses. A few operators run completely dry boats — confirm at booking if this matters.
Egyptian Red Sea
Alcohol is legal in tourist zones (Hurghada, Sharm) and on liveaboards. Beer and wine are commonly served. Some boats are BYOB (bring your own from duty-free at the airport). Prices on board are higher than on land. Spirits are sometimes restricted; wine and beer always available on most operators.
Saudi Arabia (Red Sea)
Officially dry. Alcohol is not served on Saudi-flagged vessels. Some Saudi liveaboards are operated under foreign flag (Egyptian, European) where alcohol is permitted, but check carefully before booking if this matters.
Caribbean and Latin America
Liberal alcohol policies. Beer, wine, cocktails widely available, often with all-inclusive options. Mexico, Bahamas, Cayman, Honduras, Costa Rica all offer fully stocked bars on board.
Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand. Alcohol legal and widely served. Beer is the most common (local brands like Bintang, San Miguel, Singha). Wine and spirits available but more expensive than on land. Some Indonesian boats during Ramadan respect dry policies for crew comfort.
Galápagos, Cocos, Socorro. Alcohol available but consumption policies are conservative due to demanding diving and the no-fly window after last dive. Most operators limit alcohol to evening only, after diving complete for the day.
Bring or buy
Duty-free spirits at your departure airport are usually cheaper than on the boat. Most operators allow you to bring 1 bottle of spirits and a few bottles of wine for personal consumption (corkage may apply). Check the operator's specific policy.
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