Has anyone brought alcohol on Carnival Cruise?

My husband's parents very kindly paid for a cruise for our entire family on the Carnival Ecstasty out of Galveston. Since then, my husband was laid off. Even though the trip is paid for, I understand that alcohol isn't and that would be an expense that we couldn't afford. Even three or four drinks a day for each of us would make our bill nearly $500. I've read about people sneaking it on board in checked luggage. How is this done and what are the risks if you get caught? Can you be removed from the ship??