Cruise beverage packages simplify your trip by offering a range of options to fit your drinking habits. Packages generally cost between $25 and $138 per person per day, depending on the cruise line and included drinks. While packages provide value if you typically consume 6-7 beverages daily, they also come with limitations, like mandatory purchases for all cabin members and drink price caps. Evaluate your usual consumption and assess potential savings versus individual drink purchases to find the best fit. For deeper insights into specific package options and tips, keep exploring the details available.
Key Takeaways
- Assess your daily drink consumption; packages are cost-effective for those consuming 6-7 drinks, while lower consumers may prefer pay-as-you-go options.
- Compare package costs among cruise lines, noting price limits and gratuity fees, to determine the best overall value.
- Review the restrictions and limitations of each package, as drink caps and mandatory purchases can impact overall enjoyment and savings.
- Take advantage of promotions or discounts available for beverage packages, as early booking or loyalty programs can significantly reduce costs.
- Consider group dynamics, as all cabin members must choose the same package, which can affect collective savings and satisfaction.
Overview of Cruise Drink Packages

Cruise drink packages often provide a convenient way to enjoy a variety of beverages while you're at sea. These beverage packages typically offer a flat-fee, all-you-can-drink option, with drink package costs ranging from about $25 to $138 per person per day, depending on the cruise line.
You can indulge in everything from basic sodas and water in lower-tier plans to cocktails, wine, and specialty coffees in higher-tier offerings.
Most cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase the drink package if one does, ensuring everyone enjoys unlimited drinks. However, be aware that the package must be purchased for the entire cruise duration and may come with restrictions. For instance, Holland America caps drinks at $15 and Royal Caribbean at $14.
To make your cruise more enjoyable, consider taking advantage of discounts offered for pre-purchasing drink packages online. With periodic sales, you can find ways to make these packages more economical, allowing you to sip and socialize without worrying about the tab.
Cost Breakdown by Cruise Line

When exploring the various beverage package options, you'll find that pricing and offerings can markedly differ among cruise lines. Here's a breakdown of some popular packages:
Cruise Line | Package Name | Daily Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|---|
Royal Caribbean | Deluxe Beverage Package | $56 – $105 + 18% gratuity |
Carnival Cruise Line | Cheers! Program | $59.95 (pre-cruise) |
Norwegian Cruise Line | Premium Plus Beverage Package | $138 + 20% gratuity |
Holland America | Elite Beverage Package | $59.99 + 18% gratuity |
Princess Cruises | Premier Beverage Package | $84.99 + 18% gratuity |
Each package has unique features, catering to different preferences and budgets. Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package covers cocktails up to $14, while Carnival Cruise Line's Cheers! Program allows drinks up to $20. Norwegian Cruise Line offers no price restrictions but at a higher cost. Holland America provides a more budget-friendly option, and Princess Cruises offers flexibility for slightly higher-priced drinks. Understanding these differences will help you choose wisely!
Benefits of Drink Packages

Choosing a beverage package can greatly enhance your cruise experience. Drink packages generally offer a fixed daily price that's perfect for those who enjoy indulging in multiple beverages.
Here are some key benefits:
- Unlimited access to non-alcoholic drinks boosts overall value.
- Easier budgeting means you won't face unexpected bar tabs.
- Many cruise lines feature promotions like free drink packages with booking.
- You'll feel encouraged to socialize and try premium cocktails without worrying about costs.
Limitations and Restrictions

When considering beverage packages, you'll want to be aware of some key limitations.
Most cruise lines require everyone in your cabin to purchase the package if one person opts in, which can be a hassle if some drink less.
Additionally, keep in mind the drink price limits and the rules around sharing that might restrict your options.
Drink Price Limits
Often, cruise lines set drink price limits on their beverage packages, which can affect your overall experience. These restrictions may influence your choices, especially if you enjoy premium brands or specialty cocktails.
Here's a quick look at some cruise line policies:
- Holland America: $15 limit on drinks.
- Royal Caribbean: $14 limit on drinks.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Cheers! program covers drinks up to $20.
- Norwegian Cruise Line: No drink price limits with their Premium Plus Beverage Package.
These drink price limits can limit the value of a beverage package. If you're leaning towards higher-priced cocktails, you may find yourself paying extra.
For instance, if you're on Princess Cruises, their Premier Beverage Package allows drinks priced up to $20, requiring you to cover the difference for pricier options.
Mandatory Package Purchase
Cruise lines typically mandate that all adults in a stateroom purchase a beverage package if one person decides to opt in, which can lead to underutilization of the package. This mandatory package purchase can be problematic, especially when drinking habits among guests differ greatly.
Since beverage packages must be bought for the entire duration of the cruise, you can't opt in for just a few days, which might limit usage on port days. Additionally, the one-drink-at-a-time policy enforces restrictions that prevent sharing of drinks, further complicating group dynamics.
If you're traveling with friends or family who don't drink as much, you might find yourself paying for beverages you won't consume. On top of that, many packages come with a daily limit, typically around 15 drinks, which mightn't be enough for heavy drinkers.
Moreover, certain exclusions apply, such as drinks costing over a specific amount—like $15 on Holland America—leading to potential additional charges for premium options. All these factors contribute to a situation where you may feel you're not getting the best value out of your beverage package investment.
Sharing Policy Restrictions
While enjoying a beverage package can enhance your cruise experience, strict sharing policy restrictions can complicate the situation. Understanding these limitations is essential for maximizing your enjoyment. Here's what you need to know:
- Most cruise lines enforce a one drink at a time policy, meaning you can't share a single drink with someone else.
- All adults in a stateroom must typically purchase the drink package, potentially leading to underutilization if drinking habits differ.
- There's usually a daily limit of 15 alcoholic beverages per person, which can restrict your alcohol consumption during busy port days.
- Many cruise lines impose a maximum price on drinks included in beverage packages, with excess charges for anything over that limit (e.g., Royal Caribbean's $14 limit).
Additionally, beverages ordered through room service and items from the minibar aren't covered, further limiting your options.
You'll need to plan accordingly to make the most of your drink package while keeping these sharing policy restrictions in mind. Understanding these rules helps you navigate your options without surprises during your cruise.
Comparing Individual Purchase Costs

When you consider the costs of individual drink purchases at sea, you'll quickly realize that a beverage package can save you a significant amount of money. Individual drink prices on cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Celebrity Cruises often range from $10 to $20 for cocktails and premium drinks.
If you enjoy just 6-7 drinks daily, a drink package becomes quite cost-effective. For instance, Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package costs between $56 and $105 per day, while drinks average $10-$14 each. With this, you can see substantial savings if you're a frequent drinker.
Similarly, Carnival's CHEERS! program allows drinks priced up to $20, meaning ordering just three drinks at that price justifies the $59.95 package cost.
On Celebrity Cruises, the Premium Package costs $109 per day and covers drinks up to $17, so purchasing just six drinks breaks even with the package.
Plus, don't forget about non-alcoholic beverages, often included in these packages, which can cost $3-$5 each individually. This adds even more value, making beverage packages a smart choice for maximizing your savings at sea.
Decision Factors for Choosing Packages

Reflecting on your drinking habits is essential when choosing a beverage package. Assessing how much you drink daily will help you determine if a drink package makes sense or if pay-as-you-go options are a better fit. Here are some key factors to take into account:
- Total cost of drink packages typically ranges from $60 to $138 per person per day.
- Cabin members must all purchase the same package if one does, which can affect overall value.
- Look for ongoing promotions or discounts that can offer significant savings compared to onboard prices.
- Review specific exclusions and limitations for each package, including drink price caps and restrictions on your preferred beverage choices.
If you usually consume 6-7 drinks daily, alcoholic beverage packages can offer good value.
However, if you drink less, pay-as-you-go options may save you money.
A thorough value analysis of your consumption habits will guarantee you select the right package, giving you the best experience without overspending.
Make sure to align your choices with your drinking preferences and the package terms to maximize your enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, understanding the value of cruise drink packages can save you money and enhance your experience. Did you know that on average, cruise drink packages can cost about $60 per day but can cover drinks that would total over $100 if purchased individually? By weighing the benefits and limitations, you can make an informed choice that fits your needs. So, consider your drinking habits and budget to determine the best option for your cruise adventure!
Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.
With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.