Cruise Drink Packages Explained: Are They Worth It?

Planning a cruise vacation? One of the most talked-about add-ons is the cruise drink package. These packages promise unlimited drinks for a flat daily fee, but are they really worth it? Whether you’re a cocktail lover, a coffee enthusiast, or just want to sip soda by the pool, understanding how cruise drink packages work can help you decide if they fit your travel style and budget. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cruise drink packages, from what’s included to which cruise lines offer the best deals.

What Are Cruise Drink Packages?

Cruise drink packages are prepaid plans that let you enjoy a wide range of beverages onboard for a single daily price. Instead of paying for each drink individually, you pay a flat fee and can order drinks from the included menu as often as you like. Most packages cover alcoholic drinks like beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as non-alcoholic options such as soda, bottled water, and specialty coffee. Some cruise lines even offer packages focused only on non-alcoholic drinks or coffee.

These packages are designed for travelers who plan to enjoy several drinks per day. Ordering drinks one by one can quickly add up, especially when you factor in cocktails, premium wines, and specialty coffees. With a cruise drink package, you can avoid surprise charges on your final bill and enjoy the convenience of unlimited drinks throughout your trip. However, not every cruise line offers the same inclusions or pricing, so it’s important to compare options before deciding.

Most major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity, and Princess, offer some form of drink package. The exceptions are Disney Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages, which do not offer traditional drink packages but may have alternative beverage deals. Each line structures its packages differently, so what’s included can vary widely. Some packages are all-inclusive, while others have limits on the number of drinks or the types of beverages covered.

How Do Cruise Drink Packages Work?

Package Types and Inclusions

Cruise drink packages typically come in several tiers. The most basic option is often a soda or refreshment package, which covers soft drinks, bottled water, and sometimes specialty coffees. These are ideal for families or travelers who don’t want alcohol but still want unlimited access to drinks. More comprehensive packages include alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, cocktails, and sometimes even top-shelf spirits. Some lines also offer coffee cards, which give you a set number of specialty coffee drinks for a discounted price.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package covers all cocktails, beers, and wines by the glass up to a certain value, plus mocktails, soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, and even Johnny Rockets shakes. Carnival’s CHEERS! package includes beer, spirits, wines by the glass, and cocktails, as well as sodas and bottled water. Princess Cruises offers the Plus Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $15 per drink, including beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options like specialty coffees and smoothies.

Some cruise lines bundle their drink packages with other perks. Princess Cruises’ Plus and Premier packages include complimentary Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities, specialty desserts, and even fitness classes. Celebrity Cruises’ All-Inclusive package covers unlimited premium coffees, bottled water, wines by the glass, beers, cocktails, and more, with discounts on bottles of wine. These bundled packages can offer extra value, especially if you plan to use the included perks.

Pricing and Purchase Options

The cost of cruise drink packages varies by cruise line, package type, and length of cruise. Prices are usually quoted per person, per day. For example, Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package can range from $60 to $100 per person per day, depending on dynamic pricing. Carnival’s CHEERS! package is around $69.95 per person per day. Princess Cruises’ Plus Beverage Package is about $60 per person per day, while Celebrity’s Classic Drink Package is typically $107.99 per person per day.

Many cruise lines offer discounts if you purchase your drink package in advance, either at the time of booking or before boarding. Some lines also offer “welcome aboard” discounts if you buy the package onboard. Pre-purchasing can save you money and ensure you get the package you want, as availability may be limited once the cruise begins. It’s also worth checking for special deals or bundled fares that include drink packages, Wi-Fi, and other perks at a reduced rate.

Keep in mind that most cruise lines require all adults in a stateroom to purchase the same drink package, and packages must be purchased for the entire cruise duration. Some lines, like Royal Caribbean, provide free daily drink vouchers for top-tier loyalty members, which can reduce the need for a full drink package. Always review the fine print for restrictions, such as daily drink limits or excluded beverages.

Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

Cost Comparison: Package vs. Pay-Per-Drink

To determine if a cruise drink package is worth it, compare the total cost of the package to what you’d spend ordering drinks individually. For example, if you plan to have two cocktails, a glass of wine, and a specialty coffee each day, the daily cost could easily exceed $50. If the drink package is $60 per day, you’d break even after just a few days. If you drink more, the package quickly becomes a better value.

However, if you only plan to have a drink or two each day, or if you prefer free options like water and basic coffee, the package may not be worth the cost. It’s also important to consider non-alcoholic drinks. Many cruise lines charge for premium waters, specialty coffees, and sodas at bars, so if you consume a lot of these, the package can save you money. For example, a cappuccino at breakfast, a few Smart Waters before lunch, a latte in the afternoon, and a cocktail before dinner can add up quickly.

Some cruise lines have daily drink limits. Princess Cruises, for example, limits guests to 15 alcoholic drinks per 24-hour period with the Plus Beverage Package. Non-alcoholic drinks are usually unlimited. If you’re a light drinker, this limit may not matter, but if you plan to enjoy several drinks each day, it could be a factor. Celebrity Cruises’ package is unlimited, so you don’t have to worry about hitting a cap.

Convenience and Experience

One of the biggest benefits of a cruise drink package is convenience. Instead of worrying about the cost of each drink, you can order what you want, when you want it. This can make your vacation more relaxing, especially if you enjoy trying different cocktails or wines. With a package, you’re more likely to step outside your comfort zone and try new drinks without feeling guilty about the price.

Drink packages also cover your drinks at the cruise ship’s private port beaches, so you can enjoy a cocktail or beer while lounging by the water. This is a nice perk if you plan to spend time at the ship’s beach club or on excursions that include drinks. Plus, you won’t have to run between decks to the buffet for free soda or iced tea, since your package covers those as well.

However, some travelers find that the daily drink limit can be restrictive. If you’re used to ordering drinks freely, having to track your consumption can take some of the fun out of it. On the other hand, unlimited packages like Celebrity’s Classic Drink Package let you enjoy as many drinks as you like, which can make your cruise experience more carefree.

Which Cruise Lines Offer the Best Drink Packages?

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers the Deluxe Beverage Package, which is one of the most all-inclusive options available. It covers all cocktails, beers, and wines by the glass up to $14, plus mocktails, soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, Johnny Rockets shakes, and freshly squeezed juices. The package is priced dynamically, ranging from $60 to $100 per person per day. All guests of drinking age in a stateroom must purchase the package, but top-tier loyalty members receive free daily drink vouchers.

Royal Caribbean also offers a Classic Soda Package for $13.50 per person per day and a Refreshment Package for $34 per person per day, which adds mocktails, premium coffees, and fresh-squeezed juices. The Deluxe Beverage Package is ideal for travelers who want unlimited access to a wide range of drinks, while the soda and refreshment packages are better for those who prefer non-alcoholic options.

Carnival Cruises

Carnival’s CHEERS! package is priced at $69.95 per person per day and includes beer, spirits, wines by the glass, cocktails, sodas, and bottled water. The package must be purchased for all adults in a stateroom and for the entire cruise duration. Carnival also offers a bottomless soda package for $9.50 per adult per day and wine packages for $81 or $124 per person, depending on the selection.

Carnival’s drink packages are straightforward and cover a good range of beverages. The CHEERS! package is a solid choice for travelers who want unlimited access to beer, wine, and cocktails. The soda package is ideal for families or those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises offers the Plus Beverage Package for $60 per person per day, which covers drinks up to $15 per drink, including beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. The package also includes complimentary Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities, specialty desserts, and fitness classes. The Premier Package is $80 per person per day and includes drinks up to $20 per drink, plus additional perks like specialty restaurant meals and reserved theater seating.

Princess Cruises’ packages are known for their value, especially when bundled with other perks. The Plus and Premier packages are a good choice for travelers who want a comprehensive beverage plan with extra benefits. The daily drink limit of 15 alcoholic drinks may be a consideration for heavy drinkers.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises’ Classic Drink Package is priced at $107.99 per person per day and covers unlimited premium coffees, bottled water, wines by the glass, beers, cocktails, and more. The package is all-inclusive, with no daily drink limit, making it a great choice for travelers who want unlimited access to a wide range of drinks. Celebrity also offers a Premium Drink Package for those who want even more options.

Celebrity’s drink packages are among the most flexible, with no restrictions on the number of drinks. The package is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy drinks freely without worrying about hitting a cap. The bundled All-Inclusive fare includes the drink package and basic Wi-Fi, but fewer extras than Princess Cruises’ Plus package.

Key Takeaways

Cruise drink packages can be a great way to save money and enjoy unlimited drinks on your vacation. They’re especially worth it if you plan to have several drinks per day or want the convenience of not worrying about individual charges. However, if you’re a light drinker or prefer free options, the package may not be worth the cost.

When choosing a cruise drink package, consider the inclusions, pricing, and any restrictions. Compare the total cost of the package to what you’d spend ordering drinks individually. Look for deals on bundled fares or pre-purchase discounts. And remember that most cruise lines require all adults in a stateroom to purchase the same package.

Ultimately, the best cruise drink package depends on your travel style and preferences. Whether you want unlimited cocktails, specialty coffees, or just unlimited soda, there’s a package out there to suit your needs. Do your research, compare options, and choose the package that offers the best value for your cruise vacation.

For more detailed information on cruise drink packages, check out these resources: