One of the most common questions before setting sail is: “Are cruise drink packages worth it?” The answer depends on personal drinking habits, preferences, and the value someone places on their trip. For example, people who enjoy several cocktails, wines, or specialty coffees each day may find a package a smart choice. On the other hand, light drinkers or those spending most of their time ashore may save more by paying per drink.

What Cruise Drink Package Offers?

Cruise lines typically provide several tiers of drink packages to suit different preferences and budgets. Rather than paying individually for every drink, travellers can choose an all-inclusive package for a set daily price. The cost of these packages depends on the cruise line, the ship, the route, and any ongoing promotions. The most common options of cruise drink packages to make worthwhile include:

• Soda Packages: This package includes unlimited fountain soda, sometimes including a souvenir cup, a hit for families or non-alcoholic drinkers.
• Refreshment Packages: Passengers can go beyond soda to include coffee, tea, bottled water, mocktails, juices, energy drinks, and milkshakes.
• Alcoholic Drink Packages: The package offers cocktails, beer, wine, cocktails even specialty coffees. These range widely, from around $60 to $140+ per person per day, plus service charges.

What is the Price of Cruise Drink Packages?

The price of a package significantly decides whether are drink packages on a cruise are worth it. Drink package prices on cruises can vary widely. Basic options, like soda or specialty coffee packages, usually start at around $10 per day, while alcohol-inclusive packages can cost over $80 per day. For instance, Holland America Line offers the Quench package at about $14 per day and the Signature Beverage package from around $47 per day. Carnival’s Bottomless Bubbles package begins near $9 per day, while its more complete Cheers! The package starts at about $64 per day.

Benefits of Cruise Drink Package

The pros of taking a drink package may include:

• Budget Control: A person knows their drink costs upfront, which can prevent a shocking bill at the end of the trip.
• Convenience: The package offers a stress-free, all-inclusive feel. A person can simply order a drink without worrying about the cost.
• Freedom to Experiment: Cruisers can try new and different drinks without worrying about the bill.
• Potential Savings: For a heavy drinker, a package can save a significant amount of money compared to paying for each drink individually.

Drawbacks of Cruise Drink Package

While the cruise drink package offers several benefits, it carries some cons as well:

• High Upfront Cost: The initial price can be a turn-off, and if a person doesn’t drink enough, it’s money wasted.
• Restrictive Rules: The “all-in-a-cabin” policy and other restrictions can make it a poor value for some groups.
• Gratuities: On many cruises, gratuities are automatically added to drink packages, which raises the total price a bit.
• Pressure to Overconsume: Some people may feel compelled to drink more than they normally would to “get their money’s worth.”

When Are Cruise Ship Drink Packages Worth It?

Cruise drink packages are not always beneficial for all, but in certain situations, they can provide excellent value and convenience. Here are some cases where it makes sense to take a drink package:

• Frequent Drinkers: Those who enjoy multiple cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine daily usually save money with a package.
• Coffee or Soda Lovers: If someone regularly orders specialty coffees, sodas, or juices, a refreshment package quickly pays off.
• Families with Kids: Soda packages can be a budget-friendly option for children and teens.
• Peace of Mind: Having drinks prepaid helps travellers relax without worrying about the bill.
• Long Days at Sea: On itineraries with several sea days, passengers tend to drink more onboard, making packages more worthwhile.

When the Cruise Drink Package Might Not Be Worth It?

While drink packages can be convenient, they’re not always the best deal for every traveller. In some situations, paying per drink may be the smarter option. Here are a few cases where drink packages might not be worth the cost:

• Light Drinkers: If someone only enjoys one or two drinks a day, buying drinks individually is usually cheaper.
• Port-Heavy Itineraries: Cruises with many port stops mean less time on the ship to use the package.
• Premium Tastes: Travellers who prefer top-shelf spirits or high-end wines may find their choices aren’t fully covered.
• Already Included Perks: Some cruise fares or loyalty programs already provide free drinks, making a package unnecessary.
• Cabin Rules: Most cruise lines require all adults in the same cabin to buy the package, which can add up quickly if everyone isn’t a big drinker.
• Health and Lifestyle Choices: Those who don’t consume alcohol or prefer water and basic beverages may find little value in it.

Are Own Drinks Allowed On Board?

The rules for bringing drinks onboard vary by cruise line, so it’s always best to check the specific policy before sailing. In general, beer and hard liquor are not allowed, but most lines let each guest bring one sealed 750ml bottle of wine or champagne at embarkation. If the bottle is consumed outside the stateroom, a corkage fee usually applies. For example, Princess Cruises charges around $20 to drink it in public areas, while Carnival adds a $15 fee if it’s enjoyed in dining rooms, bars, or specialty restaurants. Some lines also allow limited nonalcoholic beverages, though policies differ, so passengers should confirm in advance.

Smart Tips for Evaluating the Value of Cruise Drink Package

Figuring out whether a cruise drink package is worth it depends on the traveller’s habits and preferences. A few smart considerations can help make the decision easier:

• Do the Math: A traveller should estimate how many drinks they typically have in a day and compare it to the daily package price.
• Check What’s Included: Each person should review the package details carefully, as some include bottled water, specialty coffee, or juices, while others focus only on alcohol.
• Factor in Gratuities: Travellers need to remember that service charges are often added, which increases the overall cost.
• Watch for Promotions: A guest can take advantage of discounts or special offers where drink packages are bundled with the fare.
• Consider the Itinerary: On cruises with many port days, a traveller may not spend enough time onboard to get full value from the package.
• Think About Convenience: Some passengers prefer the ease of having everything prepaid, even if it doesn’t lead to big savings.
• Know the Limits: Each traveller should be realistic about how much they’ll actually drink, so they don’t overpay for a package they won’t use fully.

Wrapping Up: Are cruise drink packages worth it?

For those who enjoy multiple beverages daily and prefer the convenience of not worrying about costs, a package can provide great value. However, for light drinkers or those who spend most of their time exploring ports, paying per drink may be more practical.

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