norwegian cruise drink package worth it

Norwegian Drink Package Review | Is it Worth The Price?

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: December 28, 2023

Categories Alaska , Travel Guides

Are you going on a Norwegian Cruise and wondering if the Norwegian Drink Package is worth it? In this guide, I am going to share my personal opinion about whether or not the free unlimited open bar package is worth the price. 

The quick answer to whether or not the Norwegian all-you-can-drink Package is worth it, depends on two key factors. The first is your personal vacation drinking habits. Additionally, it depends on whether or not you get the package through their ‘Free At Sea’ promotion or pay full price. 

So in this Norwegian Drink Package Review, I will share a cost breakdown and help you better understand if this package is the right choice for you. 

How Much Does The Cruise Beverage Packages Cost?

The stand-alone unlimited drink package on the Norwegian Cruise Line costs $109 per day + 20% gratuity per person.

How Much Does The Drink Package Cost with the Free At Sea Promotion

Since 2020, the Norwegian Cruise Line has been offering the Free At Sea Promotion. This allows you to get the cruise for 50% off, which includes the drink package, 1 specialty dining experience, 100 minutes of free wifi, and a $50 voucher for an excursion. Some of the packages include free airfare and free 3rd & 4th guests. Gratuities are not included in select promotions. 

Therefore, the Free At Sea Drink Package is included with the cost of the cruise. But you will still be charged a 20% gratuity for the duration of your cruise, which totals $21.80 per person per day for as long as the cruise duration. 

For example, a 3-day cruise (3 days x $21.80) would only cost $65.40 per person in gratuity. 

What is included in the NCL Drinks Package?

Most drinks under $15 are included in the Norwegian Drink Package. Bottles of water, specialty coffees, and energy drinks are excluded.

• Select, premium cocktails & spirits (under $15 USD)
• Variety of beer and wine by the glass (under $15 USD)
• 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine (above $15 USD)
• Unlimited soft drinks and juices

What is the Daily Limit for the Norwegian Drink Package?

The Norwegian Drink Package is truly unlimited. There is no maximum drink cutoff.

But according to the NCL Guest Conduct Policy , “ The ship’s staff may refuse to serve alcoholic beverages to any guest who does not consume alcohol responsibly”.

Cost of Single Drinks Aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line

• Beer: $6-$9 ($6 for domestic cans – $9 for draft)
• Wine: Starting around $9 per glass
• Cocktails: Starting around $10
• Soda: $3.50
• Water: $6.50
• Energy Drinks: $6.50
• Starbucks: $3.25-$6.45

Is Gratuity Included With The NCL All-You-Can-Drink Package

Gratuity is NOT included with the purchase of a Norwegian Drink Package. An automatic charge of 20% will be charged for each guest. Do note this means every day of the cruise, you will be charged 20% of the $109 cost. 

For example, if go on a 7-day cruise, the gratuity would amount to $152.60 per person.

Can One Person Get The Drink Package and Share?

No, each person in the stateroom must purchase the package if they are over the age of 21+. 

Premium Drink Upgrade (Starbucks & Premium Liquors and Wines)

There is the option to upgrade the package to include top-shelf liquors and wines. This also includes the unlimited Starbucks package, premium bottled water, and energy drinks. 

You can find a list of the premium liquors on the NCL Unlimited Open Bar Package Flyer .

The additional cost for the Premium Plus Package costs $29 extra per day (for a total of $138 per day).

Can you buy The Drink Package On Board?

If you decide last minute you do actually want to add the drink package, you can purchase it during the first 48 hours of the cruise. Ask the customer service desk where to purchase the package. 

Quick Cost Breakdown Of The Norwegian Drink Package

I wanted to show some simple math to help you understand whether or not the NCL drink package is right for you. 

Let’s say you start drinking in the early afternoon and have one drink per hour. Start with a few cocktails ($10 + $15 + $12 + $13). Then you go to dinner and switch to wine, let’s say you have 2 glasses ($9 + $15). Finally, you go to a show and have 2 more cocktails ($10 + $14). 

That’s 8 drinks total throughout the evening and the total is only $98 . 

So you actually didn’t even break even and this wasn’t totaling in the cheaper drink options on the menu. 

Now let’s say you go with the most expensive drink option, every time.

• $109 / $15 = 7 drinks per day

This could make the cost a little more palatable. But I find they still have a great selection of wines and cocktails around $9-$12. And if you are a beer drinker, this cost goes down even more.

The NCL Cruise Beverage Package For Beer Drinkers

If you will exclusively be drinking beer, then I don’t see how the drink package will really benefit you. Unless you plan to drink 12-18 beers every day.

• Domestic Beer $109 / $6 = 18 beers
• Draft Beer $109 / $9 = 12 beers

The Premium Drink Package Cost Breakdown

Okay, so you have classy taste and want to pay the additional $29 per day to have top-shelf liquors and wines. That brings the total up to $138 per day. 

Maybe this is just an opinion, but if you are drinking top-shelf, then you probably prefer the taste. Overall meaning, you aren’t really drinking to get wasted. So even $138 / $23 per drink = 6 drinks per day (which is just breaking even). 

Plus you still have to buy bottles of wine (although you get 40% off). 

You do get the Starbucks package and the premium water package included. Therefore, if you only like top-shelf liquors and wine, this package might make sense for the price. 

My Personal Opinion Of Whether Or Not The Norwegian Drink Package Is Worth It

I don’t think the question of whether or not the Norwegian Drink Package is worth the cost is really a one-size-fits-all answer.  

Except with the Free At Sea Promotion , I think it’s a no-brainer to add the Norwegian Drink Package. You really only have to pay gratuity, which is $21.80 per day. That’s only about 2 drinks, and if you are on vacation, then you are likely to indulge in a couple more than two, am I right?! 😉 

But if I were paying full price for the Unlimited Drink Package on the Norwegian Cruise Line, then I don’t think it is worth the price on its own ($109 per day + 20% gratuity).

You need to consider how many alcoholic drinks you plan on having each day.

For light to moderate drinkers (1-6 drinks per day), you will likely not even reach the $109 per day. And for drinkers above moderate (8+ drinks per day), you might simply break even. 

If you are a heavy drinker or know you will be drinking the $15 drinks exclusively, then the package may be a good fit for you.

And another variable to consider is if you are prone to seasickness. Our Alaska Cruise on Norwegian Cruise Lines experienced some rough seas. Jake got pretty nauseous at times and was definitely drinking a little bit less than if it was a land-based vacation.

I hope this Norwegian Drink Package Review helps you understand the cost breakdown of drinks on the Norwegian Cruise Line and helps you decide whether or not the drink package is right for you. 

Related Alaska Posts:

• Want to learn more about Norwegian Cruises? Find our in-depth review of our experience aboard the Norwegian Jewel
• Or are you ready to pack your bag and board the ship? Find our ultimate Alaska Cruise Packing List

Save This ‘Norwegian Drink Package Review’ For Later

Home » Cruise » Norwegian Cruise Line » Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It?

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It?

Our complete analysis will help you answer the question, "Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It?".

Share this post:

One of the most hotly debated cruise topics are drink packages. For one flat fee, these cruise ship drink packages offer cruisers the ability to make their cruise more inclusive. Still, whether or not you should purchase one of these beverage packages is an individual choice that depends on several factors. In this post, we complete an analysis to answer the question, “Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It?”.

Basics of the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package

The Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package was formerly known as the Ultimate Beverage Package. This is the standard alcohol package offered by Norwegian Cruise Line.

This is also the package that guests receive as part of the Free at Sea promotion .

All Norwegian Cruise Line beverage packages are priced per person, per day. When electing to purchase a package, you have to pay for the entire length of the cruise. You can not purchase just select days.

Further, there is no sharing of the package or using your package to order drinks for other cruisers. All qualifying individuals in the stateroom or additional staterooms under the same method of payment must purchase one.

Also, any guests under the age of 21 must purchase a soda package as a substitute.

The stated prices do not include the additional 20% service charge which is added when purchasing the package. Even if you receive a drink package with the cruise line’s Free at Sea promotion, you are still responsible to pay this 20% gratuity.

Exclusive: Norwegian Cruise Line Free at Sea Deals

The Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package is good almost everywhere. This includes all bars, lounges, restaurants, and the brand’s private island of  Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas .

However, drink packages do not work at Harvest Caye, Belize.

Unlike the  Carnival Cheers Program  which limits you to 15 alcoholic drinks a day, NCL’s drink packages are truly unlimited.

No matter what package you purchase, you can order two beverages per person, per transaction. Of course, staff do have the right to refuse you bar service if you are intoxicated.

Related Post: Best Cruise Lines for Families

You can purchase a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package online pre-cruise or once onboard the ship.

Everything Included (and Not Included) in the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package 

The Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package includes a variety of spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer up to $15. Further, this package includes unlimited fountain soda and juices at all bars, lounges, restaurants, and Great Stirrup Cay.

Any items over $15 will receive a $15 discount; you will then need to pay only the difference.

The Premium beverage package does not include room service, ship specific promotions or beer buckets, designated Super Premium brands, bottled wine or liquor, or mini bar purchases.

For a list of included brands, see  here .

It also does not include Wine and Spirit Experiences, tastings or flights, Starbucks, or Ice Bars.

Unlike most other cruise lines’ drink packages , this alcoholic beverage package also does not include any premium non-alcoholic drinks. Items like bottled water, fresh squeezed juices, select Lavazza coffee beverages, and energy drinks are not included.

Further vending machine purchases and wine stations are not included.

Related Post: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Specialty Dining Package

Guests will receive a 20% discount to all bottles of wine purchased onboard with the Premium beverage package.

Analysis of the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package

This brings us back to the original question, is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package a good value? That is a question that only you can answer based on your own drinking habits.

The Premium beverage package is currently priced at $99 per person, per day. This equates to $831.60 per person for a 7-day cruise (including 20% service charge). So, given that it does not include many non-alcoholic items, the Premium beverage package is priced well above its competitors.

To determine if the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package is a good value, there are a few scenarios we will consider.

Norwegian Cruise Line Bahamas Cruise Deals

To complete these analyses, we tracked all of our beverages consumed over a 7-day cruise. Then, we took the average prices for each drink category to determine how much we would have spent on drinks if we paid a la carte for each item. 

The complete analysis is below.

In total, we drank 76 drinks that were included in the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package. The total cost of all those drinks with service charge was $978.00 for the two of us.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth Getting as a Free Perk?

The Free Open Bar is likely the top pick for many from Norwegian’s Free at Sea promotion. When selecting this “free” perk, guests will still need to pay gratuity. The 20% service charge for a 7-day cruise will cost each guest $138.60 for the Premium Beverage package. This gratuity is added to the total cruise fare at the time of booking.

Based on this cost, if you and your cabin mate will drink on average at least 2 alcoholic drinks/day, then the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package is worth getting as a free perk.

Of course, this number of drinks varies slightly based on your drink preferences. The average price for beer is around $7.50, and the average for a glass of wine is $9. Most mixed drinks range between $10-$12.

Related Post: Everything You Should Book Before Your Cruise

Using our numbers, we saved $700.80 total on alcoholic beverages during our 7-day cruise by timing the booking of our cruise with the frequently run Free at Sea promotion.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth Buying?

If we had purchased the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package out of pocket, it would have cost us $1663.20 total. Only spending $978 on alcoholic drinks over the course of the week, we were a far cry from reaching the break even point.

In fact, we would have actually lost $685.20 compared to just paying out of pocket for all our alcoholic beverages.

So, unless you and your cabin mate can consistently drink 11+ alcoholic beverages a day, then it would not be worth buying the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package.

Of course, convenience is one of the perks we like about having a beverage package. Though, given that many non-alcoholic drinks, like bottled water and specialty coffee, are not included in this package, it wouldn’t make sense for us to purchase it out of pocket.

Luckily, the cruise line runs the Free at Sea promotion so frequently that we don’t really ever have to worry about this scenario.

Is It Worth Upgrading the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Drink Package to the Premium Plus Package?

A relatively newer offering, the Premium Plus beverage package is the most all-inclusive option of the NCL drink packages. Though, it does come at a higher price point.

The Premium Plus beverage package is currently priced at $128 per person, per day. This equates to a full retail price of $1,075.20 for a 7-day cruise (including 20% service charge).

This drink package includes everything in the Premium beverage package, along with other higher end offerings. These additional inclusions are freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), energy drinks, non-alcoholic beer, wine dispensers, and specialty coffee. For a full list of included beverages, see  here .

Another upgrade to this plan is the availability of select bottles of wine at dinner. For non-select bottles of wine (champagne and sparkling included), “Wine and Spirit Experiences”, tastings, and flights, guests will receive a 40% discount.

This beverage package is available as an upgrade to the Free at Sea Premium beverage package option. Cruisers can upgrade by paying the difference in the retail package price ($29) in addition to associated service charges ($34.80 total per person, per day).

Essentially, you will need to decide if you will drink at least $29 a day per person of the additional inclusions. When considering this option, it is important to note that NCL offers cruisers the ability to purchase a 24-pack of 1L bottles of water for $44.95 on the online cruise planner.

Generally speaking, we each drink about 2 non-alcoholic specialty drinks a day plus bottled water. Thus, purchasing a case of water at $44.95 ($6.42 broken down per day) and 2 specialty beverages at $9-10 total, we would not reach the $29 per person, per day fee associated with upgrading.

Of course, if you plan to drink more non-alcoholic specialty drinks or like bottles of wine, then this upgrade might be worth it for you.

Related Post: Beginner’s Guide to Cruise Planning

Recap: Is the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package Worth It?

As you can see from the different scenarios provided above, the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package is likely worth it if you are receiving it as an included Free at Sea perk. Though, it is not likely worth it to purchase out of pocket unless you plan on consuming a considerable number of alcoholic beverages a day.

Further, there are several other factors you should keep in mind when determining if you should buy a beverage package on a cruise .

Depending on your ports of call and number of sea days, as well as your hours ashore, you may receive better savings (or less) on your voyage. On port intensive cruises, like the Mediterranean, you might find yourself spending long days ashore.

This means less time on the ship to take advantage of that drink package. On the flipside, if you are visiting NCL’s private island of Great Stirrup Cay on your cruise, this gives you more opportunity to use the package while enjoying some fun in the sun.

Ultimately, you need to know your own drinking habits (and your cabin mate’s). It’s easy to go overboard if you are just trying to get your money’s worth from the drink package.

Do you usually purchase beverage packages when you cruise? Do you think the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package is a good value? Drop us an anchor below with your analysis of this beverage program. 

Related Posts

Cruiseline module – Remove Title

6 comments on is the norwegian cruise line drink package worth it, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Sign up to our newsletter!

I bought a drink package on RCCL, three years ago for around $400.. I found that it wasn’t worth it because I didn’t drink that much. The cost per day was over $57, which in my opinion isn’t a great deal.

I have bought a drink package on Viking River Cruises. The cruise was 14 days and the package was called their Silver Spirts package. The cost was around $300 and it was a very good deal as it worked out to just over $21 a day. I would buy it again if I went again.

I got the drink package as a perk, for me it will be worth it as I do like to drink well on vacation. I have a 14 day cruise booked and Iam sure I will get my monies worth.

as long as the regular drink package is offered as the “free at sea promotion”,i find that this is sufficient for my wife and myself, by nature she is not a big drinker (although neither am I) but we will have a glass of champagne or mimosa at breakast and she will join me in a mojito during the afternoon.

we have been very satisfied with the regular package on most of our cruises

If you are only drinking a few drinks per day, it is probably cheaper for you to not choose the free at sea promos. Those are not free a the rate is higher for the promo. We save on the average of $800 when we choose a regular balcony over the free at sea balcony. It adds up and allows us to cruise more. Happy cruising…Cheers!

Your analysis is not very useful without the list of brands excluded (or included), which seems to be permanently unavailable. I have no way of knowing if my normal call brand of gin or bourbon is under $15 onboard, or excluded, or even available. I can assume an 18 year old single malt scotch is well over $15…but by how much?

Even as a perk, the service charge for my wife and I require that we consume a minimum of 4-5 drinks per day to break even…and she doesn’t drink at all. I enjoy an cocktail before dinner and good wine with, but withotu knowing what the extra cost might be, I have no way of knowing if the $40/day service charge would be worth it for one.

At least it IS better than Holland America, where any drink over $11 is excluded, and you get zero discount from the drink package. There, no need to be a cheap drunk to make it worthwhile.

I have the free at sea promotion for a 10 day cruise in Iceland . I usually upgrade my package on Celebrity because I want all the free sparkling water and Celebrity has a great coffee bar. It seems by the article that the free at sea drink package would be good enough with no need to upgrade on NCL? 15 $ limit is nice for a free at sea.

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

What’s Trending

Contact Us: [email protected]

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages: What’s Included and is it Worth it?

Sharing is caring!

Planning a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line ? You’ll definitely want to check out Norwegian’s beverage package options before you go.

NCL has several drink package options to choose from, and being honest, some of what’s included (and not included) in each can be a bit confusing.

In this post, I’ll share the details of the most popular beverage packages on Norwegian and answer some frequently asked questions. We’ll look at which packages offer the best value, and which drink packages will be “worth it” for you. I’ve sailed with NCL both with a beverage package, and without, and I definitely have an opinion.

Please note, even if you have the drink package included with Norwegian’s Free at Sea , you’ll need this information.

Norwegian Free at Sea Beverage Package “Free Perk” 

Norwegian has been running a very popular promotion for years. The Free at Sea program offers include a choice of free open bar , a free specialty dining package, a free wi-fi package , free shore excursions credits , and kids sail free (on certain sailings).

For your own reference, the open bar package which is included with NCL’s Free at Sea promotion is the Premium Beverage Package. If you have the Free at Sea drink package perk, you can upgrade to Premium Plus for $29 per day, per person.

More information about Free at Sea, including the details and pros and cons can be found in this post: NCL’s Free at Sea Explained .

Norwegian’s Alcoholic Beverage Packages

NCL Premium Beverage Package

Cost: $99 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Norwegian’s most popular adult beverage package option is the Premium Beverage Package. If you have the Free at Sea perk , this is the drink package that’s included.

Norwegian’s premium drink package includes:  Soft drinks, beer, frozen drinks, cocktails, spirits and liqueurs and wines by the glass up to $15 per drink.

What’s not included: It’s important to note that unlike the drink packages on Celebrity and Princess Cruises , Norwegian’s premium beverage package does not include bottled water or specialty coffee and tea.

According to Norwegian’s website, everyone in the cabin, as well as those who are traveling together in an adjoining cabin or additional cabin must purchase the drink package.

If passengers are under 21, they’ll be required to purchase the soda package (Pop Program).

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package 

Cost: $128 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

What’s included in the Premium Plus Package?

With Norwegian’s Premium Plus Beverage Package, you’ll get all the drinks included in the Premium Package, plus premium brand liqueurs and spirits, and wines by the glass. In addition, you’ll enjoy specialty coffee, sparkling water, bottled water and energy drinks. 

If you’d enjoy a glass (or two) of Veuve Clicquot BRUT “Yellow Label” champagne at Sailaway, this and other popular favorites are available with Premium Plus.

Here’s the full list of drinks that are included:  NCL Premium Plus Drink List

Like the other beverage packages, everyone in the cabin, as well as those who are traveling together in an adjoining cabin or additional cabin must purchase the drink package.

Corks and Caps Wine and Beer Package

Cost: $65 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Norwegian’s wine, beer and soda package is a good drink package if you don’t drink liqueurs and cocktails. It includes draft and bottled beer, wine by the glass up to $15. In addition it includes unlimited fountain soda: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Soda.

Like the other alcoholic drink packages, all guests in the party need to purchase the package.

Hawaii Beverage Package for Pride of America Cruises (only)

Cost: $99 per guest, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

If you’ve opted for the Free at Sea perk on your Pride of America cruise, this is the drink package you’ll receive.

The Hawaii beverage package includes a nice selection of beverages up to $15 a glass. It includes fountain soft drinks, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffee (in dining rooms only).

The Hawaii Beverage Package does not include specialty coffee outside of the restaurants, room service, mini bar purchases, or vending machines. For any drinks over $15, guests will be charged the difference. 

Norwegian Non Alcoholic and Soda Packages

There are 2 soda packages available on a Norwegian Cruise Lines, one for children 12 and under, and one for adults and kids 13 and over. The pop package includes these fountain sodas: Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Pop.

If you’re likely to drink 2 sodas a day or more, this is 100% worth the money. A glass of soda or pop is over $4 per drink.

Adult and Teen Pop Program (13+)

Cost: $7.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Children’s Pop Program (12 & under)

Cost: $5.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity)

Water Packages

Water packages are available on Norwegian and can be pre-ordered and delivered to your cabin. Norwegian has replaced all single use plastic water bottles, however single serving plant based carton bottles are used instead. This is better for the environment, refillable and recyclable.

6 litre package – $16.95

12 litre package – $29.95

24 litre package – $44.95

NCL Drink Package – Frequently Asked Questions

Is there drink limit with Norwegian’s beverage package?

Unlike Carnival and Princess Cruises, there is no daily drink limit with any of Norwegian’s drink packages. However, you are limited to ordering 2 drinks at a time.

Drink package rules to know

There is no sharing of drink packages. As well, all passengers in a cabin or travel party, must purchase a package.

Can you use the drink package at Norwegian’s private islands?

Yes and no. You can use your beverage package in Great Stirrup Cay, however it isn’t applicable at Harvest Caye in Belize.

What drinks are free or included on Norwegian cruise ships?

Like most other cruise lines, there are a lot of drinks included on your cruise. If you don’t drink alcohol or soft drinks often, this will help keep your extra costs on your cruise low.

On a Norwegian cruise, you’ll find unsweetened iced tea, lemonade, select juice, water, drip coffee and tea, and filtered water (no bottled) included with your cruise. Most of these drinks are available free of charge in the buffet and in the dining rooms and restaurants.

Random Cruise Tip: Make unsweetened ice tea taste better by adding a slice of lemon and a package of artificial sweetener like Splenda. As we learned in our years of cruising, when my husband would add 3 packages of sugar and still tell me his ice tea wasn’t sweet, sugar doesn’t dissolve in cold or icy water. You’ll need artificial sweetener to do this. 

Did you think you’d learn science on a cruise blog? LOL 🙂

How much are drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Knowing the cost of individual drinks onboard is a good way to calculate if a beverage package is worth it, and if so, which one is best for you.

On average, frozen cocktails and drinks on Norwegian cost about $9-13 a glass. Mojitos and martinis will be a bit higher at about $13-15 a glass. Drinks with premium liqueurs will be $18 and more.

Wine by the glass is about $9-10, while beer is $6-9. Specialty coffee is $3-4, as are soft drinks. Energy drinks and bottled water are $5-6 each.

Can you bring wine on a Norwegian cruise?

You’re allowed to bring bottles of wine and champagne on a Norwegian cruise, however you’ll be charged a corkage fee upon boarding. The cost is $15 per bottle of wine and $30 per magnum of champagne. This might still be worth it for you, as you can drink this in your cabin as well as in the lounges and restaurants on board.

Make sure to pack them in your carry on bag and as you board on embarkation day . Other alcohol is prohibited from being brought onto the ship and will likely be confiscated .

Read: 10 Things NOT to Pack for a Cruise 

Is there a coffee package on Norwegian?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a separate coffee package that you can buy on a Norwegian Cruise. If you do want to have specialty coffee included, consider the Premium Plus package, which includes premium liqueurs and wine, unlimited soda, and Lavazza coffee .

Is bottled water included in NCL beverage package?

Bottled water isn’t included with Norwegian’s Premium Beverage Package, the once which comes included as a Free at Sea perk. However, you can purchase or upgrade to the Premium Plus drink package, where bottled water is included. 

Is there a price discount onboard?

It’s important to note that there is no discount on any of Norwegian’s drink packages when you purchase it onboard. It’s definitely better to purchase this online before you cruise.

Which Norwegian Cruise Ships have Starbucks?

Starbucks is now available on several Norwegian cruise ships including, the Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Sky. The onboard Starbucks has a full menu and you can even use Starbucks gift cards or the app to pay onboard. Starbucks is not included with the Norwegian’s beverage packages.  

Is the drink package worth it on NCL?

Whether or not Norwegian’s drink package is worth it, depends on 2 things. How much you drink and if an all-inclusive vacation feel is important to you. There’s also one extra thing – if you have the premium beverage free at sea perk.

While you will have to pay the gratuity charge on the value of the package ($19.80 per day, per person), this is clearly worth it if you have a couple drinks a day. It’s important to keep in mind that the “free” perk includes alcoholic drinks up to $15 each, and soda. However, it doesn’t include specialty coffee or water bottles.

Cost breakdown

Without the Free at Sea drink package perk, the premium beverage package will cost you $99 per day, plus $19.80 (20% gratuity). The total cost is $118.80 per person for each day of your cruise. Also, both guests in the cabin must purchase.

As an example, a couple will pay $1663.20 for a 7 day cruise. A 10 day cruise will cost $2376 per cabin.

*Pricing throughout this post is in US dollars

Going on a cruise? Read these posts next:

• Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise
• Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained
• 25+ Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise
• How to Save Money on a Cruise (27 Tips & Hacks)
• 30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know

Final Thoughts: Norwegian’s Beverage Package – Is it worth it?

Even though I love to cruise with drinks included, I normally would not spend this much on drinks on a cruise. As well, I love a fancy coffee on occasion, and to get coffee included, I’d need to upgrade to the Premium Plus package at an extra $29 per person, per day.

Verdict – For me, unless it’s the Free at Sea perk, NCL’s adult beverage packages are not worth it. As a suggestion, bring along a 3 or 4 bottles of wine and pay a corkage fee of $15 each.

Of course, this is me, and you’re you. So I hope I’ve given you enough information and tips about Norwegian’s Drink packages for you to make a decision based on your preferences.

Please let me know in the comments what you think? Have you ever had a Norwegian beverage package and was it worth it for you? Please share any additional tips below.

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Let’s connect:

Follow me on Facebook at Life Well Cruised

Follow me on YouTube at Life Well Cruised

Follow me on Pinterest at Life Well Cruised

Follow me on Instagram at Life Well Cruised

Hi I’m going on my first cruise as a passenger on Epic in december 2022. Although i have worked on a cruise liner for 9 months in 1999 previously largest in world at time. I have booked a balcony suite next one down from haven package. I also Don’t drink Alcohol so was wondering what peoples experience of non alcoholic options is. I have all the free at sea packages. At home i drink kopperberg budweiser peroni heneiken Gordons non alcoholic gin. I know there are frozen cocktails that can be mocktails or Virgin ur help be appreciated

Fun cruise to look forward to! I’m not aware of the all the non alcoholic options, however mocktails are definately available. You may want to ask in a Norwegian fan facebook group, or feel free to join the Life Well Cruised community group and ask folks there.

Have an awesome cruise!

Hello- Thanks for the wonderful article. We are going on an NCL cruise and have the free at sea drink package. However the gratuity alone is $330. I don’t think we will drink this much in sodas or alcohol. My wife is concerned about getting water out of the soda fountains. Can we get that without a drink package? Thanks again!

This is a good point. If you don’t think you’ll drink enough to make it a good value, you can opt out of the “free” drink package. There is clean, drinkable water available onboard.

Hope this helps,

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

2024 Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: April 2, 2020  - Last updated: February 11, 2024

For many cruisers, your bar bill can end up being a significant portion of your vacation budget! If you’re cruising on Norwegian Cruise Line, having an NCL drink package lets you pre-plan your drink costs so you’re not hit with a huge bar tab at the end of your cruise .

Norwegian offers a variety of drink packages for all ages, at various price points. But is an NCL beverage package worth it? I’ll explain what each package currently includes and how much it will cost for your cruise, so you can decide if you should buy one and which drink package is right for you.

Norwegian Cruise Line raised prices and changed drink package selection in 2023

NCL overhauled its beverage package selection back in 2023, removing some fan favorites and adding a new tier. At the same time, Norwegian also raised all drink package prices.

Although Norwegian hasn’t announced any drink package increases for 2024, they have made a few changes to some programs since last year.

Even if you’ve cruised NCL with a beverage package in the past, you’ll want to read carefully to see what’s changed!

All beverage packages increased in price in 2023

Beginning in January 2023, NCL raised the price of all drink packages by $10 per day. Although post-shutdown price hikes are becoming the norm, Norwegian already charged among the highest per-day costs for beverage packages in the cruise industry.

Many NCL cruisers choose a free drink package as part of NCL’s ongoing Free At Sea promotion, but gratuities aren’t included—and that per-day charge just increased as well.

Norwegian removed two popular drink packages

As part of the beverage package overhaul, NCL removed two of the most budget-friendly beverage packages from its portfolio: Corks & Caps and the Children’s Soda Program .

Wine and beer lovers might remember Corks & Caps—for just $65 per day, you could enjoy unlimited draft and bottled beer, wine-by-the-glass, and fountain sodas. That package has been scrapped, and the cheapest option for unlimited wine and beer now costs double the price.

Norwegian also removed the Children’s Soda Program from its options. As late as 2022, parents of kids aged 12 and under could pay just $5.95 per day to let each kid have unlimited fountain sodas.

Currently, children and adults who want unlimited soft drinks have now been lumped into the same package, almost doubling the per-day price for kids!

NCL added a new drink package

All’s not gloomy on the Norwegian drink package front. The cruise line actually added a new tier that has been popular with specialty coffee drinkers— Unlimited Starbucks!

This new Norwegian beverage package includes all you can drink from the onboard coffeehouse, for the price of just a couple of venti lattes. Read on for all the details!

For all of Norwegian’s drink packages, you can order an unlimited amount of any included beverages at bars and restaurants on the ship, but drink selection can vary by venue.

NCL drink packages available for 2024

For 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line offers five beverage packages:

Unlimited Soda Package

Unlimited starbucks package, unlimited open bar package , premium plus beverage package , pride of america hawaii beverage package.

As a guide, I’ve included how much each drink package costs in total (including gratuity) for a seven-day cruise. Note that packages are only available for cruises that are three days or longer. Pride of America Hawaii cruises have their own special drink package (detailed below), and some packages aren’t available on that ship.

These are the current drink packages for 2024, with updated pricing. Note that NCL adds a 20% gratuity to the price of all drink packages.

Available for anyone age 3 and up, NCL’s Unlimited Soda Package costs $9.95 per day. Only fountain sodas are covered (including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, ginger ale, tonic water, and club soda). Cans of soda are charged at full menu prices.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($9.95 x 7 x 1.2) $83.58

NCL’s Unlimited Starbucks Package includes all your Starbucks favorites, from classic coffees and teas and Refreshers to Frappuccinos and other specialty coffee drinks.

The Starbucks drink package costs $12.95 per day, and cruisers must be at least 18 years of age to purchase.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($12.95 x 7 x 1.2) $108.78

NCL’s Unlimited Open Bar Package  (formerly known as the Premium Beverage Package or the Ultimate Beverage Package) costs $109.00 per day. The package includes spirits and cocktails along with a selection of soft drinks, juice, draft and bottled beer, and wine-by-the-glass.

Any of these drinks with a menu price under $15 are included in the program. NCL has a list of brands included in the Unlimited Open Bar Package . However, not all ships carry all of the listed brands, and availability can vary by venue. Brands are subject to change.

The Unlimited Open Bar Package doesn’t include specialty coffee and tea drinks, bottled water, energy drinks, fresh-squeezed juices, and bottles of wine (although they’ll give you a 20% discount on certain bottles). Other exclusions are room service, mini-bar drinks, and drinks served in souvenir glasses.

If a drink costs $15 or more, you’ll be charged the difference plus a 20% gratuity on that amount.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 1.2) $915.60 . If you choose this package with Free at Sea, it costs ($109.00 x 7 x 0.2) $152.60 for gratuities.

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package costs $138.00 per day. The package includes everything in the Unlimited Open Bar Package, but the $15 menu price cap is lifted.

In addition, specialty coffees and teas, energy drinks, fresh-squeezed juices, bottled water (still and sparkling), and select bottles of wine are covered in this package. Dining room wine lists have an asterisk next to bottles that are included in the package.

NCL also publishes a list of brands included with Premium Plus , so you can have an idea of which brands are complimentary with the package. Brands are subject to change.

If you have a free Unlimited Open Bar Package from the Free at Sea promotion, you’ll be able to upgrade to Premium Plus by paying the difference. Currently, you can upgrade for $29 per day plus the 20% gratuity charge.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($138.00 x 7 x 1.2) $1159.20 .

Sailing on NCL’s Pride of America in Hawaii? As recently as 2023, the ship offered only one drink package for adults, teens, and kids—the $109 per day Hawaii Beverage Package .

Thankfully, the cruise line has come to its senses and now offers a range of drink packages aboard Pride of America , including the soda and Starbucks packages.

If you’re interested in an adult beverage package, it’s included in your fare for the first two passengers in a stateroom—you just pay the 20% gratuity.

The Hawaii Beverage Package includes a variety of both adult and soft drinks. Wine-by-the-glass, beer, and liquor are included, up to $15 per drink. Other included options are fountain sodas, freshly-squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffees (in the dining rooms only).

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package (gratuities only) would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 0.2) $152.60

If you have more than two adults in your stateroom, guests 3 and 4 will need to buy the Hawaii Beverage Package at the full price of $109 per person, per day, plus gratuity.

For a 7-day cruise, this drink package would cost ($109.00 x 7 x 1.2) $915.60

Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line does not offer the Premium Plus Beverage Package aboard Pride of America .

NCL drink packages FAQ

If you’ve never cruised with Norwegian before, or it’s been a while since your last cruise, you probably have some general questions about how the drink packages work. I’ll answer the most common ones here. If you have a question that I haven’t answered, just leave it in the comments and I’ll answer it.

Do you need to tip for drinks purchased with an NCL beverage package?

All drink packages cost an extra 20% gratuity on top of the list price. You don’t need to tip your bartender or server each time you order a drink with your beverage package—you’ve already pre-paid your tips.

That said, you can always add an extra tip for your favorite bartenders, if you choose.

Do you need to pay tax on your drinks?

When you’re out at sea in international waters, you don’t need to worry about paying tax on any of your drinks. But when you’re in port, some local authorities require cruise lines to collect tax on the menu price of any beverages you buy. Taxes are charged to your onboard account if you’re buying drinks one by one or using a beverage package.

The tax percentage varies by port , but it’s never a huge amount – generally somewhere between 5-10% of the cost of each drink. If a jurisdiction charges tax, it will be charged on each drink when the ship is in port and in its territorial waters.

Do NCL drink packages work on their private islands?

If you’re stopping for the day at one of Norwegian’s private islands , drink packages are accepted at Great Stirrup Cay but not at Harvest Caye. Wondering why? NCL developed Harvest Caye in partnership with the government of Belize. Part of that deal specifies that visitors must pay for food and drinks ordered on the island.

How old do you have to be to buy an alcoholic beverage package on NCL?

Passengers need to be at least 21 to purchase an alcoholic beverage package on Norwegian cruises worldwide. Guests aged 18 to 20 can purchase alcohol by the drink on round-trip cruises in Europe and Australia. 18-to-20-year-olds can buy wine and beer on some cruises sailing from the US with the signed consent of an accompanying parent.

However, you still need to be 21 to have a drink package that includes alcohol, even if you’re old enough to drink on the cruise.

Can you share your NCL beverage package with another guest?

Norwegian, like many cruise lines, has been cracking down on passengers sharing their drink packages. Because of this issue, if one guest on a reservation buys a drink package, the other guests must as well. Passengers under 21 would be required to buy a soda package.

Exceptions can be made in certain circumstances. If you’re pregnant, have a medical condition, a history of substance abuse, or have religious beliefs that don’t allow you to drink any alcohol, contact NCL to ask for an exception.

How do you buy a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package?

Many Norwegian cruises offer their Free at Sea promotion , and the most popular perk for cruisers is the drink package. But if you don’t have Free at Sea (or you chose another perk), you can pre-purchase a drink package, starting 90 days before sailing, on your MyNCL account .

You can also buy a drink package on board the ship, but this option will usually only be available for the first couple of days of the cruise.

Can you buy a drink package for certain days of the cruise?

Although it would be nice to pick and choose which days you have a drink package (like sea days only, please!), once you buy a package you need to pay for each remaining day of your cruise. Take this into consideration if you have a lot of longer shore excursions when you won’t be on the ship to use the package.

NCL drink prices for 2024: how much are drinks on a Norwegian cruise if you buy them individually?

Based on recent menu prices, specialty coffees on ships with a Starbucks are in the $3-6 range. Fountain sodas are about $3.

Many wines-by-the-glass are in the $8-9 range, up to about $27-31 for higher-end selections. Beer is about $7-9 per glass. Cocktails from the bar menus are generally $9-15 (but ultra-premium liquor can cost significantly more).

Is there a limit to how many drinks you can get per day with an NCL beverage package?

Unlike some cruise lines, Norwegian doesn’t currently have a limit on how many drinks you can have per day with any of their packages. Obviously, you should be safe and drink responsibly! But as of right now there’s no set limit. They do have a limit of two drinks per person per order, which is helpful to know when there’s a long line at the pool bar.

Is it worth it to get a drink package on NCL?

Honestly, it all depends on how much you think you’ll be drinking. Norwegian’s alcoholic drink packages are among the most expensive in the cruise industry, so the expense can be significant if you’re paying out-of-pocket. If you’re sure you’ll only have a couple of drinks each day, it’s a far better deal to just pay as you go.

When you choose the Unlimited Open Bar Package as a Free at Sea perk, you’ll only be paying the gratuity (about $22 per day). Drinking just one soda with lunch, an afternoon cocktail by the pool, and a glass of wine with dinner, you’ve had your money’s worth for the day.

If you’re a soda drinker, the soda package can be a money-saver. Know you’ll want to order at least two or three soft drinks each day? Then it really makes sense to buy this package.

Want to learn more about cruise line beverage packages? Read my article Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It? to learn more.

Don’t forget to check out these resources before your Norwegian cruise:

• 25 Norwegian Cruise Tips You Need to Know
• Norwegian’s Free at Sea: The Ultimate Guide
• How to Get Onboard Credit for Owning Norwegian Cruise Line Stock
• Ultimate Guide to NCL’s Great Stirrup Cay

Have you bought a drink package on a Norwegian cruise? Did you think it was worth it? Let me know in the comments below!

Liked this post? Pin it for later!

• Recent Posts

• Azamara Room Service – Everything You Need to Know - March 19, 2024
• Carnival Corporation Unveils New Solar Park at Amber Cove - March 8, 2024
• Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas Cruise Compass – 7 Days Bahamas + Perfect Day 2024 - March 7, 2024

Related posts:

Saturday 15th of July 2023

Does the menu changes everyday at the freestyle restaurants ? Also is it the same menu at every complimentary restaurant ?

Sunday 16th of July 2023

Hi again Jazz! The first half of the dinner menu in the complimentary main dining rooms will change each evening, but there will always be a selection of classic entrées that remain the same. For breakfast and lunch in the MDR, you'll often see a similar menu each day with just a couple of daily features that change. The menu at one main dining room won't differ from another at any given time.

You'll also find complimentary restaurants on board (like O'Sheehan's or the Local) that don't change their menus from day to day. Hope this helps!

How strict is Norwegian about sharing alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks with someone who didn’t purchase the package ? I mean do they really keep an eye on you even if you are sitting far away.

Hi Jazz, thanks for the question! NCL, like most cruise lines, strongly discourages "sharing" drinks packages. Will bartenders or other crew members be watching you like hawks to see if you share a drink or two? Probably not, but it could happen. If you're caught, the cruise line can cancel your drink package (with no refund!) for the rest of the cruise. If you're concerned about the cost, consider booking during one of NCL's Free At Sea promotions. They run these very frequently, and you can choose a drink package as one of the free perks.

Tuesday 14th of February 2023

We're sailing on the NCL Bliss, and have purchased the unlimited open bar package with free at sea. I'm not much of an excursion person, and was curious to know if my drink package still allows me to take advantage of the open bar while we're docked in ports. Everything i've read so far on the free at sea is that the drinks are only "free" while sailing, and not while docked. Thanks!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Hi Julia, the drinks with Free At Sea's open bar are definitely free aboard the ship regardless of whether she's sailing or docked in port. However, you'll need to pay tax on the menu price of each drink when you're not in international waters (like when you're in port). But the tax charges, which vary by jurisdiction, are usually very minimal. Happy cruising!

Susan Weule

Friday 27th of January 2023

Hi going on NCL Pride of America in March 2023. As we are in port everyday at a different Hawaiian island. Do we have to pay extra tax if we have purchased the drink package? If we happen to stay on board. Just so you know we also received free gratitudes in the deal. So wondering if there’s any hidden costs so I can budget. Thank you.

Sunday 29th of January 2023

Hi Susan, excellent questions! If you've already purchased the Hawaii beverage package, you'll have already paid the gratuities for the package at checkout. (The free gratuities you received as part of your package are crew gratuities, not drinks gratuities - you can read more about that in my post What You Need to Know About Cruise Gratuities)

As for taxes on your drinks, you won't need to pay anything extra when you're sailing in international waters. But whenever you order a drink while you're in territorial waters (like if you stay on the ship as you mentioned, or whenever you're within about 12 nautical miles from land), local taxes on the menu price of each drink you order will be charged to your onboard account.

My rule of thumb to figure out when you're sailing in international waters is if the onboard shops and/or casino are open, you're all set and won't be charged tax on your drinks :) Hope this helps, and have an amazing time on your cruise!

Judy Plummer

Sunday 14th of August 2022

What is included in the adult beverage package that is included as a perk on NCL Escape?

Tuesday 16th of August 2022

Hi Judy, when you choose the drink package as part of your Free At Sea perks on any NCL ship, you'll get the Premium Beverage Package (scroll up to read my complete description of the package). In a nutshell, the package includes any drink $15 and under, with some exclusions like boxed water, specialty coffees, and fresh juices.

• Work with Us
• Destinations

Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages Guide

Whether or not to purchase a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package when you don’t have the Free at Sea promo, is really a math project. How much can you actually drink in one week? 

Is Norwegian’s beverage package really worth the cost? Let’s break it all down to basics.

To help your decision, I’ve also included the Unlimited Open Bar Package and the upgraded Premium Plus beverage package menus.

Why Buy a Norwegian All-Inclusive Drink Package?

Mostly, because you’re on vacation! With any one of Norwegian’s beverage packages , you won’t have to reach for your wallet or mentally tally how much you’ve spent on booze. There’s not a much worse way to end a cruise than to get the final bill and go into shock for what you’ve spent on drinks.

But, if you don’t think you can drink enough to break even, it’s not worth it. Basically, with the least expensive Premium Beverage Package, you’d have to put away close to six to ten drinks a day.

While this doesn’t include certain Lavazza specialty coffees, bottled water or fresh juices, you can get your drinks at any bar or restaurant onboard plus it’s good at Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.

Norwegian offers five drink packages. They range from just about every ultra-premium brand an adult could request down to two kids’ unlimited soda programs.

RELATED:  Norwegian Cruise Line Takes Delivery of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages Details

Unlimited open bar premium beverage package.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Premium Beverage Package (formerly known as the Ultimate Beverage Package) includes a variety of spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer. The drink value can be up to and including $15 USD. Plus you can order unlimited fountain soda and juices at all bars, lounges, restaurants and Great Stirrup Cay.

If you want to purchase a bottle of wine, a 20% discount will be applied.

The Unlimited Open Bar Package is included with your reservation if you booked through Free at Sea.

What the Premium Beverage Package Does Not Include

The Premium Beverage Package does not include room service, package sales, daily cocktail specials  or buckets of beer. Also not included are the designated Super Premium brands (subject to change), bottled wine, mini bar purchases, bottled water and fresh squeezed juices.

Lavazza coffee beverages, energy drinks and drinks from vending machines are also not part of the package.

Guests are allowed to buy two (2) beverages per person per transaction.

The good news is that you can take advantage of this package at all restaurants, lounges, bars and Great Stirrup Cay.

If you buy an item over $15 USD, the overage plus 20% gratuity and service charge will be applied to your onboard account.

COST:  $109.00 per person per day plus 20% gratuity and beverage service charge.

Package cost for a seven-day cruise: $831.60 per person out the door.

View the Premium Beverage Package Menu

Premium plus beverage package – add-on to premium package.

If you only buy top shelf alcohol, this is the package for you. The Premium Plus Beverage Package includes beverages by the glass for Veuve Clicquot, Patrón Añejo, Hendrick’s Gin and more.

Also included in your by-the-glass package are unlimited soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails, wines and select bottles of wine with dinner. In addition, still and sparkling water, energy drinks, and specialty coffees are included.

An interesting option about the Premium Plus package is that if you purchase the Premium Beverage Package, you can ask to upgrade to the Premium Plus when you are onboard.

COST:  $138 per person per day plus 20% gratuity service charge.

Total cost for a seven-day cruise:  $1159.20 per person. 

Norwegian Premium-Plus-Beverag e-Package-Menu

Soda packages (ages 3 and up).

If you just gotta have that soda, here’s the drink package for you. Fill up as much as you like on Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mt. Dew, Ginger Ale, Tonic water, Club Soda.

You must purchase this for the entire cruise and it’s non-refundable.

COST:  $9.00 per person per day plus 20% gratuity and beverage service charge.

Read Next: How to pack for a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise

Remember, if your cruise promotion includes the basic Unlimited Open Bar package, you can upgrade to the Premium Plus.

It’s pretty easy to add a beverage package to your cruise. Once you’ve booked your cruise, simply head over to ncl.com. Then up in the right-hand corner, log in to myNCL.com with your username and password. That takes you to Explore & Plan.

From there, in the left-hand column, choose Beverage Packages. Simply choose your package and pay for it. It will be automatically added to your account.

Unlimited Starbucks Package

Coffee lovers can rejoice with this Unlimited Starbucks package. The package includes all the classic coffees and teas plus Starbucks trademarked Frappuccino choice and other specialty beverages. 

How much does it cost? $12.95 per person per day. plus the 20% gratuity. You must be 18 years or older at time of sailing to purchase this package.

Do the Hawai’i Cruises Have Beverage Packages?

If you’re lucky enough to take Norwegian’s Pride of America Hawai’i cruise, you should know that there are special beverage packages just for these cruises.

Called the Hawai’i Beverage Package, it’s priced at $109 per person per day, with a wide variety of beverages that cost up to $15.00. If your drink costs more than $15, the overage will be applied to your onboard account. As always, there’s a 20% gratuity charge.

The package is available to guests 1 and 2 on the reservation and you can request up to two beverages per person per order. 

The Hawai’i Beverage package also includes sodas, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and specialty coffee (only in the dining rooms).

This does not include specialty coffee outside of restaurants, room service, any mini-bar purchases, or vending machines. 

Hawai’i Coffee Packages

Starbuck’s coffee packages, including Frappuccinos and Teas are $12.95 per per per day plus 20% gratuity.

Hawai’i Soda Packages

Serving Coca-Cola products, you can add a soda package with unlimited refills for anyone ages 3 and older for $9.95 per person per day. And yes, there’s the 20% gratuity added. 

Water Packages Aboard Pride of America Hawai’i Cruises

Norwegian has three water packages. You can purchase six one-liter bottles for $19.95, 12 one-liter bottle for $34.95 and 24 one-lite bottles for $49.95. As always, there’s the 20% gratuity fee to add.

What are Norwegian Drink Package Rules?

As you can imagine, the cruise line has its list of rules about their drink packages. Before you decide to purchase one of these, read over the rules so there are no surprises once you’re onboard.

• You must be at least 21 years of age at time of sailing to purchase any alcoholic package and to consume alcohol.
• Packages must be purchased by all qualifying individuals residing in the stateroom or additional staterooms under the same method of payment for the entire length of the cruise.
• Packages may not be shared and are non-transferable and non-refundable.
• Eligible guests are entitled to two beverages per person per transaction.
• Includes all beverages by the glass. Beverage selection is subject to change onboard.
• Only Premium Plus includes fountain soda, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), energy drinks, non-alcoholic beer, wine dispensers, and specialty coffee.
• For non-select bottles of wine (champagne and sparkling included), “Wine and Spirit Experiences”, tastings, and flights, guest will receive a 40% discount when purchased on board.
• Does not include: Room service, mini bar purchases, vending machines
• Guest’s check may reflect applicable VAT and/or taxes for certain ports or itineraries.
• Package can be used in onboard restaurants, lounges, bars and Great Stirrup Cay.
• Offer is not applicable on Harvest Caye, nor sailings that are two (2) days or less.
• A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge will be added to all package purchases.
• No substitute for package if guest cannot consume all beverages included.
• Package price is subject to change.
• Other terms and conditions may apply.

Conclusion: To Buy or Not to Buy

Personally, I’ve never purchased a beverage package…other than a water package. But with individual drink prices on the rise, with Norwegian as well as other cruise lines, buying a beverage package might make more sense. Especially if you do the math.

Yes, even with the almost-yearly increases in the cost of drink packages, if you like more expensive wine, or simply drink a whole lot of beer, you’re probably better off with an all-inclusive drink package.

Please Pin and Share!

You’ll Also Love

How to Choose a Mediterranean Cruise Itinerary

9 Things to Know Before You Book Your Cruise

A Week in Southampton with an Air BnB Vacation Rental

The Long-Awaited Arrival of Oasis of the Seas to Port Canaveral Is Almost Here!

Rick Steves Ravenna Rolling Case Review – Great Gift for Travelers

Cruiseline.com Announces 2016 Members’ Choice Cruise Industry Award Winners

17 comments.

Hi and thank you for your questions. These questions are best answered by your travel agent, on NCL.com or directly through the cruise line reservations. Please contact either of the three for the latest information. Thank you again and have a terrific cruise!

What does the free at sea program include and is it available on all Norwegian ships or is it certain ones

Hi Brian, Thank you for your question. The Teen Package only includes sodas. If a teen is in the same room as an adult(s) that purchases a Premium Beverage package, the teen must purchase the soda package. The explanation given by Norwegian on their site is, in my opinion, really confusing. Since an adult with the Premium Beverage Package is allowed to order two drinks at the same time, the fine print does not say whether or not those two drinks have to be the same. Meaning, can the adult ask for an alcoholic cocktail and also a non-alcoholic cocktail with the intention of giving the non-alcoholic drink to the teen? Nevertheless, the teen package does not include mocktails…only soda. Sorry. Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to comment. Happy Cruising!

Cheryl wondering if in the teens package do they include. MocCocktails or is only in the higher priced packages

In my experience, NCL is getting CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP! Cheaper by the day… I take one cruise a year under normal circumstances, and I get the soda package on all of my cruises. …on my last NCL they were pouring the soda from a can into a plastic airline sized cup at drink stations. That is the “fountain”. So, if I ordered a Sierra Mist, they would pour half the can into my cup with ice and then wait for the next person who orders a Sierra Mist to use what’s left of that same sitting opened can. Oh, theres only enough left in the can to make half the person’s drink? Then they will open a fresh can, and mix the flat soda with the new one for this person. It’s total cheapness and the quality of beverage is diminished. In addition, you used to get a commemorative complimentary tumbler (which looked Dollar Tree anyway on NCL) when you ordered the soft drink package. Now you don’t on NCL. …Of course, if you’re at a bar and order, they’ll give you the soda from the tap gun. RCCL still gives a commemorative cup, and its coded on the bottom so you can use their freestyle machines.

NCL has me concerned with all of their cuts the last few years. They just switched their water that is sold on the ship to “just water” which comes in cardboard. Pay $30 for 6 LITERS of water? You can get 3-4 times as much Evian or Fiji for that price on land. NCL is claiming “better for the environment” with all their wokeness but really it’s clearly to save money from offering bottles. All these trends are concerning. Let’s not offer straws anymore, but still use plastic lids that use just as much plastic! NCL was also first to start charging fees for room service meals too.

Hi James, I’m sorry you couldn’t find an answer to your question in my article. Please call Norwegian and they can help. In the meantime, this is the link on their site, though you probably already found it: https://www.ncl.com/onboard-packages/beverage-packages and for rules, there’s this: https://www.ncl.com/terms/premium-beverage-package – Generally, I think that the phrase “Adult Beverage Package” refers to the Premium Beverage Package, Premium Plus Beverage Package and Corks and Caps. Thank you for taking the time to read the article.

Your article Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages Guide posted January 2, 2020 does not address the Norwegian promotion drink package called “Adult Beverage Package” which was a promo provided to cruisers. I can not find detail information on what the rules are associated with this package.

Hi Dana, Thank you for reading the article. Usually, your waiter will keep the bottle corked until your next dinner. I’ve seen people carry their half-used bottles back to their stateroom, so I would think it’s still possible. As far as what brands of sparkling water NCL uses, I have no clue except for the usual Perrier. When cruising resumes, policies and products could change. Your best bet would be to call the cruise line when it’s closer to your sailing date. Sherry

If you have the premium plus package and get one of the included bottles of wine/champagne at dinner, can you take the (partially consumed) bottle back to your stateroom after dinner or will they let you? What kind of sparkling water do they have available?

Hi Mimi, Thank you for your question. Whether or not Norwegian will serve Miller Lite when they resume cruising remains to be seen. If it was there on your past cruises, most likely it will still be there. Sherry

I have been on a couple Norwegian Cruises. And I always drank Miller Lite. Do you still serve Miller Lite on your cruises?

Hi Toni, Thank you for your question. If I were you, I would simply ask the bartender. The least they could do is to put a maraschino cherry into a Sprite! As far as blended mocktails, no, I’m fairly positive that isn’t included in the teen soda package. But you could probably order a virgin Pina Colada or something like that on your beverage package and when no one is looking, your teen could enjoy it. Just a suggestion. Have a wonderful cruise! Sherry

Hello, We purchased 2 adult drink packages on NCL and 2 Teen drink packages for our 15/16yr olds. I’ve seen on other ships like carnival they include mocktails in the soda packages. I’ve read all the fine print on NCL, looks like just soda or tonic water. Do you know if they do allow mocktails for the teen packages and maybe just don’t advertise it, ? Or even something like Sprite with a little cherry in it? Thanks.

Hi David, Thank you for taking the time to write. I checked the list of beverages for the Premium Drink Package but all I can deduce is that maybe sparkling like a prosecco might be available. Otherwise, like you mentioned, you would need to upgrade to the Premium Plus in order to have real Champagne. I tried to get through to Norwegian but the hold times are long right now. My thoughts are that since Champagne is not listed on the Premium Package, it’s not offered. Have a wonderful cruise and thank you again for reading the article and taking the time to write. Sherry

Hi Sherry! We just booked an NCL cruise to Northern Europe and got the Premium Drink Package as part of their current promotion. My question is are there any sparkling wines included with that package or do I need to upgrade to the Premium Plus Package? We like champagne. In 2017 we went with NCL through the Panama Canal and got the (then) Ultimate Package with did include champagne. Any help would be appreciated.

Hi Cheryl, Thank you for your question. I understand what you mean…but unfortunately, not everyone operates on the honor system. Here’s direct from NCL website: “Packages must be purchased by all qualifying individuals residing in the stateroom or additional staterooms under the same method of payment for the entire length of the cruise. Packages may not be shared and are non-transferable and non-refundable.” Maybe if the two people sharing the stateroom used different methods of payment for the cruise (two credit cards), then maybe that would be a work-around for the drinker to avoid paying what amounts to double. You might want to contact your travel agent who booked your cruise or reach out to Norwegian and see what happens. Thank you again for taking the time to write. Have a terrific cruise! Sherry

What if no one else in your cabin drinks alcohol but you. Why would they have to purchase an alcohol drink package if they don’t drink?

Comments are closed.

What are you looking for?

• CRUISE TIPS
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Celebrity Cruise Line
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Virgin Voyages
• Windstar Cruises
• Travel Deals
• CRUISE SHIP TRACKER
• Port Webcams

Are you planning a cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line? If so, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with their beverage packages. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers some of the most generous and straightforward drink package options in the industry. In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about the NCL beverage packages for your upcoming cruise in 2023.

NCL Beverage Package, Key Takeaways:

• NCL offers a variety of beverage packages for guests to choose from.
• The Premium Beverage Package is part of NCL’s Free At Sea promotions, setting it apart from the competition.
• The  NCL drink packages  provide unlimited drinks and a wide selection of beverages.
• Consider your drinking preferences and budget before deciding on a drink package.
• Purchasing a drink package can be done online or onboard the ship.

NCL Drink Packages – Simplified and Generous Options

When it comes to drink packages, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) stands out with its simplified and generous options. NCL has streamlined its offerings over the years, now offering two alcohol beverage packages that cater to guests’ needs. The  NCL Unlimited Open Bar  package, also known as the Premium Beverage Package , and the Premium Plus Beverage Package provide guests with unlimited beverage options throughout their cruise.

The  NCL Unlimited Open Bar  package is a popular choice among cruisers. It allows guests to order any drink up to $15, including wine, beer, basic spirits, and frozen cocktails. This package is truly unlimited, giving guests the freedom to enjoy their favorite libations without worrying about additional charges. However, it’s important to note that room service, mini-bar items are not included in this package.

For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Premium Plus Beverage Package offers an upgraded variety of beverages. This package includes all the benefits of the  NCL Unlimited Open Bar  package, along with premium bottled water, specialty coffee, energy drinks, and freshly squeezed juices. Guests can also indulge in a wider selection of top-shelf spirits, wines, and champagne with this upgraded package. The Premium Plus Beverage Package is perfect for those who appreciate finer spirits and a touch of luxury during their cruise.

Comparison of NCL Drink Packages

These prices do not include the required 20% gratuity, which is added at checkout. It’s important for guests to consider their drinking preferences and budget when choosing a drink package. Guests who book the Free At Sea promotion may receive the Unlimited Open Bar package for “free”, but they will still need to pay the 20% gratuity .

In the next section, we will take a closer look at the inclusions of the  NCL Premium Beverage Package  and discuss its added perks and benefits.

NCL Premium Beverage Package – What’s Included

The  NCL Premium Beverage Package , also known as the Unlimited Open Bar, offers an extensive range of drinks to ensure guests have a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. With this package, guests can indulge in a variety of beverages up to $15 per drink. This includes a selection of wine, beer, basic spirits, and frozen drinks like Margaritas and Pina Coladas.

It’s important to note that while the  NCL Premium Beverage Package  provides unlimited access to a wide range of beverages, there are a few exclusions. Specialty coffee drinks, room service, mini-bar items, and wine from vending machines are not included in this package. However, guests can still enjoy 20% off bottles of wine, discounts on tasting experiences, and discounted flights as part of the package perks.

Perks included in the NCL Premium Beverage Package:

• Unlimited access to wine, beer, basic spirits, and frozen drinks up to $15 per drink.
• 20% discount on bottles of wine.
• Discounts on tasting experiences.
• Discounted flights.

With the NCL Premium Beverage Package, guests can savor their favorite drinks and explore new flavors without worrying about the cost. It’s a convenient and cost-effective way to make the most of your cruise vacation.

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package – Upgraded Luxury

If you’re looking to indulge in the finer things during your NCL cruise, the  NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package  is the perfect upgrade. This package offers all the benefits of the NCL Unlimited Open Bar (Premium Beverage Package), with added luxury and exclusivity.

With the Premium Plus Beverage Package, you’ll have access to a wider selection of top-shelf spirits, including premium vodkas, whiskeys, gins, and tequilas. Indulge in a glass of champagne or enjoy a fine wine from NCL’s extensive list. Specialty coffee lovers will also appreciate the inclusion of premium bottled water, specialty coffees, energy drinks, and freshly squeezed juices.

The  NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package  is designed for guests who appreciate the finer details and want to elevate their drinking experience. With an upgraded selection of beverages and added perks, this package ensures that every sip is a luxurious one. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoy top-quality drinks, the Premium Plus Beverage Package is the ultimate choice for a truly indulgent cruise experience.

NCL Soda Package – For Non-Drinkers

If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages or do not drink alcohol, NCL offers the Soda Package to ensure you stay refreshed during your cruise. This package provides unlimited access to a variety of fountain soda, tonics, juices, and coffee/tea from the buffet. Whether you enjoy a classic cola, a refreshing juice, or a cup of coffee to start your day, the Soda Package has you covered.

The  NCL Soda Package  is a cost-effective option for those who do not consume alcohol or want to limit their beverage choices. It allows you to enjoy your favorite non-alcoholic drinks without worrying about additional costs. With unlimited access, you can stay hydrated and satisfied throughout your cruise.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring the ports of call, or dining in one of NCL’s fantastic restaurants, the Soda Package ensures you have refreshing options available at all times. It’s a great way to quench your thirst and enjoy a wide variety of non-alcoholic beverages while on your NCL cruise.

With the  NCL Soda Package , you can enjoy unlimited access to a variety of non-alcoholic beverages for a flat fee of $12.95 per person per day. This package offers excellent value for those who prefer non-alcoholic options and want to have a wide range of drink choices available onboard .

Benefits of the NCL Soda Package:

• Unlimited access to fountain soda, tonics, juices, and coffee/tea
• Cost-effective option for non-drinkers
• Wide variety of non-alcoholic beverage choices

NCL Unlimited Starbucks Coffee Package – Wake Up with a Cup of Joe

If you’re a coffee lover looking to start your mornings on your NCL cruise with a delicious cup of joe, then the  NCL Unlimited Starbucks Coffee Package  is perfect for you. With this package, you’ll have unlimited access to a wide variety of Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks throughout your voyage . Whether you prefer a classic latte, a refreshing iced coffee, or a creamy Frappuccino, you can enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverages whenever you please.

Please note that the  NCL Unlimited Starbucks Coffee Package  does not include bottled drinks or food items at Starbucks. However, you can pair your coffee with delectable treats available for purchase at the onboard Starbucks locations. Indulge in a pastry or snack alongside your favorite brew for the ultimate morning pick-me-up.

NCL Drink Package Prices – Making the Right Choice

When considering which  NCL drink package  to choose for your cruise, it’s essential to understand the pricing options. The NCL Premium Beverage Package has a base cost of $109 per person per day, while the Premium Plus Beverage Package is priced at $138 per person per day. These prices do not include the 20% gratuity, which is added at checkout.

Before deciding on a package, it’s important to evaluate your drinking preferences and calculate if the cost of the package is worth it for you. If you are someone who enjoys a variety of alcoholic beverages and plans to indulge during your cruise, the Premium Beverage Package could be a great choice. With its generous $15 drink allowance, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

On the other hand, if you prefer premium and top-shelf spirits, or if you’re a champagne lover, you may want to consider upgrading to the Premium Plus Beverage Package. With its wider selection of beverages and additional perks like specialty coffee and bottled water, this package offers a more luxurious experience.

It’s also worth noting that guests who book the Free At Sea promotion may receive the Unlimited Open Bar package for “free”, but will still need to pay the 20% gratuity. Keep in mind that the cost of the package should be weighed against your expected consumption and what you would typically spend on drinks without a package.

Table: NCL Drink Package Prices

Ultimately, the decision to purchase an  NCL drink package  will depend on your drinking habits, preferences, and budget. Whether you choose the Premium Beverage Package, the Premium Plus Beverage Package, or opt for the Soda Package or Starbucks Coffee Package, it’s important to consider the value you’ll get from unlimited drinks and the convenience it offers during your NCL cruise.

NCL Drink Packages – Pros and Cons

When considering whether to purchase an  NCL drink package , it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Unlimited drinks: With  NCL drink packages , you can enjoy unlimited beverages throughout your cruise, allowing you to indulge without worrying about individual drink costs.
• Wide selection: NCL offers a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring that you’ll find something to suit your tastes, whether you’re a beer lover, wine connoisseur, or prefer specialty cocktails.
• Convenience: Having a drink package eliminates the need to carry cash or worry about signing individual receipts for every drink you order. It offers a hassle-free and seamless experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation .
• Expensive: While the  NCL drink packages  provide convenience and unlimited drinks, they can be quite expensive, especially without the Free At Sea promotion. It’s essential to evaluate your drinking habits and budget to determine if the cost of the package is worth it for you.
• Non-refundable and non-transferable: Once purchased, NCL drink packages are non-refundable and non-transferable. This means that if you decide not to use the package or if you’re unable to go on the cruise, you won’t be able to get a refund or transfer the package to someone else.
• Gratuity not included: It’s important to note that the prices listed for the drink packages do not include the 20% gratuity, which is added at checkout. This additional cost should be factored into your overall budget.

Considering these pros and cons will help you make an informed decision about whether an NCL drink package is right for you. It’s essential to evaluate your drinking preferences, budget, and the benefits of each package to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience.

NCL Drink Packages – How to Purchase

When it comes to purchasing NCL drink packages, you have two options: online through your cruise planner or onboard the ship. If you prefer to plan ahead and ensure you secure your desired package, I recommend purchasing online before your cruise. This way, you can easily browse the available options and make your selection without any time pressure.

If you’re uncertain about which drink package is right for you, take some time to consider your drinking preferences and budget. You can find detailed information about each package in the previous sections of this guide. Remember, all eligible individuals in your stateroom must purchase the same package.

For those who book the Free At Sea promotion and receive a free drink package, it’s important to note that you will still need to pay the 20% gratuity. This gratuity is not included in the base cost of the package and will be added at checkout. Be sure to budget accordingly.

Whether you choose to purchase online or onboard, it’s important to remember that NCL drink packages are non-refundable and non-transferable. So, make your decision wisely and enjoy a worry-free vacation with unlimited beverages of your choice!

Final Thoughts

Balcony cabin view from aboard the Norwegian Prima

After exploring the various NCL drink packages, it’s clear that Norwegian Cruise Line offers a range of options to cater to every guest’s beverage preferences. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a non-drinker, or a coffee enthusiast, there’s a package that suits your needs.

If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, the NCL Premium Beverage Package provides unlimited access to a wide variety of drinks, including wine, beer, spirits, and frozen cocktails. For those who want a more luxurious experience, the Premium Plus Beverage Package offers top-shelf spirits, premium bottled water, and specialty coffee.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, NCL has you covered with the Soda Package, which includes unlimited fountain soda, tonics, and juices. Coffee lovers can indulge in the NCL Starbucks Coffee Package, with unlimited Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks.

Before making your decision, consider your drinking preferences, budget, and the benefits of each package. Keep in mind that prices for the packages do not include the required 20% gratuity. Whichever package you choose, the NCL beverage packages provide convenience and value, ensuring you have a fantastic cruise experience.

NCL Beverage Package FAQ

Can i purchase an ncl drink package online.

Yes, NCL drink packages can be purchased online through your cruise planner.

How much does the NCL Premium Beverage Package cost?

The NCL Premium Beverage Package has a base cost of $109 per person per day, excluding the 20% gratuity.

What drinks are included in the NCL Premium Beverage Package?

The NCL Premium Beverage Package includes wine, beer, basic spirits, and frozen drinks up to $15. Specialty coffee drinks, bottled water, room service, and mini-bar items are not included.

Can I upgrade from the NCL Unlimited Open Bar to the Premium Plus Beverage Package?

Yes, for an additional cost. The Premium Plus Beverage Package offers additional benefits such as premium bottled water, specialty coffee, energy drinks, freshly squeezed juices, and a wider selection of top-shelf spirits and wines.

Is there a drink package for non-drinkers?

Yes, NCL offers a Soda Package that includes unlimited fountain soda, tonics, juices, and coffee/tea from the buffet.

Can I get unlimited Starbucks coffee with an NCL package?

Yes, the NCL Starbucks Coffee Package offers unlimited Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks onboard. However, bottled drinks and food items at Starbucks are not included.

Are the NCL drink packages worth the cost?

It depends on your drinking preferences and budget. The packages offer convenience and value for those who enjoy alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages during their cruise. Evaluate your drinking habits and the benefits of each package before making a decision.

How can I purchase an NCL drink package?

NCL drink packages can be purchased online through your cruise planner or onboard the ship.

Are NCL drink packages refundable or transferable?

No, the NCL drink packages are non-refundable and non-transferable.

• #CruiseNorwegian
• #cruisevacation
• #drinkpackage
• #NorwegianCruiseLine

Related Articles

The best jackpot games at australian casinos in january 2024, 3 unique theme nights you shouldn’t miss when on a cruise ship, actor jonathan bennett named ‘godfather’ to carnival firenze.

Popular Categories

• Oceans 1545
• Cruise News 1322
• Cruise Tips 346
• Carnival Cruise Line 345
• River Cruises 229
• Royal Caribbean 174

© Copyright 2024 - Cruise Addicts

• Affiliate Disclaimer
• Privacy Policy

Cruise Spotlight

Helping you find cruise ships you'll love

How Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Packages Work

For new or inexperienced cruisers, understanding how drink packages work, and if they’re worth it, is a big challenge. Cruisers on Norwegian Cruise Lines have the added challenge that these cruises are marketed as having “Open bar at sea” Or “Unlimited Drink Package Included.” But is it really free? And what are the limits? We take a look at Norwegian Cruise Line’s four basic drink packages to help you better understand the differences and costs.

• Unlimited Open Bar Package
• Premium Plus Beverage Package
• Soda Package
• Unlimited Starbucks Package

You’ll find a full breakdown of the details below, but we also created this handy chart to quickly help you see the difference between the packages.

Norwegian Unlimited Open Bar Package

The Unlimited Open Bar Package, previously called the “Premium Beverage Package” is Norwegian’s most popular drink package. This is their base unlimited drink package that you get when you select the Unlimited Drink Package as part of a “Free at Sea” offer. It gives you access to a large selection of cocktails, wine, and beer at most venues on the cruise ship. Just be aware, Norwegian offers some “sail away” cabins for lower prices, but they will not include any “Free at Sea” offers. So be sure to read the forms carefully when booking. For people who don’t drink, the “sail away” rates are a great way to save some cash.

What’s Included in Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar Package?

Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar Package includes a variety of spirits and cocktails, wines by the glass, and bottled or draft beer up to $15. It also includes fountain soda, juice, and non-alcoholic beer. Below is a list of included beverages.

What’s Not Included in the Unlimited Open Bar Package?

• Drinks over $15 (you’ll pay the difference)
• Bottles of water
• Flights, tastings, or liquor experiences*
• Room service
• Bottled wine*
• Mini bar purchases
• Fresh squeezed juices
• Wine dispenser
• Energy drinks
• Vending machines
• Specialty coffee

*A 20% discount will be given on bottles of wine (champagne and sparkling included), Wine and Spirit Experiences, tastings or Flights purchased on board.

See full terms and conditions

What Does Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar Package Cost?

The cost of the package is typically $109 per person per day plus 20% gratuity. The price increased from $99 per day for all sailings after January 1, 2023. If you choose this perk as part of your cruise fare, you’ll still have to pay the gratuities or $21.80 per person per day. You are able to opt out of this “free” offer when booking if you’re not a big drinker.

Is Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar Package Worth It?

If you’re getting the Unlimited Open Bar Package as part of a “Free at Sea” promotion, each guest in the cabin would need roughly 2 – 3 alcoholic drinks a day to break even. However, if you’re paying full price for the drink package, it’s closer to 8 – 14 drinks a day per person to get your money’s worth. Our Drink Package Calculator will run the numbers for you based on what and how much you drink. 

Premium Plus Beverage Package

The Premium Plus Beverage Package is an upgraded version of Norwegian’s unlimited drink package. It includes everything in the standard package, plus a few extras. The most notable differences with this package are the inclusion of bottled water, specialty coffees, bottles of wine, and higher-end liquor.

What’s Included in the Premium Plus Beverage Package

This package includes everything above plus the following:

• Freshly squeezed juices
• Bottled water
• Wine dispensers
• Specialty coffee (including Starbucks)
• Select bottles of wine*
• *Non-select bottles of wine, flights, tastings, and liquor experiences will receive 40% discount

What’s Not Included in the Premium Plus Beverage Package

What Does Norwegian’s Premium Plus Beverage Package Cost?

The cost of the package is typically $138 per person per day (plus 20% gratuity). If you already have the standard Unlimited e already as part of a “Free at Sea” promotion, you can upgrade to the Premium Plus package for $29 per person per day (plus 20% gratuity).

Is Norwegian’s Premium Plus Beverage Package Worth It?

If you’re a big fan of specialty coffees, bottles of water, energy drinks, or bottles of wine, this upgrade may be worth it for you. That being said, if you’re just doing it for the non-alcoholic benefits, it still may be cheaper to pay per drink. It’d take about 4 – 5 of these extra drinks per day per person to break even. If you’re going for bottles of wine and high-end liquor, though, it pays for itself much more quickly. 

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Soda Package

For guests who don’t drink alcohol or guests under the age of 21, Norwegian has a soda package available. With this package, guests can have unlimited sodas around the ship. These used to be two different packages (one for adults and one for children), but in mid-2022 Norwegian combined them into one package.

What does Norwegian’s Soda Package Cover?

In September 2022, Norwegian announced it is switching to Coke products from Pepsi. The transition will be completed by the end of 2022. The soda package will include Cola, Diet Cola, Lemon Lime Soda, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, Orange Soda & Soda Water.

What doesn’t Norwegian’s Soda Package Cover?

The package excludes basically everything but soda. This will not include juices, milkshakes, bottles of water, etc. 

What Does the Norwegian’s Soda Package Cost?

Guests who get the package will pay $9.95 per person per day plus 20% gratuity.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Unlimited Starbucks Package

Norwegian’s Unlimited Starbucks package was introduced in mid-2022 and was specially made for coffee lovers.

What doesn’t Norwegian’s Unlimited Starbucks Package Cover?

The Unlimited Starbucks Package includes all the made-to-order drinks you can get from a Starbucks, including classic coffees, teas, and Frappuccinos.

What Does the Norwegian’s Unlimited Starbucks Package Cost?

The Unlimited Starbucks Package costs $12.95 per person per day (plus 20% gratuity). The Unlimited Starbucks Package does not include canned or bottled drinks, food, and merchandise. This package works at any Starbucks on a Norwegian ship as well as on Great Stirrup Cay.

Restrictions on Norwegian’s Drink Packages

All of the packages above have similar restrictions. The biggest restriction is that the package must be purchased for all guests staying within the same stateroom. That means if it’s two adults in a cabin, both will need the package. Likewise, if you’re going to be getting the soda package for children, all the children in the cabin must get the package.

Sharing of the packages with other guests is prohibited. That being said, guests are allowed to get two beverages per person per transaction. 

Where Can the Norwegian Drink Packages Be Used?

The Norwegian drink packages can be used in the ship based restaurants, bars, and lounges. They can also be used while on Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island. However, they cannot be used at Harvest Caye bars, restaurants, or venues.

CruiseSpotlight is an Amazon Associate. We may earn a commission when you click links to retailers and purchase goods.

Related posts:

• How to Check In for Your Royal Caribbean Cruise
• Star Princess Returns as a Sphere-class Ship

Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

You May Also Like

8 Things To Know About Alaskan Cruises

Norwegian’s New Dining Room Experiment May Have Failed

How I Decided On My Alaskan Cruise

Are cruise drink packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

Are cruise drink packages worth the price? The short answer is that it depends.

It depends on how expensive a cruise line's alcohol package is on any given ship as compared to the cost of drinks purchased individually. Both things vary greatly from line to line.

It also depends on how much you drink in any given day and what sort of drinks you typically order.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

In addition, it depends on whether you'll have access to any free drinks on a ship before paying up for a drink package. On many river cruise ships, for instance, wine and beer with lunch and dinner are included in base fares. You only pay extra for other alcoholic drinks served at meals or outside of meal times.

At some lines, the question isn't even relevant, as they include all or most alcoholic drinks in their base fares. At some other lines, drinks normally cost extra but often are thrown in for free as part of booking promotions.

Thinking about buying a cruise drink package or just wondering how much you should budget for drinks when cruising? Here, we talk about everything you need to know about whether purchasing an alcoholic drink package when cruising is right for you.

What is a cruise drink package?

One of the big allures of a cruise for many vacationers is that quite a lot is included in the fare, including a room, most meals and a wide range of entertainment. Alas, at many lines, drinks are not part of the package — and they can be quite pricey. For heavier drinkers, it's easy to run up an enormous bar tab when ordering drinks by the glass.

Enter the drink package, a flat-fee, all-you-can-drink offering that many lines have added over the years. For a fixed per-day rate, a drink package lets you order as many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as you want every day.

The price of such packages varies widely from line to line, from around $60 a day at cruise giant Carnival Cruise Line (if booked in advance) to $138 a day at Norwegian Cruise Line . For more on what's included in such packages and a line-by-line breakdown of what they cost, see TPG's ultimate guide to cruise line drink packages .

The benefits of a cruise line drink package

It can pay off to buy a drink package if you are someone who normally orders a lot of individual drinks on a cruise ship, particularly pricier drinks such as premium cocktails and wines by the glass. It's not uncommon for premium cocktails to cost as much as $15 or more on some lines, and wines by the glass also can approach $15 or more on some lines, too.

The first thing you should do when considering a drink package is carefully think through how many drinks (and what type) you normally order while on vacation.

As noted above, cruise drink packages on ships often are quite pricey, and they only make sense if you're a big spender on drinks — a really big spender. Carnival, for instance, charges $59.95 per person, per day for its Cheers! drink package if booked in advance ($64.95 if booked on board). Royal Caribbean drink packages sometimes cost as much as $89 per day. One Norwegian drink package is $138 a day. These packages only make sense if you routinely spend more than those amounts on drinks on a per-day basis.

If you're a beer drinker, the packages generally are not a good deal. It's better just to pay for beer as you go. On Carnival ships, for instance, many beers cost $7 to $7.95. You'd have to order more than seven to eight beers a day at that price for Carnival's Cheers! package to start paying off.

The packages make better sense for wine drinkers, as the cost of wine by the glass on cruise ships often is high. Wines by the glass on Carnival ships range from around $10 to $15. At the higher end of that spectrum, you'd have to order five glasses a day for the package to start paying off.

Related: The best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package

In addition to alcoholic drinks, passengers purchasing a cruise drink package typically can order an unlimited number of nonalcoholic beverages, such as specialty coffees and sodas that normally come with an extra charge. So the packages can be a good value to vacationers who are fond of ordering a high number of lattes, Cokes and other nonalcoholic beverages during the day in addition to alcoholic drinks.

To use the Carnival example again, someone who orders two or three lattes in the morning, several sodas during the day and three or four glasses of premium wine in the evening would come out ahead by buying a drink package.

For some cruisers, drink packages also prove to be a valuable budgeting tool. You typically can buy a drink package in advance and know exactly what you're going to spend for drinks for your entire cruise before you even step on board. Having a drink package also makes bar-hopping on ships easy, as you don't have to worry about paying for drinks as you go.

The drawbacks of a cruise drink package

The big drawback of buying a drink package when you cruise is that you may not get the value out of it that you think.

One thing to keep in mind is that lines generally sell drink packages by the cruise, not by the day. That means that you can't just buy a package for the specific days when you want to bar-hop on a ship. If you're on a seven-day cruise, you'll have to pay the steep per-day rates for all seven days — even for days when you don't plan to drink heavily.

Even if you think you'll use a drink package every day, remember that you might be spending a significant amount of time off your ship during port days on your cruise. On days when you're off the ship much of the time, you won't be ordering nearly as many drinks on board as on a sea day. Some cruise lines don't even allow you to use your drink packages on their private islands.

The packages make the most sense for passengers who consistently order a large number of drinks from day to day — even on port days.

Related: Can I bring alcohol on a cruise ship? A line-by-line guide

On many ships, you'll also need to factor in the drinking habits of your traveling companion. Several lines including Carnival, Holland America and MSC Cruises have a rule that if one adult in a cabin orders a drink package, all adults in the cabin must order the package. This is to prevent two people in a cabin from sharing a single drink package.

In such cases, it often doesn't make sense to buy a cruise drink package unless everyone in your cabin is a significant drinker. If one of you drinks and the other does not, you'll save more money by buying drinks by the glass.

Two lines that notably don't have such a rule are Princess Cruises and Windstar Cruises .

Another downside of many cruise drink packages is that they often have unexpected exclusions and price caps. Even the priciest drink packages might not include your favorite brand of whiskey or vodka, for instance. And many drink packages only apply to drinks on menus that cost under, say, $15. Note that in some cases, lines offer more than one drink package, with a pricier tier that gives you access to a broader range of brands and a higher per-drink cost limit.

If you're someone who is picky about wines, meanwhile, you may find that the wines included in drink packages don't quite meet your expectations. Generally, cruise drink packages only can be used for the wines by the glass that are available at bars and restaurants on ships, not the wider array of bottled wine in cruise ship cellars. That said, signing up for a drink package will get you a discount when buying wines by the bottle on some lines.

Related: These are the best cruise ship bars

How to get a free cruise drink package

The decision about whether or not to get a cruise ship drink package changes when you can get a package for free. Some big-ship lines will throw in drink packages for no extra cost as a perk during limited-time or ongoing booking promotions.

The line perhaps best known for throwing in free cruise drink packages as a booking perk is Norwegian Cruise Line. Norwegian seemingly always is running some variation of its "Free at Sea" promotion that brings a free drink package, specialty dining, excursions and other perks. Depending on the cabin category you book, you typically can get one or more of the freebies thrown in.

Other lines that historically have run promotions with free drink packages include Princess Cruises and Holland America, although both lines now are touting new all-inclusive fares that include drink packages and other perks.

Related: The best cruise booking perks – and which ones are actually free

Just note that the free cruise drink packages that lines sometimes offer with booking promotions aren't always their top-tier drink packages. Celebrity Cruises , for instance, includes a drink package with one of its fare classes called All Included fares. But it's not Celebrity's top-tier Premium Drink Package. The included package only covers drinks up to $9 and does not include premium brands of liquor and beer. For an expanded list of covered brands and drinks up to $15, you'd need to pay to upgrade your package.

Another drawback of the free cruise drink packages that lines sometimes offer with booking promotions is that they're not really free. Cruise lines typically charge customers who get a free drink package a gratuity fee for receiving the package in the amount of 15% to 20% of whatever the package normally costs. That can result in your "free" drink package actually costing you more than $100 a week.

Bottom line

Buying a drink package on a cruise ship instead of paying for drinks individually can be a good way to save when cruising. But they aren't for everyone. Drink packages generally make sense only for cruisers who typically order large numbers of drinks every day or particularly expensive drinks such as premium cocktails. For cruisers who only have one or two or three drinks a day, or order low-cost drinks such as beers, a cruise drink package generally doesn't make sense.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Comprehensive Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Package Guide (2024)

DISCLOSURE: Stylish Cruising contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, as well as affiliate programs with other companies. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. To learn more, please see our  Privacy Policy .

Guests sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) have a variety of choices as to their beverage packages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. To help answer your questions, we put together a Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package guide.

We have sailed many times with NCL and have used both the Unlimited Open Bar Package and the Premium Plus Beverage Package . The one time we splurged on the Premium Plus package with Free at Sea Plus to check it out was fun but pricey.

Check Out Our New Calculators

Our new NCL beverage package calculators are included in the following posts:

Is NCL’s Unlimited Open Bar Worth It?

Is NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package Worth It?

Ultimate Cruise Planner

Need a little assistance organizing and planning your cruise? Our Ultimate Cruise Planner can help!

These beverage packages may be purchased with your booking or anytime before the cruise, either online or by calling NCL. If you choose not to include the Free at Sea offer with your booking but change your mind and would like a beverage package later, they are available for sale at the Atrium Bar for the first 48 hours of the sailing.

Note that all of these packages and prices are subject to change, and brand availability may change. All adults 21 and over on the same reservation must purchase the same beverage package, and those under 21 must purchase the soda package. Guests are eligible for two beverages per person per transaction. Packages may not be shared and are non-refundable.

There is no limit to the number of beverages you purchase daily, but you are expected to drink responsibly.

Two groups of beverage packages are offered: those for cruises on Pride of America, and those for all other cruises. We’ll start with the most common packages offered for all other cruises.

Beverage Packages For All Ships Except Pride of America

Unlimited open bar package.

This popular beverage package is included with NCL’s Free at Sea offer you can choose while booking. This package is available for use onboard for sailings of three days or more, as well as on Great Stirrup Cay, but not on Harvest Caye.

• What It Includes : Selected cocktails and spirits, wines by the glass, and beers under $15 USD, plus all sodas and juices
• What It Doesn’t Include : Bottled water (still or sparkling), room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases, Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks, or energy drinks
• Ages : 21 years of age and older
• Discounts Included : 20% discount on wine and spirit experiences, tastings, flights, Connoisseur Collection beverages, and all wines by the bottle.
• Price Per Day : $109 per person per day
• Taxes and gratuities : 20% gratuities will be added, as well as VAT tax for certain ports and itineraries

Beverage packages are not usable on Harvest Caye because the island isn’t owned by NCL.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

This beverage package may be purchased on its own or as an upgrade to the Open Beverage Package offered with Free at Sea, or as part of Free at Sea Plus .

• What It Includes : All top-shelf cocktails and spirits. All beer, red wine, white wine, and NCL’s exclusive brand of rosé champagne by the glass. Select premium bottles of wine with dinner including NCL’s exclusive brand of rosé champagne and 40% off all other bottles (limited to one bottle per person per dinner). Unlimited soft drinks and juices. Unlimited still and sparkling bottled water. All Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks. Energy Drinks.
• What It Doesn’t Include : Room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases
• Discounts Included : 40% discount on wine and spirit experiences, tastings, flights, Connoisseur Collection beverages, and all wines by the bottle
• Price Per Day : $138 per person per day, or as a $29 upgrade to the Unlimited Open Bar Package per person per day

Unlimited Soda Package

This beverage package may be purchased by adults and children ages 3 and over. Note that NCL offers Coke products.

• What It Includes : Fountain sodas including Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Tonic Water, Fanta, and soda water
• What It Doesn’t Include : Bottled water (still or sparkling), room service, mini bar purchases, energy drinks, or canned sodas
• Ages : 3 years of age and older
• Price Per Day : $9.95 per person per day

Unlimited Starbucks Package

For Starbucks lovers, NCL offers a Starbucks package that includes coffees, specialty coffees, teas, and refreshers.

• What It Includes : Coffees, espressos, specialty coffees, teas, and refreshers
• What It Doesn’t Include : Starbucks food
• Ages : 18 years of age and older
• Price Per Day : $12.95 per person per day

Water Packages

If you would like to have bottled water for your stateroom, it is available for purchase as follows (water brand may vary):

• 6 one-liter bottles: $19.95
• 12 one-liter bottles: $34.95
• 24 one-liter bottles: $49.95

All Hawaii Beverage Packages

These packages are applicable to all Pride of America sailings only, with changes made to comply with Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law.

Hawaii Beverage Package

The alcoholic beverage package offered for cruises on Pride of America is slightly different from the Open Bar Beverage Package offered on all other ships.

• What It Includes : Unlimited craft cocktails, premium spirits, wines by the glass, and beers under $15 USD, plus bottled water (still or sparkling), all sodas and juices, non-alcoholic beer, and specialty Starbucks coffee while dining
• What It Doesn’t Include : Room service, mini bar purchases, and pre-cruise wine bottle purchases, Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks while not dining, or energy drinks

Hawaii Soda Package

This beverage package may be purchased by adults and children ages 3 and over.

• What It Includes : Unlimited refills of fountain soda and juices

Hawaii Starbucks Package

The Hawaii Starbucks package is perfect for coffee lovers.

• What It Includes : Coffees, espressos, specialty coffees, teas, and frappucinos

Hawaii Water Package

Free drinks in the casino with casinos at sea.

NCL’s casino loyalty program, Casinos At Sea, rewards loyal players with drinks while playing in the casino. There are five tier levels: Jade, Pearl, Sapphire, Ruby, and Elite. Complimentary drinks while playing in the casino are as follows by tier:

• Jade – No complimentary drinks
• Pearl – Complimentary house drinks
• Sapphire – Complimentary premium drinks
• Ruby – Complimentary ultra drinks
• Elite – Complimentary ultra drinks

We are members of Casinos at Sea and always stop at the casino bar at the end of the night to pick up a few free bottles of water to take back to our stateroom.

For more information about how to become a member of Casinos at Sea, stop by the casino and ask.

Related Posts

What Costs Extra On An NCL Cruise: Be Prepared

Is the Norwegian Premium Plus Beverage Package Worth it? Calculator Included (2024)

Is The Norwegian Unlimited Open Bar Worth It? Calculator Included (2024)

Our Honest NCL Ocean Blue Restaurant Review with Menu

Tour of a Wonderful Haven Spa Suite on NCL Breakaway

Norwegian Breakaway The Haven: Exclusive Luxury

Bring your own wine or champagne onboard.

NCL allows you to bring wine or champagne onboard with certain caveats. Wine brought onboard on Embarkation Day is subject to a corkage fee as seen below, with no exceptions. No matter where you consume the wine you bring onboard, whether in a lounge, a restaurant, or your stateroom, the corkage fee applies.

• 750 ml bottle: $15.00 USD
• 1,500 ml magnum: $30.00 USD

Any alcohol you purchase at a port will be held for you until the end of the cruise.

NCL Drink Prices

For reference, below are the price ranges for various beverages onboard NCL ships. Beverage prices can vary from bar to bar, plus 20% gratuities will be added to the prices that follow.

• Cocktails – $10 to $14 and up
• Beer – $7 and up
• Wine by the glass – $8 and up
• Fountain soda – $3 to $3.50
• Canned soda – $3 to $3.50
• Energy drinks – $6 to $7
• Bottled premium water – $6
• Bottled water – $4
• Martini flight – $20
• Starbucks coffees – $3 to $7

Is The Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package Worth It?

The answer to that question will be different for everyone. The easiest way to answer that for yourself is to divide the daily cost of the package by the highest drink price, then ask yourself if you normally drink that many cocktails, beers, glasses of wine, fountain sodas, and juices per day.

Note that I have not included the gratuities in the equation because they would be added either way.

Doing the math for the Unlimited Open Bar Package ($109 ÷ $15 = 7.3) shows that if you consume more than seven of the drinks covered in that package per day, then the package is worth it.

Doing the math for the Premium Plus Package ($138 ÷ $15 = 9.2) shows that if you consume more than nine of the drinks covered in that package per day, then the package is worth it. If you like premium spirits, bottled water, and Starbucks and drink them often, then the package is worth it.

If you don’t want to do the math, check out our new beverage package calculators included in these posts:

Also, you need to take into consideration if you have a port-intensive cruise. If you do, you won’t be on board as much to enjoy your beverage package.

Beverage Package Flyers

Would you like a flyer about the beverage packages to take on the cruise with you? NCL has made the following available to you, and they are so helpful. Not sure what you want to drink next? Just check the flyer for ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if i order a drink over $15 with the open bar package.

Your order will be discounted $15 and you will be charged the difference.

I like The Hawaii Package Better. Why Can’t I Purchase That One?

The Hawaii packages are only available on Pride of America to comply with Hawaiian law.

If I Decide I Don’t Want A Beverage Package Mid-cruise, Can I Get a Refund?

No. Refunds are not offered on beverage packages.

Can I Order Drinks For Myself and My Partner?

Yes, a guest is entitled to order two drinks per transaction.

Is there a limit to how much I can drink Per Day?

No, but you are expected to drink responsibly.

Can I buy drinks for someone not in my cabin?

No, you cannot share your drink package with people not on your reservation. Doing so can cause your drink package to be revoked.

What If I Don’t Want To Buy A Beverage Package? What Can I Drink on NCL For Free?

The following drinks are complimentary: filtered water, tea, milk, chocolate milk, fountain juices, and lemonade.

How Can I Get A Free Open Bar Beverage Package?

By purchasing the Free at Sea offer with your booking.

Final Thoughts on Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages

If you enjoy alcoholic beverages and other drinks covered by the beverage packages, NCL’s beverage packages can be a cost-saver for you. Do the math and decide for yourself if the packages are right for you.

Happy cruising!

LET’S BE SOCIAL: Follow us on Facebook , Instagram , Pinterest , and YouTube .

Planning to book a cruise? We have some tips for you .

How To Book A Cruise For The First Time

Should I Get Cruise Insurance? Yes, And Here’s Why

Your Essential Cruise Carry-On Bag: Ideas for Smart Items to Pack (With Checklist)

Pam and her husband, Myron, travel almost three months of the year, enjoying all the benefits of premium cruising. She's learned a thing or two and has a checklist for nearly everything related to cruising, and enjoys sharing those tips and lists with you.

Similar Posts

Celebrity Solstice Restaurants: A Quick Guide With Menus

Celebrity Solstice, known for its opulence and elegance, takes dining to a whole new level, so where to eat may give you pause. To help, here is a quick guide to the Celebrity Solstice restaurants.

Celebrity Millennium Restaurants: A Quick Guide With Menus

As one of Celebrity Cruises’ mid-size ships, Millennium offers an intimate and elegant cruising experience. Its dining options are all excellent, so the choices may be difficult. Here’s a quick guide to the Celebrity Millennium restaurants to help you narrow down your choices.

NCL Free At Sea: All You Need To Know

When you book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, you will see their Free At Sea program mentioned. What is the NCL Free At Sea program, and what does it mean to you?

More Spacious Norwegian Cruise Line Solo Cabins Added Fleetwide

Starting January 2, 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line solo cabins will be almost doubled fleetwide to respond to the recent surge in solo cruisers. Once implemented, nearly 1,000 solo cabins will be available on Norwegian’s 19 ships, with more square footage than offered before.

Smart Tips and Tricks For NCL’s Haven

Staying in Norwegian Cruise Line’s suites-only Haven can be intimidating for some, not knowing what’s included and what to do. After staying in The Haven many times, we’ve found some tips and tricks for NCL’s Haven that might help you.

Our Honest Review of Tuscan Grille on Celebrity Millennium With Menu

Tuscan Grille on Celebrity Millennium is a specialty restaurant that fuses classic Italian dishes with steakhouse fare. We dined there on our recent cruise to Japan and will take you through our experience, providing honest feedback.

2bearbear Singapore Travel Blog: Travel | Stay | Food

The Top (few) Singapore Travel Blog: Guide to Things to do, Hotels, Attractions, Food & Travel Reviews from Around the World! (Since May 2011)

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage (Drinks) Package: Is it worth it?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers the Ultimate Beverage Package (aka Drinks Package) for $79 per person per day. The Ultimate Beverage Package includes soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer up to and including $15 during your entire cruise. This means that, you can enjoy any drinks below the cost of $15 on the menu. Typically, beers cost $6.95 and cocktails $7.95 and up. Some cocktails that have Mcallan can go from $14.95 and up.

But the big question is: Is it worth it to get the Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage Package?

What does Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage Package include?

As mentioned, the Ultimate Drinks Package by Norwegian Cruise Line, includes all soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails and wines that are below $15 in value on the menu. Here are (just some) of the drinks that we had during our recent cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)…

On a typical sea day, we would start off with mimosas (orange plus champagne) for breakfast. Each time we have our meals, we would have one (or two) drinks to complement the food (ie red wines for red meats etc.). When we chill out at the pool or catch shows for a day, drinks would accompany as well. Typically , we would have about 7 drinks a day. As you can see from our pictures, we tried everything from beers to whiskeys, sangrias to wines. But the best part about the Ultimate Beverage Package? The cocktails! We don’t think we ever had the opportunity to try this many cocktails ever. Without the UBP, it would be unlikely that we’d try so many amazing looking and delicious cocktails. Tom wouldn’t have discovered that his favourite cocktail is Mr Worldwide (a cocktail topped off with champagne!). Mojito (pronounced as mo-hee-toh) is the other drink we’d usually have if there’s no preference. This is because the lime and mint are freshly crushed each and every time!

Is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage Package worth it?

For the Ultimate Beverage Package, the Ultimate Question remains. Is the Ultimate Drinks Package really worth it? For us, it was definitely worth it! As one of our friends from the cruise said it so succinctly (when asked about Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage Package),

“There’s no other way to cruise!”

Monetary wise, if you drank 8 cocktails that costs $14.95 each, you’d be able to beat the $79 per day for the package, easy. Along with it, the freedom to order whichever drinks you’d like for that day.

HOWEVER, if you are a light drinker who has a drink per meal for lunch and dinner and perhaps one more while chilling at the pool, you’d be better off without the drinks package. Yup, the UBP is really for those who enjoy their alcoholic drinks!

Tips for Norwegian Cruise Line’s Ultimate Beverage Package

There are a few things that we’d recommend you do if you are on the Ultimate Beverage Package…

1. Tip your server/bartender . Although it is not required, we realised that tipping your server and/or bartender really does improve service (and liquor) for your drinks. For instance, there was once when Tom was walking towards the bar, the bartender noticed him and stopped his conversation with another bartender almost immediately to take the order. This was in contrast to the long wait that we had to “endure” before we were asked about the drinks the day before. On many other occasions, we realised that our alcohol content were higher with our cocktails as well. To put it simply, if you’re enjoying your drink (and vacation), tip the jolly good fellow!

2. Know your bars and lounges. Not all bars serve cocktails and not all drinks stations serve alcoholic drinks. The whiskey bar has the most expensive cocktails (at $14.95 and up) but do remember to watch for what you order. One of our friends missed out that the section he was ordering from was actually a premium drink and he had to pay the difference plus taxes on the shot of whiskey But if $3 for a shot of good whiskey is not much to you, by all means, go ahead and enjoy. As the cruise director Joel Dizon would say “You’re on vacation!”

3. Taxes. Once you step onboard the cruise ship, you can actually start using your Ultimate Beverage Package! However, do note that, if the ship is still in the port of departure and/or still in US waters, the drinks are still subjected to tax. Sometimes, it takes between 2 to 4 hours to leave US waters. Which is why some cruisers choose their port of departure “after careful consideration”. So for instance, if the drink is $10 on the menu and the tax rate is 8%, you’ll just have to pay $0.80 for your drink if the ship is still within US waters. A small price to pay for a great start to a cruise right?

Remember to leave your comments for 2bearbear Singapore Travel Blog in our comments section below!

Now that you know more about the Ultimate Beverage Package (Drinks Package) by Norwegian Cruise Line, would you have it during your next cruise? Tell us in the comments section below!

Related Posts

Remember to check out the best cruise packages at LastMinuteTravel.com – Last Minute Prices in Advance !

Norwegian Jade: The Most Comprehensive Coverage of Norwegian Cruise Line – Part 1: Ship Layout

Norwegian Jade: The Most Comprehensive Coverage of Norwegian Cruise Line – Part 2: Dining

Norwegian Jade: The Most Comprehensive Coverage of Norwegian Cruise Line – Part 3: Activities

Norwegian Cruise Line : Mexican Cuisine Workshop & Tasting (Cooking Class) @ Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park Review

Norwegian Cruise Line: Altun Ha Ancient Mayan Site and The Olde Belize River Cruise Review

Norwegian Cruise Line: Roatan (Honduras) Glass Bottom Boat & West End Village Review

The Most Comprehensive Review of Royal Carribean Cruise’s Mariner of the Seas

Related posts:

Recommended articles, cruise to nowhere quantum of the seas royal caribbean cruise day 2: napkin folding, northstar, izumi, wonderland and starwater.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Mariner of the Seas : 8D7N from Singapore to Laem Chabang (Thailand) and Phu My (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)!

Royal Caribbean Cruise Revisited: Cruise To Nowhere Day 1 of Drinks Bookings and Show on Quantum of the Seas!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Ultimate Guide to NCL Drink Packages | Are they worth it?

By: Author coupletraveltheworld

Posted on Last updated: August 27, 2023

Categories Cruise Tips

Considering the NCL Drink Packages and wondering what they cost? We travel on Norwegian cruise line quite a bit and have the low down on whether buying the drink package is worth it or not when cruising NCL. 

If you are thinking to take a NCL cruise in 2023 here is a guide with everything you need to know about NCL Beverage Packages (including a beverage package comparison) to help you decide what is right for you to buy the adult beverage package or even soda package. Happy cruising!

The Ultimate Guide to NCL Drink Packages

When we travel in a group on Norwegian cruises (like we recently did on the Norwegian Star ) we always go for the NCL Premium Beverage Package which allows you to drink premium cocktails & spirits under $15 USD and a variety of beer and wine by the glass under $15 USD.

You can purchase this for $109.00 USD per person per day but we normally get it included as part of our cruise with their “Free at Se” a promotion which includes this drink package as a perk of booking. Sometimes, you can choose this perk or another perk that might suit you better like speciality dining or internet. This is not always offered and you need to look out for a “Free at Sea” promotion when booking your cruise if this is important to you.

If you don’t purchase a drink package on your cruise, what you will have access to is table water at the buffet, standard tea and coffee and some cordials at the buffet.

A great bartender called Rico on the Norwegian Star

When we travel on our own, we sometimes don’t get the beverage package as we don’t drink a lot normally but when we are traveling in a group and want to down a bit more grog, the NCL Drink Packages are really good value and save us a tonne of money while cruising.

Due to the affordable drinks packages, Norwegian cruises are a great cruise for young adults so if you are in your 20s/30s and thinking to book this cruise we would say, go for it!

Drink packages also make cruising a little more interesting as you can try a lot of different drinks. For example, if you are traveling on a girls trip and want to try quite a lot of different cocktails, it will be well worth your while having the beverage package.

Even if it is included in the “Free at Sea” package” the NCL Drink Packages are not exactly free (more of this later) as there is a 20% service charge/gratuity added to the package so you need to weigh up how much you will be drinking to determine if it is worth it to you.

There are also beverage package options available for the non drinkers in the form of a soda package which we will discuss below.

Keep reading to find out more about all the NCL Drink Packages that are available for purchase including the Premium Beverage Package, the Premium Beverage Package Plus and the Soda Package including a comparison of what you get in each.

FAQ on NCL Drink Packages

How old do you have to be to get a beverage package on ncl.

To get a beverage package OR to drink on Norwegian cruises in general, you need to be 21 years of age. This is the same rule no matter what country you are cruising.

This is the case as NCL are a US company and have adopted the same drinking age as the USA.

What is a “Free at Sea” beverage package perk?

Norwegian often offers promotions when you book your cruise called “Free at Sea” promos. This often includes getting a free Premium Beverage Package included in the price of your cruise.

As explained later, it is not entirely free as you still need to pay a service fee or gratuity on the price of the beverage package which is 20% of the usual price.

If I don’t have a”Free at Sea” beverage package perk, how much will it cost me for a beverage package?

Norwegian cruise line has 5 different beverage packages with all different prices:

• Premium Beverage Package: $109.00 USD per person per day;
• Premium Plus Beverage Package:$138.00 USD per person per day;
• Hawaii Beverage Package (all ages) – Pride of America only: $109.00 USD per person per day;
• Unlimited Soda Package: $9.95 USD per person per day;
• Unlimited Starbucks package: $12.95 USD per person per day.

People enjoying the drink package on NCL Star. If you look closely they have “Blame it on the drink package cruise shirts “

On top of this price, you will be subject to a 20% service charge on a daily rate on the price of your beverage package. 

Are there additional taxes on beverage packages?

Yes, if you order drinks while docked at a US port.

Is bottled wine included in any of the beverage packages?

No, bottled wine is not included in any of the beverage packages on NCL.

If you at a Platinum member, one of the perks is a bottle of wine included with a specialty dining meal.

A wine we enjoyed as part of being platinum members at Le Bistro French restaurant

Can I bring my own bottles of wine or champagne onboard?

Yes, you can but they will be subject to a $15 corkage fee per bottle of wine. This technically applies whether you drink the wine or not.

In reality, they probably won’t charge you the corkage and simply put your bottles in “wine jail” until the end of the cruise.

If you find a nice bartender, you may not be charged the corkage fee but I would expect to pay it if you bring wine on the ship.

The average bottle of wine is around $40 to purchase on the ship so if your wine costs $25 or more + the $15 corkage it might not be worth it.

If you purchase a bottle of wine and you don’t drink the whole bottle, the staff are happy to cork it and put it away for your next dinner which is a great economical option if you are not a big drinker.

Can I bring my own bottles of spirits onboard?

No, bottle of spirits are not allowed on the ship. If you bring them, they will be likely detected in your luggage while going on the cruise and put in “spirit jail” until the end of the cruise.

We met some travelers who got very crafty and successfully got spirits on by putting the spirit inside their camel pack . For me, the embarrassment of them seeing me smuggle spirits in via a camel pack isn’t worth it plus I’m not that serious of a drinker to need it that badly.

Does the drinking package cost the same no matter the length of the cruise?

No, the cost varies depending on the amount of nights you are on the cruise. This is the case even if you are on a “Free at Sea” perk as the service charge/gratuity will increase.

What drinks are free on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The only drinks that are free are filtered water at the buffet, standard coffee, tea and some cordials at the buffet.

There is still an additional cost of a gratuity even if you get a “free at sea” perk and get a Norwegian Premium Beverage Package included in your cruise deal.

How much gratuity/service charge will I have to pay on the beverage package?

You pay a 20% gratuity on the value of the NCL drink package, regardless if you get it for free as a perk when booking your cruise.

For example, if you are buying the package direct, it normally costs $109.00 USD per person per day for the premium beverage package. That means for a 7 day cruise you will pay around $152 pp or around $22 pp a day in gratuity.

If you get the NCL premium beverage package included as a perk of your cruise, it means essentially if you are wanting to drink more than 1 alcoholic beverage a drink on your cruise (they usually cost between $10 – $15 USD a drink) it is worth it.

Is buying a drink package worth it?

It really depends on how much you are going to drink and if you are getting the package as a free at sea perk or paying the standard rate for it.

As stated above, drinks on NCL cost around $10 – $15 USD a drink for an alcoholic beverage.

If you are getting the free at sea perk where you get a beverage package included and just have to pay for the gratuity, you only have to drink more than 1 drink a day to make paying the service fee worthwhile.

If you are paying for the beverage package direct to NCL without a free at sea perk, you would have to be drinking 10 drinks a day so unless you are a very heavy drinker, I would not think purchasing the beverage package would be worthwhile.

Here is an example of a cruise on the Norwegian Prima we recently purchased from Iceland. As you can see, the cruise only rate was 858 Euros pp. If you want the Free at Sea upgrade which includes the beverage package, it increases the price to 1057 Euros pp. For clarity, the specialty dining is usually 1 paid restaurant per cruise and the internet package is usually 150 minutes (for a 10 day cruise, the amount increases per number of days at sea)

The total amount when you add in taxes etc came to 1716.20 Euros for two people without the beverage package or 2,114.20 Euros per person with the beverage package, a difference of 398 Euros for a 10 day cruise.

Is that worth it? Well, depends how much you are going to drink. We went with it on the Star and without it on the Norwegian Prima when it was just the two of us and we thought we would drink less.

Can just one person in a cabin purchase a beverage package?

No, everyone in the cabin must have the same package. You cannot mix and match UNLESS the person in the cabin is a minor in which case they will get the Unlimited Soda package.

We met a couple recently onboard where one person was a drinker and one wasn’t and it simply was not worthwhile for them to purchase the drinks package for this reason.

Does NCL Premium Beverage Package include bottled water?

No, it does not. You will need to get the Premium Plus Beverage Package to get unlimited still and bottled water at a price of $138 USD pp per day.

The bummer is the Premium Plus Beverage Package is never (as far as I have ever since) included in a free at sea promotion. Only the Premium Beverage Package is usually included in this perk. This means if bottled water is important to you, you will be up for quite a pretty penny.

Norwegian cruises are now offering a bottled water package which costs $19.95 for 6 one litre bottles, $34.95 for 12 and $49.95 for 24 bottles. If you just want to pay as you go, bottled water sets you back around $6 USD a litre. The brand they are selling is called “Flow” which is meant to be alkaline spring water. I tried it and it wasn’t my favorite bottled water I have ever tasted but it was better than the filtered water from the buffet.

You can fill your own water bottle up at the buffet. You aren’t allowed to put the bottle under the dispense but you can transfer glasses into your own bottle.

Can you get frozen drinks in any of the NCL beverage packages?

Yes, you can get frozen drinks in the Premium Beverage Package, Premium Plus Beverage package, and the Hawaiian Beverage Package.

They are not included in the soda package however, there are non alcoholic frozen beverages available. If you are on a Premium Beverage Package and your child has a soda package but wants a non alcoholic frozen beverage, you can simply get one for him or her on your card.

What happens on the Free at Sea perk if the second guest is a minor?

If you have the Free at Sea promotion and your second guest is a minor, they will get the soda package and you will pay the service charge on that package. That only applies if the second guest is a minor.

NCL Beverage package comparison

NCL Soda Package

A great option for non drinkers or children, the NCL Soda package will only set you back $9.95 per person, per day plus 20% gratuity.

This is a really good option if you like a soda like a coke or lemonade or even a soda water with lime (my personal favorite).

Each soda will set you back around $3-4 USD per drink so if you regularly drink over 3 sodas a day the Nowegian Soda package will be a good option for you.

For a 7 day cruise the soda package will cost $69.65 plus a $14 gratuity.

If you are a non drinker and don’t purchase the NCL Soda package or have a free at sea perk, you will be limited to filtered water, standard coffee, tea and cordials at the buffet.

NCL Premium Beverage Package

This is the most popular beverage package on NCL cruises largely because many guests get this included as part of a free at sea promotion, where they don’t have to pay the cost of the beverage package and just pay the service fee.

NCL Premium Beverage Package costs $109 per person, per day, plus a 20% gratuity. 

One of the best tips we have is to try to get it included in one of Norwegians “Free at Sea” promotions when you book your cruise as then you are only paying the 20% service charge which is $152 pp for a 7 day cruise or around $22 pp a day in gratuity.

As a general rule, you can order on this package any alcoholic drinks or sodas under $15 in value. This gives you quite a lot of choice. We have never felt that we couldn’t find a drink we liked for this value.

What I personally thought was a bit poor was that specialty coffee like Starbucks and energy drinks, even if they were under $15 value were not included in this package. Bottled water is also not included as well as anything in the mini bar and room service is subject to an additional fee.

Click here for NCL’s updated ncl drink package list of what is included in the Premium beverage package

As you can see based on the graphic above, the NCL Premium Beverage Package includes a wide range of options.

There are also many wines and beers that you can find of the ship that aren’t listed here but are included.  For example, we found out on our recent cruise on the Norwegian Star that Guinness beer is able to be ordered only from the Irish pub and is included in the NCL Premium Beverage Package which was a bit of a win for my husband and Dad.

If it’s under $15 you are generally okay to order it but if in doubt, the bartenders are always happy to help out.

If you want a drink over $15 in value, you can simply pay the difference. For example, if you want a glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne that is $35 in value, you would pay $20 out of pocket plus 20% gratuity extra on the additional $20.

You can find the full terms and conditions of the Premium beverage package here .

NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package

If you have a taste for finer wines, champagne and spirits for example Veuve Clicquot champagne, you may want to look into Norwegian cruise lines’s Premium Plus Beverage.

This costs $138 per person, per day plus a 20% gratuity. As far as I have ever seen, it is never included in the Free at Sea promotion so you will looking at spending this money if the finer things in life are important to you.

What is great about this package is that Starbucks specialty coffees, energy drinks as well as bottled water is included. This means you can drink as much Starbucks and bottled water until your hearts content on the cruise with this package.

You should calculate how many top quality beverages you can consume in a cruise to work out if NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage is worth it or not for you. If you have the Free at Sea Premium Beverage Package, it may be more worthwhile to add a Starbucks or water package to your room and pay for the increased price of drinks. As noted above, you will pay the amount over $15. It is important to do the maths to work out what is the best option for you.

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage is NCL’s top quality beverage package which includes the best quality champagne, wine and spirits on the ship.

NCL premium beverage package vs premium plus? Basically you can order whatever you like on the Plus package including Starbucks and bottled water. It does not include room service or mini bar and no package does this.

NCL Premium plus Beverage drink package list

Can you upgrade the NCL Premium Beverage Package to the Plus Package?

Yes, you can which might work out the most economical for you. There is a new program called NCL Free at Sea Plus which costs $49 per person daily, plus gratuities to upgrade from the NCL Premium Beverage Package to the Plus Package.

You can only do this if you are sailing for 3 days or more.

Whether the upgrade is worth it or not depends on how much you are going to drink on the ship and what you are going to drink. It’s always good to do the maths so Norwegian doesn’t win 😉

For example, Veuve Clicquot champagne that is $35 a glass, you would pay $20 out of pocket plus 20% gratuity, you would need to want to consume more than 2 of these a day to make it more economical to upgrade your package rather than just pay the difference.

The other benefit the Free at Sea Plus comes with two additional dinners at specialty dining restaurants for guests 1 and 2 and unlimited Internet (no streaming). If you purchase two additional dinners at specialty dining restaurants onboard it will cost you $100 each person.

If you were going to do this in any event, it really lowers how much Veuve Clicquot champagne you have to consume to make the upgrade worthwhile.

NCL Hawaii Beverage Package

This beverage package only applies to the Norwegian Pride of America sailings so it is a very specific beverage package that cannot be used on every cruise.

This package is very similar to the NCL Premium Beverage Package, it costs $109 per person, per day, plus 20% gratuity.

Like the regular NCL Premium Beverage Package, you get unlimited beverages up to $15 in value.

It is also included as one of the Free at Sea perks. It is slightly better value than the regular NCL Premium Beverage Package as it does include bottled water and specialty coffee in dining rooms as well as freshly squeezed juices.

You do get better with this beverage package however, Hawaii sailings tend to be at a higher price point as a whole so if I was to guess, NCL feel they need to offer slightly better value on this cruise in order to be competitive with other lines.

The Hawaii beverage package still goes not include mini bar items or specialty coffee outside restaurants like for example at the Starbucks store.

Click here for NCL’s updated list of what is included in the Hawaii beverage package

Unlimited Starbucks Package

Of course NCL also has a package for the specialty coffee lovers.

For $12.95 per person per day plus 20% gratuity added to the total cost you can get unlimited specialty coffee from the onboard Starbucks store. This adds up to $90.65 for a 7 day cruise plus a service charge of 20% on top.

It is includes all drinks served at Starbucks but excludes bottled water and food served there.

This package is only available on ships which have Starbucks onboard.

Like the rules with all Norwegian beverage packages, everyone in the cabin over 18 must have the same package so you cannot just buy it for 1 person and order drinks for everyone, unfortunately.

Starbucks coffees tend to sit around $5 USD per coffee onboard so you would need to be drinking more than 2 per day to make this package worthwhile. I really like coffee but I would be absolutely buzzing on 3 coffees a day. If you want more speciality drinks like Frappuccino, the value gets slightly better.

Should you get one of NCL’s beverage package?

This question is really an individual decision and it depends entirely on how much you intend to drink onboard.

If you are cruising with a group of friends and plan to go wild, getting a drinks package is very worthwhile especially if you can score one as part of Norwegian’s free at sea promos and just have to pay the gratuity. 

On the other hand, paying the gratuity which is around $152 pp for a 7 day cruise is not worth it if you plan to only drink a few glasses of wine on board. In this case, I would advise just buying a few bottles of wine at dinner.

If you can’t find a free at sea promo and just want to have a think, drink packages are possible to be purchased on embarkation day.

So let us know, do you or will you purchase a NCL Drink Package? And if you have already sailed with NCL – what did you think? Worth it – yay or nay?

More NCL cruises:

• Best NCL Cruise deals this month
• Norwegian Getaway review
• Best Bahamas cruise for couples
• Are Norwegian cruise line good ?

Click here to learn more about Couple Travel the World.

View all posts

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Package Calculator – See if it’s worth it!

Considering a beverage or drink package on your next NCL cruise? We’ve compiled all of the various options and packages to help you understand if buying a beverage package is worth it or not! Use this handy NCL Drink Package Calculator to see what your “breakeven” point is with any of the Norwegian Drink Packages

How to calculate your beverage costs on Norwegian Cruise Line

First, if you’re trying to figure out whether or not to upgrade to the Premium Plus beverage package after receiving the Free At Sea promotion, this calculator takes into account your free included open bar/beverage package.

• Full NCL Drink & Beverage Package Guide
• NCL Bar Menus & Drink Prices

If you’ve not received the open bar Free at Sea package, and are considering paying full price for this package, this calculator will also work. You might wonder why we are putting this particular beverage calculator on the page, it’s because, for several years, NCL has made the open bar or “premium beverage package” part of their included promotions. Most people select this option and are more interested in whether upgrading to the Premium Plus beverage package is worth it, but this promotion may not be in place forever, hence this option on the calculator.

• Choose your package. The daily charge will appear in the daily charge space, but you can change that if you are getting a discount.
• Select your length of cruise. You’ll notice how the cost increases according to the cruise length. If you’ve selected the Free at Sea promotion, you’ll find only the gratuities are included in the calculator.
• Choose the number of drinks you consume, or expect to consume each day. We’ve put the average drink price in the cost fields, but you can modify those if you like more expensive drinks (it’s worth looking at the drink menus)
• The calculator will do the math and tell you if it is worth purchasing a package (or upgrading) based on your consumption!

Receive Our Monthly CruiseLetter

Including cruise reviews, travel tips, and cruise deals

Let’s Get Started By Choosing Your Package

Free at sea promotion / open bar premium package includes:.

• Select, premium cocktails & spirits under $15 USD (such as Patron Silver, Grey Goose and more)
• A variety of beer and wine by the glass under $15 USD
• 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine
• Unlimited soft drinks and juices

Premium Plus Package includes:

• All top-shelf cocktails & spirits (such as Patrón Reposado, Macallan Quest and more)
• All beer, champagne and wine by the glass (such as Veuve Clicquot)
• Select premium bottles of champagne and wine with dinner and 40% off all other bottles
• Unlimited still & sparkling bottled water
• All Starbucks ®  coffee & specialty drinks
• Energy Drinks

Estimate Your Daily Consumption:

Each field contains the average price found on most NCL ships. Remember any drink not within the price of your package, you’ll only pay the price difference plus the service charge per drink! If you tend to drink nicer wines or cocktails, you can adjust the average price of each beverage in the corresponding boxes. This helps give you a more accurate idea of your possible spending.

Each field contains the average price found on most NCL ships. For the Premium Plus beverage package all drinks nearly all drinks are included with the added bonus of bottles of wine at meals (select wines). If you tend to drink nicer wines or cocktails, this is your best option!

You haven’t broken even on the Premium Package yet!

You BROKE EVEN on the Premium Package!

You haven’t broken even on the Premium PLUS Package yet!

You BROKE EVEN on the Premium PLUS Package!

You haven’t broken even on the Upgrade to Premium Plus Package yet!

You BROKE EVEN on the UPGRADE to Premium PLUS Package!

You haven’t broken even on the Free at Sea Package yet!

You BROKE EVEN on the Free at Sea Package!

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to our Monthly Cruise Digest?

We’re Giving Away a Cruise in 2024! Enter Now

Review Cart

No products in the cart.

Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package: Why It’s Not Worth It

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy all your favorite drinks while on vacation, you might be considering the purchase of a drink package.

NCL cruises are best known for their “freestyle cruising” attitude. With plenty of beverage packages to choose from, you can indulge in your favorite drinks without having to worry about running up a huge bill.

But the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package is expensive and not worth it because you can get the drink package for free with NCL’s Free at Sea Promotion.

Here’s everything you need to know about Norwegian’s drink packages.

Table of Contents

Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package

Norwegian recently updated its beverage package selection and added a new package option. In total, five drink packages are available for purchase. A 20% service charge is added to your purchase at checkout.

There’s no daily limit to the number of drinks you can order on Norwegian Cruise Line. But a bartender will cut you off if you appear visibly intoxicated.

Premium Beverage Package

The Premium Beverage Package is Norwegian Cruise Line’s most popular drinks package. If you’re sailing in the UK, you might find the “Open Bar” package advertised.

It’s the same as the Premium beverage package.

The Premium package is the classic “all-you-can-drink” choice that most people consider when purchasing a beverage package.

The package included beverages priced up to $15 per drink, including a selection of cocktails, draft beer, wine by the glass, spirits, juice, and soda.

If you buy a drink that costs over $15, you’ll simply pay the difference plus the gratuity on the amount over the limit.

You can use the package at any of the ship’s dining locations, bars, lounges, and specialty restaurants.

Cost: The Premium Beverage Package price is $109 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity and beverage service charge.

The Premium Beverage Package Includes:

• Beers and Ciders
• Wine (by the glass)
• Gin & Vodka
• Whiskey, brandy, and other spirits
• Liqueurs and cordials
• Sodas and soft drinks
• Fruit Juices
• A 20% discount on bottles of wine purchased onboard

The Premium Beverage Package Does Not Include:

• Bottled water
• Freshly squeezed juices
• Lavazza or Starbucks coffee
• Energy drinks
• Beer buckets
• Bottles of wine
• Vending machines or wine dispensers
• Mini bar or room service
• Tastings, flights, and experiences

Premium Plus Beverage Package

NCL’s Premium Plus Beverage Package includes everything in the Premium Beverage Package. The most significant benefit of the Premium Plus package is the removal of the price limit.

In addition, this beverage package includes a selection of bottles of wine. The bottles available with the plan have an asterisk beside them on the wine menu.

Cost: The Premium Plus Beverage Package costs $138 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity and beverage service charge.

The Premium Plus Beverage Package Includes:

• Everything in the Premium Beverage Package
• Specialty coffee
• Lavazza and Starbucks coffee
• Ultra-premium spirits
• Select wines by the bottle when dining

The Premium Plus Beverage Package Does Not Include:

• Most bottles of wine

Tip: Norwegian publishes a list of drinks available with the Premium Plus Drinks Package

Unlimited Pop Package

The Unlimited Pop Package is an excellent choice for passengers who want a variety of non-alcoholic drinks.

As the name suggests, the beverage package offers unlimited fountain soda.

The package price is different for adults and kids.

Cost: The Unlimited Pop Package costs $9.95 per person per day for adults and teens (13+) and $5.95 per person per day for children. In addition, the drink package cost has a 20% gratuity and beverage service charge added at purchase.

The Unlimited Pop Package Includes:

• Sierra Mist
• Tonic water

Hawaii Beverage Package

You’ll find a special beverage package if you’re sailing to Hawaii on Norwegian’s Pride of America.

The Hawaii Beverage Package is similar to the Premium Package and includes a wide range of drinks priced up to $15 per drink.

Cost: The Hawaii Beverage Package price is $109 per person per day, plus a 20% gratuity.

The Hawaii Beverage Package Includes:

• Beers and ciders
• Wine by the glass
• Fountain sodas
• Specialty coffee (in dining rooms only)

The Hawaii Beverage Package Does Not Include:

• Specialty coffees outside of restaurants
• Drinks over $15 each

* The drink package only covers drinks up to $15 per drink. You simply pay the difference when you purchase a drink over the $15 limit.

Unlimited Starbucks Package

The Unlimited Starbucks package offers unlimited specialty coffee and teas from Starbucks.

While you can purchase unlimited coffees and teas, the package does not cover bottled water, canned drinks, or food sold at Starbucks coffee shop.

The package is only available on ships with an onboard Starbucks, as it’s not available on all vessels.

Cost: The package is available for $12.95 per person per day, along with a 20% gratuity. To purchase this package, you must be 18 years or older at the time of sailing.

NCL Drink Prices

Before deciding if the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package is worth it, it’s essential to consider the prices of drinks on a Norwegian cruise. You can find the average drink prices below, based on recent menu prices:

When deciding whether to purchase the drink package, it is a good idea to do the math to see how much you would be spending if you paid for individual drinks. This way, you know precisely whether the package makes sense from a financial standpoint.

But, more on that later.

Norwegian Drink Package Rules

A set of rules applies when you purchase a Norwegian cruise line drink package.

The rules are:

• You must be at least 21 years of age at the time of sailing to purchase and consume alcohol
• Drink packages must be purchased by all qualifying passengers who share a stateroom or additional staterooms under the same payment method.
• You must purchase drink packages for the entire cruise.
• Guests may not share packages.
• The packages are non-transferable and non-refundable.
• Eligible guests are entitled to two drinks per person per transaction.
• The beverage selection is subject to change onboard the ship.
• Beverage packages do not include drinks purchased from room service, vending machines, or mini-bar purchases.
• Applicable VAT and taxes may apply for specific ports or itineraries.
• Passengers can use drink packages in onboard restaurants, bars, lounges, and Great Stirrup Cay.
• Beverage packages are not applicable at Harvest Caye or sailings that are two days or less.
• A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge are added to all drink package purchases.
• Prices for the beverage packages are subject to change.
• Other terms and conditions may apply.

Is NCL Drink Package Worth It?

The NCL drink packages are not worth the price. At one of the highest costs in the industry, we just can’t justify the purchase of the Premium or Premium Plus drinks package.

That’s because most people won’t break even on the purchase, and you can get the drink package for free through Norwegian’s Free at Sea offer .

To break even, you will have to drink 11 beverages per day to come out ahead – if you purchase drinks at the $15 price limit!

Don’t believe us. Check out our NCL drink package calculator .

For the vast majority of people, you’ll actually spend less money by purchasing individual drinks.

The only package I recommend purchasing is the soda package. At less than $10 per person per day, we think it is a choice if you want to enjoy unlimited soft drinks and fresh-squeezed juices.

With all that said, if you’re still on the fence about purchasing a drink package, we recommend doing the math to determine if it is worth it. You’ll need to consider the beverages you will, the individual prices of the drinks, how much you will drink, whether you stay on the boat at ports of call, and more.

To help you out, we’ve put together an entire article to help you decide if purchasing a drink package is worth it .

And before you make your decision, there is one final consideration – Norwegian’s Free at Sea promotion.

Norwegian’s Free at Sea promotion has proven popular among cruisers. With the Free at Sea offer, you can choose free perks ranging from a free drink package to free NCL internet .

It’s important to note that if you opt for the free drink package, you will still have to pay the gratuities at $19.80 per person per day. However, that is a small price to pay when considering the many benefits of the drink package.

With the free drinks package, two adults on a seven-night cruise will pay just $277.20 – a fraction of the cost.

Passengers who live in the UK don’t have to pay the 20% gratuity. Instead, they will have to pay a $109 upgrade to redeem the free drink package.

You’ll find that the Free at Sea deal is almost always running, which is why barely anyone purchases the NCL Premium Beverage Package.

NCL Drink Package Calculator

Enter the quantity of drinks you expect to consume to help you decide if the drink package is right for you.

" * " indicates required fields

How to Purchase

As you can imagine, Norwegian Cruise Line makes it very easy to purchase a beverage package.

Simply log in to your ncl.com account and visit “Explore & Plan.” From there, in the left-hand column, choose “Beverage Packages.” All that’s left is selecting your package and completing checkout.

Alternatively, you can visit https://www.ncl.com/ca/en/onboard-packages/beverage-packages .

Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package FAQs

What is the drinking age on norwegian cruise line.

The drinking age on Norwegian Cruise Line is 21 years old. Guests aged 18 – 20 can purchase and consume beer or wine when the ship is at least 3 miles from the coast. The age modification does not apply to Alaska or Hawaii sailings.

Can You Bring Your Own Alcohol on NCL Cruises?

You can bring wine and Champagne on Norwegian Cruise Line . There’s no limit to the number of bottles you can bring in your carry-on bag.

Any drinks brought onboard are subject to a corkage fee of $15 per bottle for 750 ml bottles and $30 for 1500 ml bottles. Box wines are not allowed to be brought on board.

Can I Share the NCL Drinks Package?

Norwegian Cruise Line does not allow the sharing of drinks packages. It can be tempting to save money by sharing drinks with your travel companions. But remember that if you are caught sharing drinks, the cruise line can cancel your drink package without a refund.

Like other cruise lines, if one person has a drink package, all adults sharing a stateroom must also have the same package, and children must have the soda package. The rule will likely reduce the possibility of passengers sharing a drinks package.

If one or more passengers cannot drink alcohol for medical, addiction, or religious reasons, you should contact NCL to ask for an exception.

Is There a Daily Limit on the Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Package?

The NCL drink package doesn’t have a daily limit on the number of drinks that passengers can order. However, visibly intoxicated guests may not be served at the discretion of the bar staff.

How Many Drinks Can I Buy at One Time?

Guests can order up to two drinks in a single transaction and a price limit of $15 per drink with the drink package. You will be charged the difference if you order a drink that costs more than $15 with an NCL drink package.

For example, if you have the Premium Beverage Package and order a $21 drink, you will be charged $6 ($21 less the $15 limit).

Can I Get Bottles of Wine With the Drink Package?

Norwegian’s Premium Plus Beverage Package includes a selection of available wine bottles. On the wine menu, bottles of wine included in the Premium Plus package have an asterisk beside them.

The Premium Beverage Package gives a 20% discount on bottles of wine.

Does the NCL Drink Package Work on Their Private Islands?

You can use your NCL drink package at Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay private island. However, you won’t be able to use the drink package at Norwegian’s other private island, Harvest Caye. At Harvest Caye, guests must purchase drinks individually.

Can You Buy the Drink Package for Individual Days of the Cruise?

No, passengers must purchase the drink package for every day of the cruise. So, if you purchase a drink package on a seven-night sailing, you will have to pay for all seven days of the cruise.

Does the Drink Package Include Starbucks?

The drink package does not include Starbucks drinks. However, there are other coffee shops onboard that are included in the drink package.

Does Everyone in the Cabin Have to Purchase the Package If One Person Does?

Yes. If one person purchases the drink package, everyone sharing the stateroom must purchase the same package . Passengers under the age of 21 must purchase the soda package instead.

Is the Free at Sea Drink Package Really Free?

If you get the Free at Sea Drink package, you are required to pay the gratuities at a rate of $19.80 per person per day.

However, you’re not charged gratuities if you live in the UK. Instead, there is a $99 charge to get the Free at Sea deal.

Marcello De Lio

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Hello my husband and I are keen to do the cruise on the Norwegian DAWN Bucket List Discovery | Istanbul to Dubai in November 2023. A question please: re: BONUS Onboard beverage package with cocktails, spirits, wine, beer & soft drinks. ITEM #: UBP

With the Free Beverage Package, enjoy a wide selection of beverages both on board and at Great Stirrup Cay. Here’s what you get:

• Select, premium cocktails & spirits under $15 USD (such as Patron Silver, Grey Goose and more) • A variety of beer and wine by the glass under $15 USD • 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine • Unlimited soft drinks and juices

Please Note: The Free Beverage Package is included with your reservation if you booked through Free at Sea.

Must be purchased for all guests 21+ on the same reservation. Individuals under 21 must purchase the Soda Package. A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge will be added at checkout. See Terms and Conditions for full details. (not applicable, if the Beverage Package has been selected as part of the Free at Sea upgrade). Unlimited Open Bar Package Flyer

Just clarifying if gratuity is added within this package.

Thank you kindly look forward to your reply.

Hi Charlotte. I believe you’re talking about Norwegian’s Free at Sea promotion. If you chose the free open bar, it doesn’t include gratuities. You’ll have to pay the gratuities for the beverage package, but last time I checked, the gratuities are only $19.80 per person per day.

Hey, I just booked this itenerary and got the free at sea drink package. The total gratuities came to 414.20 USD per person in the room. Looking forward to this trip.

Congrats on booking your cruise. The Open Bar is my preferred Free at Sea Perk. They have one of the higher priced beverage packages and I wouldn’t think to purchase it on its own. But Free at Sea perks make it worth it.

Have a great time on your cruise vacation!

Thanks for the great info! Since you can order 2 drinks at a time, can you ask for a double instead?

I’ve never tried it myself. You’ll have to give it a try and let us know how it goes!

Trending now

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Worth It? 15 Cruise Line Drink Package Questions & Answers

Questions about drink packages on your cruise? When it comes to taking a cruise, people like to have a good time, and that good time usually involves alcohol flowing freely. Bars are everywhere on a modern cruise ship, and with people buying drinks, the costs can quickly add up.

That’s why many people are interested in “all you can drink” packages that cruise lines offer. The appeal of these packages is easy to see. You pay one set amount, and then you don’t have to worry about running up a huge bar tab.

Instead, you simply head to the bar, order whatever you want, and get back to the fun. Want a beer? A glass of wine? A cocktail? You only need to flash your room key and you’ll get it. (Drink packages also include things like soda and water.)

But before you rush out and buy the drink package, there are some things you should know. We’ve rounded up some of the biggest questions — and answers — about the cruise line beverage packages to help you get a better idea of if it’s the right thing for your next cruise.

In This Article...

How Much Do Beverage Packages Cost?

You would think that the cost of the beverage packages would be straightforward. Unfortunately, the cruise lines like to give people a lot of different options, which make things a little more complicated. Below, we’ve listed the recent prices of specific packages to give you an idea of what you’d pay.

Carnival Carnival offers the CHEERS! Package, which covers nearly every beverage -- alcoholic or non-alcoholic -- on the ship, up to $20 per drink. The price is $59.95 per person, per day if bought prior to your cruise or $64.95 per person, per day if bought on the ship.

Note that both prices will have an 18% gratuity tacked on. The final price per day is $70.74 if bought before the cruise and $76.64 if you wait to buy on the ship.

See our complete guide to the Carnival CHEERS! Drink Package here .

Royal Caribbean Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package covers pretty much any beverage on the ship, up to a $14 per drink limit. Prices vary for this package, depending on your cruise and the ship that you sail.

At last check, the package costs between $75-94 per day (Royal Caribbean charges different prices depending on the specific cruise, so your price will vary), plus an 18% service charge. That comes out to a total of around $88-112 per day.

One thing to note is that once you book your cruise, Royal Caribbean will often have large discount offers if you pre-book the drink package, which brings the cost down considerably.  For example, during a recent cruise we saw an offer of 20% off the drink package if bought beforehand.

See our complete guide to the Royal Caribbean Beverage Package here .

Norwegian Cruise Lines Norwegian offers the Unlimited Open Bar Package, which covers just about any drink up to $15. The cost is $109 per person, per day, plus an additional 20% gratuity, for a total of $130.80. Norwegian often offers "free" drink packages as a perk on some sailings, but you have to still pay the gratuity.

The cruise line also has a higher-end beverage package called the Premium Plus Beverage Package. This covers all drinks served by the glass on the ship, no matter the cost. It runs $138 per person, per day. With the 20% gratuity, that comes to $165.60 each day.

See our guide to Norwegian's drink packages here .

Princess Cruise Lines Princess offers its Plus Beverage Package covers any available beverage up to $15 per drink. The package costs $64.99 per person, per day or $76.70 with the required 18% service charge.

They have also added a Premier Beverage Package that offers drinks up to $20 per glass. This package runs $84.99 per day, plus and 18% gratuity. That comes to a total of $100.29 each day.

Note: Princess offers drink packages as part of their Princess Plus and Princess Premium deals. These programs include the drink package, wi-fi, gratuities, and more, for less than the daily cost of the drink package. If you plan to purchase a drink package, you'll save money (and get more perks) with these offers.

Celebrity Cruises Celebrity offers different drink packages, billed as the Classic and Premium packages. Prices and what's included will vary depending on which package you purchase.

The highest-end offering is the Premium Package, which gives you practically any drink you could want up to $17 per glass. The price starts $109 per day, with an additional 20% service charge, for a total of $130.80.

There is also the Classic Package, which offers fewer options and drinks by the glass up to $10 each. It starts at $89 per night. Including gratuity you will pay $106.80.

Note: Celebrity now offers an "Always Included" program, where all passengers have gratuities, the Classic Package, and wi-fi included with their cruise.

MSC Cruises In late 2021, MSC updated its drink package offerings with a new lineup. Now the cruise line offers the Easy Package ($49 per person, per day, with select drinks), Easy Plus ($64 per person, per day, with drinks up to $10 each), and the Premium Extra ($88 per person, per day, with drinks up to $16 each). Note that prices are for booking ahead of your cruise. 

In addition, MSC charges a 15 or 18% service charge on the package pricing if booking on the ship. If you book before your cruise, then this charge is waived. 

See our complete guide to MSC drink packages here .

Do I Have to Buy a Drink Package?

Absolutely not. Drink packages are completely optional. In fact, most people simply pay for each individual drink. When you do that, you'll be charged each time you get a beverage and don't forget the extra gratuity -- usually around 18% -- that's tacked on.

Just know that if you buy the package, you can't change your mind later and get your money back. So be absolutely sure you want it before you purchase. 

What Is Included in the Drink Package?

To start, you should know that each drink package on each cruise line is a little different. There will be slight variations on what all they include.

But in general, if you get a drink package then you'll get alcoholic drinks, including beer, wine, and cocktails up to a certain dollar limit per drink. This limit is normally around $15, depending on the cruise line and package. This covers most drinks on the ship, but some high-end beverages may still be an extra cost.

Most drink packages also include a number of non-alcoholic drinks including soda, bottled water, and juices. There are usually no price limits and few restrictions on non-alcoholic drinks included with your package.

What Is Not Included?

Even if you have the drink package, that doesn't mean everything on the ship is available to you. While rules will vary among cruise lines, usually all the following are excluded from drink packages:

• Drinks in souvenir glasses
• Alcohol by the bottle (except beer)
• Drinks offered at the gangway (welcome beverages)
• Room service alcohol or mini-bar drinks
• Shareable drinks like buckets or pitchers

Most drink packages also have limits on the cost of the drink they will cover.

So if there is a $15 per drink limit, it will cover drinks up to that amount. If you want a beverage that's more than $15 per glass, then you'll pay extra for the amount over $15. In this case, an $18 drink would cost you $3.

Are There Limits in How Many Drinks I Can Get?

The only cruise lines we know to have any limits on the number of drinks you can order are Carnival and Princess (which is owned by Carnival Corporation). They have a 15-drink limit on alcoholic beverages during the 24-hour period that runs from 6 a.m. to 6 a.m. Non-alcoholic drinks aren't included in the 15-drink total.

So if you have 15 alcoholic drinks, you can't order another until the next day, but you can have all the waters or sodas that you want.

While other cruise lines may not set explicit limits, if you are obviously intoxicated, then don't be surprised if you are cut off from ordering any more drinks.

Most cruise lines do have limits on ordering more than one drink at once. As well, there are often waiting periods (normally around five minutes) between drink purchases. 

Do I Have to Buy Beverage Packages For Every Day of the Cruise?

Yes. You can't simply decide you are going to go wild one day and buy the package for that single day. Nor can you pick and choose the days you want to buy it.

If you purchase the package, it is charged for every day you are on the ship. It doesn't matter if you are in port for a day, you are still charged. This is one of the main drawbacks of the beverage package.

Also, keep in mind that the drink package is sold on the first day or two of the cruise. You can't decide halfway through the trip that you want it. You'll need to buy it early.

Does Everyone in the Cabin Have to Purchase the Beverage Package?

Often yes, if one person in a cabin buys the package, all adults will need to as well. That said, the rules do vary depending on the cruise line you sail.

Carnival requires that each adult in a stateroom purchase a drink package if one person does. So if a husband purchases the package but the wife doesn't drink, she must still purchase the drink package as well.

Royal Caribbean requires adult passengers in a cabin to all purchase the package if one person does.

Norwegian Cruise Lines requires each adult in the stateroom (and additional staterooms if you are traveling under the same payment method) to purchase the same drink package.

Princess does not specifically say that all passengers in a cabin have to purchase the drink package. 

Celebrity Cruises spells out detailed terms of their drink package, including age restrictions, and that "all guests wishing to purchase a Drink Package to do so for ALL guests of legal drinking age in the same stateroom."

MSC Cruises requires each adult to purchase the drink package if one person does. If you are traveling with a minor, then they will need to have the non-alcoholic drink package.

Bottom line: Except for a few cases, you should expect everyone has to buy it if one person does.

What If I'm Traveling With a Minor or Someone That Can't Drink?

Maybe you are traveling with someone in recovery, is pregnant, or a minor who can't drink. In that case, you'll want to call the cruise line to explain the situation.

They will make accommodations to where that person doesn't have to buy the alcoholic package. It may still be that they need to buy a non-alcoholic package. You may also have to provide some sort of proof of a medical condition that means a person can't drink.

Obviously minors won't have to purchase an alcoholic package.

Can You Share Drink Packages on a Cruise?

It's tempting with unlimited drinks to do what we've all thought -- one person buys the package and just gives a drink to the person they are traveling with.

Every cruise line has rules against this. If you are caught, you could lose your drink privilege.

That said, unless you are blatantly ordering drinks and then handing off to other people, it's almost impossible for you to be caught sharing drinks. If you are discreet, the chances of your being caught are minimal.

Do I Have to Pay Gratuity on the Drink Package?

Gratuity is added onto the cost of the package. So when you purchase the package, you'll see an additional gratuity charge tacked on to the total (typically around 18%, depending on the cruise line). So a $60 package, for example, will end up costing around $71 per day.

When you then use the package at the bar, you aren't charged an additional gratuity. It's already taken care of with the cost you paid for the package. There may be a line for an additional tip on the receipt if you are feeling generous, but it's not required.

Do Cruise Line Drink Packages Work in Port or Private Islands?

In most cases, the drink package only works on the ship. That's because most ports of call aren't affiliated with the cruise line. So when you port in Cozumel, you are headed into Mexico -- not an extension of the cruise ship.

That said, drink packages work in some private islands that are run by the cruise line. For instance, CocoCay -- Royal Caribbean's private island -- allows you to use the package while in port. MSC's Ocean Cay also allows you to use your drink package in port.

This isn't the case everywhere, however. Notably, Harvest Caye -- operated by Norwegian -- doesn't offer the use of drink packages (though NCL's Great Stirrup Cay does allow the use of drink packages). Carnival's Half Moon Cay and Princess Cays also don't offer the use of the onboard drink package.

Bottom line: Your drink package won't work in ports of call, but there is a possibility if you are visiting a private island run by a cruise line.

Keep in mind being able to use the package in port is a BIG deal. It's essentially an extra day that you can get your money's worth versus spending out of pocket when you are off the ship.

How Do I Buy Drink Packages?

If you want to purchase one of the drink packages for your cruise, the best way is to either call your cruise line or go online to book through your reservation.

It's usually better to book online ahead of time because there are often discounts for early purchases . For instance, we've seen discounts of 30-40% on some drink packages for booking early.

If you want the best rate, definitely do not wait to book once you are on the ship. Rates are often highest when purchasing on board. Even so, if you wait, you'll find tables setup around the ship offering the package. You can also just head to the nearest bar and ask about buying it.

Other Things to Know Before Purchasing

Before you pull the trigger on buying the drink package, you should know that just because you purchase the unlimited beverage package on your cruise doesn't mean you can drink anything in sight.

• Most packages have limits on what's available, excluding drinks that are above a certain price limit (usually around $15). If you are the sort of person that only drinks the highest-end beverages, then you might want to check and make sure your particular drink is included in the package. If you go over that amount, the per-drink limit will be deducted from the cost and you will need to pay the difference.
• If you are a wine drinker, you can't have whole bottles of wine with the packages, although you can get wine by the glass. If you want to purchase the whole bottle, having the drink package usually entitles you to a significant discount (20-40%) off the purchase price.
• You can't use the drink packages to buy whole bottles of liquor in the ship's duty-free shops.
• Drink packages don't apply to drinks from your in-room mini bar. You'll be charged full price for those beverages.
• You can only get one or two drinks at a time with most drink packages. There is often a short waiting period (5 minutes) in between buying drinks.

Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

Whether or not a drink package is worth it depends on how much -- and how often -- you drink. For some, it's absolutely worth the money. We would guess that for many people, however, the costs don't justify purchasing an all you can drink package.

You can use our drink package calculator to see if it's worth it for you.

Consider that a beer on the ship costs between $6-8, before gratuity. For a drink package running $60 per day, you'd have to drink about 8-10 beers each and every day -- including on days when you are in port -- to get your money's worth.

If you like more expensive drinks like cocktails, the math works a little more in your favor. A $10-14 cocktail means you'd have to drink about 5-7 drinks every day to make it worth your while.

Many people might be able to keep this sort of pace up for a couple of days, but it can be tough to do that for every day of your cruise. Also keep in mind if you have to spend more to purchase the drink package for everyone in the cabin, even if they don't want it.

There is one benefit to consider, even if you don't come out ahead financially. Some passengers love knowing exactly what they will spend with the package and not having to worry about every nickel and dime they spend on drinks.

With the drink package you aren't going to be surprised by a high bill at the end of your cruise. You'll know exactly what you're spending right upfront.

Are There Other Benefits to Drink Package Beyond Saving Money?

The biggest point of the packages is that they can save you money if you plan to drink your fill on a cruise. But there are some other benefits beyond just the potential money saved.

As mentioned above, some people enjoy that they can get the package and not have to worry about the bill. Instead of keeping a tally of what they've spent, they can just relax and know exactly what they are paying each day. That gives some peace of mind.

But there is another benefit -- the option of trying new things without worrying about the cost. Head to a bar normally to try something new, and you pay out of pocket whether you love it or hate it. With the drink package, you can try drinks you normally wouldn't order without the risk.

If you happen to not like it, you didn't pay anything extra thanks to the package. You can head right back and order something else. That's a bonus that many people don't realize.

Have you purchased a drink package before? Was it worth it? Let us know in the comments below.

More Reading:

• Complete Guide to Carnival's CHEERS! Package
• Everything to Know About Royal Caribbean Drink Package
• Complete Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages
• Complete Guide to MSC Cruises Drink Packages

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 44 must-have alaskan cruise tips, tricks, and secrets, cruise anxiety these facts may calm your biggest fears, how to get from the fort lauderdale airport (fll) to the miami cruise port, 41 must-have tips for cruising with babies, toddlers, or small kids (from someone that’s done it), how to smoke marijuana (legally) while on a cruise, flashback: cruise bar menus from 10 years ago show how much prices have soared, 60 comments.

Hi, new to cruises. If i do not take a drinking package (let’s say on Celebrity), will I get free drinks with breakfast, like coffee in the morning, or do I have to pay for any drink, even during breakfast, lunch and dinner?

Basic drinks like coffee, water, tea are included for free.

Does a drink purchased on Princess Cays count against my limit of 15 drinks despite the drink package not being honored in that port?

Great question, but unfortunately, I’m not sure how they account for drinks on land versus on the ship.

With celebrity doing all included package, tips and WiFi, does the drink package price reduce with the bundle or is it the same price if you purchased WiFi the package and prepaid tips?

Not sure I understand your question, unfortunately. The bundle includes them all for one price so not sure where reducing the price of the drink package comes into play.

I am going on a cruise in the carnival conquest in june 2023 3 days and coming home on the 4th day. Is it worth getting the cheers drink package?

That will depend on your style of cruising. In general, the shorter cruises you are more likely to get your money’s worth as keeping up the pace for a few days is much easier than an entire week.

Remember, if you are not buying the alcohol package are you going to buy the beverage package, (Royal)? If so, start your calculations with that understanding. If I’m being offered the alcohol package for 82.00, that’s a lot of alcohol per day 6-7 drinks.

Now if you take the cost of the alcohol package, minus the cost of whatever other package you would purchase, say that beverage package, (need my coffee), so 82.00-32.00 or 50.00 per day for alcohol. Now that turns out to be about 4 alcohol drinks a day, and when you factor in a bloody in the morning or wine with dinner, a cocktail while mingling or a drink by the pool, it’s much easier to see the price as realistic.

We also have two cabins because we have 3 kids so putting one adult in each cabin means we don’t have to purchase the alcohol package for both of us but of course this won’t pertain to most travelers.

Exactly, my wife and may not make up the package in alcohol purchases every day (although we often do), but we always end up making up the difference and coming out ahead when you factor in other drinks. Bottled or canned water always costs money on board, and we always stock up on those for shore excursions. We also like to go to the onboard coffee shop, which isn’t cheap, and I also like to drink seltzer water. If you’re burned out on alcohol, you can always get mocktails too. We always get our money’s worth out of a drinks package on Royal or Carnival. Though, I haven’t tried NCL, that price seems a little excessive, and I’d probably go a la carte if I ever take an NCL cruise.

First time with a Princess beverage package. Princess plus $59 plus gratuity. Is there a limit on the number of drinks Or once I order as an example four beers and four wines wines I have hit my limit?

Princess has a 15 alcoholic drink limit per day.

For those that might be interested, Princess is currently offering their “Princess Plus” package for $40 per day (for the entire length of the cruise). This package includes WiFi, all gratuities, *plus* the premier drink package. All in, that makes the drink package *much* more affordable than it would otherwise be. (I’m sure this is just part of the marketing effort to bring people back after COVID, so I wouldn’t necessarily expect it to be the case for the long term.)

That’s right. We have more details here: https://cruzely.com/is-princess-plus-worth-it-program-details-and-what-to-know/

Hi all, the hubby and I are taking a carnival cruise in october for our honeymoon. the cruise is 15 days. we are moderate drinkers and enjoy having a good time. we typically get the drink package but wondering if it will be worth the money for such a long cruise? has anyone done the drink package on such along cruise? was it worth it? Thanks so much.

Im about to go on my first cruise (Carnival) with my future husband for our honeymoon. So I see that you cannot use the CHEERS package at port, but what if at port you are just hanging out at the beach… can you get back on the ship and drink on the ship??

Absolutely. And you just can’t use the package in port in Galveston and New York because of local laws. Other ports (e.g. Miami, Tampa, etc.) have the drink package when you get on the ship.

Apart from Galveston/New York, if you’re on the ship, you can use the package.

Yes, while in port if you’re close you can get on and off ship as much as you like to eat or drink, that’s a good idea!!

I organise groups of anything from 12 to 49 persons on board a cruise. We understand that normally two persons in a cabin both need to purchase. I fail to understand when some cruise companies tell me that the whole group need to purchase it or nobody can have it? Regarding gratuities, this is not a legal obligation and they can not force that type of payment.

The gratuity is added as part of the contract, so you either have it Included or don’t get the package. That protects the bartenders from being shorted, you get many who don’t even want to pay for the package and would end up tipping NOTHING.

We’re thinking of taking a 4 day cruise with our 2 teenagers next summer on Carnival. As far as alcohol goes neither of us are heavy drinkers; 5 tops/each. I read that the drink package won’t work while at port…which we will be for 2 days of the trip. The package doesn’t seem worth it for the alcohol but I’m worried about the other beverages. If getting beverages from the buffet area what drinks are usually free there? Must they be consumed in that area as well? And are we allowed to take bottled waters off the ship while at the ports? Also, I was told we could come on board with a bottle of unopened wine. Would you happen to know if we’re free to drink this in our stateroom?

Given what you’ve said, we don’t think the drink package would be worth it for you. Carnival allows you to bring on 12 unopened cans or cartons (non-alcoholic drinks) per person, as well as a bottle of wine or champagne. With four of you, you could bring pretty much anything you might need for non-alcoholic drinks.

The buffet serves tea, lemonade, water, and fruit juices. You can take them with you around the ship. And yes, you can take a bottle of water with you into port.

Hi! I am a solo traveler on Emerald Princess February 2020. I am trying to decide on the drink package. I have called Princess trying to get the prices of individual drinks. They say they have nothing. I have ‘googled’ Princess drink prices but they are ‘fuzzy’ and not all drinks are listed. Does a scotch and soda count as two: 1 for the scotch and 1 for the soda water? Also, can I order a double, realizing that I would be charged twice? Thanks.

As a rule of thumb, we say figure about $10-12 for a cocktail. Maybe a little more. A scotch and soda would just be one drink, not two. You can order a double. You’ll likely only be charged for the extra shot, not for two separate drinks. With the drink package you may not be able to order a double.

hi… we’re going on a princess cruise, and its looking like for one drinks package this is going to cost 700 dollars.. which makes me gulp .. Any suggestions? I m unlikely to need it, but my partner likes a drink.. and having looked at the comments, it sounds like not having a package can be a pain..

Not having the package isn’t a pain at all. In fact, it’s the same exact process for getting a drink — you just have a bill at the end of the cruise and need to watch your spending. We always suggest doing the math on the packages. Figure out how much you’ll drink and then see how much that would cost without the package. Cocktails cost about $10-12 each. Beer costs $6-8 each.

Hi will be cruising for the first time in October onboard Carnival. Considering the drink package and saw nothing about shots …. are these included?

Yes, the package includes “all spirits” with a menu price under $20.

I am bringing my 13 year old granddaughter on a cruise next year, can she fill up her own water bottle with water/soda at the buffet and bring it with her? Likewise myself with tea?

Yes, although we often see signs asking people not to fill up water bottles (but everyone does anyway).

First time cruising in August in Alaska. On Celebrity ship at restaurant and buffet, are the soda fountain and regular coffee included or not? Don’t drink alcohol. Do I need to take a package to have 2-3 soda, 2 bottle water, orange juice in the morning and regular coffee?

Generally coffee will be included, but specialty coffee will not. Soda is normally not included. If you are sticking to sodas and waters (no alcohol) then the soda package is likely a good deal for you. It’s $18 per day and includes all the items you mentioned.

Your comment is awaiting moderation What if I only use 10 of the 15 drinks do the other 5 roll over or is it a use it or lose it type of deal?

It’s 15 per day. There’s no rollover.

Can any one tell me the drink packages on the celebrity silhouette, do these packages include wine to your room?

Wine is included in drink package, but it’s not delivered to your room. You’ll need to go to a bar to order.

FYI, I saw a deal on NCL for upgrading our stateroom on a 13 day cruise, and get the premium drink package for 150.00. Sounded like a deal until we learned that you have to pay the gratuities on the retain price if 99.99/person, per day. So add to that 150.00, 20.00 per day multiplied by 13 days. This totals 407.00 for the 13 day cruise! Ouch!

Yes, in fact, you have to pay gratuities of 20% on the free drink package in the “Free at Sea” offer. So your free package ends up costing a bundle anyway!

I am a normal person that wants to remember my vaca, so I’m not going to drink like a fish ‘because I’m on vacation.’ Notice the stats above say that only 20% of people drink enough alcohol to actually warrant the price of the drink package, which is in line with the hard sell. That leaves 80% of the rest of us that don’t need it. The general rule of sales is that hard sells are for products that don’t sell. Anything requiring that hard a sell isn’t worth buying. I got the drink package and regretted it. I paid a premium price for goods I didn’t receive.

Good luck actually getting that bottled water if you ask for it. I had to bully the staff to even get one bottled water with my ‘unlimited’ bottled water package. Its not worth it. I originally bought the package on sale so I didn’t have to deal with the harassment of ‘you can’t have one unless you have a card” but that happened anyway. If I had no card they could’ve just charged my account for that one drink, its the same level of harassment but waaay cheaper.

I had a total of one drink per day at dinner. All other liquids I ingested were free, either tap water or flavored water juices (lots of different flavors of punch) at the buffet. I don’t generally like soda, but I indulged in a total of 3 sodas during my 7 day cruise. If I had no drink package I would have bought a grand total of 8 frozen drinks and 3 sodas; everything else was free. That didn’t come close to the $235 price tag for the package. Save your money, put that amount as a credit on the account, then the $ are returned to you if you don’t use it, (or, more likely, you can apply the remainder as a tip, or pay down the ‘gratuities’ added to the account).

I am not much of a drinker of adult beverages, but hubby likes to partake while on vacation, when we first started cruising, I used to cringe every time he bought a drink, to the point of limiting myself because I was afraid of the final bill. Once we discovered the drink packages and did the math for us, there has been no turning back…..I can relax and know it was already paid for up front. I drink lots of bottled water, and always took 4 or more off the ship on port days. I enjoy specialty coffee, a few fru fru adult drinks a day, or a cold beer once in a while, that along with virgin drinks and juices, the package paid for itself for me too.

So Ill be on Holland America in February and there prices are similar to Celebrity or Princess.. the deal of $442 for seven day premium or $361 for signature seems expensive. I am trying to see if it is worth it..I imagine my desire to drink water would be about three times a day, at least 2 cups of coffee a day, not big drinkers but we are on vacation so I imagine a couple of drinks and maybe 2 can of soda..would you encourage buying the package or pay separately?

Expect bottled water to be about $2-3. Coffee at $3-4. Cocktails will run about $10-12 and sodas $2-3. Keep in mind that water and coffee can be free in the dining room/buffet. From what you’ve described, you’d spend about $50 a day on drinks — or about $350 over a seven day cruise. You can try our drink package calculator here ( https://cruzely.com/cruise-line-drink-package-calculator/ ) although we don’t yet have Holland America. You can still estimate how much you’ll drink.

So we just returned from cruising on the Carnival Vista. I am a hardcore beer drinker and bought the Cheers package. I hit my 15 drink limit everyday, but one thing I did not know is that once you hit it…….you are CUT OFF!!! That’s crazy! The other thing is that we qualified for free drinks in the casino, but because we had Cheers, we were not given free drinks in the casino unless they counted against our Cheers package……

How did you get free drinks in the casino??

What this article doesn’t factor are your non alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, water and smoothies as an example. Two cocktails, a glass or wine, water and a couple coffees and your over!

They DO NOT count any non alcoholic beverages towards your 15 drink limit, that limit is only alcohol, you can drink as many coffees, teas, milkshakes, mocktaiks, sodas even bottled juices or power aides as you like with 5 min in between purchases, bottled water also covered

Love Carnival’s Cheers package. I always buy it, since I travel with my teenage son, I only have to buy for me. One advantage to Carnival’s program, is each drink can cost up to $50, so it’s high end all the way.

Cruised with Celebrity recently. Have cruised with them before and loved it. This time, we were approached preboarding to enroll in a Free non-alcoholic package as we were frequent return travellers and consierge. We were told we could obtain theses drinks in one certain bar for free. We had during our entire stay 3 bottles of water and 2 steamed milk and latte. To our shock, our final statement had a charge to another bar of over$500 CND. We have been contesting this charge for nearly 3 mos and are also informing VISA for charges for which we had no service. The push to sell booze is all too obvious now…buyer BEWARE

“Do I Have to Buy Beverage Packages Every Day of the Cruise?”

On Royal Caribbean you can purchase on board as long as there are 3 days of the cruise left. I did this when I needed to join the ship at the first port rather than the destination.

This could be a good option if the last 3 days are at sea, as it makes it worthwhile as you are not paying for the package on port days. Or if you just want to dedicate the last 3 days to partying 🙂

While you can certainly make do without a drink package (and we did when we first started cruising), we have found the convenience of the “all-in” premium packages worthwhile for us. First, because you aren’t running between decks to the buffet to get free soda or iced tea all day. Remember that the cruise lines charge for premium waters (Smart Water, Perrier, etc as well as soda at the bars, and for Cappuccino and Expresso at the buffet, and straight fruit juice at the bars). So, for example, a cappuccino or two at breakfast, 3 or 4 Smart Waters before lunch if its hot on deck another 2 or 3 in the afternoon and maybe a latte around 4pm, a cocktail before a late dinner, a glass of wine or two with dinner and maybe an aperitif with a latte and a late night cocktail or two during the entertainment or at the dance clubs and the packages start to make a lot of economic sense. Also, the drink packages cover your drinks at the cruise ship’s “private port” beaches. Finally, we find with the drink packages, you consume what you want, rather than feeling like you must finish every drink because they are so expensive. I guess our view is that this is ‘vacation’ — which is why we opt for balcony rather than interior rooms although the later is always cheaper. We factor the drink package into our mental cost estimate for the trip…no surprises on the cruise bill when checking out.

Keep an eye out for deals on drink packages ‘included’ in the fare in some specials…and recently it seems they have been offering pre-purchase or “welcome aboard” discounts on the premium package if you buy them before they leave port.

Great points all around. Thanks for sharing!

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

12 Cruise Tips That Feel Wrong (But Are 100% Right)

15+ convenient port canaveral “park & cruise” hotels, following incident, carnival says gambling ‘strictly forbidden’ outside of casino, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

C ruise drink packages can provide incredible value for people who plan to regularly imbibe on their voyage and want the convenience of an unlimited open bar package – whereas they may not be a good deal for light drinkers. Other options include alcohol-free drink packages, which let cruisers indulge in soft drinks, hot chocolate, specialty coffees and a range of other nonalcoholic beverages.

Whether or not to get the drink package is a question all cruisers face, and there's no perfect answer for everyone. Read on to learn about the drink packages offered by the major cruise lines and what each beverage package includes.

Expert tip: The price of each beverage package will vary from sailing to sailing and may change at any time. Also note that cruise drink packages are almost always nontransferable and nonrefundable, and that everyone in your cabin needs to buy a package. If kids are cruising with adults who purchase an alcoholic drink package, a nonalcoholic package must be purchased for them.

Category Navigation Box Enhancement : Table of Contents - Travel - Cruise Drink Packages

Carnival Cruise Line

Cheers beverage program.

What it includes: All spirits (including cocktails) are included. Beer and wine by the glass are also included in this package if they cost $20 or less on the menu. Individuals also get unlimited nonalcoholic frozen cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffees, bottled water, hot tea and other nonalcoholic drinks. This package comes with 25% off the following categories: spirits or wine by the glass that cost more than $20, the menu price for wine or Champagne by the bottle, and beverage seminars and classes.

What it doesn't include: Beverages not included in this package are limited to: drinks in souvenir glasses, full bottles of liquor, drinks offered on the gangway, drinks delivered through room service or in the cabin's minibar, larger shared drinks, and beverages sold in enomatic wine machines. The Cheers! Beverage Program also does not cover food items and drinks offered through special promotions that relate to merchandise, cigars or cigarettes.

Cost: Starts at $59.95 per day, per person

Additional details: This drink package can be offered on all Carnival Cruise Line sailings, including ships like the Carnival Venezia, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration. Individuals must be at least 21 years old to buy this package for their cruise. It can be purchased before embarkation or once on the ship. Note that, for sailings out of New York and Texas, this package doesn't kick in until 6 a.m. the day after departure.

Bottomless Bubbles

What it includes: All-you-can-drink soda and juice are included.

What it doesn't include: Specialty coffee drinks, energy drinks, alcoholic beverages and all other drinks not specifically listed in the package are not included.

Cost: Starts at $9.50 per day for adults and $6.95 per day for kids

Additional details: This package doesn't include drinks delivered through room service or available in the cabin minibar. It's available to be purchased before or during the cruise; if purchased after a sailing departs, Bottomless Bubbles is nonrefundable.

Book a Carnival Cruise Line sailing on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Celebrity Cruises

Classic drink package.

What it includes: This package includes liquors, cocktails, frozen drinks, wines by the glass and beers up to $10. Wines by the bottle qualify for a 15% discount.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include energy drinks, soda, specialty coffees or any other beverages not specifically listed in the package.

Cost: Starts at $89 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at the ship's bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Drinks in the in-room minibar or delivered via room service do not qualify. You can only order one drink at a time with any of the Celebrity Cruises drink packages.

Premium Drink Package

What it includes: This package includes everything in the Classic Drink Package, in addition to: specialty coffees and teas, craft and artisan beers, Coca-Cola products, bottled water, and wine by the glass up to $17 per serving. It also comes with a 20% discount on wine by the bottle.

What it doesn't include: Drinks that cost more than $17 per glass are not included.

Cost: Starts at $109 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Drinks from the minibar or room service are not covered by the package.

Zero-Proof Drink Package

What it includes: This drink package comes with a range of nonalcoholic drinks, including premium bottled water such as San Pellegrino and Panna, organic teas, specialty coffees, Red Bull energy drinks, frozen smoothies, Coca-Cola products, mocktails, Vitamin Water drinks, bottled iced tea and more.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic beverages are not included in this package.

Cost: Starts at $30 per day, per person

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, in the main dining room, and in casual dining and specialty restaurants. Minibar and room service drinks do not qualify.

Find a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is unique because it does not offer traditional drink packages you can purchase pre-cruise or on the day of embarkation. Not only that, but all Disney cruises include the following beverages at no additional charge:

• Soft drinks, coffee and tea during meals
• Nonalcoholic beverages offered at drink stations throughout the ship
• Soft drinks served at the Vibe lounge for teens

Disney also lets cruisers prepay for specialty packages of wine, Champagne, beer or seltzers, although available packages can vary by departure port. As an example, cruise passengers departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, can pre-purchase a seven-bottle premium wine package for $330, a six-pack of beer for $36.25, or a six-pack of Truly seltzers for $32.50, among many other options.

Explore Disney Cruise Line deals on GoToSea.

MSC Cruises

Easy package.

What it includes: This package includes select cocktails, nonalcoholic cocktails and mixed drinks, one brand of each type of spirit, house wines, draft or bottled Heineken, fountain soda, canned soda, fruit juices by the glass or bottle, bottled water, hot tea, specialty coffees, hot chocolate and beverage gratuities.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include brand-name spirits or beers other than Heineken, or any other drinks not specifically listed in the package.

Cost: $322 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main restaurants and on MSC Cruises ' private island. It does not apply in the in-room minibar or specialty restaurants.

Easy Plus Package

What it includes: The Easy Plus Package gives cruisers access to a broader range of drink options that cost up to $10 (or 9 euros), so more alcoholic brands are included overall. Drinks that qualify include frozen drinks and cocktails, protein shakes, spirits, draught and bottled beers, nonalcoholic cocktails, bottled water, various hot drinks, wines by the glass and gratuities. A 10% discount on bottled wine purchases on board also applies.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include brand-name spirits, and beer options vary. Drinks that cost more than $10 (or 9 euros) are not included.

Cost: $427 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main and specialty restaurants, and on the cruise line's private island . Drinks in the signature venues are not covered.

Premium Extra Package

What it includes: This drink package covers a wider range of brand-name alcoholic beverages that cost up to $16 (or 14 euros). Beverages that qualify can include pretty much any drink you can purchase on the ship with very few exceptions. Covered drinks include: premium cocktails, all nonalcoholic cocktails and drinks, protein drinks, premium spirits, fine wine by the glass, Champagne by the glass, draft and bottled beer, bottled water, specialty hot drinks, and gratuities. A 25% discount on bottled wine purchases on board also applies.

What it doesn't include: Drinks all over the ship that cost more than $16 (or 14 euros) are not included.

Cost: $595 per sailing, per adult for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: This package can be used everywhere except in MSC's signature venues.

Alcohol-Free Package

What it includes: This drink package includes most nonalcoholic beverages on the ship, including mocktails, fresh fruit drinks, protein drinks, energy drinks, sodas, flavored water, hot drinks, soft serve ice cream and gratuities.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic drinks offered on the ship are not included.

Cost: $196 per sailing, per adult or $133 per kid for seven-night itineraries

Additional details: The nonalcoholic package can be used at bars, lounges, buffets, in the main restaurants and on MSC Cruises' private island. It does not apply in the in-room minibar or in specialty restaurants.

Compare MSC Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Unlimited open bar package.

What it includes: This package includes drinks all over the ship that cost $15 or less, such as cocktails, spirits, beers and wine by the glass. Unlimited soft drinks and juices are also included, and cruisers get 20% off bottles of wine and Champagne purchased on board.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include alcoholic beverages that cost more than $15 per glass.

Cost: Starts at $109 per day, per person; cruisers can get this package automatically added to their sailing with the "Free at Sea" promotion.

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink, and this package can be used all over the ship and on Norwegian Cruise Line 's private island.

Premium Plus Beverage Package

What it includes: This package is an upgrade from the Unlimited Open Bar Package you can buy or get included with the "Free at Sea" promotion. It comes with a broader selection of drinks that can cost more than $15, including spirits, cocktails, beer and wine by the glass. Guests can also enjoy the cruise line's brand of rose Champagne by the glass plus select premium bottles of wine at dinner. Also included are unlimited soft drinks, juices, bottled water, energy drinks, specialty drinks and Starbucks drinks. Premium Plus also comes with a 40% discount off bottles of wine and Champagne not included in the package.

What it doesn't include: This package includes all drinks by the glass offered on Norwegian vessels.

Cost: Starts at $138 per day, per person; cruisers can upgrade from the Unlimited Open Bar Package for $29 per day.

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. Use this package all over the ship and Great Stirrup Cay.

Hawaii Beverage Package

What it includes: This package is for Hawaii sailings only, which applies to the Pride of America . Drinks up to $15 per glass are included, such as cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, beer, bottled water and soft drinks. Starbucks drinks also count toward the package during meals.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include drinks that cost more than $15 per serving.

Cost: $109 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink, and this package can be used all over the ship.

Unlimited Soda Package

What it includes: True to its name, NCL's unlimited soda package comes with bottomless soft drinks like Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta and more.

What it doesn't include: This package only includes unlimited soft drinks, so no other drinks qualify.

Cost: $9.95 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. This package cannot be purchased on cruises that are two days or less.

Unlimited Starbucks

What it includes: This package includes any drinks you can dream up at Starbucks, including Frappuccino beverages, lattes, classic coffees, teas and more.

What it doesn't include: No other drinks are included in this package.

Cost: $12.95 per day, per person

Additional details: A 20% service charge is added to each drink. You must be at least 18 at the time of the sailing to purchase.

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary on GoToSea.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Princess Cruises

Plus beverage package.

What it includes: This package includes beverages up to $15. Included in the package are cocktails, wine by the glass, specialty coffees, beer, fountain sodas, bottled water, smoothies, juice bar drinks, mocktails and specialty cocktails curated by Rob Floyd. In total, 50 spirits, 25 wines by the glass and 25 different beers qualify. Cruisers also get 25% off bottles of wine, large bottles of water and cans of soda.

What it doesn't include: This package doesn't include large bottles of water or cans of soda; you get a discount instead. Drinks over $15 also do not qualify.

Cost: $64.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This Princess Cruises package is offered for purchase before the cruise and on embarkation day, but it is not available for pre-purchase within three days of sailing. It can be used all over the ship, although minibar items and drinks in souvenir glasses do not qualify.

Premier Beverage Package

What it includes: This package includes beverages up to $20, as well as everything that the Plus Beverage Package covers. Premium wines by the glass like Duckhorn, Stag's Leap, Grgich Hills and Cattier Champagne are included in this package, as are Woodford Reserve bourbon and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Select whiskey. In total, 75 spirits, 40-plus wines by the glass and 20-plus high-end cocktails qualify. Cruisers also get 25% off bottles of wine and rare specialty wine, large bottles of water and cans of soda.

What it doesn't include: Some wines do not qualify, nor do large bottles of water or cans of soda, although discounts apply.

Cost: $84.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is offered before the cruise and on embarkation day, but not for pre-purchase within three days of sailing. Minibar items and drinks in souvenir glasses do not qualify.

Zero Alcohol Package

What it includes: The Zero Alcohol Package comes with premium and specialty coffees, teas, fountain sodas, fresh juices, smoothies, hot chocolate, mocktails, bottled water and Red Bull energy drinks.

What it doesn't include: This package does not include alcoholic beverages or any other drinks not specifically listed.

Cost: $29.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is offered up until three days before the cruise as well as on embarkation day. You cannot use it at the in-room minibar or for souvenir glasses.

Classic Soda Package

What it includes: Enjoy sodas, fruit juices, mocktails and smoothies throughout the sailing.

Cost: $14.99 per day, per adult

Additional details: This package is available for purchase until three days before the cruise or on embarkation day. Minibar items and souvenir glasses are excluded.

Explore Princess Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

What it includes: Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package includes Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages, Coca-Cola drinks served in a souvenir cup and all fountain soda on an unlimited basis.

What it doesn't include: No other drinks are included in this package, including alcoholic drinks.

Cost: Varies

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to drink packages on most Royal Caribbean sailings. Drink packages work at cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. Drinks delivered through room service or available in the minibar are not covered.

Refreshment Package

What it includes: The Refreshment Package includes everything in the Classic Soda Package plus premium coffees and teas, juices, bottled water, mocktails and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

What it doesn't include: Alcoholic drinks are not included in this package.

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to Royal Caribbean drink packages on most sailings. Drink packages apply across cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. Room service and minibar beverages do not qualify.

Deluxe Beverage Package

What it includes: This package includes everything you get in the Classic Soda and Refreshment Packages, plus alcoholic beverages. The Deluxe Beverage Package is inclusive of cocktails, spirits, liqueurs and beer.

What it doesn't include: This package excludes drinks in Starbucks venues on Royal Caribbean sailings.

Additional details: An 18% gratuity is added to drink package drinks on most sailings. Drink packages work at cruise ship bars, lounges, the main dining room, the Windjammer Cafe and the line's private destinations. You cannot use this package for room service or minibar drinks.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Viking's river and ocean cruises offer complimentary beverages on board – even alcoholic beverages during meals. Specifically, guests can enjoy house wines, beers and soft drinks on the ship during lunches and dinners. Specialty coffees and hot teas are also available around the clock.

Guests who want more access to drinks can purchase the one available upgraded drink package through Viking. Also note that Viking lets guests bring your own alcohol on board the ship ahead of time, which you can consume without any added fees.

Silver Spirits

What it includes: For both ocean and river sailings, this package includes an open bar with local wines by the glass, cocktails, beers, specialty coffee drinks, juices and more throughout the day and outside of mealtimes.

What it doesn't include: This package includes almost all potential beverages offered on Viking sailings. For ocean sailings , the package excludes Champagne and drinks that cost more than $18.

Cost: $25 per night, per person

Additional details: Drink packages are not available on river cruises that travel through Egypt.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

FAQ Module : Travel - Cruise Drink Packages FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this article.

You might also be interested in:

• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Lines with the Best Food
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Cruise Drink Package Calculator: Are Drink Packages Worth It?

Is a cruise drink package worth the investment? It can be if you enjoy a variety of beverages and prefer the convenience of paying upfront. The value of a drink package depends on your personal drinking habits versus the package’s cost. This is where a Cruise Drink Package Calculator becomes invaluable, helping you compare the estimated cost of your daily beverage consumption against the package price to determine if it’s worth the value.

Beverage packages can lead to cost-effective savings, especially when offered as a booking incentive or with a discount, despite additional gratuities that should be factored into your decision.

However, it’s important to research the costs of the different drink packages on your chosen cruise line, as these can vary widely. A drink package can simplify your cruise experience, allowing unlimited enjoyment of drinks without worrying about the bill—provided it aligns with your budget and consumption preferences.

Our simple cruise drink package calculator helps you decide if a beverage package is worth it and fits your budget.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Table of Contents

Cruise Drink Package Calculator

• A Cruise Drink Package Calculator simplifies decision-making by estimating costs.
• Drink packages differ greatly in offerings and pricing from one cruise line to another. Know the cost of the drink package (we provide a simple list below of major cruise lines) and compare it to the total estimated cost the calculator gives you.
• Compare the cost of the beverage package to the estimated cost calculated that you think you’ll drink for the entirety of your cruise.
• The cruise gratuities calculator below will help you determine the amount of cruise gratuities if you know the package’s subtotal cost.

→ Bookmark this page and return to it as needed.

Drink Package Cost by Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line

• Free-at-Sea Unlimited Open Bar Perk: Gratuities only of $21.80 per person daily
• NCL Premium Beverage Package: $109 per person daily, plus 20% gratuity
• NCL Premium Plus Beverage Package: $138 per person daily, plus 20% gratuity

Read more: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Packages Explained

Celebrity Cruise Line

• Classic Package: $89 per person daily, plus 20% gratuity
• Premium Package: $108 per person daily, plus 20% gratuity
• Zero Proof Package: $30 per person daily, plus 20% gratuity

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line

Note: RCL’s beverage packages ‘ cost varies and depends on the cruise ship and sailing.

• Deluxe Beverage Package: $56 to $105 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Refreshment Package :  $29 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity

Carnival Cruise Line

• CHEERS! Package: $59.95 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity, if purchased before embarkation day

Princess Cruise Line

• Plus Beverage Package: $64.99 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Premier Beverage Package: $84.99 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Zero Alcohol Package: $29.99 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity

Holland America Cruise Line

• Elite Beverage Package: $59.99 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Signature Beverage Package: $54.95 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Quench Package: $17.95 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity
• Have It All: $50 per person daily, plus 18% gratuity (note: this package includes the signature beverage package and other perks like specialty dining and WiFi)

Are drink packages on cruises worth it?

Based on our cruising experiences, we’ve made it a habit to evaluate if a beverage package offers value for our trips. This cruise drink package calculator will be super helpful for us with future cruises. The value of a drink package is subjective, depending on your drinking preferences and budget considerations. If your daily beverage intake is modest, say 1-2 cocktails a day, a package might be unnecessary unless you snag a promotional freebie.

For those with a thirst for more—be it alcoholic drinks, premium sparkling water, specialty coffee, or mocktails—the math changes. It’s about comparing the cost of a package against buying drinks à la carte to see if it leads to savings.

In our case, even with my husband’s preference for non-alcoholic options, we’ve found certain packages, like Celebrity’s Zero Proof Package, to be financially sensible. Securing a package or an upgrade before we sail, especially with pre-embarkation discounts, often seals the deal for us.

Is it cheaper to buy a drinks package before the cruise?

Buying a drinks package before the cruise is often cheaper than onboard. Cruise lines often offer pre-cruise discounts, which can save you money .

How much will I spend on drinks on a cruise?

The cost of drinks on a cruise can greatly fluctuate, largely influenced by your personal drink preferences, the cruise line, and the cruise duration. Opting for included beverages like water, regular coffee, iced tea, and buffet juices can keep your spending at zero. However, without a drink package, expenses can add up quickly: cocktails may range from $8 to $15, wine from $10 to $15 per glass, and soft drinks or bottled water from $2 to $5 each.

How to add a drink package to a cruise?

Adding a drink package to your cruise is straightforward. You can either log in to the cruise line’s website or mobile app to add it to your booking, contact their customer service directly, or ask your travel agent to handle it. While purchasing a package onboard is an option, doing so might mean missing out on any discounts offered before boarding.

Ultimately, is the cruise drink package worth it? Let us know in the comments if you decide to purchase the beverage package.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• First Time On a Cruise Tips
• Prepping for a Cruise Tips
• Gratuities on Cruise Ships
• Why Join a Cruise Roll Call

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *