Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?
Pros and cons of cruise drink packages, from the soda package to the refreshment package
If you’re about to book a cruise, you may be thinking about buying a cruise drink package, which can be a worthwhile investment. These packages can range from unlimited soda to premium alcohol bundles, and their value can vary significantly depending on your drinking habits and preferences. Keep reading to learn about typical cruise drink packages and the pros and cons of each so that you can decide for yourself: Are cruise drink packages worth it?
Indulging in a tropical cocktail, cold beer, or crisp glass of wine makes for a quintessential cruise experience. And even if you don’t drink alcohol, you might want to save money on soda, coffee, and other non-alcoholic beverages. After all, those drinks add up fast.
UNDERSTANDING THE OPTIONS
Cruise lines offer a variety of cruise beverage packages to cater to different preferences and budgets. In general, instead of paying for each drink separately, cruise drink packages provide all-inclusive beverage options for a flat fee.
Prices can vary wildly, depending on the specific cruise line, ship, itinerary, and even special promotions. Prices can range from $8.20 (per child per day) for a soda package to almost $140 (per person per day) for a premium alcohol package.
Here's a breakdown of common options:
These budget-friendly packages typically include unlimited fountain soda, perfect for families or those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. Plus, you typically get a souvenir cup to take home, delivering memories long after your refills are gone. For example, the Bottomless Bubbles soda package on Carnival Cruise is a popular option with cruisers.
Expanding beyond soda, these cruise drink packages can include coffee, tea, bottled water, lemonade, iced tea, mocktails, energy drinks, and fresh juices, too. For instance, the Royal Caribbean Refreshment Package provides a range of non-alcoholic options—including milkshakes at one of its restaurants.
If you want a more comprehensive “beverage experience,” deluxe packages encompass both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Quench your thirst with a wide selection of spirits, liqueurs, wines, beers, cocktails, frozen drinks, and more—such as Celebrity Cruises' Classic Drinks Package.
WEIGHING THE PROS AND CONS OF CRUISE DRINK PACKAGES
Before you reach for your wallet, consider these factors.
Advantages:
Knowing your drink expenses upfront can help you budget effectively, eliminating surprises. This is the biggest reason for many people who don’t want to be nickel-and-dimed every day.
You can ditch the constant drink calculations every time you order. (Was that two or three Bahama Mamas?) This makes for a more relaxing, enjoyable trip instead of stressing out about your bill. Plus, some packages not only work onboard, but extend to the cruise line’s private islands, too—such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Many packages offer a wide selection of beverages, allowing you to try a variety of drinks without worrying about the price every time. Never tried a gin and tonic? Now’s the time if you get a drink package.
If you consume multiple beverages a day, a pre-paid package can often save you money compared to purchasing drinks individually. Even if you just drink coffee in the morning, soda/water/juice throughout most of the day, a cocktail or two by the pool, and a glass of wine at dinner, it might make sense to buy a package.
Disadvantages:
The drink packages can be an expensive up-front cost. If you’re a light drinker or going on a shorter cruise, this might not yield significant savings for you. Buy your drinks individually and put the money towards excursions instead.
Some packages may exclude certain drinks (like specialty coffees or drinks over $20) or specific on-board venues (like Starbucks). Other packages might limit the number of alcoholic drinks you can have per day. Some packages require that, if one person orders an alcohol-focused drink package, everyone over 21 in the same cabin has to buy that same drink package.
Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to drink packages, increasing the overall cost. Tip: Regardless, check your receipt to avoid adding an additional tip (out of habit) onto the bill that might already have included a tip. (Ask me how I know.)
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a cruise beverage package depends on your individual preferences and budget.
It’s important to consult a travel advisor who can help you understand the various options, bundles and pricing so that you pick the beverage package option that’s right for you on your upcoming cruise.