Are Cruise Drink Packages Worth It?

If you’re about to book a cruise, you may be thinking about buying a cruise drink package, which can range from unlimited soda to premium alcohol bundles. But are cruise drink packages worth it? That depends on your drinking habits and cruise style.

Indulging in a tropical cocktail, cold beer, or crisp glass of wine makes are often part and parcel of the cruise experience. And even if you don’t drink alcohol, you might want to save money on soda, coffee, and other nonalcoholic beverages. After all, the cost of those drinks adds up fast.

Understanding cruise drink package options

Cruise lines offer a variety of cruise beverage packages to cater to different preferences and budgets. In general, instead of each drink being charged 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 special promotions. Prices can range from $8 to $10 per child per day for basic soda packages and $100+ per person per day for premium unlimited alcohol packages on some cruise lines (before gratuities). 

Here’s a breakdown of common options:

Soda packages

These budget-friendly packages typically include unlimited fountain soda, perfect for families or those who prefer nonalcoholic 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 Line is a popular option with cruisers.

Refreshment packages

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 nonalcoholic options—including milkshakes at one of its restaurants.

Deluxe beverage packages

If you want a more comprehensive beverage experience, deluxe packages encompass both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. Quench your thirst with a wide selection of spirits, liqueurs, wines, beers, cocktails, frozen drinks, and more—such as that offered with Celebrity Cruises' Classic Drinks or Premium Drink Packages.

Weighing the pros and cons of cruise drink packages 

Before you reach for your wallet, consider these factors.

Advantages

Budget-friendly

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.

Convenience

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. Plus, some packages not only work on board but extend to the cruise line’s private islands, too—such as Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Variety

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 to if you have a drink package.

Potential savings

If you consume multiple beverages a day, a prepaid 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 may make sense to buy a package.

Disadvantages

Cost

Drink packages can be an expensive upfront cost. If you’re a light drinker or going on a shorter cruise, these packages may not yield significant savings for you. The wiser play may be to buy your drinks individually and put your money towards excursions instead.

Restrictions

Some packages may exclude certain drinks (such as specialty coffees or drinks over $20) or specific on-board venues (such as Starbucks). Other packages may 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.

Gratuities

Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to drink packages.

Tip

Check your receipt to avoid adding an additional tip (out of habit) onto a bill that already has a tip included.

. . . . .

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a cruise beverage package depends on your individual preferences and budget.

Consult a travel advisor who can help you understand the various options, bundles, and pricing so that you get the most value for your money.