Planning a Viking River cruise is exciting! But amidst the anticipation of exploring charming European towns, you might wonder about the costs involved. One common question is: how much are drinks on Viking river cruises? This guide will delve into the pricing structure, offering a clear picture of what you can expect to pay for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during your trip, helping you budget effectively for your unforgettable river cruise adventure.
Drink Packages on Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises offers several drink packages to suit different preferences and budgets. Understanding these packages is crucial to knowing how much you might spend on drinks. This section will break down the various options and their costs, providing a framework for making informed decisions.
The Wine Package
- Includes a selection of house wines (red, white, and rosé) at lunch and dinner. Many passengers find this package is highly cost-effective, eliminating the need to order individual glasses, which can add up quickly across a multiple-day cruise.
- Availability: This is generally offered as an optional package and is usually booked before or at the beginning of the cruise.
The Beer and Wine Package
- Similar to the wine package, this broader package expands options to include a selection of house beers alongside the wines. This is a great choice for beer drinkers who wish to include beer in their cruise beverage expenses.
- Availability: Often available as a pre-cruise or onboard purchase. Inquire about availability when booking your trip.
The Premium Beverage Package
- This is the most comprehensive package, encompassing a wider range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. This typically includes premium spirits, cocktails, juices, soft drinks, and bottled water. This comprehensive approach can help limit the cost of your beverages on a day to day basis.
- Cost considerations: While this is the most expensive upfront, it can provide savings compared to a la carte purchases, especially for individuals who enjoy a variety of drinks throughout the day.
Pricing and Costs
The exact prices for Viking River Cruise drink packages vary depending on the length of the cruise and the specific itinerary. However, a reasonable estimate for the beverage packages could range from $25 to $60 per person, per day. It’s important to note that these are estimates and should be verified directly with Viking.
Factors Affecting Drink Prices
- Cruise length: Longer cruises may lead to higher package costs overall, though the per-day cost might be less due to economies of scale. The longer your cruise, the better the per day price can become.
- Time of year: Peak season (summer months) often has a slight price premium compared to off-season.
- Specific ship: While differences are minimal, minor variations could exist depending on the ship’s size and the type of package.
Drinks Not Included in Packages
It’s important to understand that not all drinks are included in the packages. Some premium selections of wine, spirits, and imported beverages are often excluded. This is consistent with many cruise lines, which use the package options to offset expenses.
Examples of Excluded Drinks
- Premium spirits: High-end brands of liquors, cognacs, and whiskies may have extra charges.
- Imported beers and wines: Select, expensive international brands might have additional fees.
- Specialty cocktails: Some unique or elaborate cocktails may fall outside the standard package offerings.
Tips for Managing Your Drink Expenses
Strategic planning can significantly influence your overall expenditure on drinks. This section provides practical tips to help keep your drinking costs within your budget.
Consider the Value of Packages
- Evaluate your typical daily alcohol consumption. If you’re a heavy drinker, the premium package might be beneficial, reducing per-drink costs. Conversely, if you’re a light drinker, a smaller package or individual purchases could be more efficient.
- Estimate your spending. Try to gauge how many drinks you anticipate having per day and compare that estimate to the cost of packages to determine the best fit for your drinking habits and overall budget.
Alternative Beverage Options
- Water is always provided complimentary during your river cruise. Take advantage of this to keep hydration levels up and reduce costs.
- Explore the complimentary non-alcoholic options. Many juices, sodas, and coffees are included. This can help supplement your drinking and keep the costs of your beverages down.
Debunking Common Myths About Viking River Cruise Drinks
There are a few misconceptions surrounding the cost of drinks on Viking cruises. This section aims to clarify these points.
Myth 1: Drink packages are overpriced.
While initially the upfront cost seems significant, comparing the individual drink prices to the cost of the package often reveals a considerable savings. Many customers find the packages to be very cost-effective especially for frequent consumers.
Myth 2: All drinks are included in the packages.
This is not true. As mentioned earlier, premium and specialty drinks are usually excluded. Always check the specifics of any package before purchase.
Myth 3: It’s cheaper to buy drinks individually.
For moderate to heavy drinkers, individual purchases are usually less cost-effective. The packages usually offer a far better value over the duration of the trip.
How Much Are Drinks on Viking River Cruises? A Case Study
Let’s consider a hypothetical 7-day Rhine River cruise. A couple, John and Jane, are deciding between drink packages. John enjoys wine with dinner, while Jane prefers a beer or two each day.
- Scenario 1: No Package Estimating $10 per day for two people, their total beverage cost would be $70.
- Scenario 2: Wine package If they opted for the wine package (estimated $30 per person/day), this would cost $420, more than a typical package. A cheaper, beer only package would likely reduce this significantly.
- Scenario 3: Beer and Wine Package If they opted for the Beer and Wine package (estimated at $40 per person/day), this would amount to $560.
In this example, a package could still be more economical than buying drinks a la carte, depending on their consumption habits.
FAQ
What is the average cost of a drink on a Viking River Cruise?
The price varies depending on the drink. A glass of house wine might be $8-$12, a beer $6-$8, while cocktails and premium spirits cost more.
Are soft drinks included?
Most soft drinks are included in the inclusive beverage packages, but some specialty sodas might be excluded. Water is always complimentary.
Can I purchase drinks individually?
Yes, you can always buy drinks a la carte, but packages often provide better value.
What happens if I don’t purchase a drink package?
You will pay for drinks individually at the bar or restaurant prices. Note that prices at bars and restaurants are typically higher than the packages.
What is the best way to budget for drinks?
Assess your drinking habits. If you drink moderately, a smaller package may suffice. If you consume several drinks daily, a premium package provides better value.
Are there any restrictions on purchasing drinks?
Generally not. The restrictions are mainly on the inclusion of specific drinks, as premium liquors and such are generally not included.
Final Thoughts
Determining how much are drinks on Viking river cruises requires careful consideration of your personal preferences and drinking habits. While the initial cost of the packages may seem significant, they can represent significant savings compared to individual purchases, particularly for those who regularly enjoy alcoholic beverages. By carefully evaluating your options, and perhaps trying to estimate your drinks per day, you can ensure your Viking River Cruise experience remains both enjoyable and budget-friendly.