Imagine yourself poolside, enjoying the ocean breeze, and craving a refreshing cocktail. But before you order, you might wonder about the price. Understanding how much do alcoholic drinks cost on Carnival cruise ships can significantly impact your vacation budget. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the bar menus, drink packages, and strategies to save money, ensuring you can sip on your favorite beverages without breaking the bank. We’ll explore the average prices, compare different options, and offer tips to maximize your value.
Carnival Cruise Line Drink Prices: An Overview
This section provides a general overview of the price ranges you can expect for alcoholic beverages on a Carnival cruise. Understanding these baseline costs is crucial for budgeting and comparing the value of different drink packages. We’ll delve into specific examples to give you a clear picture of what you might be paying for your favorite drinks.
Typical Prices for Common Drinks
Here are some common alcoholic drinks and their approximate prices on Carnival cruise ships:
- Beer: Domestic beers typically range from $6.50 to $7.50, while imported and craft beers can cost between $7.50 and $8.50. Craft beers often come with a slightly higher price due to their specialized ingredients and brewing process.
- Wine by the Glass: Expect to pay between $8 and $14 for a glass of wine, depending on the varietal and quality. Carnival usually offers a selection of house wines at the lower end of this range.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks and cocktails generally range from $9 to $14, depending on the ingredients and complexity. Specialty cocktails might be on the higher end of this spectrum.
- Spirits (Liquor): A single shot of liquor usually costs between $7 and $12, again depending on the brand and type. Premium liquors will naturally command a higher price.
These prices are subject to change and can vary slightly depending on the specific bar and cruise itinerary. It’s always a good idea to check the bar menus once you’re onboard.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors can influence the price of alcoholic drinks on a Carnival cruise:
- Brand of Alcohol: Premium and top-shelf liquors will always cost more than standard brands. This is due to the higher quality ingredients and production methods used.
- Type of Drink: Complex cocktails with multiple ingredients and elaborate preparation will generally be more expensive than simpler drinks like a beer or a glass of wine.
- Bar Location: Prices may vary slightly between different bars on the ship. For example, a specialty bar focusing on high-end cocktails might charge more.
- Special Events and Promotions: Carnival occasionally offers drink specials and promotions, which can lower the cost of certain beverages. Keep an eye out for these deals.
Understanding these factors allows you to make informed decisions and potentially save money on your drinks while still enjoying your cruise.
Insert a sample bar menu from Carnival showing prices here.
Carnival’s Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Carnival offers various drink packages that can potentially save you money if you plan on consuming a significant amount of alcohol. Deciding whether a drink package is worth it requires careful consideration of your drinking habits and preferences. This section explores the different drink packages available and helps you calculate whether they’re a good value for you.
Types of Carnival Drink Packages
Carnival offers primarily one main drink package:
- Cheers! Drink Package: This package includes a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, with a limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per day. It also includes sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and energy drinks.
The Cheers! package provides significant value for those who enjoy a variety of drinks throughout the day. However, it’s essential to understand the restrictions and limitations associated with the package, such as the daily drink limit and the requirement that all adults in the same stateroom must purchase the package.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
To determine if a drink package is worth it, you need to calculate the break-even point, which is the number of drinks you need to consume daily to justify the cost of the package. Here’s how to do it:
- Determine the Daily Cost of the Package: Divide the total cost of the package by the number of days of your cruise.
- Estimate the Average Cost per Drink: Consider the types of drinks you typically enjoy and their average prices (e.g., $10 per cocktail).
- Calculate the Break-Even Point: Divide the daily cost of the package by the average cost per drink.
For example, if the Cheers! package costs $60 per day and your average drink costs $10, you would need to consume at least six drinks per day to break even. If you drink more than that, the package is likely a good value. If you drink less, it might be cheaper to pay for drinks individually.
Pros and Cons of Drink Packages
Consider these advantages and disadvantages when deciding whether to purchase a drink package:
- Pros: Predictable budgeting, convenience, access to a wide variety of drinks, potential cost savings for heavy drinkers. The package allows you to try different drinks without worrying about the individual cost.
- Cons: Upfront cost, daily drink limit, requirement for all adults in the stateroom to purchase the package, potential for overconsumption. You might end up paying for drinks you wouldn’t have otherwise consumed.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a drink package depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. A 2022 survey found that 45% of cruise passengers who purchase drink packages feel they received good value for their money.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
If you’re not interested in purchasing a drink package, there are still several ways to save money on alcoholic beverages on a Carnival cruise. This section provides practical tips and strategies to help you enjoy your favorite drinks without overspending.
Bring Your Own Wine
Carnival allows passengers to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard at embarkation. This can significantly reduce your wine costs, especially if you prefer to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. Keep in mind that there may be a corkage fee if you choose to consume your wine in the main dining room.
Example: If you bring two bottles of wine (one for you and one for your travel companion), you can save approximately $40-$60 compared to purchasing the same amount of wine by the glass onboard.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour Specials
Many bars on Carnival ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices. These specials are a great way to enjoy your favorite cocktails at a lower cost. Check the daily schedule or the Carnival HUB app to find out the times and locations of happy hour specials. Typically, these occur in the early afternoon and late evening.
Look for Drink of the Day Promotions
Carnival often features a “Drink of the Day” at a discounted price. This is an excellent opportunity to try new cocktails and save money. The Drink of the Day is usually promoted throughout the ship, and its price is significantly lower than the regular price of a cocktail.
Drink Responsibly and Moderately
This may seem obvious, but drinking responsibly and moderately is the best way to save money on alcoholic beverages. By limiting your alcohol consumption, you’ll not only save money but also avoid potential health and safety risks. Consider alternating alcoholic drinks with water or other non-alcoholic beverages.
A study by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) found that passengers who plan their alcohol consumption and set a budget spend an average of 20% less on drinks compared to those who don’t.
Alternatives to Alcoholic Beverages
Exploring non-alcoholic options can be a great way to save money and stay refreshed on your cruise. Carnival offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees, smoothies, juices, and sodas. This section highlights some of these alternatives and their prices.
Specialty Coffees and Teas
Carnival offers a range of specialty coffees and teas at its coffee shops. These beverages can be a great alternative to alcoholic drinks, especially in the morning or afternoon. Prices typically range from $3 to $6, depending on the type of coffee or tea.
Example: A latte or cappuccino can be a satisfying alternative to a cocktail and costs significantly less.
Sodas and Juices
Sodas and juices are readily available on Carnival ships. If you’re not purchasing a drink package, you’ll typically pay around $3 to $4 for a soda or juice. However, if you purchase a soda package, you can enjoy unlimited sodas and juices throughout your cruise.
Mocktails
Many bars on Carnival ships offer mocktails, which are non-alcoholic versions of popular cocktails. These drinks are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy the flavors of a cocktail without the alcohol. Prices for mocktails are usually lower than those for alcoholic cocktails.
- Shirley Temple: Grenadine, ginger ale, and a cherry. A classic and refreshing non-alcoholic option.
- Virgin Mojito: Mint, lime, sugar, and soda water. A vibrant and flavorful drink.
- Strawberry Daiquiri (Virgin): Strawberries, lime juice, and sugar. A sweet and fruity treat.
Choosing non-alcoholic alternatives can significantly reduce your drink costs and allow you to enjoy your cruise without overspending. Plus, staying hydrated with non-alcoholic beverages is crucial in the warm cruise environment.
Myth Busting: Carnival Cruise Drink Costs
There are many misconceptions about the cost of drinks on Carnival cruise ships. Let’s dispel some of these common myths to provide a clearer understanding of what to expect.
Myth: Drinks are Always Exorbitantly Expensive
While some drinks, especially premium liquors and specialty cocktails, can be pricey, Carnival also offers affordable options like domestic beers, house wines, and the Drink of the Day. By being mindful of your choices and taking advantage of specials, you can enjoy drinks without breaking the bank.
Myth: Drink Packages are Always the Best Deal
Drink packages are not always the best deal for everyone. If you only plan to have a few drinks per day, it might be cheaper to pay for them individually. Carefully calculate your potential consumption and compare it to the cost of the package to determine if it’s worth it.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard
Carnival has strict policies against bringing alcohol onboard (other than the one allowed bottle of wine/champagne). Attempting to sneak alcohol onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties. It’s best to adhere to the cruise line’s policies and explore other cost-saving options.
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| All drinks are overpriced. | Carnival offers a range of prices; choose wisely. |
| Drink packages are always a good deal. | Depends on your drinking habits. Calculate your potential savings. |
| Sneaking alcohol is acceptable. | Against Carnival’s policies; could result in confiscation. |
FAQ
How much does a beer cost on a Carnival cruise?
Domestic beers typically range from $6.50 to $7.50, while imported and craft beers can cost between $7.50 and $8.50. The price can vary slightly depending on the specific bar location on the ship. Checking the bar menu is the best way to know the exact price.
What is the price of a cocktail on Carnival cruise ships?
Mixed drinks and cocktails generally range from $9 to $14, depending on the ingredients and complexity. Specialty cocktails with premium liquors or elaborate preparation might be on the higher end of this spectrum. The drink of the day is often available at a discounted price.
Can I bring my own alcohol on a Carnival cruise?
Carnival allows passengers to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard at embarkation. Other alcoholic beverages are not permitted to be brought onboard. Attempts to bring other alcohol may result in confiscation.
Is the Cheers! drink package worth it?
The Cheers! drink package can be worth it if you plan to consume a significant number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages daily. Calculate your break-even point by dividing the daily cost of the package by the average cost per drink. If you drink more than that number, the package is likely a good value.
Are there non-alcoholic drink options available on Carnival cruises?
Yes, Carnival offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, including specialty coffees, smoothies, juices, sodas, and mocktails. These drinks are a great alternative to alcoholic drinks and can help you save money while staying refreshed.
Do Carnival cruises have happy hour specials?
Yes, many bars on Carnival ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices. Check the daily schedule or the Carnival HUB app to find out the times and locations of happy hour specials. These are a great way to save money.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do alcoholic drinks cost on Carnival cruise ships empowers you to make informed decisions and manage your budget effectively. Whether you opt for a drink package, take advantage of happy hour specials, or explore non-alcoholic alternatives, there are numerous ways to enjoy your cruise without overspending. Planning and awareness are key to a budget-friendly and enjoyable vacation. Research, plan, and enjoy your cruise responsibly!