Planning a cruise can be exciting, but figuring out the extra costs can be tricky. One common question cruisers have is: how much do drinks cost on cruises? Imagine relaxing on the deck with a cocktail, but worrying about the final bill. This article breaks down the average prices of various beverages on cruise ships, explores different drink packages, and offers tips to save money while still enjoying your vacation. You’ll learn exactly what to expect, helping you budget effectively and enjoy your cruise worry-free.
Understanding Cruise Drink Prices
Navigating the pricing of drinks on a cruise ship can feel like deciphering a new language. Drink prices can vary considerably depending on the cruise line, the type of drink, and even the specific bar on the ship. Understanding these variables is the first step towards managing your onboard spending. It’s important to research your specific cruise line to get an accurate idea of typical drink costs.
Factors Affecting Drink Costs
- Cruise Line Policy: Different cruise lines have different pricing strategies. Luxury lines might include some drinks in the fare, while budget lines charge a la carte.
Cruise line policies significantly impact the overall cost of drinks. Premium and luxury lines frequently include basic alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and select cocktails, in the cruise fare. This contrasts sharply with more budget-friendly lines, where almost all beverages are charged individually, potentially leading to unexpected expenses for passengers who enjoy alcoholic drinks.
- Type of Drink: Alcoholic beverages, like cocktails, beer, and wine, are generally more expensive than non-alcoholic options like soda or juice.
The type of drink directly influences its price. Cocktails, due to their complex preparation and use of various ingredients, typically command higher prices. Beer and wine also vary in price, with imported or premium brands costing more. Non-alcoholic drinks, such as soda, juice, and bottled water, usually have lower price points.
- Location on the Ship: Some specialized bars or venues might charge a premium for their drinks compared to the main dining room or pool bar.
The location where you purchase your drink can sometimes affect the price. Specialty bars, like martini bars or wine bars, often charge higher prices for their unique selections and the ambiance they provide. Main dining rooms and pool bars generally offer standard pricing for common drinks. Also, drinks ordered during shows in theaters might have a premium attached to them.
A recent survey found that the average cost of a cocktail on a cruise ship is $12-$15. This can be a significant expense over the course of a week-long cruise.
Average Drink Prices Onboard
Knowing the typical prices for different types of drinks can help you estimate your onboard spending. Here’s a general overview:
- Soda: $3-$4 per can or glass. Often, unlimited soda packages are available.
Soda, a staple for many cruisers, usually costs between $3 and $4 per can or glass when purchased individually. However, many cruise lines offer unlimited soda packages for a daily fee. These packages can be a cost-effective choice for passengers who consume a lot of soda throughout their cruise.
- Beer: $6-$8 for domestic beers, $7-$9 for imported beers.
Beer prices vary based on whether you choose a domestic or imported brand. Domestic beers generally cost between $6 and $8, while imported beers are priced slightly higher, typically between $7 and $9. Craft beers may also be available at a premium, adding to the variety of choices and potential costs.
- Wine: $9-$15 per glass. Bottles range from $30 to hundreds of dollars.
Wine prices on cruise ships depend on whether you opt for a glass or a bottle. A glass of wine usually costs between $9 and $15, depending on the quality and type. Bottles of wine range from $30 to hundreds of dollars, with more premium selections available for special occasions or connoisseurs.
- Cocktails: $12-$15 each. Specialty cocktails may cost more.
Cocktails are usually the most expensive single-drink option, typically costing between $12 and $15 each. Specialty cocktails, which may include premium liquors or unique ingredients, often command even higher prices. Ordering cocktails frequently can quickly escalate your onboard expenses.
- Water: $3-$5 per bottle.
Bottled water, a necessity for staying hydrated on a cruise, generally costs between $3 and $5 per bottle. Some cruise lines offer complimentary water at designated stations or in your cabin, but purchasing bottled water throughout your cruise can still add up.
Insert a comparison table here showing the average drink prices across different cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian).
Cruise Line Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Cruise lines offer various drink packages designed to provide unlimited or discounted beverages. Evaluating whether a drink package is worthwhile depends on your drinking habits and the specific terms and conditions of the package. Carefully calculate your potential consumption against the package cost to make an informed decision. Consider any daily limits or exclusions.
Types of Drink Packages
- Unlimited Alcohol Packages: Cover most alcoholic drinks up to a certain price. These packages often exclude premium liquors and specialty drinks.
Unlimited alcohol packages typically cover a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails. However, most packages have a price limit, meaning drinks exceeding that amount are not included and must be paid for separately. Premium liquors, specialty cocktails, and certain rare wines are often excluded from these packages.
- Unlimited Non-Alcoholic Packages: Include soda, juice, specialty coffees, and bottled water.
Unlimited non-alcoholic packages provide access to a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda, juice, specialty coffees, and bottled water. These packages are ideal for cruisers who prefer non-alcoholic drinks or want to avoid paying individual prices for beverages like specialty coffee.
- Combination Packages: Offer a mix of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at a discounted rate.
Combination packages provide a blend of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at a discounted rate compared to purchasing items individually. These packages can be a good option for cruisers who enjoy both types of drinks in moderation. The specific beverages included and the daily price vary by cruise line.
A 2022 report found that approximately 40% of cruise passengers purchase a drink package. The decision to purchase often depends on the length of the cruise and the individual’s drinking habits.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
Determining whether a drink package is cost-effective requires calculating your break-even point. Here’s how:
- Find the Daily Cost: Divide the total package price by the number of days in your cruise.
The first step in calculating the break-even point is to determine the daily cost of the drink package. Divide the total price of the package by the number of days in your cruise. For example, if a package costs $420 for a 7-day cruise, the daily cost is $60.
- Estimate Your Daily Consumption: Estimate how many drinks you’ll consume each day.
Next, estimate how many drinks you are likely to consume each day. Be realistic and consider factors such as port days, sea days, and your general drinking habits. For instance, you might estimate consuming 3 cocktails, 2 beers, and 1 soda each day.
- Compare Costs: Compare the cost of the package to the cost of purchasing individual drinks.
Compare the total cost of purchasing individual drinks to the daily cost of the drink package. If the cost of individual drinks exceeds the daily package cost, then the package is likely to be a worthwhile investment. If the cost of individual drinks is less, then purchasing drinks individually would be more economical.
Real-Life Example: Drink Package Analysis
Let’s say a drink package costs $60 per day. The average cocktail is $12, a beer is $7, and a soda is $3. To break even, you’d need to drink approximately 4 cocktails per day, or a combination of drinks adding up to $60.
Scenario 1: A couple enjoys 2 cocktails each in the evening and shares a bottle of wine (costing $40) during dinner. Their total daily cost would be (4 x $12) + $40 = $88. In this case, the drink package is beneficial.
Scenario 2: A single traveler has one beer with lunch and one glass of wine with dinner. Their total daily cost would be $7 + $10 = $17. The drink package would not be a good value.
Tips for Saving Money on Cruise Drinks
Even without a drink package, there are several ways to save money on drinks while cruising. From bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages to taking advantage of happy hour specials, a little planning can significantly reduce your onboard expenses. These strategies allow you to enjoy your cruise without overspending on beverages.
Bringing Your Own Beverages
- Check the Cruise Line’s Policy: Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard.
Before packing any beverages, carefully review the cruise line’s policy on bringing drinks onboard. Some lines allow passengers to bring a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda or bottled water, typically in sealed, unopened containers. Alcoholic beverages are often restricted or prohibited.
- Pack Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Bringing your own soda, water, or juice can save a significant amount of money, especially if you consume these regularly.
Bringing your own non-alcoholic drinks can be a simple yet effective way to save money. Pack sealed bottles or cans of soda, bottled water, juice, or flavored water to avoid purchasing them on board. This is particularly beneficial for families or individuals who consume a lot of non-alcoholic beverages.
Utilizing Happy Hour and Drink Specials
- Look for Daily Specials: Many cruise ships offer daily drink specials or happy hour deals at certain bars or times.
Many cruise ships offer daily drink specials or happy hour deals at specific bars or times throughout the day. Taking advantage of these promotions can significantly reduce the cost of your drinks. Check the daily schedule for advertised specials and plan your drinking accordingly.
- Time Your Drinks: Planning your drink consumption around happy hour can lead to significant savings, especially if you enjoy cocktails.
Strategically timing your drink consumption around happy hour can lead to significant savings. Many bars offer discounted prices on selected drinks during these periods. This is a particularly good strategy for passengers who enjoy cocktails, as they tend to be the most expensive single-drink option.
Other Money-Saving Strategies
- Loyalty Programs: Cruise line loyalty programs often offer free drinks or discounts to higher-tier members.
Cruise line loyalty programs frequently offer various perks to higher-tier members, including complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages. If you are a frequent cruiser, ensure you are enrolled in the loyalty program and take advantage of any drink-related benefits. These perks can add up over time, reducing your overall expenses.
- Refillable Water Bottles: Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it at designated water stations to avoid purchasing bottled water.
Bringing a refillable water bottle is a practical way to stay hydrated and avoid purchasing expensive bottled water on board. Many cruise ships provide designated water stations where you can refill your bottle for free. This simple strategy can save you a significant amount of money, particularly on longer cruises.
- Share Drinks: Some cruise lines offer larger drink sizes that are cost-effective when shared with a friend or partner.
Certain cruise lines offer larger drink sizes or pitchers that are more cost-effective when shared with a friend or partner. Check the menu for these options and consider sharing to reduce individual costs. This is especially beneficial for groups or couples who prefer to enjoy their drinks together.
A 2021 survey by Cruise Critic found that passengers who brought their own non-alcoholic beverages saved an average of $50-$100 on a 7-day cruise.
Debunking Common Myths about Cruise Drink Prices
Myth: All Cruise Drinks Are Overpriced
While some drinks can be expensive, particularly specialty cocktails, many cruise lines offer affordable options like beer and wine during happy hour, or unlimited drink packages that can be cost-effective depending on consumption. Also, free drinks are often available during certain events, like captain’s receptions.
Myth: Drink Packages Are Always Worth It
Drink packages aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. They are only worthwhile if you drink enough to exceed the daily package cost. For light drinkers, paying individually is often cheaper. It’s important to honestly assess your drinking habits before purchasing a package.
Myth: You Can’t Bring Any Drinks Onboard
Many cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages like soda or water onboard, helping to reduce costs. Always check the specific cruise line’s policy to avoid any issues at embarkation.
FAQ
How much is a soda on a cruise?
The price of a soda on a cruise typically ranges from $3 to $4 per can or glass. Many cruise lines offer unlimited soda packages, which can be a more economical option for frequent soda drinkers. These packages usually cost a fixed daily rate and allow you to consume unlimited soda throughout your cruise.
What is included in a cruise drink package?
The inclusions of a cruise drink package vary by cruise line and the specific package purchased. Typically, drink packages cover a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, cocktails, soda, juice, and specialty coffees. However, there are often exclusions, such as premium liquors, specialty cocktails, and certain rare wines.
Can I bring my own alcohol on a cruise?
Most cruise lines have strict policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard. Generally, passengers are not allowed to bring their own alcohol, with the exception of a bottle of wine or champagne per cabin on embarkation day (corkage fees may apply). Any alcohol purchased in port is usually held by the cruise line until the end of the voyage.
Are gratuities included in cruise drink prices?
Often, gratuities are automatically added to individual drink purchases on cruise ships, usually around 15% to 20% of the drink price. If you purchase a drink package, gratuities are often included in the package price. It’s always a good idea to verify the gratuity policy of your specific cruise line.
How can I avoid overspending on drinks on a cruise?
To avoid overspending on drinks on a cruise, consider purchasing a drink package if you plan to consume a significant number of beverages. Take advantage of happy hour specials and daily drink promotions. Bring your own non-alcoholic beverages, and utilize cruise line loyalty programs for potential discounts or free drinks. Additionally, track your onboard spending regularly to stay within your budget.
Do all cruise lines offer drink packages?
Most major cruise lines offer drink packages, although the availability and specific offerings may vary. Luxury cruise lines often include beverages in the cruise fare, eliminating the need for a separate drink package. Check the cruise line’s website or contact them directly to inquire about their drink package options.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on cruises is essential for budgeting and enjoying your vacation. By researching drink prices, considering drink packages carefully, and employing money-saving strategies, you can manage your onboard expenses effectively. Planning ahead ensures you can savor your cruise without worrying about a hefty bill at the end. Don’t forget to check your specific cruise line’s policies for the most accurate information!