Are Drinks Included With Meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines

No, drinks are not automatically included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines, except for water, coffee, tea, and select juices during breakfast. Guests must purchase a beverage package or pay à la carte for soda, alcohol, specialty coffees, and other premium drinks, even at included dining venues. This a la carte approach offers flexibility but requires budgeting for daily drink costs.

Key Takeaways

• Basic drinks like water, coffee, and tea are included with meals.
• Soda and alcohol cost extra unless you buy a beverage package.
• Specialty dining often excludes drinks unless you have a premium package.
• Kids’ drinks like milk and juice are typically complimentary at meals.
• Check your fare—some promotions include select beverage packages.
• Bring a reusable bottle to save on bottled water purchases.

Are Drinks Included With Meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers have is: are drinks included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines? For many, the allure of a cruise lies in its all-inclusive nature, but the reality is often more nuanced. While Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a reputation for flexibility and freedom with its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, the inclusion of beverages with meals is not as straightforward as it might seem. Whether you’re sipping a morning coffee, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or grabbing a soda at lunch, understanding what’s included and what comes with an additional cost can significantly impact your overall cruise experience and budget.

Norwegian Cruise Line stands out among its competitors for its modern, relaxed approach to cruising. From open dining times to a wide array of specialty restaurants, NCL caters to diverse tastes and preferences. However, beverage inclusion policies vary depending on the type of drink, the dining venue, and the package you choose. This guide will delve deep into the details of what drinks are included with meals, what costs extra, and how you can maximize value during your NCL voyage. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive overview will help you make informed decisions, avoid unexpected charges, and enjoy every sip and bite to the fullest.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Beverage Policy

What Is Included in the Base Cruise Fare?

When you book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, your base fare covers your stateroom, access to most onboard entertainment, standard dining options, and select beverages. However, the term “select beverages” is key here. The included drinks are limited to:

• Water (still and sparkling, served upon request)
• Coffee (regular and decaf, including espresso and cappuccino in some cases)
• Tea (hot and iced)
• Milk (whole, skim, and sometimes almond or soy, depending on availability)
• Juice (orange, apple, and grapefruit — typically served at breakfast and sometimes at lunch)
• Lemonade and iced tea (often available at poolside bars and buffets)

These beverages are available during meal times at all complimentary dining venues, including the main dining rooms, the Garden Café buffet, and select casual eateries. For example, during breakfast at the Garden Café, you’ll find self-serve stations with coffee, juice, and water. At dinner in a main dining room, your server will offer water, coffee, and tea at no extra cost.

It’s important to note that while these drinks are included, they are served in standard portions. Refills are typically free, but premium versions (like flavored lattes or fresh-squeezed juices) may come with an additional charge.

What Drinks Are Not Included?

Despite the generous selection of complimentary drinks, many popular beverages require an additional fee. These include:

• Alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails, spirits)
• Premium coffee (e.g., specialty espresso drinks with flavor shots)
• Bottled water (still and sparkling, unless served at the table)
• Soft drinks (soda, energy drinks, bottled juices)
• Fresh-squeezed juices
• Milkshakes, smoothies, and specialty drinks at poolside bars

For instance, while regular coffee is free, a caramel macchiato at the Java Café will cost you around $5–$6. Similarly, a bottle of Perrier or San Pellegrino at dinner is not included unless you have a beverage package that covers it. A glass of house wine or a domestic beer will typically range from $8 to $12, depending on the ship and region.

Understanding this distinction is crucial: while NCL promotes a “no set dining times” and “no formal dress codes” experience, beverage costs are not part of the “all-inclusive” illusion. Being aware of what’s included and what isn’t helps you plan your budget and avoid sticker shock at checkout.

Complimentary Dining Venues and Their Drink Offerings

Main Dining Rooms

NCL’s main dining rooms — such as Manhattan Room, Indigo, or Le Bistro (on select ships) — offer multi-course meals with a rotating menu that changes daily. These venues are included in your cruise fare, and so are select beverages.

During breakfast, you can expect:

• Free coffee, tea, milk, and juice (usually orange or apple)
• Water served upon request (still or sparkling)

At lunch and dinner, the included drinks are:

• Water (served with meals)
• Coffee and tea (available throughout the meal)
• Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages (like iced tea or lemonade, depending on the menu)

For example, on a recent sailing of the Norwegian Encore, a guest ordering grilled salmon with roasted vegetables received complimentary water, coffee, and iced tea. However, a glass of house Chardonnay was an additional $10.95, and a Diet Coke was $4.50.

Tip: Always confirm with your server whether a drink is included. While water and coffee are standard, some ships may have different interpretations of “complimentary.” If in doubt, ask before ordering.

The Garden Café (Buffet)

The Garden Café is NCL’s largest complimentary dining venue, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. It’s a popular spot for families and those who prefer self-service.

The drink offerings here are:

• Self-serve coffee and tea stations (with hot water, sugar, and creamer)
• Juice dispensers (orange, apple, grapefruit — available at breakfast and sometimes lunch)
• Water dispensers (still and sparkling, with ice)
• Milk (in refrigerated dispensers)
• Lemonade and iced tea (available at lunch and dinner)

While the selection is generous, there are limitations. For example, you won’t find:

• Bottled water (unless you buy it separately)
• Soda fountains (you’ll need a drink package or to pay per drink)
• Fresh-squeezed juices (available for purchase at the adjacent Juice Bar)

Pro Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle. Most ships have water refill stations near the buffet. This saves money and reduces plastic waste. Just make sure to fill it with filtered water from the dispensers, not the tap in your stateroom.

Casual Eateries and Poolside Bars

NCL’s casual dining spots — like Sushi on Five, Cagney’s Express, and O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill — offer quick meals and snacks. While the food is complimentary (on most ships), drinks are a mixed bag.

At O’Sheehan’s, for example, you can enjoy a free burger and fries, but:

• Beer, wine, and cocktails are à la carte
• Soft drinks cost $4–$5 each
• Milkshakes and smoothies are $7–$9

However, coffee, tea, water, and lemonade are typically free. On the Norwegian Joy, a guest ordering a chicken sandwich at O’Sheehan’s received a complimentary glass of water and iced tea, but had to pay $5.95 for a soda.

Smart Move: If you’re eating at a casual spot and want a soda, consider using your drink package if you have one. Otherwise, stick to free options like water or iced tea.

Specialty Dining: Are Drinks Included?

Specialty Restaurants: À La Carte Pricing

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its diverse array of specialty restaurants, including:

• Le Bistro (French)
• Teppanyaki (Japanese hibachi)
• Cagney’s Steakhouse
• Ocean Blue (seafood)
• La Cucina (Italian)
• Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse)

While these venues offer elevated dining experiences, they are not included in the base fare. Each restaurant has a cover charge, which can range from $25 to $50 per person, depending on the venue and time of day.

Importantly, drinks are not included in the cover charge. This means:

• Water is usually complimentary (still or sparkling)
• Coffee and tea are typically free with dessert or after the meal
• All other drinks — including wine, cocktails, soda, and bottled water — are charged separately

For example, at Ocean Blue, a guest might pay $45 for a three-course meal, but an additional $12 for a glass of Pinot Grigio, $6 for a soda, and $5 for a bottle of sparkling water. That’s a total of $68 — significantly more than the base cost of the meal.

Insider Tip: Some specialty restaurants offer “dinner and drinks” packages or promotions. Check the Freestyle Daily newsletter or the NCL app for special offers. Occasionally, a wine pairing is included in the cover charge during themed nights.

Wine and Beverage Pairing Experiences

For an elevated experience, NCL offers curated wine and beverage pairing dinners at select specialty venues. These events often include:

• A multi-course tasting menu
• Three to five paired wines or cocktails
• Expert sommelier or mixologist guidance

These experiences are not included in the base fare and typically cost between $75 and $150 per person. However, the entire beverage component — including premium wines, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic pairings — is included in the price.

For example, on the Norwegian Bliss, a “Wine & Dine” event at Le Bistro included a five-course French menu with paired wines (Champagne, Sancerre, Burgundy) for $99 per person. No extra charges for drinks.

Best Value: If you’re a wine enthusiast, these pairing events offer excellent value. You get premium drinks that would cost much more à la carte, plus a unique dining experience.

Beverage Packages: Are They Worth It?

Types of Drink Packages Offered

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages designed to simplify drink costs and provide value for frequent consumers. The most popular are:

Package	What’s Included	Price (per day, approx.)	Best For
Premium Plus Beverage Package	Unlimited premium cocktails, wine, beer, soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, smoothies, energy drinks	$89–$119	Heavy drinkers, wine lovers, families
Premium Beverage Package	Unlimited cocktails, wine, beer, soda, bottled water, specialty coffee	$79–$99	Moderate drinkers, couples
Soft Drink Package	Unlimited soda, juice, bottled water, iced coffee	$15–$20	Teens, non-drinkers, budget-conscious guests
Water Package	Daily bottled water (6–12 bottles)	$10–$15	Health-conscious travelers, families

All packages are per person, per day, and must be purchased for the entire length of the cruise. They can be added during booking or onboard (though onboard prices may be higher).

When a Drink Package Makes Sense

A beverage package can save you money — but only if you consume enough to offset the cost. Here’s how to decide:

• Daily consumption: If you drink 2–3 cocktails, a glass of wine, and a soda daily, the Premium Plus package may pay for itself in 3–4 days.
• Specialty coffee: If you order a latte or cappuccino daily ($5–$6), the package covers that cost after 2–3 days.
• Bottled water: If you buy 2–3 bottles per day, the Water Package or Premium Plus becomes cost-effective.
• Family use: Families with teens who drink soda or juice frequently can save with the Soft Drink or Premium Plus package.

Example: On a 7-day cruise, a guest ordering two cocktails ($12 each), one soda ($5), and one specialty coffee ($6) per day spends $23 daily — $161 total. The Premium Plus package ($109 for 7 days) would save $52.

Caution: Avoid packages if you’re a light drinker. If you only enjoy one drink per day, you’re better off paying à la carte.

Limitations and Fine Print

While drink packages offer convenience, they come with restrictions:

• Maximum 15 drinks per day (to prevent abuse)
• No sharing (each guest must have their own package)
• Not valid at private events or some specialty bars (e.g., The District Brew House on select ships)
• Tips are automatically added (18–20%) to all drinks, even with a package

Smart Strategy: Use your package for premium drinks (e.g., craft cocktails, premium wines) and stick to free options (water, coffee) for basic needs. This maximizes value.

Tips to Maximize Value and Avoid Extra Charges

Stick to Complimentary Options

The simplest way to avoid extra charges is to embrace the free drinks. Water, coffee, tea, and basic juices are available at all meal times and in most venues. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at the Garden Café or your stateroom.

Pro Tip: Request sparkling water with your meal — it’s free and often overlooked. Many guests assume it costs extra, but it’s included upon request.

Use the NCL App to Track Spending

The NCL app allows you to view your onboard account in real time. Check it daily to monitor drink charges and avoid surprises at checkout. You can also pre-purchase drink packages through the app for a discount.

Take Advantage of Free Events and Tastings

NCL often hosts complimentary wine tastings, cocktail demos, and beer samplings in lounges or bars. These events offer free drinks (usually 1–2 samples) and are a great way to enjoy premium beverages without cost.

Example: On the Norwegian Escape, a “Wine Down Wednesday” event offered free tastings of three wines, paired with cheese and crackers — no cover charge.

Ask About Promotions and Discounts

During booking or onboard, ask about:

• Buy-one-get-one-free drink offers
• Happy hour specials (e.g., 50% off cocktails from 4–6 PM)
• Package discounts (e.g., 10% off if booked 30+ days in advance)

Final Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion (anniversary, birthday), inform your server. NCL sometimes offers complimentary drinks or desserts as a goodwill gesture.

Conclusion

So, are drinks included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines? The answer is: some are, but many are not. While water, coffee, tea, milk, and select juices are included at all complimentary dining venues, alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, and premium drinks come with an additional cost. Specialty restaurants charge for both food and drinks, though pairing events can offer better value.

The key to a satisfying and budget-friendly cruise is understanding NCL’s beverage structure. By leveraging complimentary options, considering a drink package if you consume frequently, and taking advantage of promotions, you can enjoy every meal without overspending. Whether you’re sipping a free cappuccino at breakfast or toasting with a cocktail at sunset, knowing what’s included — and what’s not — empowers you to make smart choices.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Freestyle Cruising” gives you the freedom to dine and drink on your terms. With a little planning and awareness, you can savor every moment — and every sip — without a single unexpected charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are drinks included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Basic beverages like water, iced tea, coffee, and select juices are complimentary with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines. However, alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and premium bottled beverages require a separate purchase or drink package.

Do I need to pay extra for soft drinks during meals?

Yes, soft drinks like soda, bottled water, and premium juices are not included in the base fare and require payment unless you have the Norwegian Cruise Lines drink package. These can be purchased individually or covered under the Beverage Package.

Is there a way to get unlimited drinks with meals on NCL?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Lines offers the Ultimate Beverage Package, which covers unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and more during your cruise. This package is ideal for guests who want to avoid paying per drink with meals.

Are alcoholic beverages included with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

No, alcoholic drinks like wine, beer, and cocktails are not included with meals unless you purchase a drink package. Guests can also buy drinks à la carte at bars and restaurants onboard.

Can I get free coffee or tea during meals on NCL?

Yes, regular coffee, tea, and iced tea are complimentary with meals on Norwegian Cruise Lines. Specialty coffees (e.g., lattes, cappuccinos) require an additional fee unless you have a premium beverage package.

What’s included in Norwegian Cruise Lines’ complimentary dining drinks?

With meals, NCL includes free tap water, select juices, milk, iced tea, and standard coffee or tea. All other drinks, including bottled water, soda, and alcohol, are considered premium and incur a charge.