Are There Any Cruise Lines That Include Alcohol in Fares

Yes, several cruise lines now include alcohol in their base fares, offering significant savings and a more carefree vacation experience. Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, and Silversea provide complimentary premium drinks, while value-focused brands such as Virgin Voyages and Margaritaville at Sea also include select alcoholic beverages—making it easier than ever to enjoy a drink without extra charges.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, some cruise lines include alcohol: Luxury and premium brands often bundle drinks in base fares.
• All-inclusive packages save money: Prepaid drink packages can reduce onboard costs significantly.
• Check inclusions carefully: Not all “free alcohol” offers cover premium brands or specialty drinks.
• River cruises lead in inclusions: Many European river lines offer complimentary wine and beer at meals.
• Look for promotions: Major lines occasionally offer free drink packages as limited-time deals.
• Compare total value: Base fare + add-ons may exceed all-inclusive options—always do the math.

Are There Any Cruise Lines That Include Alcohol in Fares?

For many travelers, a cruise is more than just a vacation—it’s an all-inclusive escape where relaxation, adventure, and indulgence blend seamlessly. One of the biggest questions on cruisers’ minds before booking is: Are there any cruise lines that include alcohol in fares? The answer is yes, and the options have expanded significantly in recent years. Gone are the days when alcohol was strictly an à la carte add-on. Today, several major cruise lines offer packages—and in some cases, full inclusion—of wine, beer, cocktails, and even premium spirits as part of their base fare or through value-packed drink packages.

Understanding which cruise lines include alcohol, and to what extent, can make a significant difference in your overall vacation budget and experience. Whether you’re a casual drinker who enjoys a glass of wine at dinner or a cocktail enthusiast who loves trying craft drinks by the pool, choosing a cruise line with inclusive alcohol can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the cruise lines that include alcohol in their fares, break down the different types of drink packages available, compare value and inclusions, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of your onboard beverage experience.

Why Alcohol Inclusion Matters in Cruise Travel

The Hidden Cost of Cruising Without Alcohol

One of the most common misconceptions about cruising is that it’s truly “all-inclusive.” While meals, accommodations, and most entertainment are covered in the base fare, alcohol—especially beyond basic beer and house wine—is often an additional expense. This can lead to sticker shock at the end of a cruise. For example, a single cocktail on a major cruise line can cost between $12 and $18, while a bottle of wine may run $40–$60. Over a 7-day cruise, a family of four could easily spend $1,000+ on drinks if they’re not careful.

This is where alcohol-inclusive cruise lines or value-driven drink packages come into play. By bundling beverages into the fare or offering affordable all-inclusive options, cruise lines are responding to consumer demand for transparency and value. Travelers no longer want to worry about racking up a massive bar tab. Instead, they prefer predictable pricing and the freedom to enjoy drinks without constantly checking their account.

Changing Industry Trends and Consumer Demand

The cruise industry has seen a shift in recent years, driven by younger travelers, luxury seekers, and cost-conscious families. According to a 2023 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) report, over 65% of cruisers consider drink packages a deciding factor when choosing a cruise line. This demand has pushed major brands to innovate, offering tiered beverage programs, unlimited premium options, and even full alcohol inclusion on select sailings or ships.

Additionally, competition among cruise lines has intensified. With river cruises, luxury yachts, and even all-inclusive resorts offering alcohol as standard, ocean cruise lines have had to adapt. The result? More value, more choice, and more transparency. Today, you can find alcohol-inclusive options across multiple price points—from affordable mass-market lines to ultra-luxury expedition ships.

What “Alcohol Included” Really Means

It’s important to understand that “alcohol included” doesn’t always mean *everything* is free. Cruise lines use different models:

• Full inclusion: All drinks, including premium cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, and beer, are covered in the base fare.
• Premium drink packages: An optional upgrade that includes a wide range of alcoholic beverages, usually for a flat daily rate.
• Select inclusion: Only basic beer and house wine are included with meals; premium drinks cost extra.
• Specialty sailings: Limited-time promotions or themed cruises (e.g., wine cruises) where alcohol is fully included.

Knowing which model a cruise line uses helps you budget effectively and avoid unexpected charges.

Cruise Lines That Fully Include Alcohol in Fares

Luxury Leaders: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea

When it comes to full alcohol inclusion, two names consistently rise to the top: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises. Both are ultra-luxury lines where the base fare covers not just alcohol, but also gratuities, shore excursions, airfare, and even butler service.

On Regent Seven Seas, all drinks—including premium wines, cocktails, spirits, and champagne—are included 24/7 across all bars, lounges, and in-suite minibars. The line even offers a “Connoisseur’s Wine List” with sommelier-curated selections, all complimentary. For example, on a 10-night Caribbean voyage, guests can enjoy Dom Pérignon, vintage Bordeaux, and craft cocktails without signing a single tab.

Similarly, Silversea includes a wide range of beverages in its all-inclusive model. The “Silver Spirit” drink menu features premium brands like Grey Goose, Johnnie Walker Black, and Moët & Chandon. Guests also receive a personalized welcome bottle of wine and can order drinks in their suite via the butler. Silversea’s “All-Inclusive Luxury” model is designed to deliver a seamless, worry-free experience.

Oceania Cruises: Gourmet Dining Meets Premium Drinks

While Oceania Cruises doesn’t include *all* premium alcohol in its base fare, it offers one of the most generous standard inclusions in the premium cruise category. All beer, wine, and spirits are included at dinner, and guests receive a welcome bottle of champagne upon arrival. Additionally, Oceania offers the “Unlimited Select Pass” drink package, which includes premium cocktails, wine by the glass, and specialty coffees for a flat rate (often around $59–$79 per day).

What sets Oceania apart is its emphasis on gourmet dining and wine pairing. Each evening, sommeliers recommend wines to complement the menu, and guests can enjoy a full glass or half-bottle without additional cost. For wine lovers, this is a major value. On a 14-night Mediterranean cruise, a guest could easily save $1,000+ in wine costs alone compared to lines where wine is charged per glass.

Windstar Cruises: Intimate Sailing with Full Bar Access

Windstar operates small luxury yachts (typically 148–342 guests) and prides itself on an intimate, yacht-club atmosphere. On all Windstar sailings, all beverages are included—including premium cocktails, wines by the glass, champagne, and spirits. This includes the minibar in your suite, which is restocked daily.

Windstar’s “All-Inclusive Experience” also covers gratuities, Wi-Fi, and most water sports. The line is popular with couples and solo travelers who want a relaxed, upscale experience without nickel-and-diming. For example, on a 7-night Tahiti cruise, you can enjoy a sunset cocktail on the deck, a glass of Sancerre at dinner, and a nightcap of single-malt scotch—all without pulling out your wallet.

Value-Oriented Cruise Lines with Affordable Drink Packages

Celebrity Cruises: The Classic Plus and Premium Packages

While Celebrity Cruises doesn’t include alcohol in its base fare, it offers some of the most competitive and flexible drink packages in the industry. The Classic Beverage Package ($65–$85/day) includes beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), cocktails (up to $15), and non-alcoholic drinks. The Premium Beverage Package ($85–$115/day) expands this to include premium spirits, top-shelf wines, and specialty coffees.

What makes Celebrity stand out is its “Buy One, Get One Free” drink package promotion, often available during early booking windows. This means two people can share a package for the price of one, effectively cutting the cost in half. Additionally, Celebrity’s “Always Included” pricing model bundles the Classic Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, and gratuities into the base fare on most sailings—making it feel like alcohol is included, even if it’s technically a package.

For example, on a 7-night Alaska cruise, the “Always Included” fare might cost $1,800 per person, which includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and tips. Without this bundle, the same cruise would be $1,500 + $70/day drink package + $150 gratuities—totaling over $2,100. That’s a savings of $300+ per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Ultimate Beverage Package

NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package ($99–$129/day) is one of the most popular in the industry. It includes beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), cocktails (up to $15), and premium spirits. The package also covers soda, juice, and specialty coffees. NCL frequently runs promotions like “Free at Sea,” which includes the beverage package, shore excursion credits, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi at no extra cost.

One key advantage of NCL’s package is its flexibility. It’s available on all ships and can be used in bars, lounges, restaurants, and even during select shore excursions. However, it’s not available on all itineraries (e.g., sailings under 4 nights) and doesn’t cover minibar items or bottle service.

Tip: Book early and watch for “Free at Sea” deals. On a 5-night Caribbean cruise, the package can save a family of four over $1,000 in drink costs. Plus, NCL’s freestyle dining means you can order drinks at any time, anywhere on the ship—no reservations needed.

Carnival Cruise Line: Cheers! Program for Budget-Friendly Drinking

Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Program ($59.95–$85.95/day) is designed for budget-conscious cruisers who still want to enjoy alcohol. It includes beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. The package is particularly popular on shorter 3- to 5-night sailings, where the daily cost is lower.

While Carnival doesn’t include alcohol in the base fare, the Cheers! program offers excellent value. For example, a $15 cocktail would pay for itself after just four drinks. The package also includes discounts on bottled water, soda, and specialty coffees—helping offset the cost of non-alcoholic beverages.

Note: The Cheers! package is not available on all sailings and cannot be used in the ship’s casino or for bottle service. But for casual drinkers who want to enjoy a few cocktails by the pool, it’s a smart choice.

River and Expedition Cruises with Alcohol Inclusion

AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises

River cruises are known for their all-inclusive nature, and alcohol is no exception. AmaWaterways includes beer and wine with lunch and dinner, plus a welcome cocktail and complimentary drinks at the bar during select hours. On longer itineraries (10+ nights), the line often upgrades guests to a full premium beverage package at no extra cost.

Viking River Cruises takes inclusion a step further. All drinks—including beer, wine, spirits, and specialty cocktails—are included 24/7 on all river voyages. The line also offers a daily cocktail hour and complimentary wine pairings at dinner. On a 15-day Danube River cruise, guests can enjoy unlimited drinks, guided tours, and Wi-Fi—all for one upfront price.

These cruises are ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, cultural experience with no hidden costs. The intimate ship size (usually 150–190 guests) also means personalized service and fewer lines at the bar.

Expedition Cruises: Lindblad Expeditions and Hurtigruten

For adventurous travelers, expedition cruises offer a unique blend of exploration and indulgence. Lindblad Expeditions (in partnership with National Geographic) includes all beverages, including wine, beer, and cocktails, on all voyages. The line emphasizes sustainability and education, but doesn’t skimp on comfort—guests enjoy premium drinks after a day of kayaking in Antarctica or snorkeling in the Galápagos.

Hurtigruten, a Norwegian expedition line, includes beer and wine with meals and offers a premium drink package for spirits and cocktails. On Arctic and Antarctic sailings, the package often comes at a discounted rate or is included during promotional periods.

These cruises are more expensive than mainstream lines, but the value lies in the unique destinations, expert guides, and inclusive amenities—including alcohol.

Maximizing Value: Tips for Choosing the Right Alcohol-Inclusive Cruise

Calculate Your Actual Consumption

Before booking a drink package or choosing a cruise line, estimate how many drinks you’ll consume. Use this formula:

• Casual drinker: 2–3 drinks per day
• Moderate drinker: 4–6 drinks per day
• Frequent drinker: 7+ drinks per day

Compare this to the package cost. For example, a $70/day package breaks even at about 5–6 cocktails ($14 each). If you drink less, a lower-tier package or à la carte might be better.

Watch for Promotions and Early Booking Deals

Most cruise lines offer drink package discounts or free upgrades for early bookings. Sign up for newsletters, follow cruise line social media, and use travel agents who specialize in cruises. Deals like “Free Drinks” or “Buy One, Get One” can save hundreds.

Consider the Ship and Itinerary

On shorter cruises (3–4 nights), drink packages may not be worth it unless you’re a heavy drinker. On longer sailings (7+ nights), packages offer better value. Also, some ships have more bars and lounges, increasing your opportunity to use the package.

Check the Fine Print

Read the terms of any drink package. Look for:

• Daily limits or caps
• Exclusions (e.g., minibar, bottle service, specialty venues)
• Sharing policies (some allow sharing, others don’t)
• Gratuities (usually 18–20% added to package cost)

For example, Royal Caribbean’s drink package excludes drinks over $15 and doesn’t cover the casino bar. Knowing these details helps avoid surprises.

Combine Packages with Other Inclusions

Look for bundles that include drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, and specialty dining. Celebrity’s “Always Included” and NCL’s “Free at Sea” are excellent examples. These packages simplify budgeting and enhance the overall value.

Cruise Line	Alcohol Inclusion Model	Drink Package Name & Cost	Best For	Average Daily Savings (vs. à la carte)
Regent Seven Seas	Full inclusion in base fare	None needed	Luxury travelers, couples	$120–$180
Silversea	Full inclusion in base fare	None needed	High-end travelers, solo cruisers	$100–$150
Oceania Cruises	Wine/beer at dinner + optional package	Unlimited Select Pass ($59–$79/day)	Wine lovers, foodies	$80–$120
Celebrity Cruises	Optional package (often bundled)	Classic/Premium ($65–$115/day)	Mid-range cruisers, families	$70–$100
NCL	Optional package (promotions available)	Ultimate Beverage ($99–$129/day)	Party cruisers, couples	$90–$130
Viking River Cruises	Full inclusion in base fare	None needed	Cultural travelers, retirees	$60–$90

Final Thoughts: Finding the Perfect Alcohol-Inclusive Cruise

The days of paying $15 for a cocktail and worrying about your bar tab are fading. Today, many cruise lines include alcohol in fares or offer affordable, high-value drink packages that make it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. From the ultra-luxury all-inclusive models of Regent and Silversea to the flexible, promotion-rich packages of Celebrity and NCL, there’s an option for every budget and preference.

When choosing your next cruise, consider not just the price, but the overall value. A slightly higher base fare that includes drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities can be more economical than a cheaper fare with add-ons. Use the tips in this guide—calculate your consumption, watch for deals, and read the fine print—to make an informed decision.

Ultimately, the best alcohol-inclusive cruise is one that matches your lifestyle, travel style, and drinking habits. Whether you’re sipping champagne on a luxury yacht, enjoying craft cocktails on a megaship, or toasting to a new destination on a river cruise, the freedom to drink without worry is one of the greatest luxuries a cruise can offer. So raise a glass—your next great escape is just a booking away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any cruise lines that include alcohol in fares?

Yes, several cruise lines include alcohol in their base fares, such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea, and Oceania Cruises. These luxury lines offer complimentary beer, wine, and spirits with meals and at onboard bars.

Which cruise lines include alcohol in the price?

Luxury brands like Seabourn, Viking, and Crystal Cruises include select alcohol in their fares, often with premium drink packages. Mainstream lines like Virgin Voyages also include beer and wine in their “no nickel-and-diming” pricing model.

Do any mainstream cruise lines include alcohol for free?

While most mainstream lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean) charge extra, Virgin Voyages includes basic beer, wine, and cocktails in fares. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a “Free at Sea” promo that sometimes includes drink packages.

Are there all-inclusive cruise lines with unlimited alcohol?

Regent Seven Seas and Silversea are fully all-inclusive, offering unlimited premium drinks. Azamara and Paul Gauguin Cruises also include unlimited alcohol in their fares for a more inclusive experience.

Does Disney Cruise Line include alcohol in fares?

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t include alcohol in base fares, but they offer soda, juices, and coffee for free. Adults can purchase drink packages or pay à la carte for cocktails, beer, and wine.

Can you get free alcohol on luxury cruise lines?

Yes, luxury lines like Oceania and Seabourn include complimentary alcohol, often with premium brands. Even minibar drinks and specialty dining beverages are typically covered in their all-inclusive model.