Can I Drink on a Norwegian Cruise Line Find Out Here

Yes, you can drink on a Norwegian Cruise Line, with a wide selection of alcoholic beverages available at bars, lounges, and restaurants across the ship. Drink packages and à la carte options make it easy to enjoy your favorite cocktails, wine, and beer, though policies on bringing your own alcohol are limited and vary by sailing. Always check the latest rules before your trip to maximize your onboard experience.

Key Takeaways

• Drink packages are available: Choose from unlimited open bar or beer/wine options.
• Bring your own alcohol: Limited amounts allowed, but corkage fees apply onboard.
• Age matters: 21+ to drink in US waters; 18+ in international ports.
• Free drinks limited: Only water, coffee, tea, and juice included in fare.
• Happy hour deals: Save with daily specials at bars and lounges.

Can I Drink on a Norwegian Cruise Line? Find Out Here

Imagine setting sail across the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or Alaska’s majestic fjords, with the ocean breeze in your hair and a refreshing cocktail in hand. For many travelers, a cruise isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the onboard experience, and for a significant number of guests, that includes enjoying a drink or two. If you’re considering a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vacation, one of the first questions on your mind might be: “Can I drink on a Norwegian Cruise Line?”

The short answer is yes—but like any cruise line, NCL has specific policies, packages, and guidelines that govern alcohol consumption. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a cocktail lover, or someone who enjoys a cold beer at sunset, understanding how NCL handles alcohol is crucial to maximizing your experience. From all-inclusive beverage packages and drink limits to corkage fees and age restrictions, this guide dives deep into everything you need to know. We’ll cover the rules, the costs, the best value options, and insider tips to help you sip smartly while enjoying the freedom of Freestyle Cruising.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Alcohol Policies

General Rules for Alcohol Consumption

Norwegian Cruise Line operates under a “Freestyle Cruising” model, which emphasizes flexibility and guest autonomy. This philosophy extends to alcohol policies, which are more relaxed than some competitors but still governed by clear rules. The primary regulations include:

• Legal drinking age: The minimum age to purchase and consume alcohol on NCL is 21 years old in the United States and most international waters. However, on cruises that begin and end in Europe (e.g., Mediterranean itineraries), the legal age may be 18, depending on the home country and local laws.
• No outside alcohol: Guests are not permitted to bring alcoholic beverages onboard at embarkation or in ports. This includes wine, beer, spirits, and even duty-free purchases made during the cruise.
• Confiscation and return: Any alcohol brought onboard will be confiscated and stored in a secure area. It is returned to guests on the final morning of the cruise—typically at disembarkation.
• No alcohol consumption in public areas: Open containers of alcohol are not allowed in hallways, stairwells, or non-designated public areas. Alcohol must be consumed in bars, lounges, dining rooms, or your stateroom.

Special Exceptions and Grandfather Clauses

NCL occasionally makes exceptions for special events or long-standing traditions. For example:

• Wine with dinner: Guests may purchase a bottle of wine in a specialty dining venue and, if unfinished, take it back to their stateroom. However, this is only allowed if the wine was purchased onboard.
• Wedding or celebration bottles: In rare cases, guests celebrating a milestone (e.g., wedding, anniversary) may request special permission to bring a personal bottle of wine or champagne onboard. This requires advance approval from NCL’s guest services and may involve a corkage fee.

Tip: If you’re planning a celebration, contact NCL’s customer service at least 30 days before departure to inquire about special arrangements. Always have a backup plan—don’t assume permission will be granted.

Alcohol in Ports and Duty-Free Purchases

While you can’t bring alcohol onboard from home, NCL allows guests to purchase duty-free alcohol during the cruise—but with a catch. Alcohol bought in ports or from duty-free shops onboard cannot be consumed until the final day of the cruise. It is held by the ship’s staff and delivered to your stateroom on the last evening. This policy is designed to prevent smuggling and maintain control over alcohol sales, which are a significant revenue stream for the line.

Example: If you’re on a 7-day Alaska cruise and buy a bottle of Canadian whiskey in Juneau, you’ll receive it on the last night—perfect for a farewell toast.

NCL Beverage Packages: Options, Costs, and Value

Overview of Available Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages designed to suit different drinking habits and budgets. These packages provide unlimited or limited access to a wide range of drinks, including cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and premium coffees. Here are the main options:

Package	Price (per person, per day)	Inclusions	Daily Limit	Best For
Premium Plus Beverage Package	$138 (varies by itinerary)	All cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, beer, soda, juice, specialty coffee, bottled water, mocktails	Unlimited	Heavy drinkers, cocktail lovers, wine enthusiasts
Premium Beverage Package	$98 (varies by itinerary)	Most cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, soda, juice, specialty coffee, bottled water	Unlimited	Moderate drinkers, beer and wine fans
Classic Soda Package	$12.50	Unlimited soda, juice, bottled water, coffee, tea	Unlimited	Non-alcohol drinkers, families, kids
Specialty Dining Package	From $119 (varies by dining selection)	3–5 specialty meals (no alcohol included unless paired with beverage package)	Fixed number of meals	Foodies, couples, celebratory dinners

What’s Covered and What’s Excluded

While the Premium Plus package is the most comprehensive, it’s important to understand the fine print:

• Covered: Cocktails up to $15, wine by the glass up to $15, domestic and imported beers, bottled water, espresso drinks, and most non-alcoholic beverages.
• Excluded:
  • Premium bottles of wine (e.g., Dom Pérignon, Opus One) require an additional charge.
  • Alcohol purchased in ports or from duty-free shops (held until the end).
  • Room service alcohol (charged separately).
  • Mini-bar items (charged at menu prices).

Tip: If you plan to drink more than 5–6 alcoholic beverages per day, the Premium Plus package typically pays for itself. For example, at $15 per cocktail, six drinks equal $90—just $48 short of the daily package cost. Add wine, beer, and specialty coffee, and you’re in the black.

Family and Group Considerations

NCL allows guests to purchase different packages based on individual preferences. For example, one adult might opt for Premium Plus, while another chooses the Classic Soda Package. However, there are rules:

• Same stateroom requirement: All adults in a stateroom must purchase a beverage package if one does—unless they opt for a non-alcoholic package.
• Children: Kids under 21 cannot purchase alcohol packages. They can buy the Classic Soda Package or pay à la carte for non-alcoholic drinks.

Pro Tip: For families, consider a split approach: adults with beverage packages, kids with soda packages. This keeps costs manageable while ensuring everyone stays hydrated and happy.

À La Carte Drinking: Pricing and Smart Choices

How Much Do Drinks Cost Without a Package?

If you prefer not to commit to a package, you can pay for drinks individually. Here’s a sample of 2024 onboard prices (subject to change):

• Cocktails: $12–$18 (e.g., margarita, mojito, espresso martini)
• Beer: $7–$10 (domestic), $8–$12 (imported)
• Wine by the glass: $10–$16 (house wines), $15–$25 (premium)
• Bottled water: $4–$6
• Specialty coffee: $4–$7 (e.g., latte, cappuccino)
• Mocktails: $7–$10

Example: A couple enjoying two cocktails, two beers, and a glass of wine at dinner would spend approximately $70 per day—nearly the cost of the Premium Beverage Package. Add in drinks at the pool or lounge, and the package becomes a no-brainer.

Smart Ways to Save Without a Package

Even without a package, you can enjoy drinks without breaking the bank:

• Happy Hour: Many NCL ships offer daily happy hours (e.g., 5–7 PM) with discounted drinks. Check the Freestyle Daily for times and locations.
• Loyalty discounts: NCL Latitude Rewards members (especially Gold, Platinum, and Elite) receive drink discounts and complimentary cocktails during select events.
• Buy in bulk: If you love a particular wine or spirit, consider purchasing a bottle from the onboard bar. It’s often cheaper per ounce than buying by the glass.
• Use the mini-bar wisely: The mini-bar is convenient but expensive. Stock up on water and snacks during port visits instead.

Insider Tip: Some specialty bars (e.g., The Humidor Cigar Lounge) offer complimentary drinks with cigar purchases—perfect for a relaxing evening.

Special Events, Themed Nights, and Free Drinks

When NCL Pays for Your Drinks

Norwegian Cruise Line frequently offers complimentary drink events to enhance the guest experience. These include:

• Welcome Aboard Party: A free cocktail or glass of champagne during embarkation.
• Captain’s Reception: Held on formal nights, this event includes free drinks and hors d’oeuvres.
• Theme Nights: Events like “70s Night” or “White Hot Party” often feature free specialty cocktails.
• Loyalty Events: Latitude members receive complimentary drinks during private events (e.g., Platinum Cocktail Reception).
• Onboard Sales: When new beverage packages are launched, NCL sometimes offers free tastings or sample cocktails.

Pro Tip: Check your Freestyle Daily each morning for event details. Many free drinks are offered during the first 24 hours of the cruise—don’t miss them!

Specialty Bars and Unique Experiences

NCL ships feature a variety of bars with unique offerings:

• The Cellars Wine Bar: Hosts wine tastings (fee applies) and offers rare vintages by the glass.
• Bar 21: A speakeasy-style lounge with craft cocktails and live jazz.
• Spice H2O: A poolside bar with frozen drinks and tropical cocktails (complimentary on select ships).
• The District Brew House: Offers 24 craft beers on tap, including local brews from port destinations.

Example: On the Norwegian Encore, The District Brew House features a “Beer Passport” program where guests can sample 10 different beers for $45—great value for craft beer lovers.

Tips for Maximizing Your Drinking Experience on NCL

Book Smart: When to Purchase Packages

Timing is everything. NCL often offers early booking discounts on beverage packages:

• Pre-cruise purchase: Buy your package online before departure (usually 2–4 weeks prior) to save 10–20%.
• Onboard purchase: You can buy a package during the cruise, but it’s more expensive and only available for the remaining days.
• Last-minute deals: Occasionally, NCL offers flash sales on packages via email or the NCL app.

Tip: Use the NCL app to monitor package availability and pricing. Set price alerts if you’re flexible on dates.

Track Your Consumption

It’s easy to lose track of drinks on vacation. To avoid overpaying:

• Use a drink tracker app (e.g., DrinkControl, MyDrinks) to log your consumption.
• Ask your server for a running tab at the end of each day.
• Set a daily budget and stick to it.

Know the Exceptions and Workarounds

Smart cruisers use these strategies:

• Wine with dinner: Order a bottle in a specialty restaurant and take leftovers to your room.
• Poolside service: Use your beverage package for drinks at the pool—many guests forget this is included.
• Room service: While alcohol isn’t included in packages, you can use room service for non-alcoholic drinks and snacks.

Final Tip: If you’re unsure about a drink’s price, ask the server before ordering. NCL staff are trained to be transparent about costs.

Conclusion: Sip Smartly on Your NCL Cruise

So, can you drink on a Norwegian Cruise Line? Absolutely—and with the right planning, you can enjoy your favorite beverages without overspending or breaking the rules. Whether you choose a comprehensive beverage package, pay à la carte, or take advantage of free events, NCL’s flexible policies make it easy to customize your drinking experience.

Remember the key takeaways: no outside alcohol, packages offer great value for frequent drinkers, happy hours and complimentary events can save you money, and always check the fine print on inclusions and exclusions. By understanding the policies and using smart strategies, you’ll be free to relax, celebrate, and toast to the adventure of a lifetime—all while enjoying the freedom of Freestyle Cruising.

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge, it’s time to raise a glass and set sail. Cheers to your next unforgettable NCL journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink alcohol on a Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, you can drink alcohol on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship. The cruise line offers a variety of bars, lounges, and dining options where you can purchase beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have an all-inclusive drink package?

Yes, NCL offers the Premium Plus Beverage Package, which includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and more. This package must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise?

Norwegian Cruise Line allows guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person (750ml) onboard on embarkation day. However, all other alcohol brought onboard will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.

Are there any drink restrictions on Norwegian Cruise Line?

NCL enforces a responsible alcohol service policy, and staff may refuse service to guests who appear intoxicated. The minimum drinking age on most NCL cruises is 21, but it may be lower on select European itineraries.

Is drinking water free on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, complimentary drinking water is available at all dining venues, buffets, and water stations throughout the ship. You can also request bottled water, though it may incur an additional charge unless included in your beverage package.

What is the best drink package for a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise?

The Premium Plus Beverage Package is ideal for heavy drinkers, offering unlimited premium cocktails, wine by the glass, and beer. For lighter drinkers, the Premium Beverage Package provides a more affordable option with a wide selection of drinks.