Remember booking that Carnival cruise back in 2018? The excitement of the open sea, the endless buffets, and the promise of relaxation were thrilling. But then the reality of onboard expenses hit, especially when it came to drinks. Many travelers planning their 2018 Carnival adventures found themselves wondering: how much do drinks cost on a Carnival cruise 2018? This guide breaks down typical drink prices, available packages, and tips to keep your bar tab in check, helping you plan for your next voyage and understand what to expect regarding beverage costs.
Carnival Cruise Drink Prices in 2018: A General Overview
Understanding the general pricing of beverages on Carnival cruises in 2018 is crucial for budgeting. This section provides a breakdown of the average prices for different types of drinks, from alcoholic beverages to sodas and specialty coffees, enabling you to anticipate onboard expenses.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages generally ranged from $6.50 to $8.50 for beers, $7.50 to $12.00 for cocktails, and wine by the glass started around $8.00. These prices could vary slightly depending on the specific bar or lounge on the ship, as well as the ingredients used in the drink.
- Beers: Domestic beers were typically cheaper than imported or craft beers. Expect to pay around $6.50 for a domestic beer and up to $8.00 for an imported one.
- Cocktails: Classic cocktails like margaritas, daiquiris, and mojitos were popular choices. These usually cost between $7.50 and $12.00, depending on the ingredients and the venue.
- Wine by the Glass: A selection of red, white, and rosé wines were available by the glass, with prices starting around $8.00. Premium wines or larger pours would be more expensive.
Domestic beers are usually produced within the United States and offer a more budget-friendly option for beer lovers. The cost is often lower due to reduced transportation and import taxes.
The cost of cocktails can vary based on the quality of the liquor used and the complexity of the drink’s preparation. Premium cocktails containing high-end spirits will generally command a higher price.
Wine pricing is often influenced by the vineyard or region from which the wine originates. Higher quality or more exclusive wines will be priced accordingly.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and bottled water were available. These beverages were typically priced between $2.00 and $5.00.
- Sodas: Sodas like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and other popular brands were usually priced around $2.25 – $2.50 per can or glass.
- Specialty Coffees: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks were available at designated coffee shops, with prices ranging from $3.50 to $5.00.
- Bottled Water: Bottled water was available for purchase, with prices around $2.50 to $3.50 per bottle.
A soda can offer a refreshing alternative to alcoholic beverages and can be a more cost-effective choice, especially for those who don’t consume alcohol.
Specialty coffees can provide a caffeine boost and a gourmet experience while onboard. The price reflects the quality of the coffee beans and the skill of the barista.
Staying hydrated is crucial, and bottled water provides a convenient and sanitary way to ensure adequate fluid intake while on your cruise.
Carnival’s Drink Packages in 2018: Maximizing Your Savings
Carnival Cruise Line offered various drink packages in 2018 designed to provide value and convenience for passengers. This section examines these packages, outlining their inclusions, limitations, and cost-effectiveness, allowing you to determine if a package aligns with your drinking habits.
Cheers! Package
The Cheers! Package was Carnival’s all-inclusive beverage package, allowing guests to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for a fixed daily price. The package included most drinks priced at $50 or less.
- Inclusions: The Cheers! Package covered most alcoholic beverages (including cocktails, beer, and wine), as well as non-alcoholic beverages like sodas, specialty coffees, and energy drinks.
- Limitations: Guests were limited to 15 alcoholic drinks per day. The package did not cover bottled water, premium spirits, or beverages purchased in souvenir glasses. All adults in the same cabin had to purchase the package.
- Cost: The Cheers! Package was priced around $49.95 per person, per day, if purchased before the cruise, or $54.95 per person, per day, if purchased onboard.
The wide range of included beverages makes the Cheers! Package a versatile option for passengers who enjoy variety and don’t want to worry about individual drink costs.
The 15-drink limit is in place to prevent excessive alcohol consumption and ensure responsible drinking among passengers. The requirement that all adults in the cabin purchase the package aims to prevent sharing and abuse of the system.
Purchasing the package before the cruise can lead to significant savings, as the onboard price is typically higher. Planning ahead and pre-purchasing the package can help you optimize your budget.
Bottomless Bubbles Package
The Bottomless Bubbles package was a non-alcoholic drink package designed for soda lovers. It provided unlimited fountain sodas and juices throughout the cruise.
- Inclusions: This package covered unlimited fountain sodas and juices at bars, lounges, and restaurants onboard.
- Limitations: The package did not include bottled water, specialty coffees, or alcoholic beverages. It was available for purchase by individuals of any age.
- Cost: The Bottomless Bubbles package was priced around $6.95 per person, per day, for adults and $4.95 per person, per day, for children.
The Bottomless Bubbles package provides a cost-effective way for soda and juice enthusiasts to stay hydrated and enjoy their favorite non-alcoholic beverages without racking up individual charges.
The limitations ensure that the Bottomless Bubbles package is exclusively for non-alcoholic beverages, catering to guests who prefer to avoid alcohol or those who are underage.
The relatively low cost of the Bottomless Bubbles package makes it an attractive option for families and individuals who consume a significant amount of soda and juice during their cruise.
Is a Drink Package Worth It?
Determining whether a drink package is worth the investment depends on individual drinking habits. If you anticipate consuming multiple alcoholic beverages each day, the Cheers! Package might be a good value. If you only drink a few sodas or juices, the Bottomless Bubbles package could be more suitable. To figure this out, estimate your daily consumption based on your past habits. For example, if you typically have 5 alcoholic drinks per day at $10 each, your daily drink bill would be $50. In this case, the Cheers! Package at $49.95 (pre-cruise purchase) would be worthwhile.
Strategies for Saving Money on Drinks
Even without purchasing a drink package, there are several strategies to save money on drinks while on a Carnival cruise. This section provides practical tips and tricks to reduce your overall beverage expenses.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour Specials
Many bars and lounges on Carnival ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drink prices. These specials can significantly reduce the cost of your drinks, especially if you plan your drinking around these times.
- Check the Daily Program: The ship’s daily program usually lists the times and locations of happy hour specials.
- Ask Bartenders: Bartenders can often provide information about ongoing promotions and specials.
The daily program is a crucial resource for staying informed about onboard activities, including happy hour specials. Reviewing it regularly ensures you don’t miss out on potential savings.
Bartenders are valuable sources of information about current promotions and specials. Don’t hesitate to ask them about available deals to maximize your savings.
Bring Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages (Limited)
Carnival Cruise Line allows guests to bring a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. This can help reduce the cost of purchasing drinks like bottled water or soda.
- Allowed Beverages: Guests are typically allowed to bring one 12-pack of canned or bottled non-alcoholic beverages per person.
- Check Carnival’s Policy: Always check Carnival’s current policy on bringing beverages onboard, as it may change.
The allowance of bringing a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages is a practical way to reduce onboard expenses, especially for those who prefer specific brands or have dietary restrictions.
It’s essential to verify Carnival’s current policy on bringing beverages onboard before your cruise, as policies can be updated. Staying informed prevents potential issues during embarkation.
Look for Drink of the Day Offers
Carnival often features a “Drink of the Day” with a special discounted price. These drinks are a great way to try new cocktails without breaking the bank.
- Variety: The Drink of the Day changes daily, offering a variety of options.
- Reduced Price: The Drink of the Day is typically priced lower than other cocktails.
The daily rotation of Drink of the Day options provides an opportunity to sample different cocktails at a reduced price, enhancing your onboard beverage experience.
The lower price point of the Drink of the Day makes it an attractive option for passengers looking to enjoy cocktails without spending a fortune.
Utilize Loyalty Program Benefits
If you’re a member of Carnival’s VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club, you may be eligible for complimentary drinks or discounts. Check your loyalty program benefits to see what’s available to you.
- VIFP Club: Carnival’s loyalty program rewards frequent cruisers with various perks, including potential drink discounts.
- Check Your Benefits: Review your VIFP account to see what drink-related perks you’re entitled to.
The VIFP Club incentivizes loyalty by offering increasingly valuable benefits to frequent cruisers. Taking advantage of these benefits can significantly enhance your cruise experience and reduce costs.
Reviewing your VIFP account regularly ensures you are aware of all available benefits and can take full advantage of them during your cruise.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors can influence drink prices on a Carnival cruise. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate price fluctuations and plan your budget accordingly. This section explores key elements that impact the cost of beverages onboard.
Specific Bar or Lounge
The location on the ship can affect drink prices. For example, a premium bar or lounge with specialty cocktails might charge more than a standard poolside bar. The ambiance, exclusivity, and service level influence the pricing.
Certain bars on the ship may have higher overhead costs associated with their location, staffing, or decor, which can translate to higher drink prices. These premium venues often offer a more exclusive or luxurious experience.
Ingredients Used
The quality and type of ingredients used in a drink can also affect its price. Cocktails made with premium spirits or fresh ingredients will generally be more expensive than those made with standard spirits or artificial flavorings.
Premium spirits and fresh ingredients can significantly enhance the taste and quality of a drink, but they also come with a higher cost. These ingredients are often sourced from reputable suppliers and require careful handling and storage.
Special Events and Promotions
During special events or promotions, drink prices might be temporarily discounted or increased. For example, during a themed night or a holiday celebration, certain drinks might be offered at a special price, or new cocktails might be introduced at a premium price.
Special events and promotions are designed to attract passengers and create a festive atmosphere. These events can offer opportunities to try new drinks or enjoy discounted prices, but it’s essential to be aware of any potential price increases on specialty items.
Taxes and Gratuities
Drink prices on Carnival cruises typically include taxes and gratuities, but it’s always a good idea to confirm this when ordering. Understanding the total cost upfront helps you avoid any surprises when you receive your bill.
Knowing whether taxes and gratuities are included in the listed price is essential for accurate budgeting. If these charges are not included, they will be added to your final bill, increasing the overall cost of your drinks.
Comparing Carnival’s Drink Prices to Other Cruise Lines
Understanding how Carnival’s drink prices compare to those of other major cruise lines provides valuable context for your vacation budget. This section outlines the general pricing trends among various cruise lines, offering a basis for comparison.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are generally comparable to Carnival’s. Their standard cocktails range from $9 to $14, beers from $7 to $9, and wine by the glass from $9 to $15. They also offer drink packages similar to Carnival’s, with varying prices and inclusions.
| Drink Type | Carnival (2018) | Royal Caribbean |
|---|---|---|
| Cocktails | $7.50 – $12.00 | $9.00 – $14.00 |
| Beers | $6.50 – $8.50 | $7.00 – $9.00 |
| Wine (Glass) | $8.00+ | $9.00 – $15.00 |
Royal Caribbean’s drink packages often include a wider range of premium beverages, but they also tend to be more expensive than Carnival’s. Evaluating your drinking preferences and budget is crucial when choosing between the two cruise lines.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) tends to have slightly higher drink prices than Carnival. Their cocktails typically range from $10 to $15, beers from $7 to $10, and wine by the glass from $10 to $16. NCL also offers a “Free at Sea” promotion, which often includes a beverage package.
NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion can be an attractive option if you plan to consume a significant amount of alcoholic beverages. However, it’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the promotion, as it may require upgrading to a higher cabin category or paying additional fees.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises generally has similar drink prices to Carnival, with cocktails ranging from $8 to $13, beers from $6 to $9, and wine by the glass from $8 to $14. Princess also offers drink packages, but they tend to be less comprehensive than those offered by Carnival or Royal Caribbean.
Princess Cruises’ drink packages may not include as wide a range of beverages as other cruise lines, but they can still offer value if you primarily consume specific types of drinks. Consider your drinking habits and preferences when deciding whether to purchase a drink package on Princess Cruises.
Common Myths About Cruise Drink Prices
Several myths surround cruise drink prices. Debunking these misconceptions helps you make informed decisions and plan your budget accurately. This section addresses common myths about the cost of beverages on cruise ships.
Myth: Cruise Drinks Are Always Overpriced
While some drinks on cruise ships can be expensive, this isn’t always the case. With strategies like happy hour specials, drink packages, and loyalty program benefits, it’s possible to enjoy drinks without overspending. Comparing prices to land-based venues can also reveal that some cruise drinks are reasonably priced.
Myth: Drink Packages Are Always Worth It
Drink packages are not always the best option for everyone. If you only consume a few drinks each day, purchasing individual drinks might be more cost-effective. Carefully calculating your estimated drink consumption is essential to determine if a drink package is worth the investment.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily
Cruise lines have strict policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard, and attempting to sneak alcohol onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties. It’s generally better to adhere to the cruise line’s policies and purchase drinks onboard or take advantage of drink packages.
FAQ
How much was a beer on Carnival in 2018?
In 2018, the price of a domestic beer on a Carnival cruise typically ranged from $6.50 to $7.50, while imported beers were generally priced between $7.50 and $8.50. Prices could vary slightly depending on the specific bar or lounge on the ship.
What did the Cheers! package cost in 2018?
The Cheers! package in 2018 cost around $49.95 per person, per day, if purchased before the cruise. If purchased onboard, the price was approximately $54.95 per person, per day. The package included most alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages priced at $50 or less.
Could you bring your own drinks on a Carnival cruise in 2018?
Yes, Carnival Cruise Line allowed passengers to bring a limited quantity of non-alcoholic beverages onboard in 2018. Guests were typically allowed to bring one 12-pack of canned or bottled non-alcoholic beverages per person. However, policies can change, so checking with Carnival is always recommended.
Was the Bottomless Bubbles package worth it in 2018?
Whether the Bottomless Bubbles package was worth it depended on individual consumption habits. If you consumed multiple sodas or juices each day, the package, priced at around $6.95 per person, per day, for adults and $4.95 per person, per day, for children, could be a cost-effective option. For those who only had a few non-alcoholic drinks, paying individually might have been more economical.
How many alcoholic drinks could you have per day with the Cheers! package?
The Cheers! package in 2018 had a limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per person, per day. This limit was implemented to encourage responsible drinking and prevent excessive alcohol consumption.
Were tips included in the drink prices on Carnival in 2018?
Yes, gratuities were typically included in the drink prices on Carnival cruises in 2018. It was always a good idea to confirm this when ordering to avoid any unexpected charges on your final bill.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much drinks cost on a Carnival cruise in 2018, alongside strategies for saving money, can significantly enhance your cruise experience. While prices may have changed since then, grasping the basics of onboard beverage costs empowers you to budget effectively and make informed decisions about drink packages and consumption habits. Planning ahead allows you to relax and fully enjoy the fun and excitement that a Carnival cruise offers, without worrying about an unexpectedly high bar tab.