Do American Cruise Lines Serve Alcohol Find Out Here

Yes, American Cruise Lines serve alcohol on all their voyages, offering a variety of beer, wine, and cocktails to enhance your onboard experience. Beverage packages and à la carte options are available, ensuring flexibility for every guest’s preference. Whether you’re relaxing on deck or dining in the main lounge, alcoholic drinks are always within reach.

Key Takeaways

• Alcohol is widely available on all American Cruise Lines ships.
• Complimentary options vary by cruise type and duration—check inclusions.
• Premium drinks cost extra and aren’t covered in base fares.
• Bringing alcohol onboard is often restricted—review policies first.
• Drink packages save money if you plan to consume frequently.

Do American Cruise Lines Serve Alcohol? Find Out Here

Imagine gliding across the shimmering waters of the Mississippi River, the Pacific Northwest, or Alaska’s Inside Passage, a refreshing cocktail in hand as the sun dips below the horizon. For many travelers, a cruise isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the onboard experience, and for a significant number of cruisers, that experience includes enjoying a glass of wine, a cold beer, or a signature cocktail. But do American cruise lines serve alcohol? The answer is a resounding yes, but with nuances that every prospective cruiser should understand.

American cruise lines, particularly those operating domestically within U.S. waters, have evolved to meet the expectations of modern travelers. While regulations and policies vary by cruise line, vessel, and itinerary, most offer a wide array of alcoholic beverages. From complimentary drinks during meals to premium wine tastings and full-service bars, alcohol is a staple of the cruise experience. However, understanding the how, where, when, and how much is key to maximizing your enjoyment—and avoiding surprises on your bill. This comprehensive guide dives into the alcohol policies of major American cruise lines, explores onboard drinking options, highlights cost-saving strategies, and provides insider tips to ensure your cruise is both enjoyable and budget-friendly.

Alcohol Policies on Major American Cruise Lines

Overview of Key U.S.-Based Cruise Operators

When discussing American cruise lines, it’s important to distinguish between large international brands with U.S. operations (like Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean) and smaller, domestically focused lines such as American Cruise Lines (ACL), American Queen Voyages (AQV), Hurtigruten Expeditions, and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic. While the former often operate global itineraries, the latter specialize in U.S. coastal, river, and inland waterway cruising. Their alcohol policies differ significantly in scope, pricing, and inclusion.

American Cruise Lines (ACL), for example, operates small-ship cruises along the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Alaska, and the Mississippi River. Their policy is notably generous: alcoholic beverages are included in the base fare on most itineraries. This includes beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits available at bars, during meals, and at special events. This “all-inclusive” model is a hallmark of ACL’s premium service.

In contrast, American Queen Voyages (now part of Hornblower Group) offers a mix of inclusions. On their paddlewheel riverboats, beer and wine are complimentary with dinner, but premium spirits, cocktails, and specialty drinks require an additional fee. Their Ocean Voyager ships follow a similar model, with select drinks included and others available à la carte or via drink packages.

International Lines with U.S. Operations: A Different Approach

Major international cruise lines with strong U.S. presences—such as Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Royal Caribbean International—operate under different alcohol policies, even when sailing domestic routes. These lines typically follow a pay-as-you-go model, where alcohol is not included in the base fare. However, they offer drink packages to help guests budget and save.

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers the “Cheers!” beverage package, which covers beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, sodas, and specialty coffee for a flat daily rate. Without a package, drinks are charged individually. Carnival also allows guests to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person onboard (with a corkage fee for consumption in dining rooms).
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Features the “Premium Plus Beverage Package,” which includes premium cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. NCL allows guests to bring unlimited wine or champagne (with a $15 corkage fee per bottle for dining room service).
• Royal Caribbean International: Offers the “Deluxe Beverage Package,” covering cocktails, wine, beer, and premium spirits. Royal Caribbean permits one 750ml bottle of wine per person (corkage fee applies).

These policies reflect a broader trend: while U.S.-based small-ship lines lean toward inclusivity, larger international lines use alcohol as a revenue stream, offering packages to enhance guest convenience and spending.

What Types of Alcohol Are Available Onboard?

Beer and Wine Selections

Regardless of the cruise line, beer and wine are staples on American cruise ships. Most vessels carry a curated selection of domestic and international brands to cater to diverse tastes.

• Domestic Beers: Expect popular U.S. craft and mainstream brands like Sierra Nevada, Sam Adams, Budweiser, and Miller Lite. Some ships, especially those with a regional focus (e.g., Pacific Northwest cruises), feature local craft beers from breweries in Oregon, Washington, or Alaska.
• International Beers: Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois, and Guinness are commonly available. On European-influenced itineraries (e.g., Great Lakes or transatlantic), you may find Belgian or German beers.
• Wine Lists: Cruise lines typically offer a rotating selection of red, white, and sparkling wines. ACL, for instance, features premium California and Oregon wines on Pacific Northwest cruises. American Queen Voyages partners with Napa Valley wineries for onboard tastings and vineyard excursions. International lines often include wines from France, Italy, Spain, and Chile.

Cocktails, Spirits, and Specialty Drinks

For cocktail enthusiasts, American cruise lines deliver a mix of classics and creative mixes. Bars onboard typically feature:

• Classic Cocktails: Martinis, Old Fashioneds, Margaritas, Mojitos, and Manhattans are standard.
• Signature Drinks: Many lines develop unique cocktails themed around the itinerary. For example, ACL’s Mississippi River cruises might offer a “Delta Daiquiri,” while Alaska voyages feature a “Glacier Gulp” with blue curaçao and rum.
• Spirits: Premium brands like Grey Goose, Johnny Walker, and Patron are available, though they may incur higher prices or require a premium package.
• Non-Alcoholic Options: Mocktails, specialty sodas, and zero-proof cocktails are increasingly popular and often included in drink packages.

Special Events and Themed Nights

Alcohol isn’t just for casual sipping—it’s central to many onboard events. Look out for:

• Wine Tastings: Often led by sommeliers or guest experts. ACL and AQV frequently host these on longer itineraries.
• Cocktail Hours: Daily happy hours with discounted drinks or complimentary cocktails during embarkation.
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Dinners: These formal events often include a complimentary glass of champagne or wine.
• Holiday Cruises: Themed drinks (e.g., eggnog on Christmas, mimosas on New Year’s Day) are common.

Cost and Value: Drink Packages vs. À La Carte

Understanding Drink Package Options

For guests on international cruise lines or those who plan to drink frequently, drink packages can offer significant savings. However, they’re not always cost-effective for light drinkers. Here’s a breakdown of popular options:

• Carnival’s “Cheers!” Package: ~$59.95/day (covers drinks up to $20 each). Best for guests consuming 3–4 drinks daily.

< NCL’s “Premium Plus” Package: ~$89/day (includes premium cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks). Ideal for heavy drinkers or families with multiple adults.

• Royal Caribbean’s “Deluxe” Package: ~$89/day (covers drinks up to $15 each). Add-ons available for premium brands.
• ACL’s Inclusive Model: No packages needed—alcohol is included in the base fare (typically $4,000–$8,000 per person for 7–10 days).

Tip: Calculate your potential savings. If you drink 5 cocktails per day at $12 each, à la carte costs $60/day—making Carnival’s package a better deal. For 1–2 drinks, pay as you go.

When À La Carte Makes Sense

Not all cruisers need a package. Consider à la carte if:

• You’re a light drinker (1–2 drinks/day).
• You prefer premium spirits (packages often exclude top-shelf brands).
• You plan to bring your own wine (see next section).
• You’re sailing on a small-ship line like ACL, where alcohol is already included.

Hidden Costs and Fine Print

Always read the terms and conditions of drink packages. Key points:

• Gratuities: Most packages add an 18–20% service charge automatically.
• Exclusions: Bottled water, room service, and specialty coffees may not be covered.
• Refunds: Packages are non-refundable, even if unused.
• Group Bookings: Some lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase a package if one does.

Bringing Your Own Alcohol: Rules and Restrictions

Can You Bring Alcohol Onboard?

Most American cruise lines allow guests to bring wine or champagne onboard, but with strict rules:

• Quantity Limits: Typically 1–2 bottles per person (750ml each). Excess is confiscated or stored until disembarkation.
• Corkage Fees: $15–$25 per bottle if consumed in dining rooms or lounges. Free if consumed in your cabin.
• Prohibited Liquids: Beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks (e.g., soda, water) are not allowed—they’re sold onboard and considered revenue loss.
• Embarkation vs. Port: You can bring alcohol on at the start of the cruise, but not in ports (except for wine/champagne purchased in duty-free shops).

Example: On a Carnival cruise, you can bring one bottle of wine per person. If you open it at dinner, pay $15 corkage. On NCL, you can bring unlimited bottles, but each incurs a $15 fee for dining room service.

Smart Strategies for Bringing Alcohol

Maximize your savings with these tips:

• Buy Duty-Free: Purchase wine or champagne in ports (e.g., Alaska, Caribbean) and bring it back onboard. No corkage fee if consumed in your cabin.
• Pack in Luggage: Avoid carry-on liquids restrictions by packing bottles in checked luggage.
• Choose High-Value Wines: Bring a $50 bottle to avoid paying $15–$25 for a similar wine onboard.
• Check the Policy: Review your cruise line’s website or call customer service before packing.

What Happens to Confiscated Alcohol?

Excess or prohibited alcohol is typically stored in a secure area and returned at the end of the cruise. Some lines (e.g., Royal Caribbean) may donate confiscated spirits to charity. Never attempt to smuggle alcohol—security scans luggage, and violations can lead to fines or removal from the ship.

Regional Variations and Unique Experiences

Alaska and the Pacific Northwest

On Alaska cruises, expect:

• Local Brews: Alaskan Brewing Co., Midnight Sun, and other regional favorites.
• Whiskey Tastings: Some ships partner with distilleries for onboard events.
• Glacier Bar Themes: Icy cocktails with blue curaçao and vodka.

ACL’s Alaska itineraries often include complimentary wine and beer pairings with meals, reflecting the region’s culinary focus.

Mississippi River and Southern Cruises

River cruises highlight Southern culture:

• Bourbon and Whiskey: American Queen Voyages features Kentucky bourbon tastings.
• Hurricanes and Mint Juleps: New Orleans-themed bars serve classic cocktails.
• Live Music and Happy Hours: Daily events with discounted drinks.

Great Lakes and Coastal Cruises

These itineraries emphasize regional flavors:

• Michigan Cider: Featured on ACL’s Great Lakes cruises.
• Oregon Pinot Noir: Paired with seafood dishes on Pacific cruises.
• Local Craft Spirits: Small-batch distilleries often supply onboard bars.

Data Table: Alcohol Policies by Cruise Line

Cruise Line	Alcohol Included?	Drink Packages Available?	Bring Your Own?	Corkage Fee	Special Features
American Cruise Lines (ACL)	Yes (beer, wine, cocktails)	No	1 bottle of wine	$15 (dining room)	Complimentary wine tastings, local brews
American Queen Voyages	Partial (beer/wine with dinner)	Yes (Premium Plus)	1 bottle of wine	$15	Bourbon tastings, themed cocktail events
Carnival Cruise Line	No	Yes (“Cheers!”)	1 bottle of wine	$15	Unlimited soda, specialty coffee in package
Norwegian Cruise Line	No	Yes (“Premium Plus”)	Unlimited wine/champagne	$15	Free-flowing wine at select restaurants
Royal Caribbean	No	Yes (“Deluxe”)	1 bottle of wine	$15	Specialty cocktail bars, mixology classes

Conclusion: Maximizing Your Cruise Alcohol Experience

So, do American cruise lines serve alcohol? Absolutely—and the options are more diverse than ever. Whether you’re sipping a craft beer on a Mississippi riverboat, enjoying a complimentary glass of Oregon Pinot Noir on an ACL Alaska cruise, or toasting with a signature cocktail on a Carnival ship, alcohol is woven into the fabric of the modern cruise experience. The key to a satisfying (and budget-conscious) trip lies in understanding your cruise line’s policies, evaluating your drinking habits, and leveraging smart strategies like drink packages or bringing your own wine.

For all-inclusive seekers, small-ship lines like ACL and AQV offer a hassle-free, premium experience with alcohol built into the fare. For adventurous drinkers, international lines provide extensive bars, mixology classes, and themed events—just be mindful of à la carte costs. And for budget travelers, bringing a bottle of wine (or two) can offset high onboard prices while adding a personal touch to your cruise.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your preferences, itinerary, and travel style. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a cocktail enthusiast, or a casual drinker, American cruise lines deliver. So pack your bags, raise a glass, and set sail—your perfect cruise awaits, cocktail in hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do American cruise lines serve alcohol on board?

Yes, most American cruise lines serve alcohol, including beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, at bars, lounges, and restaurants. Policies may vary slightly by cruise line, but alcohol is generally available for purchase throughout the ship.

Can I bring my own alcohol on an American cruise line?

Most American cruise lines prohibit passengers from bringing their own alcohol onboard, with exceptions for wine or champagne in some cases. Any alcohol purchased during port visits is typically stored and returned on the last day.

Are alcoholic drinks included in the price of an American cruise?

Alcoholic drinks are usually not included in the base fare, but many cruise lines offer drink packages to cover beer, wine, cocktails, and premium spirits. Check your specific cruise line’s policy before booking.

Do American cruise lines serve alcohol during dinner?

Yes, American cruise lines serve alcohol during dinner, including wine pairings, cocktails, and after-dinner drinks. Some specialty dining venues may offer curated drinks menus for an additional fee.

Is there a limit to how much alcohol I can consume on an American cruise line?

American cruise lines enforce responsible drinking policies, and staff may limit service to visibly intoxicated passengers. The goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

Do American cruise lines serve alcohol at kids’ activities or family events?

No, alcohol is not served at kids’ activities or family-focused events. However, adults can enjoy alcohol at designated adult-only areas or evening events while children are in supervised programs.