Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have an Open Bar Find Out Here

Norwegian Cruise Line does not offer a traditional open bar, but it provides several drink packages that closely mimic one, including the popular Premium Plus Beverage Package with unlimited cocktails, wine, beer, and premium spirits. These packages—along with perks like free drinks during promotions or in certain suites—make it easy to enjoy a nearly all-inclusive bar experience at sea.

Key Takeaways

• NCL doesn’t offer free open bars: Alcohol is pay-as-you-go unless you book specific packages.
• Buy drink packages for savings: The Premium Plus Beverage Package covers most drinks under $15.
• Specialty dining perks: Some packages include free drinks at select venues—check before booking.
• Free basic drinks available: Water, coffee, tea, and juice are included in your fare.
• Promotions may include perks: Watch for limited-time deals offering drink packages or onboard credits.
• Gratuities added automatically: 18–20% service charge applies to all drink purchases.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have an Open Bar? Find Out Here

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most frequently asked questions is whether your chosen cruise line offers an open bar. For many travelers, the idea of sipping a cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or indulging in a late-night nightcap without worrying about the bill is a major selling point. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, has built a reputation for flexibility and customization, but does that extend to unlimited drinks? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it’s layered, nuanced, and highly dependent on your budget, preferences, and the type of experience you’re seeking.

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t offer a traditional, all-inclusive open bar policy where every drink is free for all passengers at all times. However, the cruise line has developed a robust and flexible beverage program that caters to a wide range of tastes and spending habits. Whether you’re a casual drinker, a wine connoisseur, or a cocktail enthusiast, NCL provides options that can make your vacation feel indulgent without breaking the bank. This comprehensive guide will explore NCL’s beverage offerings, break down the cost-effectiveness of drink packages, compare them to open bar policies on other lines, and help you decide what’s best for your next cruise. From the fine print to real-world examples, we’ll leave no bottle unturned.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Beverage Philosophy

The Freestyle Cruising Model and Its Impact on Drinks

Norwegian Cruise Line revolutionized the cruise industry with its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which emphasizes flexibility, choice, and personalization. Unlike traditional cruise lines that enforce strict dining times, dress codes, and fixed itineraries, NCL allows guests to dine when they want, wear what they like, and enjoy their vacation on their own terms. This philosophy extends to the beverage program: instead of a one-size-fits-all open bar, NCL offers a menu of options designed to suit different budgets and drinking preferences.

For example, you can enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, water, and basic soda throughout the ship at no extra charge. But if you want premium cocktails, craft beer, fine wine, or specialty coffees, you’ll need to pay à la carte or purchase a drink package. This model gives passengers control over how much they spend on drinks—ideal for those who want to enjoy a few cocktails without committing to an expensive, all-you-can-drink plan.

Why NCL Doesn’t Offer a Traditional Open Bar

While some luxury cruise lines (like Regent Seven Seas or Crystal Cruises) offer true open bars with unlimited premium drinks included in the base fare, NCL operates on a different business model. As a premium mainstream cruise line, NCL keeps base fares competitive by excluding most alcoholic and premium non-alcoholic beverages. This allows the company to offer attractive introductory pricing while generating additional revenue through drink packages, specialty dining, and onboard experiences.

According to industry data, beverage packages can account for up to 20% of a cruise line’s onboard revenue. For NCL, which sails with high passenger loads and a diverse clientele, offering a free-for-all open bar would significantly increase operational costs and potentially raise base cruise prices. Instead, NCL’s tiered approach ensures that only those who want to drink more—and spend more—do so, while light drinkers aren’t forced to subsidize others.

What’s Included for Free?

Before considering a drink package, it’s important to know what’s already included in your cruise fare. Norwegian Cruise Line provides the following complimentary beverages:

• Water (still and sparkling, available at bars and dining areas)
• Coffee and tea (including iced tea and hot chocolate)
• Basic soft drinks (Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.)
• Juice (orange, apple, cranberry—available at breakfast and lunch buffets)
• Lemonade and iced tea (seasonal availability)

Note that these are typically self-serve or available at designated stations. Premium coffee (like espresso or lattes from Starbucks-style kiosks), specialty cocktails, bottled water, energy drinks, and imported sodas are not included and must be purchased separately.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Packages: The Real “Open Bar” Alternative

Overview of the Three Main Beverage Packages

NCL offers three primary drink packages designed to mimic the convenience of an open bar while offering cost savings for frequent drinkers. These packages vary in price, coverage, and flexibility, allowing passengers to choose the best fit for their drinking habits.

• The Ultimate Beverage Package (UBP): This is the most comprehensive option, covering virtually all alcoholic drinks up to $15 per drink, including premium cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, beer, and non-alcoholic premium beverages (like specialty coffees and energy drinks). It also includes gratuities.
• The Premium Beverage Package (PBP): A mid-tier option covering drinks up to $10 per drink, including most cocktails, house wines, draft and bottled beer, and non-alcoholic premium drinks. Ideal for moderate drinkers.
• The Soda Package: For non-alcohol drinkers, this package covers unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, and select juices. It’s a cost-effective option if you prefer soda or want to avoid buying drinks individually.

All packages are priced per person, per day, and can be purchased before the cruise (online or via travel agent) or onboard. Pre-purchase often comes with a discount—typically 10–15% off the onboard price.

What’s Covered and What’s Excluded

While the Ultimate Beverage Package comes close to an open bar, it’s not entirely unlimited. Here’s a breakdown of inclusions and exclusions:

• Covered (UBP):
  • Cocktails, margaritas, martinis (up to $15)
  • Wine by the glass (up to $15)
  • Beer (draft and bottled, including craft and imported)
  • Liquor (vodka, rum, whiskey, tequila, etc.)
  • Non-alcoholic premium drinks (Starbucks, Red Bull, bottled water, specialty juices)
  • Gratuities (18% service charge included)
• Excluded (UBP):
  • Bottles of wine or champagne (must be purchased separately)
  • Top-shelf spirits (e.g., Dom Pérignon, Johnnie Walker Blue, Macallan 18)
  • Minibar items
  • Drinks at private events or VIP lounges (unless specified)
  • Room service drinks (though some packages offer a discount)

For example, if you order a $12 mojito at a poolside bar, it’s covered. But if you order a $25 bottle of Moët & Chandon at dinner, you’ll pay the difference. The same applies to a $16 craft cocktail—you’ll pay the $1 over the $15 limit.

Cost Comparison: Is a Drink Package Worth It?

To determine if a package is worth it, consider your daily drinking habits. Here’s a real-world example:

• You’re on a 7-day cruise.
• You plan to have 2 cocktails at the pool, 1 glass of wine at dinner, and 1 beer at a bar each day.
• Estimated à la carte cost:
  • 2 cocktails @ $12 = $24
  • 1 wine @ $10 = $10
  • 1 beer @ $7 = $7
  • Total per day: $41
  • Total for 7 days: $287
• Cost of UBP: $75/day x 7 = $525 (onboard price)
• Cost of PBP: $60/day x 7 = $420 (onboard price)

In this scenario, the packages are not cost-effective. You’d need to drink at least 3–4 premium drinks per day to break even with the UBP. However, if you add a specialty coffee ($6), an energy drink ($5), and a late-night cocktail, the math changes. The UBP becomes worthwhile if you consume $75+ in eligible drinks daily.

Pro Tip: Use NCL’s “Drink Calculator” tool on their website or consult a travel agent to estimate your usage. Many passengers find that the UBP pays off on longer cruises (10+ days) or for those who enjoy multiple drinks per day.

Specialty Bars, Happy Hours, and Free Drink Events

Complimentary Drink Events and Promotions

While NCL doesn’t offer a permanent open bar, it frequently hosts free or discounted drink events that can make your vacation feel more inclusive. These are excellent opportunities to sample premium drinks without using your package or paying full price.

• Happy Hours: Most bars offer 2-for-1 or 50% off drinks during select hours (e.g., 5–7 PM). Check the daily Freestyle Daily newsletter for times and locations.
• Welcome Aboard Reception: On embarkation day, NCL often hosts a complimentary cocktail reception for loyalty program members (Latitudes) or suite guests. Drinks may include champagne, wine, or signature cocktails.
• Wine Tastings and Mixology Classes: These events sometimes include free samples. Even if there’s a cover charge, you’ll receive multiple drink samples, making it a cost-effective way to try premium beverages.
• Port-of-Call Events: In destinations like St. Thomas or Nassau, NCL may offer free rum punch or local beer at beach parties or cultural shows.

Specialty Bars with Unique Offerings

NCL’s newer ships feature themed bars that elevate the drinking experience. While not free, these venues offer unique atmospheres and craft beverages:

• The District Brew House (on Breakaway and newer ships): Features 50+ craft beers on tap, including local and seasonal brews. While not free, happy hour deals and flight samplers can stretch your budget.
• Bar 21: A speakeasy-style lounge with craft cocktails and live jazz. Try their “Bar 21 Flight” (3 mini cocktails) for $18—a great way to sample premium drinks.
• Starbucks: Available on most ships. The UBP covers most drinks here, including lattes and frappuccinos.
• Ice Bar (on select ships): A sub-zero lounge with vodka-based cocktails. Entry fee applies, but drinks are à la carte.

Insider Tip: Visit the Guest Services desk early in the cruise to ask about unadvertised promotions. Sometimes, NCL offers free drink vouchers as compensation for minor issues (e.g., a delayed port call).

Suite and Latitudes Perks

Guests in Haven suites or Latitudes loyalty members (Silver level and above) receive additional drink benefits:

• Haven guests: Complimentary premium drinks (up to $15) at the Haven Lounge, including cocktails, wine, and champagne.
• Latitudes Gold/Platinum: Welcome drink, priority bar service, and occasional free drink vouchers.
• Latitudes Diamond/Elite: Free drink package (usually UBP) on select sailings or as part of a loyalty promotion.

These perks can significantly reduce your beverage costs if you qualify.

Comparing NCL to Other Cruise Lines with Open Bars

Luxury Lines: True Open Bars Included

For travelers seeking a true open bar experience, luxury cruise lines are the gold standard. Here’s how they compare to NCL:

Cruise Line	Open Bar Policy	Base Fare Premium	Best For
Regent Seven Seas	Unlimited premium drinks (including champagne, top-shelf liquor)	+40–60% vs. NCL	All-inclusive seekers, luxury travelers
Crystal Cruises	Unlimited drinks (including wine by the bottle)	+50–70% vs. NCL	Discerning drinkers, cultural cruisers
Seabourn	Unlimited premium drinks + complimentary minibar	+45–65% vs. NCL	Intimate, high-end experiences
Norwegian Cruise Line	Drink packages required (no free open bar)	Competitive base fare	Flexible, budget-conscious travelers

While luxury lines offer unparalleled drink freedom, their base fares are significantly higher. For example, a 7-day Alaska cruise on Regent might cost $6,000 per person, compared to $1,200 on NCL. The drink package on NCL ($525 for UBP) is a fraction of the price difference.

Mainstream Competitors: How NCL Stacks Up

Compared to other mainstream lines, NCL’s beverage offerings are competitive:

• Carnival Cruise Line: Offers the Bottomless Bubbles soda package and Cheers! alcohol package (similar to UBP). Carnival’s drink packages are slightly cheaper but have lower drink limits ($12 vs. NCL’s $15).
• Royal Caribbean: Deluxe Beverage Package covers drinks up to $15, but gratuities are not included (unlike NCL). Royal also has more specialty bars, but fewer free drink events.
• MSC Cruises: Offers an All-Inclusive Package with drinks up to $12, but it’s often bundled with other perks (like gratuities and Wi-Fi).

NCL’s advantage is flexibility: you can buy a package for just a few days, share it with a companion (with restrictions), or opt for à la carte if you’re a light drinker.

When an Open Bar Makes Sense

Consider a true open bar (via luxury cruise or package) if:

• You plan to drink 4+ premium drinks per day
• You value convenience over cost
• You want to enjoy wine with every dinner
• You’re celebrating a special occasion (anniversary, milestone birthday)

Otherwise, NCL’s packages or à la carte options may be more cost-effective.

Tips and Tricks to Maximize Your Drink Experience on NCL

Smart Ways to Save on Drinks

You don’t need a drink package to enjoy great beverages on NCL. Try these strategies:

• Pre-purchase online: Save 10–15% by buying your package before the cruise.
• Buy a package for only some days: Ideal for shorter cruises or if you’re a light drinker. You can activate the package mid-cruise.
• Use the Latitudes program: Earn points for free drinks and upgrades. Silver members get a free drink at embarkation.
• Take advantage of happy hours: Plan your evening around 2-for-1 deals.
• Bring your own wine: NCL allows one bottle of wine per person at embarkation (no corkage fee for the first bottle; $15 fee thereafter).

Sharing Packages and Group Discounts

While NCL doesn’t officially allow sharing of drink packages, there are workarounds:

• Purchase the UBP for one person and use it to buy drinks for your group (bartenders rarely check IDs).
• Book a suite with a free drink package (Haven) and share the perks.
• Ask about group discounts: For 10+ guests, NCL may offer a reduced rate on packages.

Note: Sharing packages violates NCL’s terms, but it’s commonly done. Use discretion.

Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

For non-drinkers, NCL offers:

• Free soda and juice stations
• The Soda Package ($15/day) for unlimited soft drinks and bottled water
• Mocktails at most bars (often free with a drink package or $8–12 à la carte)
• Specialty non-alcoholic drinks (e.g., kombucha, cold brew) at select venues

The UBP covers most non-alcoholic premium drinks, making it a great option for non-drinkers who want unlimited Starbucks or energy drinks.

Final Verdict: Is NCL’s Beverage Program Right for You?

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t offer a traditional open bar, but its flexible, tiered beverage program provides a practical and often cost-effective alternative. Whether you’re a casual drinker who enjoys a few cocktails by the pool or a connoisseur who savors fine wine and craft beer, NCL has options to suit your lifestyle and budget. The Ultimate Beverage Package comes closest to an open bar, covering nearly all drinks under $15, while free events, happy hours, and loyalty perks add value.

Ultimately, the “best” approach depends on your priorities. If you value low upfront costs and the freedom to drink (or not drink) as you please, NCL’s à la carte model is ideal. If you’re a heavy drinker or want the convenience of unlimited premium drinks, the UBP—especially on longer cruises—can save money and stress. For true open bar luxury, consider upgrading to a suite or switching to a luxury line, but be prepared for significantly higher base fares.

Remember: a cruise is about enjoyment, not just cost. Whether you opt for a drink package, stick to happy hour deals, or enjoy a single glass of wine at dinner, Norwegian Cruise Line gives you the tools to create your perfect vacation. So raise a glass—your way—and sail into the sunset with confidence, knowing exactly what’s included, what’s not, and how to make the most of every sip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have an open bar for all guests?

No, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) does not offer a traditional open bar for all guests. However, they provide drink packages like the Open Bar Beverage Package, which includes unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, and soda for a daily fee.

What does the Norwegian Cruise Line open bar package include?

The NCL Open Bar Beverage Package covers most alcoholic drinks (up to $15 per drink), including beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, and spirits. Premium drinks above $15 may require an additional fee.

Is there a free open bar on Norwegian Cruise Line?

NCL does not offer a free open bar, but select sailings may include a complimentary drink package as part of a promotion. Check your booking or contact NCL for current offers.

Can I share the Norwegian Cruise Line open bar package with others?

No, the Open Bar Beverage Package is only valid for the named guest and cannot be shared. Each adult in the same stateroom must purchase their own package if desired.

Does the open bar package on NCL include gratuities?

Yes, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to the cost of the Norwegian Cruise Line Open Bar Beverage Package, which covers service charges for your drinks.

Are there any restrictions with the Norwegian Cruise Line open bar?

Yes, the package excludes premium wines, bottles of liquor, specialty coffees, and minibar items. It also cannot be used in the casino or for in-room dining orders.