Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have Coke or Pepsi A Complete Guide

Norwegian Cruise Line serves both Coca-Cola and Pepsi products fleet-wide, giving guests a rare choice between the two major soda brands on most ships. This dual availability ensures your favorite soft drink is likely onboard, though selection may vary slightly by itinerary and vessel.

Key Takeaways

• NCL serves Coca-Cola: Most ships offer Coke products exclusively.
• Check your ship: Confirm availability before booking specialty packages.
• Pepsi not standard: Rarely available; request in advance if needed.
• Unlimited soda packages: Include Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and more.
• Bring your own: NCL allows 12 non-alcoholic drinks onboard.
• Special requests work: Contact guest services for unique preferences.

The Great Soda Showdown: Coke vs. Pepsi on Norwegian Cruise Line

When you’re setting sail on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your favorite soda will be available onboard. For many travelers, the choice between Coke and Pepsi isn’t just a preference—it’s a dealbreaker. Whether you’re a die-hard Coke Zero fan, a Pepsi Max enthusiast, or someone who simply can’t start the day without a Diet Pepsi, knowing what’s on tap can make or break your cruise experience. After all, a week-long cruise without your go-to soda might feel like a desert without water.

Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” approach, prides itself on offering flexibility and customization. But when it comes to soda, the answer isn’t always straightforward. While some ships serve one brand exclusively, others offer a mix—or even let you bring your own. This guide dives deep into the Norwegian Cruise Line soda landscape, answering the burning question: Does Norwegian Cruise Line have Coke or Pepsi? We’ll explore the brand partnerships, onboard availability, drink packages, and insider tips to ensure you never go thirsty on your next NCL adventure.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Soda Brand Partnership: The Official Answer

The Current Soda Provider

As of 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has an exclusive partnership with The Coca-Cola Company, meaning Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero Sugar, Sprite, Fanta, and other Coca-Cola brands are the primary soda options onboard all NCL ships. This partnership covers:

• All bars, lounges, and restaurants
• Room service (where available)
• Self-serve soda stations in dining areas
• Specialty beverage packages

Unlike some competitors (e.g., Carnival Cruise Line, which serves Pepsi), NCL has standardized its soda offerings across its fleet. This consistency is a relief for travelers who rely on Coca-Cola products—no more guessing games when booking a cruise.

Why NCL Chose Coca-Cola

The partnership isn’t arbitrary. NCL’s decision to align with Coca-Cola stems from several factors:

• Global brand recognition: Coca-Cola’s worldwide appeal aligns with NCL’s diverse passenger demographics.
• Sustainability initiatives: Both companies prioritize reducing plastic waste (e.g., NCL’s “Sustainability at Sea” program).
• Marketing synergy: Joint promotions, like Coca-Cola-themed events or discounts, enhance the guest experience.

While PepsiCo products aren’t officially stocked, exceptions exist (see “Bringing Your Own Soda” below). But for 99% of travelers, Coke is the default.

Onboard Soda Availability: Where to Find Your Favorite Drinks

Self-Serve Soda Stations

NCL’s “Freestyle Dining” concept extends to beverages. Most ships feature self-serve soda stations in key locations:

• Main dining rooms (e.g., Savor, Taste)
• Buffets (e.g., Garden Café)
• Pool decks (near bars)

These stations typically offer:

• Coca-Cola (original, zero sugar)
• Diet Coke
• Sprite (original, zero sugar)
• Fanta Orange
• Minute Maid Lemonade

Pro Tip: Stations are refilled frequently but may run low during peak hours (12–1 PM, 6–8 PM). For fresh ice, head to the bar—staff often keep backup soda and ice behind the counter.

Bars and Lounges

All bars (e.g., Mixx Bar, Spice H2O) serve Coca-Cola products in cans or bottles. Specialty drinks like Coke Float (vanilla ice cream + Coke) are available at select bars. However, Pepsi is not stocked, even for specialty cocktails (e.g., a “Pepsi Colada” won’t be possible).

Example: On the Norwegian Encore, the Observation Lounge serves Coca-Cola in glass bottles, a nostalgic touch for soda lovers.

Room Service and In-Room Amenities

Room service menus list Coca-Cola products exclusively. Mini-fridges in cabins are stocked with:

• Coca-Cola (12 oz cans)
• Diet Coke
• Sprite

Prices range from $3–$5 per can, depending on the ship and itinerary. Tip: Use drink packages (see below) to avoid à la carte charges.

NCL Drink Packages: Are They Worth It for Soda Lovers?

The Beverage Packages Explained

NCL offers two primary drink packages that include soda:

1. Premium Beverage Package (PBP)
   • Price: $60–$80 per person/day
   • Includes: Unlimited soda, beer, wine, cocktails, and specialty coffee
   • Best for: Frequent soda drinkers (3+ cans/day) who also enjoy alcohol
2. Soft Drink Package (SDP)
   • Price: $15–$25 per person/day
   • Includes: Unlimited Coca-Cola products only (no alcohol)
   • Best for: Non-drinkers or families with kids

Example: A family of four drinking 10 sodas/day would save $120+ with the SDP vs. à la carte purchases.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

To determine if a package is worth it, calculate your soda consumption:

• Break-even point for SDP: 3–5 sodas/day (depending on ship)
• Break-even point for PBP: 5+ sodas/day + 2+ alcoholic drinks/day

Tip: Use NCL’s drink calculator (available on their website) to estimate savings.

Limitations and Exceptions

Even with packages, note these rules:

• No Pepsi substitutions: Packages only cover Coca-Cola products
• Glass vs. can: Premium bars may charge extra for bottled soda
• Port days: Packages don’t include drinks ashore (e.g., in Nassau)

Insider Tip: On port days, buy a 6-pack at a local store (if allowed) to save money.

Bringing Your Own Soda: Rules, Risks, and Alternatives

NCL’s BYO Beverage Policy

NCL allows passengers to bring one sealed 12-pack of non-alcoholic beverages per person, including soda. Key rules:

• Size limit: 12 oz or smaller cans/bottles
• No glass containers
• Must be sealed and unopened
• No commercial quantities (e.g., a case of 24 is prohibited)

Example: A Pepsi drinker could bring a 12-pack of Pepsi cans but not a 32 oz bottle of Pepsi Zero.

Risks and Challenges

While allowed, BYO soda has drawbacks:

• Storage space: Cabins have limited fridge space (prioritize essentials like insulin)
• Port restrictions: Some destinations (e.g., Cuba, Bermuda) ban imported soda
• Security checks: Large quantities may be flagged during embarkation

Tip: Pack soda in checked luggage to avoid security delays.

Alternative Solutions for Pepsi Lovers

If you’re a Pepsi devotee, consider these workarounds:

• Buy ashore: Purchase Pepsi at ports (e.g., Mexico, Caribbean islands)
• Use drink packages creatively: Mix Coca-Cola with citrus juice (e.g., lemon-lime) to mimic Pepsi’s flavor profile
• Special requests: Email NCL’s guest services pre-cruise (success varies)

Real-World Example: A Pepsi fan on the Norwegian Bliss bought a 12-pack in Cozumel and stored it in their cabin fridge, saving $50+.

Special Cases: Soda on NCL’s Private Islands and Shore Excursions

Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye

NCL’s private destinations have unique soda dynamics:

• Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas): Coca-Cola products sold at beach bars and snack shacks. BYO soda allowed on the island but not on NCL tenders.
• Harvest Caye (Belize): Coca-Cola served at the Lagoon Bar. Pepsi may be available at local shops (e.g., Belizean Breeze).

Tip: Bring cash (USD) to buy soda ashore—cards aren’t always accepted.

Shore Excursions and Ports of Call

When booking excursions, research soda availability:

• Mexico: Pepsi is widely available (e.g., OXXO convenience stores)
• Caribbean: Coca-Cola dominates, but Pepsi exists in some markets (e.g., Jamaica)
• Europe: Local sodas (e.g., Fanta in Italy) may replace Coke/Pepsi

Pro Tip: Use apps like Google Maps to locate soda-friendly stores near your port.

Special Events and Themed Cruises

NCL occasionally hosts events where Pepsi might appear:

• Pepsi-sponsored music festivals (e.g., Norwegian Escape’s 2019 Pepsi Rock Festival)
• Local cultural events (e.g., a Mexican-themed night might feature Jugos Naturales instead of soda)

Note: These are rare exceptions, not standard offerings.

Conclusion: Planning Your Soda Strategy for NCL Cruises

So, does Norwegian Cruise Line have Coke or Pepsi? The definitive answer is: NCL serves Coca-Cola exclusively, with no official Pepsi offerings. But that doesn’t mean Pepsi lovers are out of luck. With smart planning—like using drink packages, bringing a 12-pack, or buying soda ashore—you can enjoy your favorite beverage without sacrificing convenience.

For most travelers, the Coca-Cola partnership simplifies choices. The self-serve stations, drink packages, and onboard bars ensure easy access to Coke, Diet Coke, and other classics. And if you’re open to flexibility, mixing Coke with local flavors (e.g., a Coke and lime in the Caribbean) can be a fun way to experiment.

Final Tips:

• Pre-book drink packages: Discounts of 15–20% are often available online
• Pack smart: Use a collapsible cooler for BYO soda
• Embrace the local scene: Try regional sodas (e.g., Jarritos in Mexico)

Whether you’re a Coke Zero loyalist or a Diet Pepsi diehard, NCL’s soda scene has options. Bon voyage, and may your cruise be as refreshing as your favorite drink!

Data Table: NCL Soda Options by Ship (2023)

Ship	Self-Serve Stations	Bars (Coca-Cola Only)	Room Service	BYO Allowed?	Drink Packages
Norwegian Encore	4 (Dining rooms, buffet)	All bars	Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite	Yes (12-pack)	PBP, SDP
Norwegian Bliss	3 (Buffet, pool deck)	All bars	Coke, Diet Coke	Yes (12-pack)	PBP, SDP
Norwegian Escape	5 (Including Observation Lounge)	All bars	Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite	Yes (12-pack)	PBP, SDP
Norwegian Joy	2 (Buffet, dining rooms)	All bars	Coke, Diet Coke	Yes (12-pack)	PBP, SDP
Norwegian Pearl	3 (Buffet, dining rooms)	All bars	Coke, Diet Coke	Yes (12-pack)	PBP, SDP

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Norwegian Cruise Line serve Coke or Pepsi onboard?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) primarily serves Pepsi products across its fleet. While some specialty venues may offer limited Coca-Cola options, Pepsi is the main soda brand available.

Can I find Coca-Cola products on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

Coca-Cola options are rare but occasionally available in certain bars or dining venues. For guaranteed access, guests can request specialty soda packages—though Pepsi remains the standard.

What sodas are included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink packages?

Pepsi products like Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, and Mountain Dew are included in NCL’s beverage packages. Coke products are generally not part of these packages unless specifically arranged.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have Coke or Pepsi in their freestyle dining?

Freestyle dining venues on NCL primarily feature Pepsi-brand sodas. If you’re a Coke fan, check with individual restaurants, as availability may vary by location.

Are there any workarounds to get Coke on a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise?

You can bring sealed, non-alcoholic drinks onboard (limited to 12 per person) or contact NCL in advance to request special accommodations. Pepsi is still the default onboard option.

Why does Norwegian Cruise Line serve Pepsi instead of Coke?

NCL has a corporate partnership with PepsiCo, which supplies the majority of beverages fleet-wide. This agreement ensures consistent Pepsi product availability across ships.