Does Princess Cruise Lines Offer Alcohol Packages Find Out Here

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines offers a variety of alcohol packages to suit every traveler’s taste, from the Premium Drink Package with unlimited cocktails and wine to the more budget-friendly Beer & Wine Package. Whether you’re sipping poolside or toasting at dinner, these flexible options make it easy to enjoy your favorite drinks without worrying about the bill.

Key Takeaways

• Princess Cruises offers multiple alcohol packages to suit different drinking preferences and budgets.
• Compare package inclusions carefully to maximize value based on your consumption habits.
• Pre-purchase packages online for the best rates before your cruise departure.
• Premium options include premium spirits and wines, ideal for discerning drinkers.
• Check for regional restrictions as some packages vary by itinerary and bar location.
• Non-alcoholic packages are available for mocktails, sodas, and specialty coffees.

Does Princess Cruise Lines Offer Alcohol Packages? Find Out Here

Imagine this: You’re lounging on the sun-drenched deck of a Princess cruise, a cool breeze brushing your face, the ocean stretching endlessly. In your hand? A perfectly chilled cocktail. Now, imagine not having to worry about the cost of that drink—or the next one. Sounds dreamy, right? That’s the promise of alcohol packages on cruise lines, and if you’re eyeing a Princess cruise, you’re probably wondering: Does Princess Cruise Lines offer alcohol packages?

The short answer is yes—but it’s not quite as simple as a one-size-fits-all solution. Princess Cruises offers a range of beverage packages tailored to different tastes, budgets, and drinking habits. Whether you’re a casual wine lover, a cocktail enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys a cold beer by the pool, there’s likely a package that fits your needs. But here’s the catch: choosing the right one can make or break your cruise experience (and your wallet). In this guide, we’ll dive into the details of Princess’s alcohol packages, how they work, when they’re worth it, and when you might be better off paying as you go. No fluff, no hype—just honest, practical advice to help you make the best decision for your next vacation.

Types of Alcohol Packages Offered by Princess Cruise Lines

Princess Cruises doesn’t just offer a single “booze package.” Instead, they’ve built a tiered system with options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Think of it like a menu at your favorite restaurant—there’s something for everyone, but not every item will suit your taste. Let’s break down the main alcohol packages available.

The Premier Beverage Package

This is the gold standard of Princess alcohol packages. If you’re someone who enjoys variety—cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and even non-alcoholic premium drinks—this is likely your best bet. The Premier Beverage Package includes:

• All cocktails, mocktails, and specialty drinks up to $15 per drink
• Wine by the glass (up to $15)
• Domestic and imported beer
• Spirits, liqueurs, and cordials (up to $15)
• Premium coffee drinks, bottled water, and soft drinks
• 15% discount on bottled wine and champagne

One thing to note: the $15 cap is key. If you order a drink priced above that, you’ll pay the difference. For example, a $18 cocktail would cost you $3 extra. But most standard drinks fall within the limit, so this is rarely an issue for casual drinkers.

The Classic Soda Package

Not everyone wants alcohol. If you’re more of a soda, juice, or bottled water person, this package is for you. It includes unlimited soft drinks, bottled water, and non-alcoholic specialty drinks (like mocktails and premium coffees). It’s a simple, affordable option—perfect for families, designated drivers, or anyone who just doesn’t drink.

The Coffee & Tea Package

For the caffeine lovers out there, this package covers all coffee and tea drinks, including espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and specialty teas. It’s ideal if you’re a morning person who lives for that first cup of coffee or someone who enjoys an afternoon tea break with a view of the ocean.

The Beer Lovers Package

As the name suggests, this is for beer enthusiasts. It includes unlimited draft and bottled beer, including craft and imported options. It’s a great middle ground if you primarily drink beer and don’t want to pay per pint. Just keep in mind it doesn’t cover cocktails, wine, or spirits.

Pro Tip: Princess sometimes runs limited-time promotions, like a “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” deal on packages. Always check the cruise line’s website or ask your travel agent about current offers before booking.

How Much Do Princess Alcohol Packages Cost?

Price is one of the biggest factors when deciding whether to buy a package. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what you’ll actually pay—and whether it’s worth it.

Daily vs. Total Cost

Princess alcohol packages are priced per person, per day. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate daily rates (as of 2024, but always check for updates):

• Premier Beverage Package: $70–$85 per person per day
• Classic Soda Package: $10–$15 per person per day
• Coffee & Tea Package: $12–$18 per person per day
• Beer Lovers Package: $40–$50 per person per day

For a 7-day cruise, the Premier Package would cost roughly $490–$595 per person. That’s a significant chunk of change, but let’s put it in perspective.

When the Math Works in Your Favor

To determine if a package is worth it, calculate how much you’d normally spend on drinks. For example:

• 1 cocktail ($15) + 1 glass of wine ($12) + 1 beer ($8) = $35 per day
• Over 7 days: $245 total

In this case, the Premier Package ($490+) is more expensive than paying as you go. But if you’re a heavier drinker:

• 2 cocktails ($30) + 1 glass of wine ($12) + 1 beer ($8) + 1 mocktail ($10) = $60 per day
• Over 7 days: $420 total

Now, the Premier Package starts to look more attractive. Add in the 15% wine discount and free premium coffee, and you’re saving money.

Hidden Costs & Add-Ons

Be aware of a few extra costs:

• Gratuities: A 15–20% service charge is added to the package price. For the Premier Package, this could be $100+ extra.
• Drinks over $15: You’ll pay the difference. If you’re a fan of premium cocktails or high-end wines, this can add up.
• Shared packages: Packages are per person. If you’re traveling with a non-drinker, you can’t “split” one package between two people.

How to Book and Activate Your Alcohol Package

Booking an alcohol package on Princess Cruises is straightforward, but there are a few nuances to keep in mind. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Booking Before Your Cruise

The best time to buy a package is before you set sail. You can book it:

• During online check-in (via Princess’s website or app)
• Through your travel agent
• By calling Princess’s customer service

Why book early? Pre-booking often comes with perks, like discounted rates or waived gratuities. For example, Princess frequently offers “Buy Early, Save More” deals where you get 10–20% off if you book 30+ days in advance.

Onboard Activation

If you didn’t book in advance, you can still purchase a package once onboard. Visit the Beverage Desk (usually near the main lobby or pool deck) or ask your stateroom steward. However:

• Onboard prices are often higher than pre-booked rates
• Some packages (like the Premier) may sell out on longer cruises

Once you’ve purchased, the package is linked to your Medallion (Princess’s wearable tech). Simply tap it at any bar or restaurant, and your drink will be added to the package.

Canceling or Changing Your Package

Life happens. If you need to cancel or switch packages:

• You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before boarding
• Onboard, changes are allowed but may incur a fee
• No refunds for unused portions after the cruise starts

Tip: If you’re unsure, book the package early—you can cancel it later if your plans change. But don’t wait until the last minute to book, as prices rise closer to departure.

Is an Alcohol Package Worth It? A Realistic Breakdown

Let’s get real: Alcohol packages can be a great deal—or a total waste of money. It all depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and personal preferences. Here’s how to decide.

When a Package Makes Sense

Consider buying a package if you:

• Drink daily: If you enjoy 2–3 drinks per day, the cost savings add up fast
• Prefer variety: The Premier Package covers cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks—perfect for mixers
• Want convenience: No fumbling for your wallet at every bar
• Are on a longer cruise: The per-day cost feels more reasonable over 10+ days

Real-life example: Sarah, a 40-year-old from Chicago, bought the Premier Package for her 10-day Alaska cruise. She averaged 3 drinks per day and used the 15% wine discount to order a bottle with dinner. “I saved at least $200,” she said. “And I didn’t have to stress about the bill.”

When to Skip the Package

You might be better off paying as you go if you:

• Are a light drinker: 1 drink per day or less
• Only drink beer or wine: The Beer Lovers or Wine packages may be more cost-effective
• Prefer premium drinks: If you’re ordering $20 cocktails or $25 glasses of wine, the $15 cap means you’ll still pay extra
• Are traveling with non-drinkers: No shared packages = paying full price for each person

Another example: Mark, a 65-year-old retiree, skipped the package on his 7-day Caribbean cruise. “I had one beer by the pool and a glass of wine at dinner,” he said. “I saved over $300 by not buying the package.”

Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?

Some cruisers opt for a “hybrid” strategy: buy the package for the first few days, then switch to pay-as-you-go. This works well if:

• You’re unsure how much you’ll drink
• You want to sample the package before committing

Just remember: you can’t switch from pay-as-you-go to a package once you’ve started the cruise.

Insider Tips and Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, cruisers sometimes make mistakes when it comes to alcohol packages. Here are some insider tips to help you avoid the pitfalls.

Tip #1: Check for Promotions

Princess regularly runs special deals, such as:

• “Buy One, Get One 50% Off” for couples
• Free soda package with Premier purchase
• Discounted rates for loyalty program members (Princess Captain’s Circle)

Always check the “Deals” section on Princess’s website or ask your travel agent before booking.

Tip #2: Use the Wine Discount

The 15% discount on bottled wine is one of the Premier Package’s best perks. If you enjoy wine, order a bottle with dinner instead of by the glass. You’ll save money and get more value.

Tip #3: Watch for Drink Specials

Princess offers daily drink specials, like $5 margaritas or “buy one, get one free” wine. These aren’t covered by packages, so you might save by ordering specials instead of using your package.

Pitfall #1: Forgetting Gratuities

The 15–20% service charge is often overlooked. For a $500 package, that’s $75–$100 extra. Factor this into your budget.

Pitfall #2: Overestimating Your Drinking

It’s easy to think, “I’ll drink more on vacation!” But many cruisers find they drink less than expected due to activities, early dinners, or just wanting to stay sober for excursions. Be honest with yourself.

Pitfall #3: Ignoring Non-Alcoholic Options

Even non-drinkers can benefit from packages. The Classic Soda and Coffee & Tea packages are great for families or designated drivers. And if you’re on the Premier Package, you can use it for mocktails and premium coffees—no need to stick to alcohol.

Data Table: Princess Alcohol Package Comparison

Here’s a quick-reference table to compare the packages:

Package	Daily Price (Approx.)	What’s Included	Best For	Limitations
Premier Beverage	$70–$85	Cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, soda, coffee, 15% wine discount	Heavy drinkers, variety seekers	$15 drink cap, gratuities added
Classic Soda	$10–$15	Soda, bottled water, mocktails	Non-drinkers, families	No alcohol or coffee drinks
Coffee & Tea	$12–$18	Coffee, espresso, tea, hot chocolate	Caffeine lovers	No alcohol or soda
Beer Lovers	$40–$50	All draft/bottled beer	Beer enthusiasts	No cocktails or wine

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy a Princess Alcohol Package?

So, does Princess Cruise Lines offer alcohol packages? Absolutely—and they’re a solid option for many cruisers. But as with any purchase, the key is knowing your habits. If you’re a moderate to heavy drinker, the Premier Package can save you money and simplify your vacation. If you’re a light drinker or prefer non-alcoholic beverages, the soda or coffee packages might be a better fit.

Remember: There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Use the tips and examples here to crunch the numbers for your trip. And if you’re still unsure, consider booking early with a flexible cancellation policy. That way, you can lock in a good rate and decide later.

At the end of the day, a cruise is about relaxation and enjoyment. Whether you choose a package or pay as you go, the goal is to have fun—without stressing over the bill. So raise a glass (or a soda, or a coffee) to smart choices and unforgettable adventures. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princess Cruise Lines offer alcohol packages for all itineraries?

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines offers alcohol packages on most sailings, including popular routes like the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. Availability may vary slightly depending on the cruise duration and destination, so check your specific itinerary during booking.

What types of alcohol packages does Princess Cruise Lines offer?

Princess provides several drink packages, including the Premier Beverage Package (covering cocktails, wine, beer, and premium spirits), the Classic Soda Package, and the Juice Package. The Premier package is the most popular and includes drinks up to $15 per serving.

Can I purchase an alcohol package after booking my Princess cruise?

Yes, you can add an alcohol package post-booking via the Princess Cruise app or website before your sail date. However, prices may be higher onboard, so booking in advance is recommended for the best value.

Are there any restrictions on Princess Cruise Lines’ alcohol packages?

Alcohol packages have daily drink limits (e.g., 15 drinks per day for the Premier Package) and exclude premium bottles, room service, and minibar items. Some specialty drinks or venues may also not be covered.

Does Princess Cruise Lines offer non-alcoholic drink packages?

Yes, Princess has non-alcoholic options like the Classic Soda Package and the Juice Package, ideal for guests who don’t drink alcohol. These are budget-friendly and include unlimited sodas, mocktails, and fresh juices.

Is the alcohol package worth it on Princess Cruise Lines?

The value depends on your drinking habits—if you plan to enjoy multiple cocktails, wine, or beer daily, the package can save you money. Compare the cost of drinks à la carte versus the package price to decide.