Drinks Cost On Norwegian Cruise: A Budget Guide

Picture yourself on the deck of a Norwegian Cruise ship, ocean breeze in your hair, but then the waiter approaches… how much will that cocktail set you back? Many cruisers wonder about the cost of beverages onboard. This guide will break down the pricing for various drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line, helping you budget effectively and avoid any bill shock at the end of your trip. We’ll cover everything from individual drink prices to beverage packages, ensuring you understand how much do drinks cost on Norwegian cruise ships and how to get the best value for your money.

Understanding Drink Prices on Norwegian Cruise Line

Understanding the pricing structure for drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line is crucial for planning your onboard spending. Without a clear understanding, you might find yourself surprised by the total cost of beverages, especially if you enjoy cocktails, wine, or specialty coffees. This section will provide a breakdown of typical drink prices, covering everything from beer and soda to premium spirits and wines.

Typical Drink Prices Without a Beverage Package

Without a beverage package, you’ll pay a la carte for each drink. This can be a viable option if you only plan to have a few drinks per day, but it’s important to know the baseline prices. Here’s a general overview:

Soda and Juice: Typically around $3-$4 per can or glass. Consider if you will drink enough to make a soda package worthwhile.
Beer: Domestic beers range from $7-$8, while imported beers can cost $8-$9. Keep an eye out for specials offered at certain bars or during happy hour.
Wine (by the glass): House wines usually start at $10-$12 per glass. Premium wines will cost significantly more.
Cocktails: Classic cocktails typically range from $12-$15, with specialty drinks sometimes priced higher. Remember to factor in the automatic gratuity added to each drink purchase.
Bottled Water: Usually around $3-$4 per bottle. Staying hydrated is important, so this can add up.

These prices are approximate and can vary slightly depending on the specific ship and bar. Additionally, an automatic gratuity of around 20% is added to each beverage purchase. This gratuity covers the service provided by the bartenders and wait staff. Planning accordingly will help you stay within your budget.

Factors Influencing Drink Prices

Several factors can influence the prices of drinks on a Norwegian cruise. Understanding these can help you make more informed decisions about your beverage consumption:

Ship and Itinerary: Prices may vary slightly between different ships and itineraries. Some itineraries may include port days with opportunities for cheaper drinks ashore.
Bar Location: Specialty bars or premium venues might charge slightly higher prices than standard bars. Consider trying out different venues onboard to compare prices and ambiance.
Promotions and Happy Hours: Keep an eye out for daily promotions and happy hours, which can offer discounted drinks. Many bars will advertise these specials.
Special Events: During special events or themed nights, certain drinks might be priced higher or lower. Check the daily schedule for any special events offering drink specials.
Currency Exchange Rates: If your itinerary involves international ports, be aware of currency exchange rates, as prices may be displayed in local currency.

By understanding these factors, you can better anticipate drink prices and take advantage of any opportunities to save money. For instance, planning your onboard drinks around happy hour or taking advantage of drink specials can significantly reduce your overall beverage expenses.

Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages

For many cruisers, purchasing a beverage package offers a more predictable and potentially cost-effective way to enjoy drinks onboard. Norwegian Cruise Line offers several beverage packages, each with its own set of inclusions and restrictions. Choosing the right package depends on your drinking habits and budget.

Types of Beverage Packages Available

Norwegian Cruise Line generally offers a few different beverage packages, each catering to different preferences and budgets. Here’s a look at the most common options:

Premium Beverage Package (PBP): This is the most comprehensive package, including a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, up to a specified price per drink (typically around $15-$20). It also includes a discount on bottles of wine.
Premium Plus Beverage Package: This package builds on the Premium Beverage Package by including top-shelf spirits, premium wines by the glass, specialty coffees, energy drinks, and bottled water. It also includes a discount on bottles of wine and access to room service drinks.
Unlimited Soda Package: This package covers unlimited fountain soda, juice, and select non-alcoholic mixers. It’s a good option for those who don’t drink alcohol but enjoy sodas and juices.
Cork and Caps Package: Usually, this only includes beer and wine.

The availability and specific inclusions of these packages can vary, so it’s essential to check the details on the Norwegian Cruise Line website or with your travel agent before booking. The prices of these packages can also change, so comparing them will help you choose the best one. These beverage packages offer convenience and can potentially save you money if you plan on consuming a significant number of drinks throughout your cruise.

Cost of Beverage Packages and Their Value

The cost of Norwegian Cruise Line’s beverage packages varies depending on the length of your cruise, the type of package, and any promotional offers. Determining if a package offers good value requires some careful consideration:

Premium Beverage Package (PBP): Prices typically range from $99 to $138 per person, per day (plus gratuity). To determine its value, estimate how many alcoholic drinks you’ll consume daily. If you typically drink 6-8 cocktails or glasses of wine per day, this package could be worthwhile.
Premium Plus Beverage Package: Expect to pay a higher daily rate, typically from $129 to $160 per person, per day (plus gratuity). This package is worth considering if you prefer premium spirits, high-end wines, and specialty coffees.
Unlimited Soda Package: This package is the most affordable, usually costing around $10-$15 per person, per day. It’s a good option if you mainly drink soda and juice.

To assess the value of a beverage package, calculate your average daily drink consumption and multiply it by the a la carte prices. Compare this to the cost of the package to see if you’ll save money. Remember to factor in the 20% gratuity that is added to the cost of each package. Many cruisers find that the peace of mind and convenience of a beverage package are worth the cost, even if the savings aren’t substantial.

Hidden Costs and Considerations

While beverage packages can offer good value, it’s important to be aware of potential hidden costs and restrictions that may impact your decision:

Gratuities: As mentioned, a 20% gratuity is added to the cost of all beverage packages. This can significantly increase the overall cost.
Sharing Restrictions: Beverage packages are typically non-transferable and cannot be shared. Each adult in the cabin must purchase a package if one person does.
Drink Limits: Some packages may have limits on the type or price of drinks included. Make sure to understand these limits before purchasing a package.
Package Availability: Beverage packages may not be available on all itineraries or ship types. Check with Norwegian Cruise Line or your travel agent to confirm availability.
Port Days: On port days, you might spend more time ashore and consume fewer drinks on the ship. Factor this into your calculations when determining if a package is worthwhile.

Understanding these hidden costs and considerations can help you make a more informed decision about whether to purchase a beverage package. Carefully consider your drinking habits and itinerary before making a purchase to ensure you get the best value for your money. A little planning can help you avoid any unexpected expenses and maximize your enjoyment of your cruise.

Strategies for Saving Money on Drinks

Even if you don’t opt for a beverage package, there are several strategies you can use to save money on drinks onboard a Norwegian cruise. These strategies involve taking advantage of promotions, planning your drink purchases, and considering alternative options.

Taking Advantage of Promotions and Happy Hours

One of the easiest ways to save money on drinks is to take advantage of promotions and happy hours offered onboard. Many bars and lounges will offer discounted drinks during specific times of the day or on certain days of the week.

Check the Daily Schedule: Consult the daily schedule, usually delivered to your cabin or available on the Norwegian Cruise Line app, for information on happy hours and drink specials.
Ask Bartenders: Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders about any current promotions or specials. They can often provide valuable information about discounted drinks.
Follow Social Media: Some ships may announce promotions on their social media channels. Follow the ship’s accounts for updates on drink specials.
Attend Welcome Aboard Parties: Welcome aboard parties often offer complimentary drinks or special pricing on selected beverages.

By actively seeking out and taking advantage of these promotions, you can significantly reduce your overall drink expenses. Happy hours can be a great way to sample different cocktails at a lower price, while daily specials can offer discounts on beer, wine, or spirits.

BYOB Policies and Alternatives

Norwegian Cruise Line has specific policies regarding bringing your own beverages onboard. Understanding these policies can help you plan your drink consumption more effectively:

Wine and Champagne: Guests are generally permitted to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person (of legal drinking age) onboard at embarkation. A corkage fee is usually charged if you consume the bottle in a dining room or bar.
Other Alcoholic Beverages: Bringing other alcoholic beverages, such as beer or spirits, is typically prohibited. These items will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Guests are usually allowed to bring a reasonable amount of non-alcoholic beverages, such as soda or bottled water, onboard for personal consumption.

Given these policies, consider purchasing bottled water or soda before boarding, especially if you prefer specific brands. Alternatively, you can explore options like purchasing a soda package or taking advantage of free water and juice available at certain locations on the ship. Planning ahead can help you avoid relying solely on onboard purchases and save money.

Other Money-Saving Tips

In addition to promotions and BYOB policies, several other strategies can help you save money on drinks during your Norwegian cruise:

Drink Water: Staying hydrated is essential, and water is free on the ship. Take advantage of complimentary water stations or bring a refillable water bottle.
Order Pitchers: If you’re traveling with a group, consider ordering pitchers of cocktails or beer to share. This can often be more cost-effective than individual drinks.
Attend Captain’s Reception: The Captain’s reception often offers complimentary drinks and appetizers. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy free beverages and mingle with other passengers.
Limit Specialty Drinks: Specialty cocktails and premium liquors tend to be more expensive. Opt for standard drinks or house brands to save money.

By implementing these simple yet effective strategies, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Remember to budget accordingly and track your spending to ensure you stay within your financial limits. A little planning can go a long way in making your cruise more affordable and enjoyable.

Comparing Drink Costs: A Case Study

To illustrate the impact of different drinking habits and beverage package choices, let’s consider a case study comparing two hypothetical cruisers: Alex and Ben. This comparison will help you visualize how your own drinking patterns might affect your onboard expenses and inform your decision about whether to purchase a beverage package.

Alex: The Moderate Drinker

Alex is a moderate drinker who typically enjoys 2-3 alcoholic beverages per day, primarily during dinner and evenings. He prefers simple cocktails or a glass of wine with his meals. He also drinks bottled water throughout the day and occasionally indulges in a specialty coffee.

Here’s a breakdown of Alex’s estimated daily drink expenses without a beverage package:

2 Cocktails at $14 each: $28
1 Glass of Wine at $12: $12
2 Bottles of Water at $4 each: $8
1 Specialty Coffee at $6: $6
Total Daily Expense: $54 + 20% Gratuity = $64.80

For a 7-day cruise, Alex’s total drink expenses would be approximately $453.60 without a beverage package. Considering his moderate drinking habits, it might be more cost-effective for Alex to pay a la carte and take advantage of happy hour deals. His expense isn’t too high so it will depend on his preference for the convenience of a package.

Ben: The Enthusiastic Drinker

Ben is an enthusiastic drinker who enjoys a wide variety of alcoholic beverages throughout the day. He typically consumes 5-6 cocktails, several beers, and a few glasses of wine. He also enjoys energy drinks and bottled water.

Here’s a breakdown of Ben’s estimated daily drink expenses without a beverage package:

6 Cocktails at $14 each: $84
3 Beers at $8 each: $24
2 Glasses of Wine at $12 each: $24
2 Energy Drinks at $5 each: $10
2 Bottles of Water at $4 each: $8
Total Daily Expense: $150 + 20% Gratuity = $180

For a 7-day cruise, Ben’s total drink expenses would be a staggering $1260 without a beverage package. In this scenario, purchasing a Premium Beverage Package or Premium Plus Beverage Package would almost certainly be more cost-effective. Given his higher consumption, Ben could save a considerable amount of money by opting for a beverage package. The cost of the package would quickly be offset by the savings on individual drinks.

Conclusion

This case study highlights the importance of assessing your individual drinking habits and preferences when deciding whether to purchase a beverage package. For moderate drinkers like Alex, paying a la carte might be the more economical option. However, for enthusiastic drinkers like Ben, a beverage package is likely to offer significant savings and convenience. Consider your own drinking patterns and compare the potential costs before making a decision.

Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Drink Costs

There are several common misconceptions and myths surrounding drink costs on cruise ships. Addressing these myths can help you make more informed decisions and avoid any unpleasant surprises during your cruise. This section will debunk some of the most prevalent myths and provide accurate information to set your expectations.

Myth 1: Drinks Are Always Cheaper Onboard Than On Land

This is a widespread myth that often leads to disappointment. While some drinks might be competitively priced compared to bars in major cities, many beverages are actually more expensive on cruise ships than in typical land-based establishments. The cost of convenience and the captive audience often contribute to higher prices.

Reasoning: Cruise lines operate in a unique environment with limited competition and higher operational costs. This allows them to charge premium prices for drinks.
Exception: Some promotional deals or happy hour specials might offer competitive pricing, but these are not always guaranteed.
Reality: Compare prices to your local bars before sailing to have realistic expectations.

Don’t assume that drinks will be automatically cheaper on a cruise ship. Researching prices beforehand and taking advantage of promotions can help you manage your expenses effectively.

Myth 2: Beverage Packages Always Save You Money

While beverage packages can offer significant savings for some cruisers, they are not always the best option for everyone. Whether a beverage package saves you money depends entirely on your drinking habits and preferences.

Moderate Drinkers: If you only consume a few drinks per day, the cost of a beverage package might outweigh the savings.
Non-Drinkers: A beverage package is obviously unnecessary if you primarily drink water or soda, since you can buy these cheaper.
Port-Intensive Itineraries: If your itinerary includes many port days, you might spend less time on the ship and consume fewer drinks, making a beverage package less valuable.

Carefully evaluate your drinking habits and itinerary before purchasing a beverage package. Calculate your average daily drink consumption and compare it to the cost of the package to determine if it’s truly worth the investment. A package that looks good on paper might not be the best choice for your specific needs.

Myth 3: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily

Attempting to sneak alcohol onboard is generally not advisable and can result in serious consequences. Cruise lines have strict policies regarding bringing outside alcohol onto the ship, and they actively enforce these policies.

Consequences: If caught, your alcohol will be confiscated, and you may face additional penalties, such as being restricted from purchasing alcohol onboard or even disembarkation.
Security Measures: Cruise lines employ various security measures, including baggage screening and inspections, to detect prohibited items.
Legality: Attempting to circumvent these policies may violate the terms and conditions of your cruise contract and could potentially have legal ramifications.

Avoid the temptation to sneak alcohol onboard. Instead, familiarize yourself with the cruise line’s policies and explore legitimate options for enjoying drinks during your cruise, such as purchasing a beverage package or taking advantage of promotions.

FAQ

How much does a beer cost on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The price of beer on Norwegian Cruise Line typically ranges from $7 to $9 per beer, depending on whether it’s a domestic or imported brand. An automatic gratuity of around 20% is added to each purchase, so factor that into your budget. Keep an eye out for beer specials offered at different bars or during happy hours, which can offer discounted prices on selected beers.

What is included in the Premium Beverage Package on Norwegian?

The Premium Beverage Package on Norwegian Cruise Line includes a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages up to a specified price per drink, usually around $15-$20. This package covers cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, soda, juice, and specialty coffees. Additionally, it often includes a discount on bottles of wine. Remember that gratuities are added to the cost of the package.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a Norwegian cruise?

Norwegian Cruise Line generally allows guests to bring one bottle of wine or champagne (of legal drinking age) per person onboard at embarkation. However, a corkage fee is usually charged if you consume the bottle in a dining room or bar. Bringing other alcoholic beverages, such as beer or spirits, is typically prohibited. Violators may have their beverages confiscated.

Is the unlimited soda package worth it on a cruise?

Whether the unlimited soda package is worth it depends on how much soda and juice you typically consume. If you drink multiple sodas and juices per day, the package can be cost-effective. However, if you only have an occasional soda, paying a la carte might be more economical. Weigh the cost of the package against your estimated daily consumption.

What happens if I try to sneak alcohol on a cruise ship?

Attempting to sneak alcohol onto a cruise ship is not recommended, as cruise lines have strict policies regarding outside beverages. If caught, your alcohol will be confiscated, and you may face additional penalties, such as being restricted from purchasing alcohol onboard or even disembarkation. It’s best to abide by the cruise line’s policies and explore legitimate drink options.

How can I save money on drinks on a cruise without a package?

You can save money on drinks on a cruise without a package by taking advantage of promotions and happy hours, looking for drink specials at different bars, and attending events like the Captain’s reception where complimentary drinks are often offered. Drinking water to stay hydrated, instead of purchasing other drinks, can also substantially lower your bill. Also try to go ashore on port days and grab drinks there.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how much do drinks cost on Norwegian cruise ships, and the various ways to manage those costs, is key to enjoying your vacation without exceeding your budget. Whether you opt for a beverage package or pay a la carte, carefully consider your drinking habits, take advantage of promotions, and be aware of potential hidden costs. A little planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cruising experience.