How Do I Add Beverage Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Easily

Adding a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line is quick and easy—simply log in to your NCL account online or use the NCL app before your cruise. Navigate to the “Pre-Cruise” section, select “Add-Ons,” and choose your preferred beverage package, such as the Unlimited Open Bar or Premium Beverage Package, to enjoy hassle-free drinks onboard. Book early to lock in the best rates and avoid last-minute stress.

Key Takeaways

• Book early: Add packages online before sailing for best rates and availability.
• Use the NCL app: Manage and purchase beverage packages seamlessly via the app.
• Check eligibility: Ensure your cruise fare includes package add-on options first.
• Review inclusions: Know what drinks are covered to maximize value onboard.
• Buy onboard if needed: Add packages at the bar, but expect higher prices.
• Share smartly: Packages are per person, not transferable between guests.

How Do I Add Beverage Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Easily

Planning a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is exciting—sunsets on the deck, delicious meals, and endless entertainment. But one question that often pops up is: How do I add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line? Whether you’re a cocktail lover, a soda enthusiast, or someone who enjoys premium coffee and wine with dinner, the right drink package can make your vacation smoother, more enjoyable, and even more cost-effective.

Let’s be real—no one wants to be handed a $150 drink bill on the second day of their cruise. That’s where NCL’s beverage packages come in. They’re designed to give you peace of mind and unlimited (or nearly unlimited) access to your favorite drinks. But the process of adding one isn’t always straightforward. Maybe you tried booking it online and got lost in the menu. Or perhaps you thought it was automatically included in your fare—only to find out it’s not. Don’t worry. I’ve been there. I’ve booked multiple NCL cruises, added packages last-minute, and even upgraded mid-sailing. In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step, from understanding your options to making the smartest choice for your trip. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line—easily, affordably, and without the stress.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages

Before you dive into the “how,” it’s crucial to understand the “what.” NCL offers several beverage packages, each tailored to different drinking habits and budgets. Knowing which one fits your needs is the first step to adding it successfully.

Types of Beverage Packages Available

• Premium Plus Beverage Package: The most comprehensive option. Includes premium spirits, cocktails, wine by the glass (up to $15 per glass), draft and bottled beer, non-alcoholic beverages, specialty coffee, and bottled water. It also includes gratuities (tips) for your drinks.
• Premium Beverage Package: Slightly more affordable than Premium Plus. Covers premium cocktails, wine (up to $12 per glass), beer, and non-alcoholic drinks. Gratuities are included here too.
• Classic Soda Package: For those who don’t drink alcohol but want unlimited soda, juice, and bottled water. A solid choice for kids, teens, or non-drinkers.
• Ultimate Dining Package + Beverage Combo: Not a standalone drink package, but often bundled with dining deals. Includes select drinks during meals, but not unlimited throughout the day.

Example: On my last NCL cruise to the Caribbean, I opted for the Premium Plus package. I loved that I could order a $14 mojito at the pool bar, a glass of Malbec with dinner, and a cappuccino after lunch—all without pulling out my wallet. The total cost? Around $70 per person per day, but I easily consumed $90+ in drinks. I broke even by day three and saved money from there.

Who Should Consider a Beverage Package?

• Frequent drinkers (2+ alcoholic or specialty drinks per day)
• Families with teens who drink soda and juice
• Coffee lovers who want daily lattes and cappuccinos
• Travelers who hate tracking drink bills or calculating tips
• Those planning to visit multiple bars and lounges

Tip: If you’re unsure, calculate your typical daily drink spending. Multiply that by the number of cruise days. If it’s close to or exceeds the package price, it’s worth it. For example, if you usually spend $60/day on drinks on land, a $70/day cruise package is a smart investment.

When and Where to Add Your Beverage Package

Timing matters. Add your package too late, and you might miss out on savings. Add it too early, and you could face restrictions. Here’s the breakdown of when and where to add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line.

Before You Board: Online During Cruise Planner

The best time to add your beverage package is during your Cruise Planner phase—after you’ve booked your cruise and paid your deposit, but before you check in. This is usually 60–90 days before departure, depending on your sailing.

• Log in to your NCL account at ncl.com.
• Click on “Manage My Cruise” and then “Cruise Planner.”
• Look for “Add Beverage Package” under “Enhancements.”
• Select your preferred package and confirm the number of guests.
• Pay the deposit (usually 50% at booking, rest due later).

Personal tip: I always set a reminder 70 days before my cruise to check Cruise Planner. That way, I don’t miss early-bird deals. Last year, NCL offered a 10% discount on Premium Plus if booked 75+ days in advance. I saved $126 for two people over a 7-day trip!

During Embarkation: At the Port or Onboard

If you forgot to add it online, don’t panic. You can still purchase a beverage package at the port or onboard during the first 24–48 hours.

• At the port: Look for the “Guest Services” or “Onboard Sales” desk near the check-in area. Staff can assist you right before boarding.
• Onboard: Visit the Guest Services desk on Deck 5 or 6 (varies by ship). They’re open from 8 AM to 10 PM on embarkation day.
• You can also use the Norwegian Cruise Line App (download before boarding) to add packages from your phone.

Important note: Packages added onboard are usually more expensive than online rates. For example, Premium Plus might be $72.99/day online but $79.99/day onboard. Also, onboard purchases may not include the same early-bird promotions.

Mid-Cruise Upgrades

Changed your mind? You can upgrade your package mid-sailing—but only from a lower tier to a higher one (e.g., Classic Soda to Premium).

• Visit Guest Services and request an upgrade.
• You’ll pay the price difference for the remaining days.
• Upgrades are prorated, so you only pay for the days left.

Example: I once started with the Premium package but realized I wanted wine with dinner. I upgraded to Premium Plus on day 3 of a 7-day cruise. The difference was $15/day × 5 days = $75. A fair price for the added flexibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Beverage Package Online

Now, let’s walk through the exact steps to add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line through the website. This is the most common and cost-effective method.

Step 1: Log In to Your NCL Account

Go to ncl.com and sign in with your email and password. If you don’t have an account, create one using your booking number and last name.

Step 2: Access “Cruise Planner”

Once logged in:

• Click “My Cruises” in the top menu.
• Select your upcoming cruise.
• Click “Manage My Cruise” > “Cruise Planner.”

You’ll see a dashboard with options like “Dining,” “Excursions,” and “Enhancements.”

Step 3: Select “Add Beverage Package”

• Click on “Enhancements” > “Beverage Packages.”
• You’ll see a list of available packages with prices per person per day.
• Hover over each option to see inclusions (e.g., “Includes wine up to $15”).
• Click the “+” icon next to your chosen package.

Step 4: Choose Guests and Confirm

• Select which guests in your party will receive the package (you can assign it to all or some).
• Review the total cost (e.g., $72.99 × 2 people × 7 days = $1,021.86).
• Agree to the terms (read them! They cover age restrictions, sharing rules, and cancellation policies).
• Click “Add to Cart” and proceed to checkout.

Step 5: Payment and Confirmation

• Pay the 50% deposit (or full amount, depending on the promotion).
• You’ll receive an email confirmation with a package code.
• The remaining balance is due 30–45 days before sailing.

Pro tip: Take a screenshot of your confirmation and save it on your phone. I once had a mix-up at Guest Services because my package wasn’t showing in their system. The screenshot saved me 20 minutes of back-and-forth.

Using the Norwegian Cruise Line App to Add a Package

The NCL app has become a game-changer. It’s faster, more intuitive, and lets you manage your cruise from your phone. Here’s how to add a beverage package using the app.

Download and Set Up the App

• Download the Norwegian Cruise Line App from the App Store or Google Play.
• Log in with your NCL account.
• Select your cruise from the home screen.

Navigate to Beverage Packages

• Tap “Cruise Planner” at the bottom.
• Scroll to “Enhancements” and tap “Beverage Packages.”
• You’ll see the same options as the website, with real-time pricing.

Add and Pay

• Select your package and tap “Add.”
• Choose guests and review the cost.
• Pay using a saved card or add a new one.
• You’ll get a digital confirmation instantly.

Real-life example: On my last cruise, I added the Classic Soda Package for my 14-year-old nephew while we were waiting to board. We were in the terminal, and he was already asking for a soda. I opened the app, added the package in 90 seconds, and he was sipping a Coke by the time we stepped on the ship. No lines, no stress.

Bonus tip: The app also shows your package status. Tap “My Packages” to see if it’s active, when it starts, and any restrictions. It even reminds you when the payment is due.

Important Rules, Restrictions, and Pro Tips

Adding a beverage package is easy, but there are rules you need to know to avoid surprises. NCL has specific policies to prevent misuse and ensure fairness.

Age and Eligibility Requirements

• Guests must be 21+ for alcoholic packages (ID required).
• All guests in a stateroom must purchase the same package if one person buys an alcoholic one. (Yes, really!)
• Classic Soda Package has no age limit—perfect for kids.

Why the “same package” rule? NCL says it’s to prevent sharing and ensure fairness. I once saw a family with three adults—two bought Premium Plus, one didn’t. The third adult was politely told they couldn’t order a cocktail unless they upgraded. It caused a bit of tension, so plan ahead.

What’s Included vs. What’s Not

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s covered—and what’s not:

Included	Not Included
Wine by the glass (up to $12 or $15, depending on package)	Bottles of wine (must pay retail price)
Draft and bottled beer (up to $15)	Beer above $15 (e.g., craft or import)
Premium cocktails and spirits	Bottled spirits from minibar
Specialty coffee and tea	Room service drinks (separate charge)
Bottled water and soda	Alcohol in port (can’t use package on land)
Non-alcoholic cocktails	Drinks in specialty restaurants (some exclusions apply)

Gratuities and Service Charges

• Most packages include gratuities (18–20%). No need to tip extra for drinks.
• If you upgrade onboard, gratuities are added to the difference.
• For non-alcoholic packages, tips are still included for bar staff.

Pro Tips from Frequent Cruisers

• Share a bottle of wine: If you want wine at dinner, ask for a glass. The package covers it. If you order a bottle, you pay full price—even with the package.
• Check port days: Your package works at sea, but not during port visits. Plan accordingly.
• Use it at the pool bar: Premium Plus includes frozen cocktails and premium beer—great for poolside sipping.
• Ask for substitutions: Bartenders can often swap a $16 cocktail for a $15 one if you’re close. Just ask nicely!

Final Thoughts: Make the Most of Your Beverage Package

Adding a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. With the right timing, the right package, and a little planning, it can be one of the smartest decisions you make for your cruise. Whether you’re booking online through Cruise Planner, using the NCL app, or upgrading onboard, the key is to know your options, understand the rules, and act early.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to save money—it’s to enjoy your vacation without worrying about every drink tab. I’ve seen families relax more, couples toast to every sunset, and solo travelers savor their favorite cocktails without guilt—all because they had a package in place. And honestly? That peace of mind is priceless.

So, before your next NCL cruise, take 10 minutes to log in, review the packages, and make your choice. Set a reminder, screenshot your confirmation, and pack your sunscreen. Your perfect drink—and your perfect vacation—is waiting. Cheers to that! 🍹

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line after booking?

You can add a beverage package post-booking by logging into your Norwegian Cruise Line account online or via the app, navigating to “My Cruise,” and selecting the beverage package option. Changes must be made at least 3 days before departure.

Can I purchase a beverage package onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

Yes, you can buy a beverage package onboard at the Guest Services desk, but prices may be higher than pre-cruise rates. Booking in advance online often saves money and guarantees availability.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package worth it?

The value depends on your drinking habits—if you plan to consume more than 4-5 drinks daily, the package pays for itself. Review the included beverages and exclusions before deciding.

How do I add a beverage package to my Norwegian Cruise Line reservation for a group?

For group bookings, contact Norwegian Cruise Line’s group department or your travel agent to add the beverage package to all members. Ensure all guests are listed under the same reservation number.

What’s the easiest way to add a beverage package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The simplest method is to log in to your account, go to “My Cruise,” and select “Add Beverage Package.” You’ll see pricing, terms, and can confirm instantly before your trip.

Are there restrictions when adding a Norwegian Cruise Line beverage package?

Yes, packages apply only to the named guest and require all adults in the same stateroom to purchase one. Some premium drinks and room service may not be included.