How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed

Alcoholic drink prices on Carnival Cruise Line range from $6 to $15 per serving, depending on the type and brand, with beer starting around $6, cocktails averaging $9–$12, and premium spirits at the higher end. Drink packages like the Cheers! Package offer savings for frequent imbibers, covering most drinks up to $20 for a flat daily rate—ideal for maximizing value on your cruise. Planning ahead? Check Carnival’s current pricing and package terms before sailing to avoid surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Expect $6–$15 for beer, cocktails, and wine.
• Save with packages: All-inclusive plans offer better value for frequent drinkers.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during select times.
• Premium options cost more: Top-shelf liquor and craft cocktails exceed $15.
• Free water stations: Skip bottled water costs with unlimited refills.
• Non-alcoholic savings: Sodas and mocktails are cheaper than boozy options.

How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Carnival Cruise Line: An In-Depth Breakdown

Planning a Carnival Cruise Line vacation is an exciting endeavor, filled with visions of tropical destinations, vibrant entertainment, and, of course, refreshing drinks by the pool. One of the most common questions cruisers have before setting sail is: how much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Line? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—pricing varies based on drink type, location onboard, time of day, and whether you opt for a drink package. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a wine enthusiast, or a casual beer drinker, understanding Carnival’s alcohol pricing structure is essential for budgeting and maximizing your cruise experience.

Carnival Cruise Line, known for its fun, energetic atmosphere and value-driven offerings, has evolved its beverage program in recent years to cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. From craft cocktails at the Alchemy Bar to wine pairings at specialty restaurants, the options are extensive. However, unlike all-inclusive resorts, most drinks on Carnival are not included in the base fare. This means that while your stateroom, main dining room meals, and entertainment are covered, your bar tab will be an additional cost. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the current pricing for beer, wine, cocktails, and premium drinks across Carnival’s fleet, explore the value of drink packages, and provide practical tips to help you enjoy your favorite libations without breaking the bank. Let’s dive into the details and uncover exactly what you can expect to pay for alcoholic beverages on your next Carnival cruise.

Understanding Carnival’s Alcohol Pricing Structure

Base Pricing by Drink Category

Carnival Cruise Line uses a tiered pricing model for alcoholic drinks, with costs varying by drink type, size, and location. The base pricing is standardized across most of the fleet, though slight fluctuations may occur on newer ships or during special events. Here’s a breakdown of the general price ranges as of 2024:

• Domestic Beers: $6.00 – $8.00 (e.g., Budweiser, Miller Lite, Corona)
• Imported Beers: $8.00 – $10.50 (e.g., Heineken, Stella Artois, Peroni)
• Craft & Local Beers: $9.00 – $12.00 (available at select bars and seasonal promotions)
• Wine by the Glass (5 oz): $10.00 – $18.00 (varies by varietal and region)
• Standard Cocktails (e.g., Margarita, Mojito, Martini): $10.50 – $14.50
• Premium Cocktails (e.g., Alchemy Bar creations, specialty infusions): $15.00 – $19.00
• Shots & Shooters: $6.00 – $10.00
• Non-Alcoholic Mixers (for DIY cocktails): $4.00 – $7.00 (e.g., soda, juice, tonic)

These prices are for individual drinks and do not include gratuities. Carnival automatically adds a 15% service charge to all beverage purchases, which is distributed to bartenders and waitstaff. This means a $12 cocktail will actually cost you $13.80 after gratuity.

Location-Based Pricing Differences

Not all bars on Carnival ships charge the same. Drinks served in premium locations often come with a markup due to ambiance, exclusivity, or specialty ingredients. For example:

• Poolside Bars (e.g., RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar): Standard pricing, but themed drinks (e.g., RedFrog Beer, Blue Iguana Margarita) may be slightly higher ($9.50 – $13.50).
• Alchemy Bar: Known for craft cocktails, prices range from $14.00 to $19.00. Signature drinks like the “Cucumber Sunrise” or “Spiced Pear Martini” are priced at the higher end.
• Specialty Restaurants (e.g., Bonsai Sushi, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse): Wine and cocktails are priced 10–20% higher than main bars. A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon at Fahrenheit 555 may cost $16–$22.
• VIP Lounges (e.g., Havana Bar on select ships): Exclusive access with higher drink prices. A mojito might cost $14.50 here versus $11.50 at a main bar.
• Late-Night & Themed Events: During parties like “White Hot Night” or “Carnival Legends,” specialty cocktails are offered at a premium ($13–$17).

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to save, stick to main bars or order during happy hours (typically 5–7 PM), when select drinks are discounted by 20–30%.

Alcohol Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Overview of Carnival’s Beverage Packages

Carnival offers several drink packages to help cruisers save on alcohol, but choosing the right one depends on your drinking habits. The most popular option is the Cheers! Beverage Program, which includes:

• Up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (any drink up to $15 value)
• Unlimited non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, bottled water, mocktails)
• Discounts on bottles of wine and premium drinks over $15
• 25% off all other alcoholic purchases beyond the 15-drink limit

The Cheers! package costs $59.95 per person, per day (plus 15% gratuity, bringing it to $68.94). It’s available for purchase pre-cruise or onboard, but pre-booking offers a slight discount (typically $2–$3 per day).

Other packages include:

• Bottomless Bubbles: Unlimited soda and juice for $11.95/day (great for families)
• Water Packages: 12 or 24 bottles of water for $35 or $60 (ideal for health-conscious cruisers)
• Specialty Coffee & Tea: Unlimited premium coffee and tea for $19.95/day

Calculating Break-Even Points

To determine if the Cheers! package is worth it, calculate your break-even point—the number of drinks per day you’d need to consume to justify the cost. Here’s how:

• Domestic Beer ($7.50 avg): You’d need to drink 8 beers/day to break even.
• Standard Cocktail ($12 avg): 5 cocktails/day breaks even.
• Premium Cocktail ($17 avg): 4 cocktails/day breaks even.
• Wine ($14 avg): 5 glasses/day breaks even.

Example: If you plan to have 2 cocktails at lunch, 2 beers by the pool, and 1 glass of wine at dinner (total: 5 drinks), the Cheers! package pays for itself. However, if you’re a light drinker (1–2 drinks/day), paying à la carte may be cheaper.

Limitations and Fine Print

The Cheers! package has important restrictions:

• Maximum of 15 drinks per 24-hour period (reset at midnight).
• No sharing—each drink must be consumed by the purchaser.
• Not valid at specialty restaurants or room service (except for wine discounts).
• Premium drinks over $15 require an upcharge (e.g., a $18 cocktail costs $3 extra).

Tip: If you’re traveling with a group, compare individual package costs versus à la carte spending. For example, two light drinkers might save by skipping the package and splitting a bottle of wine ($40–$60) instead of paying $137.88 for two Cheers! packages.

Wine, Champagne, and Bottle Pricing Onboard

By-the-Glass vs. Bottle Pricing

Carnival’s wine list features a mix of popular and premium labels, with prices varying significantly by varietal and region. Here’s a comparison:

• By-the-Glass (5 oz): $10–$18 (e.g., Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc)
• Bottle Pricing: $35–$120 (e.g., $45 for a standard Cabernet, $95 for a premium Napa Valley bottle)

Buying a bottle is almost always cheaper per glass. For example, a $45 bottle of Chardonnay contains about 5 glasses, averaging $9/glass—30% less than buying by the glass. Carnival also offers wine flights ($25–$35) for tastings of 3–5 small pours.

Champagne and sparkling wine options include:

• Prosecco (glass): $12–$14
• Champagne (glass): $16–$22
• Bottle of Moët & Chandon: $120–$140

Wine Packages and Special Promotions

Carnival occasionally offers wine packages (e.g., 3 bottles for $100) or buy-one-get-one-free promotions during port days. These are great for sharing with dining companions. Additionally, the Carnival Wine Club (available pre-cruise) allows you to order bottles in advance at discounted rates (15–25% off menu prices).

Pro Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion, ask your waiter about complimentary sparkling wine or a dessert pairing—many Carnival servers offer small upgrades for birthdays or anniversaries.

Happy Hours, Discounts, and Money-Saving Tips

Happy Hour and Daily Drink Specials

Carnival runs daily happy hours (usually 5–7 PM) with 20–30% off select drinks. Examples:

• RedFrog Rum Bar: $6.50 RedFrog Beer (normally $8.50)
• BlueIguana Tequila Bar: $8.50 Margaritas (normally $11.50)
• Main Pool Bar: $7.50 domestic beers (normally $9.50)

Other discounts include:

• Port Day Specials: Buy-one-get-one-free cocktails during port calls.
• Early Bird Happy Hour: 2–4 PM at select bars (less crowded, same discounts).
• Theme Party Deals: $5 shots during “Carnival Legends” or “White Hot Night.”

Smart Strategies to Save on Alcohol

Beyond happy hours, use these tips to minimize costs:

• Pre-Purchase Drink Packages: Save $2–$3/day by booking Cheers! pre-cruise.
• Order Bottles, Not Glasses: As noted, bottles offer better value per ounce.
• Use Carnival’s Free Water Stations: Skip $4 bottled water; refill reusable bottles.
• Limit Premium Upgrades: Stick to standard liquor (e.g., Bacardi, Smirnoff) instead of premium brands (e.g., Grey Goose, Patron).
• Share Cocktails: Many large-format drinks (e.g., RedFrog Beer buckets, punch bowls) are designed for sharing.
• Ask for Happy Hour Extensions: Some bars honor happy hour prices until 7:30 PM if it’s slow.

Example: A couple on a 7-day cruise can save $150+ by sharing two bottles of wine ($90) instead of 14 glasses ($196).

Data Table: Carnival Alcohol Pricing Comparison (2024)

Drink Type	Base Price (USD)	Gratuity (15%)	Total Cost (USD)	Cheers! Package Equivalent
Domestic Beer (12 oz)	$7.50	$1.13	$8.63	Included (if ≤ $15)
Imported Beer (12 oz)	$9.50	$1.43	$10.93	Included (if ≤ $15)
Standard Cocktail (e.g., Margarita)	$12.50	$1.88	$14.38	Included (if ≤ $15)
Premium Cocktail (e.g., Alchemy Bar)	$17.50	$2.63	$20.13	$15 (plus $5.13 upcharge)
Wine (5 oz glass)	$14.00	$2.10	$16.10	Included (if ≤ $15)
Champagne (5 oz glass)	$19.00	$2.85	$21.85	$15 (plus $6.85 upcharge)
Bottle of Wine (750ml)	$55.00	$8.25	$63.25	25% off ($47.44)
Cheers! Package (1 day)	$59.95	$8.99	$68.94	15 drinks + non-alcoholic

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by ship and sailing date. The Cheers! package allows up to 15 drinks per day valued at $15 or less; drinks above $15 incur an upcharge.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Carnival’s Alcohol Options

So, how much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Line? The answer depends on your preferences, consumption habits, and willingness to plan ahead. While individual drinks range from $7.50 for a domestic beer to $20+ for premium cocktails and champagne, Carnival offers multiple ways to enjoy alcohol affordably. The key is to balance spontaneity with strategy.

For heavy drinkers, the Cheers! Beverage Program can deliver significant savings—especially if you plan to enjoy 5+ drinks daily. Light to moderate drinkers, however, may find à la carte pricing or targeted happy hour specials more cost-effective. Wine lovers should consider bottle purchases or wine packages, which offer better value than by-the-glass options. And for those who want to splurge occasionally, Carnival’s specialty bars and VIP lounges provide unforgettable experiences, even if they come at a premium.

Remember, the 15% gratuity is automatically added to every drink, so factor that into your budget. Use the data table above as a reference point, take advantage of daily discounts, and don’t hesitate to ask servers about unadvertised deals. With a little planning, you can raise a glass to relaxation, adventure, and smart spending on your next Carnival cruise. Whether you’re sipping a frozen daiquiri by the pool, toasting with champagne at dinner, or enjoying a craft cocktail under the stars, Carnival’s beverage program offers something for every taste and budget. Cheers to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Line compared to other cruise lines?

Alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Line are competitively priced, often slightly lower than premium cruise lines like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian. Expect beers from $6–$9, cocktails $9–$14, and wine by the glass $9–$15, with variations based on brand and venue.

Is there a drink package for alcoholic beverages on Carnival?

Yes, Carnival offers the Cheers! Beverage Program for $59.95/day (plus gratuities), covering most drinks up to $20, including cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits. It’s cost-effective if you plan to consume 5+ drinks daily.

How much are specialty cocktails on Carnival Cruise Line?

Specialty cocktails, like frozen daiquiris or premium martinis, range from $10–$16 on Carnival Cruise Line. Prices vary by bar (e.g., RedFrog Rum Bar vs. Alchemy Bar), and souvenir cups may cost extra.

Are there discounts or happy hours for alcoholic drinks?

Yes, Carnival features daily drink specials, such as “Sail Away” discounts and happy hour deals (e.g., 2-for-1 cocktails). Check the daily newsletter for promotions, especially at pool bars and lounges.

Do drink prices vary between Carnival ships?

Prices are generally consistent across Carnival’s fleet, but newer ships (e.g., Mardi Gras) may have elevated pricing for premium venues like Bonsai Teppanyaki or the Chef’s Table. Always check menus onboard.

How much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival if I don’t buy a package?

Without a package, budget $6–$15 per drink, depending on type and location. For example, domestic beer starts at $6.50, while premium scotch could cost $12–$15. Gratuities (18–20%) are added automatically.