How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Alcoholic drink prices on Carnival Cruise Lines typically range from $5 to $15 per drink, with beer starting around $5.50, cocktails averaging $9–$12, and premium options costing more—especially at specialty bars. Drink packages like the Cheers! program offer savings at $59.95 per day, ideal for frequent drinkers looking to maximize value while sailing.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Expect $5–$15 for beers and $8–$16 for cocktails.
• Save with packages: Alcohol packages offer discounts for frequent drinkers.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during select times.
• Premium costs more: Specialty drinks and top-shelf liquor carry higher prices.
• Non-alcoholic options: Free water and soda; premium non-alc drinks cost extra.
• Check current menus: Prices and deals vary by ship and itinerary.

The Truth About Alcohol Pricing on Carnival Cruise Lines

Let’s face it: cruising isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the experience. And for many of us, that includes a refreshing cocktail by the pool, a glass of wine at dinner, or a cold beer after a day of exploring. But before you raise your glass, you’re probably wondering: how much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines? The answer? It’s a mix of budget-friendly options and premium indulgences, and knowing the difference can save you a surprising amount.

As someone who’s sailed on Carnival multiple times, I’ve learned the hard way (and the fun way) how alcohol pricing works. From happy hour deals to hidden costs, I’ll break it all down so you can sip smart without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just want a beer at sunset, this guide will help you navigate the bar menus like a pro.

1. Standard Drink Prices: What to Expect

Before we dive into packages or deals, let’s talk about à la carte pricing. Carnival’s drink costs are generally in line with other mainstream cruise lines, but there’s a wide range depending on what you order. Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll pay for common drinks.

Beer and Cider

Beer is one of the most budget-friendly options. Domestic drafts like Bud Light or Miller Lite start at **$6.50**, while imported beers (think Heineken or Stella Artois) run around **$7.50–$8.50**. Craft beers or specialty brews (like local island favorites) can go up to **$9.00**. Ciders, such as Angry Orchard, are usually in the **$7.00–$8.00** range.

• Pro tip: Look for the “Island Time” happy hour, where select beers are discounted by 20–30% during off-peak hours.
• Anecdote: On my last cruise, I scored a local Jamaican Red Stripe for $7.00 during happy hour—normally $8.50!

Wine by the Glass

Wine lovers, brace yourselves: prices here can add up fast. House wines (like a basic Chardonnay or Cabernet) start at **$9.00–$11.00** per glass. Mid-tier options (think Kim Crawford or La Crema) range from **$12.00–$16.00**, while premium labels (Opus One, anyone?) can hit **$20+**. Sparkling wine and rosé fall in the **$10.00–$14.00** range.

• Tip: If you’re dining at a specialty restaurant (like Fahrenheit 555), the wine list is more curated—but prices jump to **$15.00–$25.00** per glass.
• Watch out: Some bottles are marked up 2–3x retail prices. A $20 bottle might cost $60 onboard.

Cocktails and Spirits

This is where things get pricey. Classic cocktails (margaritas, mojitos, rum runners) range from **$10.00–$14.00**. Premium spirits (Grey Goose, Patron, Macallan) start at **$12.00** for a shot or mixed drink, with top-shelf options like Dom Pérignon cocktails hitting **$20+**. Non-alcoholic cocktails (like a virgin piña colada) are **$6.00–$8.00**.

• Fun fact: Carnival’s signature “Frog Bar” drinks (like the “Frog Leap”) are priced at **$11.00–$13.00** but come with a souvenir cup.
• Caution: Drinks with “premium” mixers (e.g., Red Bull, fresh juices) often cost extra.

Soft Drinks and Mixers

Not drinking? Soft drinks like soda, juice, or iced tea are **$3.00–$4.00** per glass. Bottled water (16 oz) is **$4.50**, and specialty coffee drinks (lattes, cappuccinos) range from **$5.00–$7.00**. Mixers like tonic or soda are free with alcohol purchases.

• Note: Kids’ drinks (e.g., Shirley Temples) are **$5.00–$6.00**, which feels steep for a cherry soda!

2. Alcohol Packages: Are They Worth It?

Now for the big question: Should you buy a drink package? Carnival offers two main options—the Cheers! Beverage Program and the Bottomless Bubbles soda package. Let’s break down the pros, cons, and math.

The Cheers! Beverage Program

This is Carnival’s flagship alcohol package, priced at **$59.95 per person, per day** (plus 18% gratuity). It covers:

• Alcoholic drinks up to **$20 per drink** (including cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits).
• Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juices, bottled water, specialty coffee).
• 15% discount on bottles of wine.

When it pays off:

• If you’re a heavy drinker (3+ cocktails/day) or wine lover (2+ glasses/day).
• You’ll drink premium spirits (Grey Goose, Patron) or high-end cocktails.
• You want unlimited bottled water or specialty coffee.

When it doesn’t:

• You’re a light drinker (1–2 beers/day) or prefer budget options.
• You’re sailing for just 3–4 days (the daily cost adds up).
• You’re sharing drinks or splitting bottles (e.g., couples).

Real-world example: On my 7-day cruise, I averaged 4 drinks/day. With à la carte prices, that would’ve cost **$280** (4 x $10 avg). The Cheers! package cost **$419.65** (7 x $59.95 + gratuity)—so I *lost* $140. But if I’d splurged on premium drinks (e.g., 2 Grey Goose cocktails at $14 each), the math flips: 2 x $14 x 7 = **$196/day** vs. $419.65 total—saving **$123**.

Bottomless Bubbles Soda Package

For non-drinkers or kids, this package costs **$9.95 per person, per day** (plus gratuity) and includes unlimited soda, juices, and bottled water. À la carte, these items cost **$3–$4.50** each. It’s a good deal if you’re guzzling 3+ sodas/day.

• Tip: Kids under 12 get free soda at the main dining room—ask your server!

Hidden Costs and Fine Print

• Gratuity: 18% is added to all packages.
• Sharing: Packages are non-transferable—no sharing with friends.
• Exclusions: Cheers! doesn’t cover mini-bar drinks, room service, or bottles over $20.
• Refunds: No refunds if you don’t use the full amount.

3. Happy Hours, Promos, and Discounts

Smart cruisers know: timing is everything. Carnival runs daily happy hours, seasonal deals, and onboard credit promotions that can slash your drink costs.

Daily Happy Hours

Most bars offer **2-for-1 deals** or **20–30% off** during off-peak hours:

• Island Time: 4–6 PM at pool bars (e.g., RedFrog Rum Bar, BlueIguana Tequila Bar).
• Late-Night Specials: 10 PM–midnight at nightclubs (e.g., The Punchliner Comedy Club).
• Happy Hour at the Piano Bar: 5–7 PM with $2 off cocktails.

Pro tip: Check the daily Fun Times newsletter for location-specific deals. On my last cruise, the Serenity Bar (adults-only) had a “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” wine special from 3–5 PM—perfect for sunset sipping!

Pre-Cruise and Onboard Promotions

• Pre-Cruise Cheers! Discount: Book the Cheers! package online before your cruise for **$54.95/day** (saving $5/day).
• Onboard Credit (OBC): Use OBC (from travel agents or promotions) to cover drinks. Example: $200 OBC = 20 cocktails.
• Military/Veteran Discounts: 10% off Cheers! for active/retired military (show ID onboard).
• Birthday/Anniversary Deals: Mention your special day—you might get a free drink or bottle of champagne!

Special Events and Tastings

Carnival hosts paid events like wine tastings ($25–$50/person) or rum seminars ($30–$40/person). These include free samples, but the real value is the education. I attended a “Tequila 101” class—learned to appreciate sipping vs. shots!

4. Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Without Sacrificing Fun)

Not ready to commit to a package? No problem. Here’s how to enjoy drinks without blowing your budget.

Stick to the Basics

• Beer: Opt for domestic drafts ($6.50) over craft or imported.
• Wine: Choose house pours ($9–$11) instead of premium.
• Cocktails: Order well drinks (e.g., Bacardi rum, Smirnoff vodka) instead of top-shelf.

Example: A rum and Coke with well rum = $8.00 vs. Grey Goose and soda = $12.00. Over 7 days, that’s a $28 savings!

Share and Split

• Wine bottles: Split a $40 bottle with 2 friends = $13.33/person (vs. $11/glass for 4 glasses).
• Cocktails: Share a large “bucket” drink (e.g., Carnival’s “Frozen Volcano” for $18) with 2–3 people.

Bring Your Own (Carefully)

Carnival allows **1 bottle of wine or champagne per adult** (max 2 bottles) in carry-on luggage. You’ll pay a **$15 corkage fee** to drink it in public areas. But if you’re dining in your cabin or a private balcony, no fee!

• Pro tip: Buy a $20 bottle at a port (e.g., Jamaica, Cozumel) and save $40+ vs. onboard.
• Caution: No hard liquor or beer allowed—only wine/champagne.

Free Alternatives

• Tap water: Always free—just ask for it with lemon!
• Infused water stations: Found near pools (cucumber, citrus, etc.).
• Tea and coffee: Free in the buffet or dining room.

5. Ports of Call: Drinking Onshore vs. Onboard

One of the best ways to save? Drink where the locals drink! Ports often have cheaper (and tastier) options than onboard bars.

Jamaica

• Onboard: Red Stripe = $8.50.
• Onshore: Local bar in Ocho Rios = $3.50 (plus a free dance lesson!).

Cozumel, Mexico

• Onboard: Margarita = $11.00.
• Onshore: Beach bar margarita = $4.00 (and the lime is fresher!).

Key West, Florida

• Onboard: Rum runner = $12.00.
• Onshore: Duval Street bar = $6.00 (with live music).

Pro Tips for Port Drinking

• Check local laws: Some ports (e.g., Bahamas) have open-container rules.
• Use cash: Credit cards aren’t always accepted at beach bars.
• Stay safe: Avoid unlicensed bars or “free drink” scams.
• Bring a reusable cup: Some ports ban single-use plastics.

6. The Bottom Line: How to Save (Without Skimping)

So, how much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines? The answer depends on you. Here’s a quick summary of strategies:

For Heavy Drinkers

• Buy Cheers! pre-cruise at $54.95/day.
• Use the 15% wine bottle discount to split costs with friends.
• Attend happy hours for 2-for-1 deals.

For Light Drinkers

• Skip the package and stick to happy hour specials.
• Share bottles or large cocktails.
• Bring a wine bottle (save $40+).

For Families

• Use free soda in dining rooms.
• Buy the Bottomless Bubbles package if kids drink 3+ sodas/day.
• Ask for “mocktails” (non-alcoholic) for free at some bars.

Data Table: Sample 7-Day Cruise Drink Costs

Scenario	Drinks/Day	Avg. Price	Total (7 Days)
Light drinker (2 beers)	2	$6.50	$91.00
Moderate (1 cocktail, 1 beer)	2	$9.25	$129.50
Heavy (4 cocktails)	4	$12.00	$336.00
Cheers! package (pre-cruise)	Unlimited	$54.95	$384.65 (incl. gratuity)
Port drinks (3 days, 2 drinks/day)	6	$4.00	$24.00

Final Tips

• Track spending: Use Carnival’s app to monitor your bar tab.
• Ask about specials: Bar staff often know unadvertised deals.
• Don’t rush: The first drink is often the most expensive—pace yourself!

At the end of the day, cruising is about fun, not frugality. But with a little planning, you can enjoy your favorite drinks—whether it’s a $6.50 beer or a $20 champagne cocktail—without guilt. Now, go forth, raise a glass, and sail happy! 🍹

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines typically range from $6 to $15, depending on the type and brand. Cocktails, beer, and wine fall within this range, with premium options costing more.

Does Carnival Cruise offer drink packages for alcoholic beverages?

Yes, Carnival offers several drink packages, including the Cheers! Beverage Program, which covers cocktails, beer, wine, and more for a flat daily rate. The package can be cost-effective if you plan to have multiple drinks per day.

Are there any happy hours or drink specials on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Carnival often features happy hours and drink specials, especially during themed deck parties or at select bars. Check your daily itinerary for discounted alcoholic drinks and special promotions.

Can I bring my own alcohol on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Guests are allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person (max 750ml) on embarkation day, but other alcoholic drinks are prohibited. Any additional alcohol purchased ashore will be held until the end of the cruise.

How much are premium cocktails and imported beers on Carnival?

Premium cocktails and imported beers usually cost between $10 and $15, depending on the brand and location onboard. These drinks are often priced higher than standard domestic beers or house wines.

Is gratuity included in the price of alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, a 15-18% gratuity is automatically added to all alcoholic drinks purchased onboard, including those under the Cheers! package. This service charge is reflected in your final bill.