How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Cruise Lines A Complete Guide

Alcoholic drink prices on cruise lines vary widely, typically ranging from $6 for a beer to $15+ for premium cocktails and wines. Most cruise lines operate on a non-inclusive pricing model, meaning drinks are purchased individually or via drink packages that can offer savings for frequent imbibers. Costs also fluctuate by brand, ship, and destination—luxury lines tend to charge more, while promotions and happy hours can help reduce expenses.

Key Takeaways

• Prices vary widely: Cocktails range $8–$20, depending on cruise line and drink type.
• Buy drink packages: Save money with all-inclusive options if you drink 5+ drinks daily.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during onboard promotions.
• Budget for gratuities: 15–20% service charge is often added to each drink purchase.
• Compare lines: Luxury brands cost more, while mainstream lines offer better value.
• Bring your own: Some lines allow personal bottles, but corkage fees apply.

How Much Are Alcoholic Drinks on Cruise Lines? A Complete Guide

Imagine this: you’re on a sun-kissed deck, the ocean breeze in your hair, a fruity cocktail in hand, and the horizon stretching endlessly. Sounds perfect, right? But then reality hits—how much is that tropical drink actually costing you? If you’ve ever wondered how much alcoholic drinks on cruise lines really cost, you’re not alone. Whether you’re sipping a classic martini, enjoying a local craft beer, or toasting with a bottle of champagne, understanding the pricing can mean the difference between a carefree vacation and a post-trip wallet shock.

Alcohol on cruise ships is a mixed bag of convenience, luxury, and—let’s be honest—surprise expenses. Unlike all-inclusive resorts where drinks are often covered, most major cruise lines operate on a pay-as-you-go model, with prices that can feel more like a high-end lounge than a vacation bar. But don’t panic! With a little planning, smart choices, and insider knowledge, you can enjoy your favorite cocktails without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how much alcoholic drinks cost on cruise lines, from average prices to hidden savings, and help you make the most of your onboard experience.

Understanding the Basics: Cruise Lines and Alcohol Policies

Standard Pricing vs. All-Inclusive Options

Not all cruise lines are created equal when it comes to alcohol. Most major lines—like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian—operate on a pay-per-drink model. This means you buy drinks individually, and they’re added to your onboard account. However, some premium and luxury lines—such as Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Oceania—include alcohol in their base fare, making them truly all-inclusive. Even on standard lines, you’ll often find drink packages that can save you money if you plan to drink regularly.

For example, a standard 12-day Mediterranean cruise on Royal Caribbean might charge $12 for a cocktail, while a similar trip on Regent Seven Seas includes unlimited drinks—no extra charge. That’s a big difference! The key is knowing what kind of vacation you want: budget-conscious with controlled spending, or carefree and indulgent.

What’s Usually Included (And What’s Not)

Here’s a quick rundown of what you won’t pay extra for:

• Water (still or sparkling)
• Tea and coffee (basic options)
• Juices at breakfast (like orange, apple, or cranberry)
• Sodas (Coke, Pepsi, Sprite, etc.)

But here’s what will cost you extra:

• Premium cocktails (martinis, mojitos, margaritas)
• Imported and craft beers
• Wines by the glass or bottle
• Top-shelf liquors (Grey Goose, Patron, Macallan, etc.)
• Specialty coffees (espresso, cappuccino, lattes)
• Energy drinks and premium bottled water

One common misconception: bringing your own alcohol. Most mainstream cruise lines do not allow you to bring wine, beer, or spirits onboard—except in very limited quantities (like one bottle of wine per person at embarkation). If you do bring it, you’ll be charged a corkage fee (typically $15–$25) to open it at a restaurant or bar. So unless you’re a wine connoisseur with a special bottle, it’s usually not worth the hassle.

Onboard Account and Gratuities

When you book your cruise, you’ll get a “sea pass” card linked to your onboard account. Every drink you buy is charged to this account, and you’ll pay at the end of your trip (or via auto-debit). But here’s a pro tip: gratuities are often added automatically to drink purchases. This is usually 18–20%, and it’s separate from the drink price. So that $10 beer? It could cost $12 after the tip.

Some lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line, include gratuities in drink package prices, while others add them at the time of purchase. Always check your receipt or ask your server to avoid double tipping. And remember: if you’re using a drink package, the gratuity is usually included—but if you’re paying per drink, it’s extra.

Average Prices for Popular Alcoholic Drinks on Major Cruise Lines

Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

Let’s talk numbers. A standard cocktail on most mainstream cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess) will cost between $10 and $14. This includes classics like:

• Margarita: $10–$12
• Martini: $11–$13
• Mojito: $10–$12
• Piña Colada: $10–$11
• Daiquiri: $10–$12

Specialty cocktails—like those with premium spirits, fresh fruit infusions, or unique garnishes—can go up to $15–$18. Think “Tropical Sunset” with mango rum and passionfruit foam, or a “Smoky Old Fashioned” with bourbon and bitters. These are often found in specialty bars (like a tiki bar or martini lounge), and they’re priced accordingly.

On luxury lines, cocktails are included in the fare, but if you’re on a standard line, expect to pay full price. One thing to note: happy hours are common on many ships. For example, Carnival offers “Cheers!” happy hour with $5 cocktails between 4–6 PM. Royal Caribbean has “Sip & Save” events where you can get 2-for-1 drinks. These are golden opportunities to save!

Beers and Ciders

Beer prices vary widely depending on the brand and origin:

• Domestic draft (Bud Light, Coors Light): $5–$7
• Imported draft (Heineken, Stella Artois): $7–$9
• Bottled craft beer (local or regional): $8–$11
• Craft beer in a specialty bar: $10–$14
• Cider (like Angry Orchard or local craft): $8–$10

Some ships have partnerships with breweries. For instance, Carnival has a partnership with Anheuser-Busch, so you’ll see Bud, Michelob Ultra, and Shock Top on tap. Royal Caribbean features Samuel Adams and local brews in their “Brewmaster’s Pub.” If you’re a craft beer lover, these specialty bars are worth visiting—but be ready to pay a bit more.

Wine by the Glass and Bottle

Wine is where prices can get steep. A standard glass of house red or white wine (like Chardonnay or Merlot) will cost $9–$12. Premium wines—like Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Sauvignon Blanc—range from $12–$18 per glass.

If you’re dining at a specialty restaurant (like a steakhouse or Italian bistro), expect to pay $15–$25 for a glass of wine. And if you want to order a bottle? Here’s a rough guide:

• House bottle: $30–$45
• Mid-range (e.g., a decent Napa Cab): $50–$80
• Premium (e.g., a top Bordeaux or Napa Valley red): $90–$150+

One smart move: check the wine list online before your cruise. Some lines let you pre-order a bottle and get a discount. Or, if you’re at a specialty restaurant, ask if they offer a “wine pairing” option—it’s often cheaper than ordering glasses individually.

Spirits and Liquor

Liquor prices depend on the brand and proof. A standard pour (1.5 oz) of well liquor (like Smirnoff, Jim Beam, or Bacardi) will cost $8–$10. Mid-shelf options (Absolut, Jack Daniel’s, Captain Morgan) are $10–$12. Top-shelf (Grey Goose, Macallan, Patrón) can be $14–$20 per shot.

Neat or on the rocks? Same price. But if you’re mixing it into a cocktail, the base spirit cost is usually included in the cocktail price. Want a flight of premium scotch? That’ll be $25–$40. And if you’re in a high-end bar, expect to pay more—luxury is part of the experience.

Alcohol Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Types of Drink Packages

Most major cruise lines offer alcohol drink packages. Here are the most common ones:

• Unlimited Alcohol Package: Includes cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks. Prices range from $55–$85 per person, per day.
• Limited Alcohol Package: Covers only beer, wine, and basic cocktails (no top-shelf or specialty drinks). Around $40–$60 per day.
• Non-Alcoholic Package: For those who don’t drink alcohol. Includes soda, juice, mocktails, and premium coffees. $20–$35 per day.
• Premium or Deluxe Package: Includes everything, plus premium liquors, specialty coffees, and bottled water. $70–$100+ per day.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Deluxe Beverage Package” is $70/day and includes all drinks under $15. Carnival’s “Cheers!” package is $59.95/day and covers everything under $20. Norwegian’s “Premium Plus” package is $85/day and includes premium spirits and wines.

When a Package Makes Sense

Drink packages only save you money if you drink enough. Here’s a simple rule: if you plan to spend more than the daily package price on drinks, it’s worth it. Let’s say the package is $60/day. If you drink:

• 4 cocktails at $12 each = $48
• 2 beers at $7 each = $14
• 1 glass of wine at $10 = $10
• Total: $72 → You save $12

But if you only have 2 beers and a soda, you’re spending $15–$20, which is way less than the package cost. So ask yourself: How much do I actually drink? Be honest. If you’re a casual drinker, pay per drink. If you’re a social sipper or enjoy a cocktail with dinner, a package might be smart.

Hidden Rules and Limitations

Drink packages come with fine print. Watch out for:

• Per-drink cap: Most packages only cover drinks up to $15. If you order a $20 martini, you pay the difference.
• No sharing: Packages are per person. You can’t buy one and share it with your partner.
• No discounts on bottles: Want to buy a $100 bottle of wine? The package won’t apply.
• Gratuities included? Some lines add 18% gratuity to the package price. Others don’t—so you might still owe extra.
• Not valid on private islands or excursions: If you’re at a beach bar on CocoCay or Labadee, you might pay full price even with a package.

One more thing: packages are usually mandatory for all adults in a cabin. If you buy one, your spouse or travel companion might have to buy one too—even if they don’t drink. Check the line’s policy before booking.

Smart Ways to Save on Alcohol (Without Sacrificing Fun)

Happy Hours and Drink Specials

Every cruise line has deals. Carnival’s “Cheers!” happy hour is legendary: $5 cocktails, $3 beers, and $5 glasses of wine. Royal Caribbean has “Sip & Save” events with 2-for-1 drinks. Norwegian offers “Wine & Dine” nights with discounted wine pairings.

Pro tip: check the daily cruise newsletter (or app) for happy hour times and locations. They’re usually in the main bars, lounges, or poolside areas. And don’t be afraid to ask your bartender if there’s a special—they’ll often tell you!

Bring Your Own (Within Limits)

As mentioned, most lines let you bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person at embarkation. No corkage fee if you drink it in your cabin. But if you want to bring it to a restaurant, expect to pay $15–$25. Still, if you have a favorite bottle, it’s a great way to save.

Some lines also allow non-alcoholic drinks (soda, water, juice) in sealed containers. Check your line’s policy—Carnival and Royal Caribbean allow this, but Norwegian does not.

Buy at Duty-Free Shops

On many cruises, you’ll visit a duty-free shop on the last day. They sell alcohol at a discount—sometimes 20–30% off retail prices. You can buy bottles of wine, spirits, or beer to enjoy on the ship or take home.

But here’s the catch: you can’t open them onboard (except in your cabin, depending on the line). So if you want to drink it during the cruise, check if it’s allowed. Otherwise, save it for a post-cruise party or gift.

Skip the Fancy Bars (Sometimes)

Specialty bars—like a martini lounge, wine bar, or tiki bar—are fun, but they’re also more expensive. A cocktail at the main pool bar might be $10. The same drink at a specialty bar? $14–$16. Save those for special occasions, and stick to the main bars for everyday sipping.

Share Drinks or Try Smaller Sizes

Many lines offer “half-pours” of wine or “small” cocktails. Ask your server. Or, split a bottle of wine with a friend instead of buying two glasses. It’s cheaper and more social!

How Luxury and Budget Lines Compare

Luxury Cruises: All-Inclusive, But at a Cost

On lines like Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Seabourn, alcohol is included in the fare. That means:

• Unlimited cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits
• Premium liquors and vintage wines (no extra charge)
• Specialty bars and lounges with no cover
• Complimentary wine pairings at dinner

But here’s the catch: the base fare is much higher. A 7-day cruise on Regent might cost $6,000–$10,000 per person, while a similar trip on Carnival is $800–$1,500. So while drinks are “free,” you’re paying for them upfront in the cruise price. Great for luxury lovers, but not always budget-friendly.

Budget Lines: Low Fares, Higher Drink Prices

Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian have lower base fares, but drinks are pay-per-use. This is perfect if you’re a light drinker. But if you’re a social drinker, the costs can add up fast.

For example, a 7-day Carnival cruise might cost $1,000 per person. But if you spend $50/day on drinks, that’s $350 extra—nearly 35% of your cruise cost! That’s why drink packages are popular on these lines.

Mid-Range Lines: The Best of Both Worlds?

Lines like Princess, Holland America, and MSC Cruises offer a middle ground. Base fares are reasonable ($1,200–$2,000 for a 7-day cruise), and they have drink packages that are fairly priced. Princess’s “Premium Drink Package” is $65/day and includes most drinks under $15. MSC’s “Easy Plus” package is $49/day and covers beer, wine, and cocktails.

They also have more inclusive touches—like free wine with dinner at specialty restaurants—so you don’t feel nickel-and-dimed.

Data Table: Average Drink Prices on Major Cruise Lines (2024)

Drink Type	Carnival	Royal Caribbean	Norwegian	Princess	Regent (Included)
Standard Cocktail	$10–$12	$11–$13	$10–$12	$10–$12	Free
Domestic Beer	$5–$7	$6–$8	$5–$7	$6–$7	Free
Imported Beer	$7–$9	$8–$10	$7–$9	$8–$9	Free
House Wine (glass)	$9–$11	$10–$12	$9–$11	$10–$12	Free
Premium Wine (glass)	$12–$18	$13–$19	$12–$17	$13–$18	Free
Well Liquor (shot)	$8–$10	$9–$11	$8–$10	$9–$10	Free
Top-Shelf Liquor (shot)	$14–$18	$15–$20	$14–$18	$15–$18	Free
Drink Package (daily)	$59.95	$70	$85	$65	Included

Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Sip Smarter

So, how much are alcoholic drinks on cruise lines? The answer is: it depends. But now you have the tools to make smart decisions. Whether you’re a casual sipper, a cocktail connoisseur, or someone who just wants to enjoy a beer at sunset, there’s a strategy that fits your style and budget.

Remember: drink packages aren’t always the best deal. Do the math. Use happy hours. Bring a bottle of wine if you want. And don’t be afraid to ask questions—your bartender or guest services rep can help you find the best value.

Most importantly, don’t let drink costs ruin your vacation. Cruising is about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. If you plan ahead, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without stressing about the bill. So raise a glass (responsibly), toast to the open sea, and sail into your next adventure—with a little more confidence and a lot more fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are alcoholic drinks on cruise lines on average?

The average price of alcoholic drinks on cruise lines ranges from $8–$15 for beer, $10–$18 for cocktails, and $12–$25+ for premium spirits or wine. Prices vary depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and whether you’re in a specialty bar or main dining area.

Are alcoholic drinks included in the cruise fare?

Most mainstream cruise lines do not include alcoholic drinks in the base fare, except for select luxury or all-inclusive lines like Regent or Silversea. However, many offer drink packages or occasional promotions to offset costs.

What’s the best way to save on alcoholic drinks on cruise lines?

To save, consider purchasing a drink package if you plan to consume multiple drinks daily, or take advantage of happy hours, duty-free purchases, and onboard credit deals. Avoiding premium bars and opting for happy hour specials can also cut costs.

Do cruise lines charge a service fee for alcoholic drinks?

Yes, most cruise lines automatically add a 15–20% gratuity (service charge) to each alcoholic drink purchase, including those in drink packages. This fee is often itemized on your final bill and is non-refundable.

How much are specialty cocktails on cruise lines?

Specialty cocktails, such as those at onboard bars or themed lounges, typically cost $12–$20, with premium options (e.g., craft cocktails or top-shelf liquor) exceeding $25. Some lines offer signature drinks at a fixed price as part of a package.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a cruise?

Most cruise lines allow limited quantities of alcohol (e.g., one bottle per person) but impose corkage fees ($10–$25) if consumed in dining areas. Hard liquor and beer are usually prohibited and confiscated at embarkation.