How Much Are Drink Packages on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Carnival Cruise Lines offers drink packages starting at $59.95 per person, per day, giving guests unlimited access to a wide selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Premium options like the Bottomless Bubbles soda package start as low as $11.95/day, making it easy to find a plan that fits your budget and drinking preferences. These packages deliver significant savings and convenience for cruisers who plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily.

Key Takeaways

• Compare all packages: Evaluate options like Cheers! and Bottomless Bubbles for best value.
• Costs range widely: Prices vary from $25 to $60+ per day depending on inclusions.
• Pre-book discounts: Save by purchasing before your cruise online.
• Check exclusions: Premium drinks and bottled water may not be covered.
• Share packages: Couples can split a single package for savings.

How Much Are Drink Packages on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Imagine setting sail on a sun-drenched Carnival cruise, the ocean breeze in your hair, and a frosty cocktail in hand—only to pause and wonder, “How much will these drinks really cost me?” If you’re planning a Carnival Cruise vacation, one of the most critical financial decisions you’ll make is whether to invest in a drink package. From tropical margaritas to craft beers, premium spirits to specialty coffees, the allure of unlimited beverages can be tempting. But how much are drink packages on Carnival Cruise Lines, and are they truly worth the price tag?

Drink packages have become a staple in the modern cruise experience, offering convenience, predictability, and—for some—significant savings. Carnival Cruise Lines, one of the most popular mass-market cruise operators, offers a tiered selection of beverage packages tailored to different drinking habits, budgets, and preferences. Whether you’re a casual sipper, a cocktail enthusiast, or someone who enjoys a glass of wine with dinner, understanding the cost, inclusions, restrictions, and value of these packages is essential for maximizing your cruise budget. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into how much Carnival’s drink packages cost, what they include, how they compare to other cruise lines, and whether they make financial sense for your next voyage.

Understanding Carnival’s Drink Package Options

Carnival Cruise Lines offers three primary drink packages, each designed to cater to different levels of consumption and beverage preferences. These packages are not one-size-fits-all; instead, they provide flexibility so guests can choose the plan that best aligns with their drinking habits and budget. Let’s explore each package in detail, including their inclusions, exclusions, and target audience.

1. The CHEERS! Beverage Program

The CHEERS! Beverage Program is Carnival’s most popular and comprehensive drink package. It’s designed for guests who plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise. As of 2024, the price of the CHEERS! package is $59.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity), with a minimum purchase of 4 days for most sailings. This package is ideal for guests who enjoy cocktails, wine, beer, and specialty drinks.

• Includes: All alcoholic beverages up to $20 per drink, including cocktails, spirits, wine by the glass, draft and bottled beer, and non-alcoholic options like soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, and energy drinks.

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• Exclusions: Drinks over $20 (e.g., premium champagne, rare wines), room service alcohol, mini-bar items, and specialty coffees that require a barista (e.g., espresso-based drinks with milk art).
• Gratuities: An 18% service charge is automatically added to the daily rate.
• Duration: Must be purchased for the entire length of the cruise (minimum 4 days).

Example: On a 7-day Caribbean cruise, the CHEERS! package would cost $59.95 × 7 = $419.65, plus $75.54 in gratuities, totaling $495.19 per person.

2. The Bottomless Bubbles Soda Package

For non-drinkers, kids, or guests who primarily consume soft drinks, Carnival offers the Bottomless Bubbles package. Priced at $9.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity), this package includes unlimited fountain soda, juice, and non-alcoholic beer. It’s a cost-effective solution for families or those who prefer fizzy refreshments over alcohol.

• Includes: Unlimited fountain sodas (Coca-Cola, Sprite, etc.), juices (orange, apple, cranberry), and non-alcoholic beer.
• Exclusions: Bottled beverages, specialty sodas (e.g., imported brands), and alcoholic drinks.
• Gratuities: 18% added to the daily rate.
• Duration: Can be purchased for any number of days, but must be bought for the entire cruise if purchased onboard.

Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, this package can save significant money—especially if they drink multiple sodas daily. For a 5-day cruise, the total cost would be $9.95 × 5 = $49.75, plus $8.96 in gratuities, totaling $58.71 per child.

3. The Premium Beverage Package (Limited Availability)

While not always advertised, Carnival occasionally offers a Premium Beverage Package on select sailings or through special promotions. This package includes all CHEERS! benefits plus drinks priced up to $25, such as premium champagnes, aged cognacs, and rare spirits. The price is typically $79.95 per day (plus 18% gratuity), making it a niche option for high-end drinkers or those celebrating a special occasion.

• Includes: All CHEERS! items, plus drinks up to $25, including premium champagne (e.g., Dom Pérignon), high-end tequilas, and specialty cocktails at premium bars.
• Exclusions: Room service alcohol, mini-bar, and drinks over $25 (e.g., vintage wines).
• Gratuities: 18% added to the daily rate.
• Availability: Limited to certain ships, itineraries, or promotional periods.

Note: This package is rarely available for purchase at the time of booking and is often offered as a “limited-time upgrade” during the cruise or through loyalty programs.

How Much Are Drink Packages on Carnival Cruise Lines: Pricing Breakdown

Now that we’ve covered the types of packages, let’s break down the actual costs you can expect based on cruise length, package type, and additional fees. Understanding the full financial picture helps you determine whether a drink package is a smart investment or an unnecessary expense.

Daily Rates and Total Costs by Cruise Length

Below is a detailed cost comparison for the CHEERS! and Bottomless Bubbles packages across different cruise durations. All prices include the 18% gratuity.

Cruise Length	CHEERS! (Per Person)	Bottomless Bubbles (Per Person)
4 days	$495.19	$58.71
5 days	$618.99	$73.39
7 days	$866.59	$102.75
8 days	$990.39	$117.43
10 days	$1,237.99	$146.79

Additional Fees and Hidden Costs

While the daily rate is clear, there are a few less obvious costs to consider:

• Gratuities: The 18% service charge is mandatory and can add hundreds of dollars over the course of a long cruise.
• Minimum Purchase Requirement: CHEERS! must be bought for the entire cruise, even if you only plan to drink on a few days.
• Single vs. Double Occupancy: If you’re traveling alone, you still pay the full package price. For couples, both guests must purchase the same package if one does—there’s no “half-package” option.
• Onboard vs. Pre-Cruise Purchase: Buying the package before your cruise (online or during booking) is often cheaper than purchasing onboard. Onboard prices may include a surcharge or limited availability.

Practical Example: A couple on a 7-day cruise buying CHEERS! would pay $495.19 × 2 = $990.38. If they bought it onboard instead of in advance, they might pay $62.95/day (plus gratuity), increasing the total to over $1,000—a $100+ difference.

When to Buy: Early vs. Onboard

Carnival frequently offers early-bird discounts and promotions for drink packages purchased during the booking process or within 45 days of departure. For example:

• Pre-Cruise Discount: Save $10–$15 per day if purchased online before the cruise.
• Onboard Purchase: No discount; standard daily rate applies.
• Loyalty Benefits: Carnival’s VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) members may receive exclusive package deals or free upgrades.

Tip: Always check Carnival’s website or contact your travel agent for current promotions. A 7-day CHEERS! package bought early might cost $55.95/day instead of $59.95—saving over $40 per person.

Are Carnival Drink Packages Worth the Cost?

One of the most common questions cruisers ask is: Are Carnival drink packages worth it? The answer depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and how you value convenience versus cost. Let’s break it down with real-world scenarios and calculations.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: When CHEERS! Makes Sense

To determine if the CHEERS! package is worth it, compare the cost of buying drinks à la carte to the package price. Here’s a breakdown of average drink prices on Carnival:

• Cocktail (e.g., Margarita, Mojito): $12–$15
• Glass of Wine: $9–$14
• Bottle of Beer: $7–$10
• Specialty Coffee: $4–$6
• Bottled Water: $3–$5

Let’s say you consume the following per day on a 7-day cruise:

• 2 cocktails @ $14 = $28
• 1 glass of wine @ $12 = $12
• 2 beers @ $8 = $16
• 1 specialty coffee @ $5 = $5
• 1 bottled water @ $4 = $4
• Total daily cost: $65

Over 7 days: $65 × 7 = $455. Compare this to the CHEERS! package cost of $495.19. You’d be spending $40 more with the package—but you get unlimited drinks, no need to track costs, and the ability to try new cocktails without worrying about the bill.

Verdict: If you drink 5+ drinks per day, CHEERS! is almost always worth it. Even at 4 drinks/day, the convenience and peace of mind may justify the slight premium.

When to Skip the Package

The package is not worth it if:

• You only drink 1–2 beverages per day.
• You prefer non-alcoholic drinks (soda, water, juice)—Bottomless Bubbles is better.
• You plan to drink mostly during included events (e.g., free drink hours, welcome aboard parties).
• You’re on a tight budget and want to control spending.
• You’re on a short cruise (3–4 days) and won’t break even.

Example: A guest who drinks one beer and one soda per day would pay $15/day à la carte ($105 for 7 days). The CHEERS! package would cost nearly 5x more—clearly not worth it.

Value Beyond Cost: Convenience and Experience

Beyond pure economics, drink packages offer intangible benefits:

• No Bill Anxiety: No need to check prices or worry about surprise charges.
• Experimentation: Try new cocktails or premium spirits without guilt.
• Social Flexibility: Buy drinks for friends or family without calculating the cost.
• Time Savings: No need to sign receipts at every bar.

For many cruisers, these perks justify the cost—even if they don’t fully “break even.”

How Carnival’s Drink Packages Compare to Other Cruise Lines

To fully understand the value of Carnival’s drink packages, it’s helpful to compare them to those offered by competitors like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and Princess Cruises.

Price Comparison (Per Day, 2024)

Cruise Line	Premium Drink Package	Daily Price (Before Gratuity)	Drink Cap	Gratuity
Carnival	CHEERS!	$59.95	$20	18%
Royal Caribbean	Deluxe Beverage Package	$89.00	$15	18%
Norwegian Cruise Line	Premium Plus Beverage Package	$109.00	$25	18%
Princess Cruises	Premium Beverage Package	$84.99	$15	18%

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

• Carnival is the most affordable among major cruise lines for a comparable package. CHEERS! is $20–$50 cheaper per day than competitors.
• Higher drink cap: Carnival’s $20 limit is more generous than Royal Caribbean’s $15 or Princess’s $15.
• NCL offers the highest cap ($25) but at a much higher price—ideal for luxury drinkers.
• Royal Caribbean and Princess include more specialty coffees and bottled water, while Carnival limits these.

Verdict: Carnival offers the best value for money if you’re a moderate to heavy drinker. However, if you prefer premium brands or specialty drinks, NCL or Royal Caribbean might be more suitable—though at a higher cost.

Smart Strategies to Maximize Your Drink Package Value

Even if you decide to purchase a drink package, there are smart ways to maximize its value and avoid common pitfalls. Here are expert tips to get the most out of your Carnival drink package.

1. Buy Early and Look for Discounts

As mentioned earlier, pre-cruise purchases often come with discounts. Carnival frequently runs promotions like:

• “Buy 6 Days, Get 1 Free” (on CHEERS!)
• $10–$15 off per day for early booking
• Free Bottomless Bubbles for kids when parents buy CHEERS!

Tip: Set a price alert on your booking portal or sign up for Carnival’s email list to catch these deals.

2. Use It for Non-Alcoholic Drinks Too

Don’t forget: CHEERS! includes unlimited bottled water, soda, and specialty coffee. Use it to:

• Stay hydrated in hot climates (avoid paying $4+ per bottle).
• Get free espresso drinks at onboard coffee bars.
• Share with non-paying companions (e.g., kids, designated drivers).

3. Avoid the Room Service Trap

Remember: Drink packages do not cover room service alcohol or mini-bar items. If you order a cocktail to your cabin, you’ll pay full price. Instead, go to a bar or use the package at the poolside bar.

4. Share the Love (and the Cost)

If you’re traveling with a group, consider:

• Pooling drinks at happy hours or social events.
• Using the package to buy rounds for friends—no need to split bills.
• Sharing a bottle of wine (if under $20) with a dining companion.

5. Track Your Consumption

Use a simple app or notebook to log your daily drink count. This helps you:

• Ensure you’re getting value from the package.
• Avoid overconsumption (safety first!).
• Adjust future bookings based on actual usage.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

So, how much are drink packages on Carnival Cruise Lines? The CHEERS! package costs $59.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity), with a minimum 4-day purchase. The Bottomless Bubbles package is $9.95/day, and a limited Premium Package runs around $79.95/day. While these prices may seem high at first glance, they can offer excellent value—especially for cruisers who enjoy multiple drinks daily, value convenience, or want to avoid bill surprises.

The key to deciding whether a drink package is right for you lies in self-assessment. Ask yourself: How many drinks will I realistically consume? Do I prefer cocktails, wine, or soda? Am I traveling with others who will share the package? Do I value the freedom to order without checking prices? For many guests, the answer is a resounding “yes.” The CHEERS! package, in particular, stands out as one of the most affordable and flexible options in the cruise industry, especially when compared to competitors.

Ultimately, Carnival’s drink packages are not just about saving money—they’re about enhancing your cruise experience. They remove financial stress, encourage socializing, and allow you to fully embrace the “fun, freedom, and flexibility” that Carnival promises. Whether you choose CHEERS!, Bottomless Bubbles, or decide to go à la carte, understanding the costs, inclusions, and smart usage strategies ensures you’ll make an informed decision that aligns with your vacation goals.

Now that you know how much Carnival drink packages cost and how to maximize their value, you’re ready to set sail with confidence—cocktail in hand, wallet in check, and a smile on your face. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are drink packages on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Carnival offers several drink packages, with the most popular being the Cheers! Beverage Program, priced around $59.95 per person, per day (plus gratuities). Prices vary depending on the cruise duration and promotions, so check Carnival’s website for the latest deals.

What does the Cheers! drink package include?

The Cheers! package covers unlimited alcoholic drinks (up to $20 each) and non-alcoholic beverages like soda, specialty coffee, and bottled water. It also includes discounts on bottles of wine and other premium drinks.

Are there cheaper drink packages on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, Carnival offers lower-cost options like the Bottomless Bubbles soda package ($9.50/day for adults, $6.50/day for kids) or the Quench That Thirst non-alcoholic package ($21.95/day). These are ideal if you don’t plan to drink alcohol.

Do Carnival drink packages cover gratuities?

No, the advertised price doesn’t include gratuities. An 18% service charge is automatically added to the total cost of your drink package purchase, whether you buy it online or onboard.

Can I share a drink package with someone else?

No, Carnival’s drink packages are non-transferable and must be purchased individually. Each guest must have their own package to receive the included benefits during the cruise.

Is the Cheers! package worth it on Carnival Cruise Lines?

It depends on your drinking habits—if you consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily, it’s likely cost-effective. For casual drinkers, pay-as-you-go might be cheaper, so compare your options before booking.