How Much Are Drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Drink prices on Carnival Cruise Lines vary widely, from $2.50 for a soda to over $15 for premium cocktails and wine. Most standard alcoholic drinks range between $7–$12, with discounts available through drink packages like the Cheers! Beverage Program. Planning ahead with a package can save you up to 30% compared to buying drinks individually.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Budget $5–$15 for beer, cocktails, and wine per drink.
• Soda packages save: Buy a flat-rate plan for unlimited soft drinks.
• Specialty drinks cost more: Premium cocktails and coffees range $8–$12 each.
• Free options available: Water, tea, and coffee are complimentary at most venues.
• Happy hours help: Take advantage of discounted drinks during select daily deals.
• Gratuities included: 18–20% service charge added to all drink purchases automatically.

How Much Are Drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Planning a Carnival Cruise is an exciting journey filled with sun, sea, and endless fun. One of the most common questions travelers ask before boarding is, “How much are drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines?” Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool, enjoying a craft beer at the RedFrog Pub, or indulging in a premium wine at dinner, understanding the beverage pricing structure can make a significant difference in your overall vacation experience and budget. Carnival Cruise Line offers a wide variety of drink options, from complimentary water and soda to premium cocktails, specialty coffees, and fine wines. Knowing what’s included, what costs extra, and how to save can help you enjoy your cruise to the fullest without any unpleasant surprises at the end of your trip.

Drink pricing on Carnival Cruise Lines is not one-size-fits-all. It varies based on the type of beverage, the venue, the time of day, and even the length of your cruise. With over 50 cruise ships sailing to destinations around the world, Carnival has tailored its beverage offerings to cater to diverse tastes and budgets. From budget-conscious travelers to luxury seekers, there’s a drink package or à la carte option to suit everyone. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the real cost of drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines, revealing everything from average prices and package deals to insider tips on maximizing value. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Carnival enthusiast, this article will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and enjoy every sip without breaking the bank.

Understanding Carnival’s Beverage Pricing Structure

Complimentary vs. Premium Beverages

One of the first things to understand about drink pricing on Carnival is the distinction between complimentary and premium beverages. Carnival includes a range of basic drinks in your cruise fare, which helps keep costs down for travelers who prefer simple options. Complimentary beverages include:

• Tap water, iced tea, lemonade, and fruit punch at the buffet and dining rooms
• Coffee and tea (both hot and iced) at the main dining areas and coffee bars
• Milk, juice (orange, apple, cranberry), and hot chocolate at breakfast and lunch buffets
• Filtered water at hydration stations throughout the ship

While these are free, they are typically available only in specific areas and during certain hours. For example, iced tea and lemonade are not always available at the pool bars, and specialty drinks like cappuccinos or espressos cost extra. This means that if you’re looking for variety, convenience, or premium quality, you’ll likely be paying for it.

Premium beverages, on the other hand, include everything from bottled water and imported sodas to alcoholic drinks, specialty cocktails, and fine wines. These are priced individually and can add up quickly. For instance, a single cocktail at a poolside bar might cost $12–$15, while a glass of premium wine could be $14–$20. Understanding this divide is crucial for budgeting your onboard spending.

Where You Drink Matters: Venue-Based Pricing

Another key factor in Carnival’s drink pricing is the location of the bar or restaurant. Prices can vary significantly depending on where you order your drink. For example:

• Poolside bars and outdoor lounges often have slightly higher prices due to convenience and ambiance. A mojito might cost $13 here, while the same drink at the main bar could be $11.
• Main dining room bars (during dinner service) typically have the same prices as the main bar, but with more limited selections.
• Specialty bars like the Alchemy Bar, RedFrog Pub, or the JavaBlue Café charge premium rates for unique, handcrafted drinks. A signature cocktail at the Alchemy Bar can range from $14 to $18.
• Room service includes a delivery fee (usually $3.95–$7.95) on top of drink prices, so ordering a bottle of wine to your cabin will cost more than picking it up at the bar.

Additionally, some venues offer happy hour specials or themed nights with discounted drinks. For example, the RedFrog Pub often hosts “Thirsty Thursday” with 2-for-1 beer deals, while the Alchemy Bar features mixology nights with $5 off select cocktails. Being strategic about where and when you order can save you money.

Dynamic Pricing and Seasonal Variations

Carnival also employs a form of dynamic pricing for certain premium items. This means that drink prices may fluctuate based on demand, time of day, or special events. For example:

• Prices may increase during peak hours (e.g., 5–7 PM at the main bar) when the ship is at capacity.
• Specialty drinks during themed nights (e.g., “Carnival Night” or “Casino Royale”) may be priced higher due to added entertainment or ingredients.
• Longer cruises (7+ days) may see slightly higher average prices due to increased demand and limited stock.

While Carnival does not publicly publish real-time price changes, cruisers often report that prices on newer ships (like the Carnival Celebration or Mardi Gras) are slightly higher than on older vessels. This is due to upgraded venues, premium ingredients, and enhanced service. Always check the onboard menu or the Carnival Hub app for the most accurate pricing during your cruise.

Breakdown of Drink Prices: What to Expect

Alcoholic Beverages: Cocktails, Beer, Wine, and Spirits

Alcohol is one of the biggest expenses for many cruisers, and Carnival offers a wide range of options. Here’s a breakdown of average prices (as of 2024):

• Domestic beer (e.g., Bud Light, Miller Lite): $6.50–$7.50
• Imported/craft beer (e.g., Heineken, Sam Adams): $7.50–$9.00
• RedFrog Brewery beer (Carnival’s own craft brew): $8.00–$9.50
• Standard cocktails (e.g., Margarita, Piña Colada, Mojito): $11.00–$14.00
• Premium cocktails (e.g., Alchemy Bar signatures): $14.00–$18.00
• Glass of house wine (red/white): $9.00–$12.00
• Glass of premium wine (e.g., Chardonnay, Cabernet): $14.00–$20.00
• Bottled spirits (e.g., Jack Daniel’s, Absolut): $10.00–$15.00 per drink (based on 1.5 oz pour)

For example, if you enjoy two cocktails per day during a 7-day cruise, you’d spend around $196–$280 just on drinks. If you prefer wine, two glasses per night could cost $252–$364. These figures highlight why many cruisers opt for drink packages—more on that later.

Non-Alcoholic and Specialty Drinks

Even if you don’t drink alcohol, Carnival offers plenty of premium non-alcoholic options that aren’t free. These include:

• Bottled water (still or sparkling): $3.50–$5.00
• Imported soda (e.g., Coca-Cola, Sprite): $3.00–$4.00
• Freshly squeezed juice (e.g., pineapple, guava): $5.00–$7.00
• Specialty coffee drinks (e.g., latte, cappuccino): $4.50–$6.50
• Smoothies and milkshakes: $6.00–$8.00
• Energy drinks and sports drinks: $4.00–$5.50

For families, this can add up quickly. A parent ordering two specialty coffees per day and a smoothie for their child could spend $15+ daily. If you’re health-conscious and prefer bottled water or juice, consider bringing your own reusable bottle and refilling it at hydration stations to save money.

Mini-Bar and Room Service Pricing

Each stateroom comes with a mini-bar stocked with sodas, water, beer, and spirits. However, these are priced significantly higher than bar prices:

• Bottle of water (mini-bar): $5.00–$6.00
• Can of soda: $4.50–$5.50
• Bottle of beer: $9.00–$11.00
• Spirit bottle (mini): $12.00–$16.00

Room service drinks also include a delivery fee. For example, ordering a bottle of wine ($45–$60) plus a $5 delivery fee means you’re paying $50+ for something you could get at the bar for $45. Tip: Skip the mini-bar and room service for drinks—head to the nearest bar or use the complimentary options instead.

Carnival Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Overview of Available Drink Packages

Carnival offers several drink packages designed to save money for frequent drinkers. The most popular options include:

• Cheers! Beverage Program (Unlimited Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic): $59.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity). Includes beer, wine, cocktails (up to $20 value), soda, juice, bottled water, and specialty coffee.
• Bottomless Bubbles (Unlimited Soda & Juice): $9.95 per person, per day. Great for kids and non-drinkers.
• Premium Coffee Package: $19.95–$29.95 for the entire cruise. Covers specialty coffees, teas, and hot chocolate.
• Wine & Spirits Package: Customizable, with discounts on bottles of wine or spirits.

The Cheers! package is the most comprehensive and widely used. It allows you to order any drink up to $20 in value, which covers most cocktails, premium wines, and craft beers. However, it does not include premium bottles (e.g., Dom Pérignon) or specialty items like the “Ultimate Margarita” ($24).

When the Cheers! Package Makes Sense

To determine if Cheers! is worth it, consider your drinking habits and cruise length. Here’s a practical example:

• On a 5-day cruise, Cheers! costs: $59.95 × 5 = $299.75 + 18% gratuity = $353.70.
• If you consume 3 cocktails per day at $13 each: 3 × $13 × 5 = $195.
• Two glasses of premium wine per day at $16 each: 2 × $16 × 5 = $160.
• Total without package: $355.

In this scenario, Cheers! breaks even—and that’s before including soda, water, coffee, and happy hour drinks. If you drink more than 3 cocktails per day, or enjoy premium wines, the package saves money. Tip: The Cheers! package is most cost-effective on cruises of 5+ days. For shorter trips (3–4 days), it may not break even.

Limitations and Fine Print

While Cheers! seems like a great deal, there are important restrictions:

• Only one drink per order (no “buy one, get one free” at happy hour).
• No sharing—each package is tied to one person.
• Not available to minors or passengers under 21 (unless they purchase Bottomless Bubbles).
• Must be purchased for the entire cruise (no daily add-ons).
• Gratuity is automatically added (18%), which is non-refundable.

Additionally, the package is non-transferable and cannot be shared with friends. If you’re traveling with a non-drinker, they must purchase Bottomless Bubbles if they want unlimited soda. Always read the terms before booking.

Smart Ways to Save on Drinks Without a Package

Take Advantage of Happy Hours and Promotions

Carnival runs regular happy hour specials that can cut drink costs in half. Examples include:

• 2-for-1 beers at RedFrog Pub (Thursdays, 5–7 PM)
• $5 off premium cocktails at Alchemy Bar (mixology nights)
• Buy one, get one free on select wines during dinner service (varies by cruise)
• Free drink with casino play (check the casino promotions board)

Download the Carnival Hub app before your cruise to see daily specials, event schedules, and drink discounts. Many cruisers miss out on these deals because they don’t check the app or onboard newsletter.

Bring Your Own (B.Y.O.) – What’s Allowed

Carnival allows passengers to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard, which can save money:

• 12 unopened, non-alcoholic drinks (cans or plastic bottles): Free to bring and consume anywhere.
• 1 bottle of wine or champagne per person (21+): Free, but a $15 corkage fee applies if consumed in dining rooms or bars.
• No hard liquor or beer allowed to be brought on board.

Pro tip: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at hydration stations. You can also bring a thermos for coffee or tea. For wine lovers, consider buying a bottle at port (e.g., Nassau, Cozumel) where prices are lower, then enjoy it on your balcony with no corkage fee.

Use Onboard Credit and Special Offers

Many Carnival promotions include onboard credit (OBC) that can be used for drinks. For example:

• Book a suite and receive $100–$200 OBC.
• Sign up for a credit card and get $25–$50 OBC.
• Refer a friend and earn $25–$100 OBC.

Additionally, Carnival often runs pre-cruise drink package discounts. Booking Cheers! online before departure can save $5–$10 per day compared to onboard pricing. Always check Carnival’s website or contact your travel agent for current deals.

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

Drink Type	Average Price (USD)	Notes
Domestic Beer	$6.50–$7.50	Bud Light, Miller Lite
Imported/Craft Beer	$7.50–$9.00	Heineken, Sam Adams
RedFrog Brewery Beer	$8.00–$9.50	Carnival’s own craft beer
Standard Cocktail	$11.00–$14.00	Margarita, Mojito, Piña Colada
Premium Cocktail	$14.00–$18.00	Alchemy Bar signatures
House Wine (Glass)	$9.00–$12.00	Red or white
Premium Wine (Glass)	$14.00–$20.00	Chardonnay, Cabernet
Bottled Water	$3.50–$5.00	Still or sparkling
Imported Soda	$3.00–$4.00	Coca-Cola, Sprite
Specialty Coffee	$4.50–$6.50	Latte, cappuccino
Smoothie	$6.00–$8.00	Fruit or protein-based
Cheers! Package (Daily)	$59.95 + 18% gratuity	Unlimited drinks up to $20 value
Bottomless Bubbles (Daily)	$9.95	Unlimited soda and juice

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Beverage Budget

Understanding how much drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines is essential for planning a fun, stress-free vacation. While the ship offers a wide variety of beverages—from complimentary lemonade to premium cocktails—prices can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The key is to balance enjoyment with budget awareness. Whether you choose the Cheers! package, take advantage of happy hours, or bring your own drinks, there are plenty of ways to save without sacrificing the experience.

Remember, the best strategy depends on your personal preferences and cruise length. If you’re a casual drinker who enjoys a few cocktails and some wine, paying à la carte may be cheaper than a package. But if you’re a frequent imbibing or traveling on a longer cruise, Cheers! can offer significant savings. Always use the Carnival Hub app to track promotions, and don’t hesitate to ask bartenders about daily specials or unadvertised deals.

Ultimately, Carnival’s drink pricing reflects the quality, convenience, and ambiance of its onboard venues. While it may seem expensive compared to land-based bars, the experience—sipping a margarita on the Lido Deck as the sun sets over the Caribbean—is part of the magic. By planning ahead, staying informed, and using smart strategies, you can enjoy every sip without worrying about the final bill. So raise a glass, relax, and make the most of your Carnival adventure—because now you know exactly how much drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines really cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines are generally mid-range in price, with cocktails averaging $8–$12 and beer around $5–$7. They tend to be slightly more affordable than premium lines like Royal Caribbean but pricier than budget-friendly options like MSC Cruises.

Are drink packages worth it on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Yes, if you plan to have more than 5–6 alcoholic or specialty drinks per day, Carnival’s Cheers! Beverage Package (around $59.95/day) can save you money. It covers cocktails, wine by the glass, soda, and bottled water, making it ideal for frequent drinkers.

How much are non-alcoholic drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Non-alcoholic drinks like soda, juice, and bottled water range from $2–$5. Carnival also offers a **Bottomless Bubbles** soda package ($8.50/day) for unlimited refills, which is great for kids or soda lovers.

Do Carnival Cruise drink prices include gratuity?

Yes, Carnival automatically adds a 15–18% gratuity to all drink purchases, including those made with the Cheers! Package. This is standard across most bars and restaurants onboard.

How much are drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines during happy hour?

Happy hour (typically 5–7 PM) offers 50% off select drinks, including cocktails, beer, and wine. For example, a $10 cocktail would cost just $5, making it the best time to enjoy premium drinks at a discount.

Can I bring my own drinks on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Guests are allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person on embarkation day, but no beer or spirits. Outside drinks incur a $15 corkage fee when consumed in dining areas.