How Much Are Drinks on Cruise Lines A Complete Guide to Pricing and Packages

Drink prices on cruise lines vary widely, typically ranging from $5–$15 for soft drinks and beer to $12–$20+ for premium cocktails and wine. Most cruise lines offer affordable beverage packages—from $50–$100 per day—that can save you money if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily, though restrictions and exclusions often apply. Always compare à la carte costs versus package deals to find the best value for your drinking preferences.

Key Takeaways

• Compare drink packages: Choose based on your consumption to save money.
• Check for promotions: Many lines offer free or discounted packages early.
• Budget for gratuities: Most packages add 15–20% service charge.
• Non-alcoholic options: Specialty coffees and sodas often need a separate plan.
• BYOB policies vary: Some lines allow it; others charge high corkage fees.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during off-peak times.

How Much Are Drinks on Cruise Lines? A Complete Guide to Pricing and Packages

Ah, the cruise life—sunset views, ocean breezes, and… the bar tab. If you’ve ever sailed the high seas, you’ve probably faced that moment of sticker shock when the bill arrives. Or maybe you’re planning your first cruise and wondering, “How much are drinks on cruise lines?” Let’s be real: drinks can easily become one of your biggest onboard expenses if you’re not careful. But here’s the good news—there’s a whole world of drink pricing, packages, and hacks that can save you money and still let you sip in style.

I’ve been on over 15 cruises across different lines, from budget-friendly Carnival to luxury Regent Seven Seas. And yes, I’ve made the rookie mistake of ordering a round of mojitos at the pool bar without checking the price. (Spoiler: $14 each. Ouch.) But over time, I’ve learned the ins and outs of cruise drink pricing, what to expect, and how to make smart choices. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a cocktail connoisseur, this guide will help you understand how much are drinks on cruise lines, what affects the prices, and how to enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank.

Understanding Cruise Drink Pricing: The Basics

Why Are Cruise Drinks More Expensive Than on Land?

First, let’s tackle a common question: why do drinks cost more at sea? It’s not just about “captive audience” pricing (though that plays a role). Cruise lines operate in a unique environment. They import alcohol from around the world, store it for months, and serve it in high-demand areas like bars, restaurants, and pool decks. Add in labor, logistics, and the cost of running a floating city, and you’ve got a recipe for higher prices.

But it’s not all bad. Many lines include non-alcoholic drinks like coffee, tea, juice, and soda in your base fare. Some even include bottled water. The real cost comes with alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and premium bottled drinks. And here’s a pro tip: prices are often higher on the first and last days of your cruise, especially during embarkation and debarkation. Why? Lines know you’re excited (or stressed) and more likely to spend.

Standard vs. Premium Drinks: What’s the Difference?

Most cruise lines categorize drinks into “standard” and “premium.” Here’s what that means:

• Standard drinks: Domestic beer, house wines, well spirits (like Smirnoff, Bacardi, Jack Daniel’s), and basic cocktails (margaritas, rum and Coke). These are usually $7–$12 each.
• Premium drinks: Imported beer, craft cocktails, top-shelf liquor (Grey Goose, Patrón, Macallan), specialty wines, and brand-name spirits. These can range from $12 to $25+ per drink.

For example, a Bud Light might be $7, while a Heineken or Stella Artois could be $9. A basic rum and Coke is $8, but a craft mojito with fresh mint and premium rum might be $14. The difference adds up fast.

One thing to note: prices vary by cruise line. Royal Caribbean tends to be slightly cheaper than Celebrity or Princess. Luxury lines like Seabourn and Silversea include premium drinks in their fares, but their base prices are much higher.

Alcoholic Drink Pricing: What to Expect by Cruise Line

Mainstream Cruise Lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian)

If you’re sailing with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, or Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), you’re in the “mainstream” category. These lines offer a wide range of drinks, but they’re not included in the base fare. Here’s a general idea of pricing:

• Domestic beer: $7–$9
• Imported beer: $9–$12
• House wine (glass): $9–$12
• Premium wine (glass): $14–$20
• Well spirits: $8–$10
• Top-shelf spirits: $12–$18
• Cocktails (standard): $10–$14
• Craft cocktails: $14–$18

Royal Caribbean, for instance, uses a “dynamic pricing” model. That means drink prices can go up during peak times (like happy hour or poolside) or on special events (themed parties, sail-away). I once paid $16 for a mojito at a “Tropical Night” event—twice the normal price!

NCL has a similar structure, but their “Free at Sea” promotion sometimes includes a drink package as a perk. Carnival is known for being a bit cheaper, with more frequent drink specials and happy hours.

Premium Cruise Lines (Celebrity, Princess, Holland America)

These lines sit between mainstream and luxury. They offer more upscale dining and service, and their drink pricing reflects that:

• Domestic beer: $8–$10
• Imported beer: $10–$13
• House wine (glass): $10–$14
• Premium wine (glass): $16–$22
• Well spirits: $10–$12
• Top-shelf spirits: $14–$20
• Cocktails (standard): $12–$15
• Craft cocktails: $16–$20

Celebrity Cruises, for example, uses a “tiered” system. Their standard drinks are comparable to Royal Caribbean, but their premium cocktails (like the “Martini Bar” offerings) are pricier. Princess Cruises has a similar model, with a focus on wine—glasses start at $12, but their “Cellar Masters” program offers rare vintages for $25+.

Luxury Cruise Lines (Regent, Seabourn, Silversea)

Here’s where things get interesting. On luxury lines, drinks are often included in your fare. That means wine with dinner, cocktails at the bar, and even premium spirits—no extra charge. But there’s a catch: the base price of your cruise is significantly higher. You’re not paying per drink; you’re paying for the all-inclusive experience.

For example, a 7-night Regent Seven Seas cruise might cost $6,000 per person—but that includes all drinks, shore excursions, and gratuities. A comparable Carnival cruise might be $1,500, but your bar tab could add another $500–$1,000.

That said, even on luxury lines, there are limits. Most include:

• Wine and beer with lunch and dinner
• Cocktails and spirits at the bar (up to $15–$20 per drink)
• Premium wines and rare spirits (extra charge, but often with discounts)

So while you’re not paying per drink, you might still get a bill for that $120 bottle of Dom Pérignon or a $250 bottle of Macallan. It’s all-inclusive… with a few asterisks.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks: What’s Included and What Costs Extra

Included Drinks: The Basics

Good news! Most cruise lines include a range of non-alcoholic drinks in your base fare. Here’s what’s typically free:

• Coffee and tea (hot and iced)
• Juice (orange, apple, cranberry, etc.)
• Soda (Coca-Cola, Sprite, etc.)
• Water (tap and sometimes bottled, depending on the line)
• Milk and chocolate milk

Royal Caribbean and Carnival, for example, have self-serve soda stations and juice bars on the pool deck. You can fill up a cup anytime—no charge. But here’s the catch: specialty drinks cost extra.

Specialty Drinks: The Pricey Add-Ons

If you want something beyond the basics, be ready to pay. Here’s what typically costs extra:

• Premium bottled water: $4–$8 per bottle (Evian, Perrier, San Pellegrino)
• Specialty coffee: $4–$7 (latte, cappuccino, mocha)
• Smoothies and milkshakes: $6–$10
• Energy drinks: $5–$8 (Red Bull, Monster)
• Mocktails: $8–$12 (non-alcoholic cocktails, often with fancy presentation)

I once ordered a “Tropical Breeze” mocktail on Carnival—basically a fancy lemonade with fruit garnish. It cost $10. Was it good? Sure. Was it worth it? Not really. I could’ve had three regular juices instead.

One tip: if you’re a coffee lover, bring your own travel mug. Most lines let you refill it for free at the coffee bar. And if you’re picky about water, consider bringing a reusable bottle and refilling it at the tap stations.

Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Types of Drink Packages

Most cruise lines offer drink packages to help you control costs. Here are the most common types:

• Unlimited Alcoholic Package: Covers beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails (usually up to $15 per drink). Prices: $60–$100 per person per day.
• Non-Alcoholic Package: Covers soda, bottled water, specialty coffee, smoothies, and mocktails. Prices: $25–$40 per person per day.
• Premium Package: Includes everything from the above, plus top-shelf liquor, premium wines, and rare spirits. Prices: $80–$150 per person per day.
• “Free” Packages: Sometimes included as a promotion (like NCL’s “Free at Sea” or Carnival’s “Cheers!”). Often comes with restrictions.

When a Drink Package Makes Sense

So, are drink packages worth it? It depends on your drinking habits. Here’s a quick rule of thumb:

• If you drink 5+ alcoholic drinks per day, the unlimited package usually pays for itself.
• If you drink 3–4 drinks per day, you might break even or save a little.
• If you drink 2 or fewer drinks per day, you’re likely better off paying per drink.

Let’s do the math. Say you’re on a 7-night cruise with Royal Caribbean. Their “Deluxe Beverage Package” is $70 per person per day. That’s $490 for the week. If you drink 5 drinks a day at $12 each, that’s $420. So you’d save $70. But if you only drink 3 drinks a day, you’d spend $252—$238 less than the package.

Also, watch out for restrictions. Most packages:

• Don’t cover bottles of wine or champagne
• Have a per-drink limit (e.g., up to $15)
• Don’t include gratuities (usually 18–20% added automatically)
• May not be available in all bars or during certain events

Smart Ways to Use a Drink Package

If you do buy a package, use it wisely:

• Order premium drinks: Use your package for top-shelf liquor or craft cocktails—things you wouldn’t normally buy per drink.
• Share with friends: Most packages are per person, but you can order a round for your table (if you’re all on the same package).
• Use it for specialty coffee: A $7 latte is a $7 latte—whether you’re on a package or not.
• Check for blackout dates: Some packages don’t work on the first/last day or during private events.

And here’s a pro tip: buy early. Many lines offer discounts if you purchase your package before you board. Royal Caribbean, for example, gives up to 25% off if you buy online pre-cruise.

Smart Strategies to Save on Cruise Drinks

1. Bring Your Own (Within Limits)

Most cruise lines let you bring a small amount of alcohol onboard—usually 1–2 bottles of wine or champagne, and sometimes beer. But there are rules:

• You must declare it at embarkation
• It’s usually stored and returned on the last day
• You may need to pay a corkage fee to open it in a restaurant ($15–$30)
• Hard liquor is often not allowed

For example, Carnival lets you bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person. Royal Caribbean allows two bottles. NCL allows one bottle of wine or six-pack of beer per person. But don’t try to sneak in a case of beer—security will catch it.

2. Take Advantage of Happy Hours and Specials

Every cruise line has drink specials. Look for:

• Happy hour: 50% off drinks at certain bars (usually 3–6 PM)
• Buy one, get one free: Common at pool bars and lounges
• Daily drink specials: “Margarita Monday,” “Martini Night,” etc.
• Port day deals: Some lines offer discounts when the ship is in port

I once got two mojitos for $12 during a “Tropical Happy Hour” on Carnival. That’s a 60% discount!

3. Use Your Loyalty Benefits

If you’re a repeat cruiser, join the cruise line’s loyalty program. Benefits often include:

• Free drink coupons
• Discounts on packages
• Access to exclusive lounges with free drinks
• Early booking for specialty bars (like Royal Caribbean’s “Bionic Bar”)

Royal Caribbean’s Diamond members, for example, get four free drinks per day. That’s $40–$50 in savings right there.

4. Be Smart About Bottles and Corkage Fees

If you love wine, consider buying a bottle at the onboard wine shop. It’s often cheaper than buying by the glass—and you can take the leftovers home. But if you bring your own, check the corkage fee. On some lines, it’s cheaper to buy a bottle onboard than to bring your own and pay the fee.

For example, a $30 bottle of wine at the shop might be a better deal than bringing your own $25 bottle and paying a $20 corkage fee.

Data Table: Cruise Drink Pricing Comparison (7-Night Cruise)

Cruise Line	Domestic Beer	Imported Beer	House Wine (Glass)	Premium Wine (Glass)	Well Spirit	Top-Shelf Spirit	Cocktail (Standard)	Craft Cocktail	Drink Package (Unlimited)
Carnival	$7–$9	$9–$11	$9–$12	$14–$18	$8–$10	$12–$16	$10–$13	$14–$17	$65/day
Royal Caribbean	$7–$9	$9–$12	$9–$12	$15–$20	$8–$10	$12–$18	$11–$14	$15–$18	$70/day
NCL	$8–$10	$10–$12	$10–$13	$16–$20	$9–$11	$13–$17	$12–$15	$16–$19	$75/day
Celebrity	$8–$10	$10–$13	$10–$14	$16–$22	$10–$12	$14–$20	$12–$15	$16–$20	$80/day
Princess	$8–$10	$10–$13	$10–$14	$16–$22	$10–$12	$14–$20	$12–$15	$16–$20	$85/day
Regent Seven Seas	Included	Included	Included	$15–$25 (discounts)	Included	$18–$25 (discounts)	Included	$18–$25 (discounts)	N/A (all-inclusive)

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Drinks Without the Regret

So, how much are drinks on cruise lines? The answer is: it depends. But with the right strategy, you can enjoy great drinks without blowing your budget. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a cocktail enthusiast, understanding the pricing structure, knowing when to buy a package, and using smart hacks can make all the difference.

Here’s my final advice: plan ahead, track your spending, and don’t be afraid to say no. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment—especially when you’re on vacation. But a $14 mojito adds up fast. Set a daily budget, use drink packages wisely, and take advantage of free perks.

And remember: the goal of a cruise is to relax, not to stress about your bar tab. So raise a glass, enjoy the sunset, and sail away—responsibly. Because at the end of the day, the best memories aren’t about how much you spent, but how much fun you had. Cheers to that!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are drinks on cruise lines compared to land-based venues?

Drinks on cruise lines typically cost 20-50% more than bars or restaurants on land, with cocktails averaging $12–$18 and beers $6–$9. Prices vary by cruise line, destination, and onboard venue (e.g., pool bars vs. specialty lounges).

Are drink packages worth it on cruise lines?

Drink packages can save money if you consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily, with prices ranging from $50–$120 per person/day. Review the terms—some exclude premium brands or require purchasing for all adults in a cabin.

Do cruise lines charge for basic drinks like water or coffee?

Most cruise lines include basic drinks like tap water, iced tea, coffee, and juice in your fare, available at buffets or main dining areas. Bottled water, specialty coffees, or premium teas usually incur additional charges.

How much are alcoholic drinks on cruise lines without a package?

Without a package, alcoholic drinks on cruise lines cost $8–$18 for cocktails, $6–$9 for beer, and $10–$20 for wine by the glass. Premium or craft options may cost more, especially at specialty bars or during port days.

Can I bring my own drinks on cruise lines to save money?

Most cruise lines allow limited quantities of non-alcoholic drinks but restrict alcohol—any brought onboard is often confiscated until disembarkation. Some lines permit one bottle of wine per person, but corkage fees may apply.

Do cruise lines offer free drink promotions or happy hours?

Yes, many cruise lines host daily happy hours (e.g., 50% off drinks) or free drink events during port days. Loyalty program members may also receive complimentary drink vouchers or discounts as a perk.