How Much Are Drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line typically range from $5 to $15, depending on the type and location. While non-alcoholic options like soda and coffee are often included in basic packages, premium cocktails, wine, and beer come at an extra cost—especially in specialty bars and lounges. Guests can save significantly with drink packages, starting around $60 per day, offering unlimited access to most beverages.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary by type, with cocktails averaging $12–$16 onboard.
• Save with packages: Consider beverage packages for frequent drinkers to cut costs.
• Specialty drinks cost more at premium bars like The Cellars or Ice Bar.
• Free options exist: Water, tea, and basic coffee are included in your fare.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during select times daily.

The Ultimate Guide to Drink Prices on Norwegian Cruise Line

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most frequently asked questions is: How much are drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line? Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or celebrating with a premium spirit in a specialty bar, beverage costs can significantly impact your overall cruise budget. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has built a reputation for offering a “freestyle cruising” experience, which includes flexibility in dining and drink options. But how does that translate to your wallet? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of NCL drink pricing, uncovering everything from complimentary options to premium packages, specialty beverages, and money-saving strategies.

Understanding drink pricing on NCL isn’t just about knowing the cost per drink—it’s about making informed decisions that align with your vacation goals. Are you a wine enthusiast who wants to pair the perfect vintage with every meal? Do you prefer craft cocktails or non-alcoholic mocktails? Or maybe you’re traveling with kids and need to budget for sodas and juices? This guide will break down all the variables, including package options, à la carte pricing, and hidden gems that can save you hundreds. By the end, you’ll have the tools to enjoy your cruise to the fullest—without any surprise bar tabs at the end of your trip.

Complimentary Drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line

What’s Included in the Base Fare

Norwegian Cruise Line includes a selection of complimentary drinks in your cruise fare, which is great news for budget-conscious travelers. These are available throughout the ship, from the main dining rooms to the pool bars and casual lounges. The key is knowing where to find them and how to maximize their value.

• Non-alcoholic beverages: Tap water, iced tea, coffee (regular and decaf), hot tea, lemonade, and select juices (orange, apple, cranberry) are available at all bars and dining venues. These are unlimited and refillable.
• Soft drinks: While not included in the base fare, NCL offers a soft drink package (more on that later). However, you can still enjoy free soda at select times—such as during dinner in main dining rooms or at kids’ activities.
• Water: Complimentary still and sparkling water are provided during meals. You can also request bottled water at bars, though it may incur a fee unless you have a beverage package.
• Coffee and tea: All standard coffee and tea options (espresso, cappuccino, latte, etc.) are free at the coffee bars and in dining rooms. Specialty drinks like flavored lattes or iced mochas are extra.

Where to Find Free Drinks

To get the most out of your complimentary options, here are some insider tips:

• Main Dining Rooms: Every meal includes free soda, juice, coffee, and tea. Ask your server—they’re happy to refill.
• Buffet and Casual Eateries: The Garden Café (buffet) and O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill (24-hour pub) offer self-serve soda fountains, iced tea, and coffee. Bring your own reusable cup to avoid waste and save time.
• Room Service: Coffee, tea, and water are free with room service orders. However, soda and bottled drinks cost extra.
• Pool Deck: Most pool bars have a “water station” where you can fill cups with iced tea or lemonade. Ask the bartender—it’s not always obvious!

Pro Tip: If you’re not buying a beverage package, carry a reusable water bottle. NCL allows this, and you can refill it at water stations or dining areas. This saves money and reduces plastic waste.

Alcoholic Drink Pricing: À La Carte vs. Packages

À La Carte Drink Prices (2024)

If you don’t opt for a drink package, you’ll pay per drink. Here’s a breakdown of average prices across the fleet (prices may vary slightly by ship and itinerary):

• Beer: Domestic (e.g., Budweiser, Coors): $7–$9 | Craft/imports (e.g., Blue Moon, Heineken): $9–$12
• Wine: House wines (glass): $10–$14 | Premium wines (e.g., Cabernet, Pinot Grigio): $14–$20
• Spirits: Standard (e.g., Jack Daniel’s, Smirnoff): $12–$15 | Premium (e.g., Patron, Grey Goose): $16–$22
• Cocktails: Classic (e.g., Margarita, Mojito): $14–$17 | Specialty (e.g., frozen daiquiris, martinis): $16–$20
• Shots: $9–$14 (e.g., Fireball, Jägermeister)
• Non-alcoholic cocktails: $7–$10 (e.g., virgin piña colada, mocktail)

Example: A couple enjoying two cocktails at the pool bar, two glasses of wine at dinner, and two beers at the casino would spend approximately: (2 x $17) + (2 x $12) + (2 x $8) = $66 per day. Over a 7-day cruise, that’s $462—not including gratuities (18–20% added to all drinks).

Beverage Package Options

NCL offers several packages to help you save. The most popular are:

• Premium Plus Beverage Package: $99/day (plus 18% gratuity). Includes:
  • All alcoholic drinks up to $15
  • Premium wines (up to $25/glass)
  • Top-shelf spirits (e.g., Macallan 12, Don Julio)
  • Specialty cocktails
  • All non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juices, coffee, tea)
  • 15% discount on bottles of wine
• Premium Beverage Package: $79/day (plus 18% gratuity). Includes:
  • All drinks up to $15
  • House wines and standard spirits
  • All non-alcoholic drinks
  • No premium spirits or specialty cocktails
• Soft Drink Package: $19.95/day. Unlimited soda, juice, and bottled water. Great for families.

When does a package pay off? The Premium Plus package breaks even at ~7 drinks per day (at $15 average). For example, if you drink 3 cocktails ($17 each), 2 wines ($14), and 2 beers ($9), you’re at $85—just $14 under the $99 daily cost. Add gratuities, and it’s a clear win.

Specialty and Premium Drink Options

Wine and Champagne Experiences

NCL caters to wine lovers with curated experiences and premium selections:

• Wine Spectator Wine Bar: Found on most ships, this bar offers 300+ labels. A glass of Dom Pérignon costs $45–$60. The Wine Flight (3 x 2oz pours) starts at $25.
• Champagne Tastings: Hosted by the sommelier, these $45–$75 sessions include 3–5 champagnes (e.g., Moët, Veuve Clicquot) and light bites.
• Bottle Service: A bottle of Château Margaux can cost $1,200+, but mid-range options (e.g., $100–$300) are available. With a Premium Plus package, you get 15% off.

Craft Cocktails and Mixology

For cocktail enthusiasts, NCL’s bars offer unique creations:

• Bar Lab: A rotating menu of craft cocktails. Try the NCL Mule ($16) or Tropical Old Fashioned ($18).
• Mixology Classes: $35–$50 per person. Learn to make 3–4 drinks and take home a recipe card.
• Seasonal Specials: Holiday cruises feature themed cocktails (e.g., Pumpkin Spice Martini in October).

Non-Alcoholic and Health-Conscious Options

NCL has expanded its mocktail and wellness offerings:

• Mocktails: $7–$10. Try the Sunset Serenade (pineapple, mango, mint) at the pool bar.
• Keto-Friendly: Low-carb options like Sparkling Lime Spritzer ($8) are available upon request.
• Smoothie Bars: $9–$12 for protein or fruit smoothies (e.g., Green Smoothie with spinach, banana, chia seeds).

Money-Saving Tips and Hidden Discounts

Book Early or Last-Minute

NCL often runs promotions where you can get free beverage packages as a perk. These are usually available:

• Early Booking: Book 12+ months in advance for “Free at Sea” deals (includes 1–3 free packages, depending on stateroom).
• Last-Minute Deals: Check NCL’s “Last Minute Cruises” section (45–90 days out) for package upgrades.

Use Onboard Credits and Loyalty Perks

• Onboard Credit (OBC): Use OBC to offset package costs. A $200 OBC on a $700 package reduces your out-of-pocket to $500.
• Latitudes Rewards: Platinum and higher tiers get 20–50% off packages. A Platinum member saves $20/day on Premium Plus.

Strategic Package Use

• Share Packages: Two adults can share one Premium Plus package if they’re together at all times (NCL’s “drink together” policy). Not ideal, but saves $99/day.
• Skip the Package: If you drink <5 alcoholic drinks/day, à la carte may be cheaper. Example: 4 cocktails ($17 x 4 = $68) + 2 beers ($8 x 2 = $16) = $84/day. Premium Plus costs $117/day (after gratuity).
• Buy at Port: In destinations like Nassau or Cozumel, alcohol is 30–50% cheaper. Bring back a bottle to your cabin (NCL allows this).

Happy Hours and Promotions

• Happy Hour: 5–7 PM daily at most bars. 50% off select drinks (e.g., $14 cocktail → $7).
• Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO): Common on embarkation day and port days.
• Wine Discounts: Buy 3 bottles, get 1 free during onboard wine tastings.

Data Table: NCL Drink Pricing and Package Breakdown

Drink Type	À La Carte Price	Premium Plus Package	Premium Package	Soft Drink Package
Domestic Beer	$7–$9	✓ Included	✓ Included	N/A
House Wine (glass)	$10–$14	✓ Included	✓ Included	N/A
Premium Wine (glass)	$14–$25	✓ Up to $25	✗ Extra	N/A
Standard Cocktail	$14–$17	✓ Included	✓ Included	N/A
Specialty Cocktail	$16–$20	✓ Included	✗ Extra	N/A
Top-Shelf Spirit	$16–$22	✓ Included	✗ Extra	N/A
Soda/Juice	$4–$6	✓ Included	✓ Included	✓ Included
Bottled Water	$3–$5	✓ Included	✓ Included	✓ Included
Daily Cost (with 18% gratuity)	N/A	$116.82	$93.22	$23.54

Note: Package prices include 18% gratuity. À la carte prices also add 18–20% gratuity automatically.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your NCL Drink Experience

So, how much are drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer depends on your drinking habits, budget, and willingness to plan ahead. While à la carte pricing can add up quickly—especially with gratuities—the right beverage package can save you hundreds, particularly if you enjoy premium drinks or multiple cocktails per day. For wine lovers, the Premium Plus package unlocks access to high-end vintages at a fraction of the cost, while families will find the Soft Drink Package invaluable for keeping kids hydrated and happy.

Beyond packages, smart strategies like using onboard credits, booking during promotions, and leveraging happy hours can stretch your vacation budget further. And let’s not forget the complimentary options: with free water, coffee, and select juices available everywhere, you can stay refreshed without spending a dime. Remember, NCL’s freestyle approach means you’re in control. Whether you’re toasting with a $60 Dom Pérignon or sipping a free iced tea by the pool, the key is to enjoy your cruise on your terms—and with a clear understanding of what each drink will cost.

As you plan your next NCL adventure, use this guide to make informed choices. Compare package break-even points, track your daily consumption, and don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations. With the right approach, you’ll raise your glass to a vacation filled with great drinks, great memories, and even greater savings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line compared to other cruise lines?

Drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) are competitively priced, with alcoholic beverages like cocktails ranging from $10–$18 and beers from $6–$9. While slightly higher than some budget lines, NCL offers more inclusive packages and promotions, making it comparable to premium competitors.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line include any free drinks in the fare?

Basic beverages like water, iced tea, lemonade, and select juices are complimentary at meals and buffets. However, specialty drinks (e.g., soda, premium coffee, alcohol) require a separate purchase or beverage package.

Are drink packages worth it on Norwegian Cruise Line?

NCL’s Unlimited Open Bar package (starting around $60/day) can be cost-effective if you plan to consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily. Evaluate your drinking habits and check for pre-cruise discounts to maximize savings.

How much are specialty coffee drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Specialty coffees (e.g., lattes, cappuccinos) at NCL’s onboard Starbucks or coffee bars typically cost $4–$7. A coffee card offering 15 beverages is available for around $40, saving frequent buyers 20–30%.

Can I bring my own drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line?

NCL allows each guest to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne on embarkation day; additional bottles incur a $15 corkage fee. All other alcohol is confiscated and returned at disembarkation.

Are there happy hour or drink specials on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes! NCL frequently offers daily happy hours (e.g., 50% off cocktails) and seasonal promotions. Check the Freestyle Daily newsletter onboard for time-limited deals at bars and lounges.