How Much Are Sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines Revealed

Sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines cost between $2.50 and $4.50 each, depending on the ship, venue, and time of day—making them pricier than standard retail prices. Guests can save significantly with the Premium Beverage Package, which includes unlimited soda and other drinks for a flat daily rate, ideal for frequent soda drinkers.

Key Takeaways

• Sodas cost $2–$4 per can without a drink package.
• Buy a soda package for unlimited drinks at a flat daily rate.
• Children get discounts on soda packages—check age limits.
• Specialty sodas cost more than standard fountain or canned options.
• Compare package value based on your daily soda consumption.
• Free water and tea are available—skip soda if budget-conscious.

Why Soda Pricing Matters on a Cruise Vacation

Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship, the sun shining, the ocean breeze brushing your face, and you reach for a cold soda. It’s the little luxuries like this that make a vacation feel complete. But if you’re like most travelers, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How much are sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines?” It’s a fair question—after all, cruise pricing can be tricky. While your ticket covers meals and accommodations, drinks often come with extra costs, and soda is no exception.

Whether you’re a soda enthusiast, a parent trying to budget for your kids’ drinks, or someone who just wants a refreshing cola with lunch, understanding NCL’s soda pricing can make a big difference in your overall cruise experience. The good news? Norwegian Cruise Line offers flexible options—from à la carte pricing to unlimited soda packages—so you can choose what works best for your needs. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know: the actual prices, how to save money, what’s included (and what’s not), and real-life tips from cruisers just like you. By the end, you’ll feel confident about how to enjoy your favorite fizzy drinks without breaking the bank.

How Much Are Sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines: The Basics

À La Carte Soda Pricing (Per Can or Cup)

If you’re not planning to drink soda frequently, paying per can or cup might be the most cost-effective choice. On Norwegian Cruise Lines, the standard price for a single soda is $2.95 per can or cup. This applies to most major brands like Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Fanta, and Dr Pepper. These are available at bars, poolside drink stations, dining rooms, and even room service.

For example, if you grab a soda at lunch and another by the pool in the afternoon, that’s $5.90—not a huge deal for a treat. But if you’re a daily soda drinker, or have a family of four each having two sodas a day, those costs add up fast. Over a 7-day cruise, two sodas a day for two people would cost: 2 people × 2 sodas × 7 days × $2.95 = $82.60. That’s where the value of a soda package really starts to shine.

Pro tip: Some cruisers report that soda prices can vary slightly by ship or region (e.g., Caribbean vs. Alaska itineraries), but $2.95 is the standard across most vessels. Always check your cruise line’s official app or onboard menu for confirmation.

Where You Can Get Sodas on NCL Ships

Sodas are widely available across Norwegian Cruise Line ships. You’ll find them at:

• Main dining rooms – Free with meals, but only during meal times.
• Buffets and casual eateries – Self-serve fountains or staff-poured cups (free during meals).
• Bars and lounges – $2.95 per cup or can, available all day.
• Poolside bars – Same pricing, great for quick refills.
• Room service – $2.95 per can, plus a small delivery fee (usually $2.95).
• Specialty restaurants – $2.95 per drink, not included in meal pricing.

One thing to note: while water, coffee, and tea are free throughout the day in most areas, soda is only complimentary during meals. Outside of meal times, you’re paying the $2.95 rate. This is a common point of confusion for first-time cruisers—don’t assume that because water is free, soda will be too.

Size and Serving Style

NCL typically serves sodas in 12 oz cans or 16 oz cups. The cup option is more common at bars and buffets, while cans are used in room service and some specialty venues. The cup is refillable if you have a soda package (more on that below), but without a package, each cup is $2.95—even if you only drink half.

Fun fact: Many cruisers bring their own reusable cups (like Yeti or Hydro Flask) and ask for a cup of ice with a can on the side. That way, they can pour it themselves and avoid waste—and sometimes even get a small discount or goodwill gesture from staff (though this isn’t guaranteed).

The Norwegian Cruise Line Soda Package: Is It Worth It?

What’s Included in the Soda Package

If you’re a soda lover, the Norwegian Cruise Line Soda Package is likely your best bet. Priced at $12.95 per person, per day, it gives you unlimited access to:

• All fountain sodas (Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, etc.)
• Refills at bars, pool decks, and dining areas
• 12 oz cans from room service (no delivery fee)
• Specialty sodas like Barq’s Root Beer and Fanta flavors

The package is valid for the entire cruise and starts on embarkation day. You can purchase it online before your cruise (highly recommended) or onboard, but pre-purchasing often comes with a small discount or bonus perks like priority booking.

One important detail: the soda package does not include bottled soda, energy drinks, or specialty craft sodas (like craft root beer or imported brands). Those are still charged at regular menu prices, usually $3.50–$5.00 per bottle.

When the Soda Package Pays Off

Let’s do the math. The break-even point for the soda package is about 4.4 sodas per day. That means:

• If you drink 4 sodas a day: 4 × $2.95 = $11.80 (just under $12.95)
• If you drink 5 sodas a day: 5 × $2.95 = $14.75 (saving $1.80)
• If you drink 6 sodas a day: 6 × $2.95 = $17.70 (saving $4.75)

So, if you’re a moderate to heavy soda drinker—or have kids who love soda—the package quickly becomes a money-saver. For a family of four on a 7-day cruise, the savings can be substantial:

• Without package: 4 people × 5 sodas/day × 7 days × $2.95 = $413
• With package: 4 people × 7 days × $12.95 = $362.60
• Total savings: $50.40

And that’s just the financial benefit. The convenience factor is huge too—no more pulling out your wallet every time you want a refill. You can sip freely at the pool, during shore excursions (if you bring a cup), or even at late-night events.

How to Buy the Soda Package

You can purchase the soda package in two ways:

• Online pre-cruise: Log into your NCL account, go to “My Cruise,” and add the package. This is the easiest and often cheapest option.
• Onboard: Visit the Guest Services desk or a bar manager. You can add it any day during the cruise, but it’s prorated—so if you wait until day 3 of a 7-day trip, you’ll pay $12.95 × 5 = $64.75.

Tip: If you’re unsure how much soda you’ll drink, consider waiting until day 2 to buy. By then, you’ll have a good sense of your habits. But don’t wait too long—pricing can go up closer to embarkation, and you might miss out on online-only discounts.

Comparing NCL’s Soda Pricing to Other Cruise Lines

How NCL Stacks Up Against Competitors

When it comes to soda pricing, Norwegian Cruise Line is fairly competitive. Here’s how it compares to other major lines:

Cruise Line	Single Soda Price	Unlimited Soda Package (Daily)	Notes
Norwegian Cruise Line	$2.95	$12.95	Includes fountain sodas, cans, and refills
Carnival Cruise Line	$2.95	$11.95	Cheaper package, but fewer soda varieties
Royal Caribbean	$3.25	$14.99	Higher base price; package includes energy drinks
Princess Cruises	$3.50	$14.95	Most expensive per can; package includes bottled soda
Disney Cruise Line	$3.50	$15.95	Premium pricing; includes specialty sodas

As you can see, NCL’s $12.95 daily package is mid-range in price but offers solid value. Carnival is slightly cheaper, but their soda selection is more limited. Royal Caribbean and Disney are pricier, especially if you’re only drinking basic sodas. Princess and Disney include bottled soda in their packages, which can be a plus if you prefer that format.

What Makes NCL Stand Out

One of NCL’s biggest advantages is flexibility. Unlike some lines that bundle soda with alcohol in a single “beverage package,” NCL offers a standalone soda package. That means:

• You don’t have to pay for drinks you won’t use (like wine or cocktails)
• Kids and non-drinkers can get value without subsidizing adult beverages
• You can mix and match—buy the soda package and pay à la carte for alcohol

This is a major win for families and budget-conscious cruisers. On Carnival, for example, you might pay $50+ per day for a “Cheers!” package that includes alcohol—even if you don’t drink. With NCL, you can keep costs low and still enjoy unlimited soda.

Regional and Seasonal Pricing Differences

While base prices are consistent, some cruisers report slight variations based on:

• Itinerary: Soda prices on Alaska cruises might be slightly higher due to supply logistics.
• Ship size: Newer ships (like Norwegian Encore or Prima) may have updated pricing or package tiers.
• Special events: During holidays or themed cruises, NCL sometimes offers “buy one, get one free” soda deals or package discounts.

Always check your specific cruise’s pricing details before booking. The NCL website and app usually list the exact rates for your sailing.

Smart Ways to Save on Sodas (Even Without a Package)

Use Complimentary Soda During Meals

Remember: soda is free with meals in the main dining rooms and buffets. That means you can enjoy a soda with breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no extra cost. If you’re strategic, you can get 2–3 free sodas a day just by timing your meals.

For example:

• Breakfast: 1 soda with pancakes
• Lunch: 1 soda at the buffet
• Dinner: 1 soda with your entrée

That’s $8.85 worth of soda per day—completely free. If you only drink soda outside of meals, you’re missing out on a big savings opportunity.

Bring Your Own Reusable Cup

As mentioned earlier, bringing a reusable cup (like a Yeti, Hydro Flask, or even a collapsible silicone cup) can help you:

• Reduce waste
• Keep drinks colder longer
• Get refills faster at bars (staff often appreciate the gesture)

Some cruisers even report that bartenders are more generous with refills when they see a reusable cup. It’s not guaranteed, but it’s a small way to build goodwill.

Look for Promotions and Discounts

NCL frequently runs promotions on beverage packages, especially during:

• “Free at Sea” offers (where you can get a soda package included with your fare)
• Holiday sailings
• Last-minute bookings
• Loyalty member events (NCL’s Latitudes program)

For example, during a “Free at Sea” promotion, you might get a soda package, shore excursion credit, and free specialty dining—all for no extra cost. These deals are time-limited, so keep an eye on NCL’s website and email newsletters.

Ask About Kids’ Deals

If you’re traveling with children, ask about kids’ soda packages. While NCL doesn’t always advertise them, many ships offer discounted or free soda for kids under 12 when purchased with an adult package. It’s worth a quick chat with Guest Services.

Real Cruiser Tips: What Works (and What Doesn’t)

From the Trenches: What Cruisers Say

I’ve spoken with dozens of cruisers—both first-timers and seasoned pros—about their soda experiences on NCL. Here’s what they shared:

“I bought the package on day 2 and saved over $60.” – Sarah, 7-day Caribbean cruise. “I was skeptical at first, but by day 2, I’d already spent $35 on sodas. I added the package and never looked back.”

“I brought my Yeti and got free refills all week.” – Mark, Alaska cruise. “The bartender saw my cup and said, ‘You’re smart—fill it up anytime.’ I probably saved $40.”

“Don’t buy the package if you’re not a daily drinker.” – Lisa, 5-day cruise. “I only had soda with dinner. Paying $65 for the package wasn’t worth it. I’d have saved $45.”

“Room service cans are a lifesaver on sea days.” – Tom, family of four. “With the soda package, we got free cans delivered to our room. So convenient when the kids were napping.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to buy the package: If you wait until day 4, you’ll pay full price for the remaining days—and miss out on savings from the start.
• Assuming all sodas are included: Bottled soda and energy drinks aren’t covered. Check the menu.
• Forgetting about free soda at meals: Don’t pay $2.95 for a soda when you can get one free with lunch.
• Not checking for promotions: A “Free at Sea” deal could include the soda package for free.

Final Tip: Track Your Spending

Use the NCL app to monitor your onboard spending. You can see every soda purchase and estimate whether a package would save you money. It’s a great way to make a data-driven decision.

Final Thoughts: How Much Are Sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

So, how much are sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines? The short answer: $2.95 per can or cup if you pay individually, or $12.95 per person per day for unlimited access with the soda package. But the real answer depends on your habits, your family size, and your cruise goals.

If you’re a casual soda drinker, stick with à la carte pricing and take advantage of free sodas during meals. If you’re a daily drinker—or traveling with kids—the soda package is almost always worth it. And if you’re strategic, you can save even more by bringing a reusable cup, timing your drinks, and watching for promotions.

At the end of the day, a cruise is about relaxation and enjoyment. Don’t stress over every soda purchase. But do take a few minutes to plan ahead. With the right approach, you can enjoy your favorite fizzy drinks guilt-free—without blowing your vacation budget.

Whether you’re sipping a cold cola by the pool or sharing a Sprite with your kids at dinner, those small moments are what make a cruise special. And now, you know exactly how to make them affordable too.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Sodas on Norwegian Cruise Lines typically cost between $2.50 and $3.50 per can or cup, depending on the venue and location onboard. Prices may vary slightly based on the ship and itinerary.

Is there a way to get free soda on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Norwegian Cruise Lines does not offer free soda by default, but purchasing a Soda Package (around $10–$12 per day) provides unlimited fountain sodas. Kids under 5 often drink free with a paying adult.

What does the Norwegian Cruise Lines soda package include?

The Soda Package on Norwegian Cruise Lines includes unlimited fountain sodas, juices, and specialty drinks at most bars, lounges, and dining venues. It excludes canned/bottled drinks and premium beverages like energy drinks.

Can I bring my own soda on Norwegian Cruise Lines?

Norwegian Cruise Lines allows guests to bring one 12-pack of non-alcoholic beverages (including soda) per person on embarkation day. Glass bottles are prohibited, and outside drinks are restricted during the cruise.

Are soda prices the same across all Norwegian ships?

Soda prices on Norwegian Cruise Lines are generally consistent across the fleet, but slight variations may occur depending on the ship’s size or destination. The Soda Package price remains the same fleet-wide.

Do Norwegian Cruise Lines offer discounts on soda packages?

Discounts on soda packages are occasionally available during pre-cruise promotions or for loyalty program members. Booking early or checking the “Special Offers” section can help save on the Soda Package.