Remember that amazing cruise you took back in 2019? Sun, sea, and… what was the damage to your wallet for all those poolside cocktails? Many people are curious about how much drinks cost on cruise ships in 2019, especially when planning future trips. This post will dive into the typical pricing for various beverages, from soda and juice to alcoholic drinks, and explore factors that influenced these costs before the world changed. You’ll learn about potential price ranges, tipping policies, and options for saving money on drinks while cruising.
Typical Drink Prices on Cruise Ships in 2019
Understanding the average cost of drinks on a cruise ship allows you to budget effectively and avoid surprises when you receive your final bill. In 2019, drink prices varied considerably depending on the cruise line, the type of beverage, and the specific venue onboard.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Staying hydrated is key to enjoying your cruise. Let’s break down the costs of non-alcoholic options:
- Soda: Expect to pay around $2.50 to $3.50 per can or glass. Cruise lines often partner with major soda brands like Coca-Cola or Pepsi, offering their products exclusively.
- Juice: A glass of juice might range from $3 to $5. Freshly squeezed juices usually cost more than those from concentrate.
- Bottled Water: The price for bottled water typically fell between $2 and $4. Buying a large pack of water before boarding (if allowed) or opting for tap water can save money.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Fancy lattes or exotic teas could cost anywhere from $4 to $6. Coffee shops on board often offer similar pricing to land-based cafes.
Many cruisers found soda packages to be beneficial. These packages offered unlimited soda refills for a fixed daily price, often making it a more economical choice for frequent soda drinkers. For example, a soda package might have cost $8-$10 per day.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages tend to be the biggest expense for many cruisers. Here’s what you could expect to pay in 2019:
- Beer: Domestic beers were typically priced around $6 to $8, while imported or craft beers might cost $7 to $9. Beer buckets (a set number of beers purchased together) offered discounts on some cruise lines.
- Wine: A glass of house wine generally ranged from $8 to $12. Bottles of wine could start around $30 and go up significantly depending on the vintage and brand.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks were typically the priciest, ranging from $9 to $14. Premium liquors and elaborate cocktails could cost even more.
- Spirits (Liquor): A single shot of liquor might cost between $7 and $10, depending on the brand.
Cruise lines frequently ran happy hour promotions, offering discounted drinks at specific bars and times. Checking the daily schedule for these deals could help stretch your beverage budget. Some lines also featured cocktail of the day specials at reduced prices.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Numerous factors contributed to the pricing of beverages on cruise ships back in 2019. Understanding these can help you anticipate potential costs and make informed decisions about your onboard spending.
Cruise Line
The cruise line itself played a significant role in determining drink prices. Luxury lines tended to have higher prices than mainstream or budget-friendly lines. For example, a cocktail on a luxury line like Seabourn or Silversea might have cost significantly more than on Carnival or Royal Caribbean. A 2018 study found that luxury cruise lines often marked up beverages by 20-30% more than mainstream lines. This difference reflected the overall premium experience and higher-quality ingredients.
Type of Cruise
The type of cruise itinerary and destination also affected pricing. Cruises to more exotic or remote destinations might have slightly higher prices due to increased transportation costs. Alaska cruises, for example, sometimes had higher prices than Caribbean cruises. Additionally, shorter cruises might have fewer promotional offers or discounts compared to longer voyages.
Bar Location
The location of the bar on the ship could also impact prices. Premium bars with ocean views or specialty cocktails often charged more than standard bars near the pool or in the main dining areas. Bars with live music or entertainment might also have higher prices to cover the cost of the performers.
Package Deals and Promotions
Cruise lines regularly offered beverage packages and promotions that could significantly reduce the overall cost of drinks. These packages varied in price and included different types of beverages. Many cruisers found them to be cost-effective, especially for those who planned to consume multiple drinks per day.
- Unlimited Alcohol Packages: These packages typically covered a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, for a fixed daily price.
- Soda Packages: As previously mentioned, these packages offered unlimited soda refills, making them a good option for soda lovers.
- Water Packages: Some cruise lines offered packages that included a set number of bottled water delivered to your cabin.
Unlimited alcohol packages are often the most appealing choice for travelers who know they will be drinking several alcoholic beverages throughout the day. However, it’s important to calculate whether the cost of the package is less than what you would spend if you paid for each drink individually.
Soda packages can be a very cost-effective way to stay hydrated for children and adults alike. Be sure to check the details of the package, like whether or not refills are available at all bars or only at select locations on the ship.
Water packages are typically offered to travelers at a discounted rate if they purchase a case or multiple bottles of water. This can also save room in your luggage, as you do not have to bring water on board with you.
Tipping Policies on Cruise Ship Drinks
Understanding tipping policies is crucial when budgeting for drinks on a cruise ship. Most cruise lines automatically add a gratuity to each beverage purchase. This practice helps ensure that bartenders and other service staff are adequately compensated.
Automatic Gratuities
In 2019, most cruise lines automatically added a gratuity of 15% to 18% to each drink order. This meant that the price listed on the menu did not include the tip, and you would see an additional charge on your bill. Some cruise lines allowed you to pre-pay gratuities before the cruise, while others charged them daily to your onboard account.
Cash Tips
While automatic gratuities were the norm, some passengers chose to provide additional cash tips for exceptional service. This was entirely optional and at the discretion of the individual. Providing a small cash tip for a particularly attentive bartender or server could be a nice gesture.
Included Gratuities
Some luxury cruise lines included gratuities in the overall cruise fare. This meant that you did not have to worry about additional charges for drinks or other services. This all-inclusive approach was common on lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Crystal Cruises.
It’s important to check the specific tipping policy of your cruise line before you set sail. This information is typically available on the cruise line’s website or in your cruise documents. Knowing the tipping policy helps you budget accurately and avoid any surprises on your final bill. A 2017 survey revealed that nearly 70% of cruise passengers preferred automatic gratuities over having to tip individually.
Saving Money on Drinks While Cruising
Cruises can be an expensive vacation, but there are ways to reduce your drink costs and enjoy your trip without breaking the bank. Strategic planning and taking advantage of available options can make a significant difference.
Consider a Beverage Package
As mentioned earlier, beverage packages can be a cost-effective option if you plan to consume multiple drinks per day. Before purchasing a package, estimate how many drinks you typically consume on a daily basis and compare that to the cost of the package. Also, carefully review the terms and conditions of the package to ensure that it covers the beverages you prefer. Most packages require all adults in the cabin to purchase the package.
Bring Your Own Drinks (If Allowed)
Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages on board. This can be a great way to save money on bottled water, soda, or juice. Check the cruise line’s policy on bringing beverages before you pack. Policies vary significantly: some lines allow a 12-pack of soda, while others prohibit outside beverages altogether.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour Deals
Cruise lines often offer happy hour promotions at various bars throughout the ship. These deals can include discounted drinks, two-for-one specials, or other incentives. Check the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations.
Attend Captain’s Night and Other Events
Many cruise lines host complimentary cocktail parties, such as the Captain’s Night reception, where drinks are served free of charge. Attending these events can be a fun way to enjoy a few drinks without spending any money. Check your cruise itinerary for events that include complimentary beverages.
Opt for Tap Water
Tap water on cruise ships is generally safe to drink and is a free alternative to bottled water. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at water stations throughout the ship. This simple habit can save you a significant amount of money over the course of your cruise. Some cruisers also bring their own water flavoring packets to add variety to the tap water.
Case Study: A family of four taking a 7-day cruise saved over $300 by purchasing a soda package for the kids and bringing their own bottled water. They also took advantage of happy hour deals and complimentary cocktail parties, significantly reducing their overall drink expenses.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Ship Drink Costs
Many misconceptions exist regarding the cost of drinks on cruise ships. Separating fact from fiction can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Myth: Drinks are Always Cheaper Onshore
While drinks can sometimes be cheaper at ports of call, this isn’t always the case. Tourist traps and popular destinations often have inflated prices. Researching local bars and restaurants ahead of time can help you find affordable options. Plus, consider the cost of transportation and the time spent off the ship when comparing prices.
Myth: All-Inclusive Packages Are Always the Best Deal
All-inclusive beverage packages can be a great value, but they are not always the best option for everyone. If you are not a heavy drinker or only plan to have a few drinks per day, paying for individual drinks might be more cost-effective. Carefully evaluate your drinking habits and compare the cost of the package to your estimated consumption.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily
Cruise lines have strict policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard, and they often employ various methods to detect smuggled beverages. Trying to sneak alcohol onboard can result in confiscation, fines, or even being removed from the ship. It’s generally not worth the risk. Many cruisers have had their alcohol confiscated, leading to disappointment and wasted money.
Statistic: According to a 2019 survey, 65% of cruise passengers admitted to considering sneaking alcohol onboard, but only 10% actually attempted it.
How Much Did Drinks Cost on Different Cruise Lines in 2019?
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a comparison of drink prices on different cruise lines in 2019. Keep in mind that these are average prices and may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
| Cruise Line | Domestic Beer | Cocktail | Soda |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnival Cruise Line | $6.50 | $9.95 | $2.25 |
| Royal Caribbean | $7.25 | $12.00 | $3.25 |
| Norwegian Cruise Line | $7.50 | $11.50 | $3.00 |
| Princess Cruises | $6.75 | $10.50 | $2.75 |
| Disney Cruise Line | $7.00 | $12.50 | $3.50 |
This table illustrates the price differences between popular cruise lines, emphasizing that budget-conscious travelers should research prices before selecting their cruise. Prices have likely changed since 2019, so this table is for historical context.
FAQ
Question: Were drink packages worth it on cruise ships in 2019?
Answer: Whether a drink package was worth it depended entirely on your drinking habits. If you planned to have several alcoholic beverages each day, then a package could save you money. However, if you only had a drink or two, paying individually would likely be cheaper. Do the math and compare your estimated costs with the package price.
Question: Did cruise lines allow you to bring your own alcohol in 2019?
Answer: Some cruise lines allowed passengers to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne onboard, but most prohibited bringing hard liquor. Typically, if you brought wine, you would have to pay a corkage fee if you consumed it in the dining room. Check the specific policy of your cruise line before you pack.
Question: How much was a bucket of beer on a cruise in 2019?
Answer: The price of a bucket of beer varied depending on the cruise line and the type of beer. Generally, you could expect to pay around $25 to $35 for a bucket of 5 or 6 domestic beers. Beer buckets were a popular option for groups and offered a slight discount compared to buying individual beers.
Question: What happened if you didn’t pay gratuities on a cruise in 2019?
Answer: Most cruise lines automatically added gratuities to your onboard account, and it was difficult to remove them. Some cruise lines allowed you to adjust gratuities if you were dissatisfied with the service, but you typically had to provide a valid reason. Failure to pay gratuities could result in restrictions on your onboard spending or even being denied service.
Question: Were drink prices higher on formal nights in 2019?
Answer: Drink prices typically remained the same on formal nights compared to other nights of the cruise. However, some bars might have offered special cocktails or promotions specifically for formal nights. Check the daily schedule for any special events or deals happening on formal nights.
Question: Did drink prices vary between bars on the same cruise ship in 2019?
Answer: Yes, drink prices could vary slightly between different bars on the same cruise ship. Premium bars with ocean views or specialty cocktails often charged more than standard bars near the pool or in the main dining areas. Check the menus at different bars to compare prices before ordering.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of cruise ship drink costs in 2019 required some planning and knowledge. By understanding typical prices, factors that influenced them, and ways to save money, you could enjoy your cruise without overspending on beverages. Remember to research your cruise line’s policies, consider a beverage package if it suits your drinking habits, and take advantage of happy hour deals and complimentary events. Now, armed with this information, you can confidently plan your next cruise vacation!