Picture yourself relaxing on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, enjoying stunning ocean views. You might be wondering, “How much do alcoholic drinks cost on a Norwegian cruise?” It’s a valid question! This blog post will provide a comprehensive breakdown of drink prices, available beverage packages, and tips for saving money on alcoholic beverages during your cruise. You’ll learn everything you need to know to budget for drinks and make the most of your cruise experience.
Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Prices
Understanding the pricing structure for alcoholic beverages on Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is essential for planning your cruise budget. Prices vary depending on the specific drink and venue. Generally, you can expect to pay similar prices as you would at a mid-range bar or restaurant in a major city. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid any surprises on your final bill and allow you to make informed decisions about purchasing individual drinks or considering a beverage package.
Standard Drink Prices
Understanding the baseline prices is key. These prices don’t include gratuity, which is automatically added.
- Beer: Expect to pay around $7 – $9 for a domestic beer and $8 – $11 for imported or craft beers. The price often varies depending on the location.
- Wine: A glass of wine typically ranges from $10 – $15, depending on the type and brand. Higher-end wines will, of course, be more expensive.
- Cocktails: Cocktails usually cost between $12 and $15. Specialty cocktails, which include premium liquors or unique ingredients, can be higher.
- Spirits (Liquor): A shot of standard liquor (vodka, rum, gin, whiskey) will typically be around $9 – $12. Premium liquors will be more expensive.
For example, the same domestic beer might be cheaper at the main pool bar compared to a specialty cocktail lounge. This price reflects the general cost of operating various venues onboard.
The wine list aboard Norwegian ships is quite extensive, offering a range of choices from affordable house wines to premium selections. Understanding the wine list helps you pick something within your budget.
Specialty cocktails often utilize fresh ingredients, house-made syrups, and premium liquors. The extra labor and cost of ingredients factor into the higher price.
Premium liquors are often aged longer, sourced from specific distilleries, and possess unique flavor profiles. Ordering a premium liquor allows for a higher-quality drinking experience.
Factors Influencing Drink Prices
Several factors play a role in determining the price of drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line.
- Brand of Alcohol: Premium brands like Grey Goose vodka or Johnnie Walker Blue Label whiskey will cost more than standard brands.
- Location on the Ship: Prices can vary slightly depending on the bar or lounge. Specialty bars may charge more for the same drink.
- Special Events: During themed parties or special events, some drinks might be offered at promotional prices.
- Gratuity: An automatic gratuity (usually around 20%) is added to each drink purchase.
Premium brands often invest heavily in marketing and quality control, resulting in a higher price point. The reputation and perceived value of the brand also contribute to the cost.
Specialty bars often offer unique ambiance, live entertainment, and expert mixologists, justifying a slightly higher price point. They enhance the overall drinking experience.
Promotional prices aim to attract more customers to specific events and increase overall beverage sales. These events often offer a fun and engaging atmosphere.
The automatic gratuity ensures that the bar staff is properly compensated for their service. This simplifies the payment process for guests.
Real-Life Examples
Here are a couple of real-life scenarios illustrating drink costs:
- Scenario 1: John orders a pint of domestic beer at the Spice H2O bar by the pool, costing $8 plus 20% gratuity, totaling $9.60. He then orders a glass of house wine at dinner for $12 plus 20% gratuity, totaling $14.40.
- Scenario 2: Mary orders a premium cocktail at Maltings Whiskey Bar, costing $15 plus 20% gratuity, totaling $18. She also enjoys a shot of premium whiskey for $14 plus 20% gratuity, totaling $16.80.
Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages
Norwegian Cruise Line offers various beverage packages that can potentially save you money if you plan to consume several alcoholic drinks per day. These packages provide a fixed daily rate for unlimited (or a large quantity) of selected drinks, making budgeting easier and potentially reducing your overall onboard spending. Evaluating your drinking habits is crucial in determining if a beverage package is right for you.
Premium Beverage Package
The Premium Beverage Package is NCL’s most popular option.
- Cost: The price of the Premium Beverage Package varies depending on the cruise length and itinerary but typically falls in the range of $99 – $138 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Inclusions: This package includes a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, beers, wines by the glass (up to $15), and soft drinks.
- Benefits: The main benefit is unlimited drinks up to $15, simplifying budgeting. It allows guests to enjoy their favorite drinks without constantly checking the price.
- Who it’s for: This package is ideal for those who plan to drink multiple cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine each day.
The daily rate covers a wide selection of beverages throughout the day and evening, offering significant convenience and value.
The extensive selection caters to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that there’s always something enjoyable to drink.
With the Premium Beverage Package, guests can fully immerse themselves in the cruise experience without worrying about the accumulating cost of individual drinks.
If you typically consume four or more alcoholic beverages daily, the Premium Beverage Package is likely a cost-effective option.
Premium Plus Beverage Package
For those seeking a more luxurious experience, NCL offers the Premium Plus Beverage Package.
- Cost: This package is the most expensive and averages about $128-$168 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Inclusions: It includes everything in the Premium Beverage Package, plus premium liquors, wines by the glass, and bottled water. It also includes specialty coffees and energy drinks.
- Benefits: This package offers a greater selection of drinks and may include discounts on bottles of wine. You get two bottles of wine, beer or soda and all top shelf brands of alcohol.
- Who it’s for: This package is best suited for those who prefer premium liquors and high-end wines, and want the most comprehensive beverage option available.
The Premium Plus Package provides the ultimate in beverage selection and benefits, offering unparalleled value for those who enjoy premium drinks and experiences.
The expanded beverage selection includes top-shelf liquors, fine wines, and a wider array of non-alcoholic options to cater to every taste.
The discounts and exclusive benefits enhance the overall value of the Premium Plus Package, making it a worthwhile investment for discerning drinkers.
If you appreciate fine spirits and want to indulge in the best beverages NCL has to offer, the Premium Plus Beverage Package is the ideal choice.
Soda Package
For those who don’t drink alcohol, NCL offers a soda package.
- Cost: This package is much more affordable, typically around $9.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Inclusions: It includes unlimited fountain soda and juice throughout the cruise.
- Benefits: It is a great way to avoid paying for each individual soda.
- Who it’s for: This is perfect for kids, teens, and adults who prefer soft drinks over alcoholic beverages.
The soda package is a cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited soft drinks throughout your cruise, without incurring per-drink charges.
Access to a variety of soft drinks and juices ensures that you stay refreshed and hydrated throughout your voyage.
The convenience of the soda package eliminates the need to track individual drink purchases, simplifying your onboard spending.
If you or your family consume several sodas each day, the soda package is a smart investment to avoid high individual costs.
Example Scenario: Package vs. Individual Drinks
Let’s compare the cost of a beverage package versus buying individual drinks. Assume the Premium Beverage Package costs $109 per day (plus gratuity), totaling $130.80. If you typically drink 5 cocktails per day at $14 each (plus gratuity), each drink will cost $16.80, totaling $84. In this scenario, the beverage package would be more economical.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the cost-benefit analysis of buying drinks individually vs. purchasing a beverage package. The chart should consider different drinking habits (e.g., 2 drinks/day, 5 drinks/day, 8 drinks/day) and associated costs.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a beverage package, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce your spending on alcoholic drinks during your Norwegian cruise. These tactics include taking advantage of happy hour specials, bringing your own wine (subject to corkage fees), and being mindful of your consumption.
Happy Hour and Drink Specials
Many bars and lounges on Norwegian ships offer happy hour specials or daily drink promotions.
- Check the Daily Newsletter: The daily newsletter (Freestyle Daily) will list any drink specials or happy hour times.
- Attend Theme Nights: Some theme nights feature discounted drinks related to the theme.
- Ask the Bartender: Bartenders often know about unadvertised specials.
The Freestyle Daily is your go-to guide for onboard activities, entertainment, and special promotions, including details about happy hour and drink specials.
Theme nights are a great way to enjoy themed cocktails and beverages at reduced prices, adding to the fun and festive atmosphere.
Bartenders are a valuable source of information about current promotions and hidden deals. They can also provide personalized recommendations.
Bringing Your Own Wine
Norwegian Cruise Line allows passengers to bring their own wine onboard, subject to certain restrictions.
- Corkage Fee: A corkage fee (typically around $15-$20 per bottle) applies if you consume the wine in the dining room or other public areas.
- Enjoy in Your Cabin: You can avoid the corkage fee by enjoying your wine in your stateroom.
- Restrictions: There might be limits on the amount of wine you can bring per stateroom. Check NCL’s policy before your cruise.
The corkage fee covers the service of opening, pouring, and providing glassware for your wine. It also allows the ship to generate revenue from beverage sales.
Drinking wine in your stateroom offers a more private and relaxed setting, without the additional cost of a corkage fee.
Understanding NCL’s policy on bringing your own wine ensures that you comply with the guidelines and avoid any issues upon embarkation.
Be Mindful of Consumption
Simple awareness of your drinking habits can lead to significant savings.
- Alternate with Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Switching between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can help you pace yourself and reduce your overall consumption.
- Consider Sharing: Sharing a bottle of wine or a pitcher of cocktails with friends can reduce the cost per person.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on drinks each day and stick to it.
Alternating drinks allows you to stay hydrated and mindful of your alcohol intake, preventing overspending and promoting responsible drinking.
Sharing beverages creates a communal and enjoyable experience while also saving money. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.
Setting a budget provides a clear framework for your spending and helps you stay within your financial limits. It encourages mindful decision-making.
Debunking Common Myths
Let’s dispel some frequent misconceptions about drink costs on Norwegian Cruise Line.
- Myth 1: Drinks are always cheaper on shore excursions.
- Myth 2: The beverage package is always the best deal.
- Myth 3: All drinks are included in the beverage package.
While some shore excursions may offer cheaper drinks, this isn’t always the case. Tourist traps often inflate prices. Always check the menu before ordering and compare prices to those onboard the ship.
The beverage package is only a good deal if you consume enough drinks to justify the daily cost. If you are a light drinker, buying individual drinks will likely be more cost-effective. Assess your typical consumption habits honestly.
Beverage packages have limitations. For example, the Premium Beverage Package includes drinks up to $15. Higher-priced drinks will incur an additional charge. Read the fine print carefully before purchasing a package.
How Drink Prices Compare to Other Cruise Lines
It’s useful to understand how Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink prices stack up against those of other popular cruise lines. While there can be variations depending on specific itineraries and promotions, this overview provides a general comparison. By knowing where NCL stands in relation to its competitors, you can make a more informed decision when choosing a cruise.
Comparing to Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival is often considered a budget-friendly option. Their drink prices tend to be slightly lower than those on Norwegian. Domestic beers on Carnival might be around $6-$8, while cocktails could range from $10-$13. However, Carnival’s beverage package is generally cheaper than NCL’s. This makes Carnival a solid choice for those prioritizing affordability in both individual drinks and beverage packages.
Comparing to Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are generally comparable to Norwegian Cruise Line. You can expect to pay similar amounts for beers, wines, and cocktails. Royal Caribbean also offers beverage packages that are priced similarly to NCL’s. However, Royal Caribbean often has more frequent promotions and discounts on these packages, so it’s worth checking for deals before your cruise. The choice between the two often comes down to itinerary and onboard amenities rather than drink prices.
Comparing to Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises tends to be positioned as a more premium cruise line, and their drink prices reflect this. You can generally expect to pay slightly more for alcoholic beverages on Princess compared to Norwegian. Their beverage packages also tend to be more expensive. This makes Princess a better choice for those willing to pay a premium for a higher-end experience, while NCL offers a balance between price and quality.
Insert a table here that visually compares drink prices (beer, wine, cocktails) and beverage package costs across Norwegian, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess cruise lines.
FAQ
Question: Are gratuities included in the listed drink prices?
No, the listed drink prices on Norwegian Cruise Line do not include gratuities. An automatic gratuity, typically around 20%, is added to each drink purchase at the time of sale. Keep this in mind when budgeting for your drinks to avoid any unexpected costs on your final bill.
Question: Can I share my beverage package with someone else?
No, beverage packages on Norwegian Cruise Line are non-transferable and cannot be shared. Each adult in the stateroom must purchase the same beverage package if one person chooses to buy one. This policy ensures fairness and prevents misuse of the beverage package benefits throughout the cruise.
Question: What happens if I order a drink that costs more than the limit on my beverage package?
If you order a drink that costs more than the limit specified in your beverage package (for example, a cocktail exceeding $15 with the Premium Beverage Package), you will be charged the difference between the drink’s price and the package’s limit. The remaining balance is then added to your onboard account.
Question: Are there any restrictions on when I can use my beverage package?
The beverage packages are typically valid at all bars, lounges, and restaurants onboard the ship during regular operating hours. However, there may be some restrictions, such as not being valid at certain specialty events or private functions. Check the specific terms and conditions of your chosen beverage package for any limitations.
Question: Can I bring my own non-alcoholic beverages onboard?
Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line typically allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard, such as bottled water, soda, or juice. However, there may be restrictions on the quantity and packaging. It’s best to check NCL’s specific policy regarding bringing non-alcoholic beverages before your cruise to ensure compliance.
Question: How can I track my spending on drinks during the cruise?
Norwegian Cruise Line provides several ways to track your onboard spending, including drink purchases. You can use the interactive TV in your stateroom, the NCL app on your smartphone, or visit the guest services desk to review your account statement. Monitoring your spending regularly helps you stay within your budget and avoid surprises at the end of the cruise.
Final Thoughts
Planning for how much do alcoholic drinks cost on a Norwegian cruise is essential for a smooth and enjoyable vacation. By understanding drink prices, evaluating beverage package options, and employing money-saving strategies, you can manage your onboard spending effectively. Remember to check for specials, be mindful of your consumption, and don’t hesitate to ask bartenders for recommendations. Knowing these aspects ensures you can relax and savor every moment of your cruise without financial worries.