Planning a cruise often involves a flurry of decisions, from choosing the right itinerary to picking the perfect cabin. But one question consistently pops up: “How much do drink packages cost on cruise ships?” Many cruisers wonder if these packages are a worthwhile investment or if paying per drink is more economical. This guide will break down the costs, factors influencing pricing, and ultimately, help you decide if a cruise drink package is right for your vacation.
Understanding Cruise Drink Package Pricing
Cruise lines offer various drink packages, each with different inclusions and price points. Typically, the cost of a drink package is calculated per person, per day. This means even if you only plan to drink heavily on certain days, you’ll be paying the daily rate for the entire cruise. Understanding this daily pricing structure is crucial before making a purchase.
Factors Influencing Drink Package Costs
Several factors can impact the price of cruise drink packages. These include the cruise line itself, the duration of the cruise, the time of year you’re sailing, and the specific inclusions of the package.
- Cruise Line: Different cruise lines have different pricing structures. Luxury lines often include drinks, while budget-friendly lines charge extra. For example, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line typically have competitively priced packages, while luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises may include drinks in the base fare.
- Cruise Duration: Longer cruises generally have lower per-day costs for drink packages compared to shorter cruises. This is because the cruise lines incentivize purchasing packages for longer voyages.
- Time of Year: Peak seasons, like summer and holidays, often see higher prices for drink packages due to increased demand.
- Package Inclusions: The more inclusive a package is (e.g., covering premium alcohol, specialty coffees, bottled water), the higher its price will be.
Each cruise line positions itself differently in the market, and their drink package prices reflect this. Some lines focus on value and offer cheaper packages, while others focus on premium experiences and therefore charge more.
A 3-day cruise might have a significantly higher per-day cost than a 7-day cruise. The logic is that on a longer cruise, you’re more likely to consume more drinks overall, making the longer package more appealing despite the higher upfront cost.
Just like with flights and hotels, cruise lines adjust their pricing based on demand. During popular travel periods, they can charge more for drink packages and other onboard amenities.
Some basic packages only cover beer, wine by the glass, and basic cocktails. Premium packages might include top-shelf liquor, specialty drinks, and even drinks from onboard coffee shops or mini-bars.
Breaking Down Drink Package Options
Cruise lines offer a variety of drink packages designed to cater to different preferences and budgets. These packages typically fall into a few main categories: non-alcoholic, beer and wine, and premium or all-inclusive.
Non-Alcoholic Packages
These packages generally cover specialty coffees, teas, sodas, juices, and bottled water. They are a good option for those who don’t drink alcohol or only drink occasionally.
- Unlimited Soda: Covers unlimited fountain sodas throughout the cruise.
- Specialty Coffee & Tea: Includes lattes, cappuccinos, premium teas, and other specialty beverages.
- Bottled Water Package: Provides a certain number of bottled water delivered to your cabin daily.
Perfect for families with children or individuals who enjoy soda with their meals and snacks.
Ideal for coffee lovers who want to enjoy barista-style drinks without paying extra for each cup.
Useful for those who prefer bottled water over tap water, especially when traveling to destinations where the water quality might be questionable.
Beer and Wine Packages
These packages typically offer a selection of beers and wines by the glass. They may also include a discount on bottled wine.
- Select Beer & Wine: Includes a limited selection of beers and wines available at most bars and restaurants onboard.
- Premium Beer & Wine: Offers a wider selection of beers and wines, including some higher-end options.
A good starting point for those who mostly enjoy beer or wine with dinner and during social events.
Appeals to wine enthusiasts who want a more diverse selection to choose from.
Premium or All-Inclusive Packages
These are the most comprehensive packages, covering a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, often including top-shelf liquors, cocktails, and specialty drinks.
- Standard Alcohol Package: Includes a variety of beers, wines, and basic cocktails, often with a price limit per drink.
- Premium Alcohol Package: Covers a wider selection of higher-end liquors, cocktails, specialty drinks, and sometimes even mini-bar items.
- All-Inclusive Package: The most comprehensive option, typically covering virtually all drinks onboard, including premium options, specialty coffees, bottled water, and more.
A popular choice for those who enjoy mixed drinks but don’t necessarily need the most expensive brands.
Caters to those who prefer top-shelf spirits and want access to a more extensive cocktail menu.
Offers the ultimate convenience and peace of mind, knowing that almost all your beverage costs are covered.
Calculating the Break-Even Point for Drink Packages
To determine if a cruise drink package is worth the investment, you need to calculate your break-even point. This involves estimating your average daily drink consumption and comparing the cost of the package to the cost of buying drinks individually.
Estimating Your Average Daily Drink Consumption
Think about your typical drinking habits on vacation. How many alcoholic beverages do you usually consume per day? Do you also drink soda, coffee, or bottled water?
- Consider your lifestyle: Are you a social drinker who enjoys cocktails by the pool and wine with dinner, or do you prefer to stick to water and coffee most of the time?
- Think about the cruise itinerary: Are there lots of port days where you’ll be off the ship exploring, or are there mostly sea days where you’ll be spending more time onboard?
- Account for special events: Are there any special occasions during the cruise, such as birthdays or anniversaries, that might lead to increased drink consumption?
Comparing Package Cost to Individual Drink Prices
Once you have an estimate of your daily drink consumption, research the individual drink prices on the cruise line you’re sailing with. Then, compare the cost of the package to the cost of buying those drinks individually.
| Drink Type | Average Price | Daily Consumption | Total Daily Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cocktails | $12 | 2 | $24 |
| Wine | $10 | 1 | $10 |
| Soda | $3 | 2 | $6 |
| Total | $40 |
In this example, if the drink package costs less than $40 per day, it would be a worthwhile investment. If it costs more, you might be better off paying per drink.
Real-Life Examples of Break-Even Analysis
Let’s look at a couple of real-life scenarios to illustrate how to calculate the break-even point.
- Scenario 1: Sarah is going on a 7-day cruise and plans to have 2 cocktails, 1 glass of wine, and 2 sodas each day. The average cost of a cocktail is $12, wine is $10, and soda is $3. Her total daily cost would be $40. If the drink package costs $55 per day, it wouldn’t be worth it for her.
- Scenario 2: John is going on a 5-day cruise and plans to have 4 beers and 1 specialty coffee each day. The average cost of a beer is $7 and a coffee is $5. His total daily cost would be $33. If the drink package costs $30 per day, it would be a good deal for him.
These examples demonstrate that the break-even point depends heavily on individual drinking habits and the specific prices on the cruise line.
Hidden Costs and Considerations
Beyond the upfront cost of the drink package, there are other potential expenses and factors to consider. These include gratuities, restrictions on sharing, and potential overconsumption.
Gratuities and Service Charges
Most cruise lines automatically add gratuities or service charges to the cost of drink packages. These charges can significantly increase the overall cost, so it’s essential to factor them into your calculations. Typically, gratuities range from 15% to 20% of the package price.
For example, if a drink package costs $50 per day and has a 18% gratuity, the actual daily cost would be $59. This extra cost can significantly impact the break-even analysis.
Restrictions on Sharing
Cruise drink packages are typically non-transferable and intended for individual use only. Sharing drinks with someone who doesn’t have a package is often prohibited and can result in the package being revoked.
This restriction is in place to prevent abuse of the system and ensure that everyone who consumes alcoholic beverages has paid for them. Cruise lines monitor drink orders and may take action if they suspect sharing.
Potential for Overconsumption
Having a drink package can sometimes lead to overconsumption, as people feel pressured to “get their money’s worth.” This can result in negative health consequences and an unpleasant cruise experience.
It’s important to drink responsibly, even with a drink package. Set limits for yourself and stick to them. Remember that the goal is to enjoy your vacation, not to drink as much as possible.
Myth: Drink Packages Always Save Money
This is a common misconception. Whether a drink package saves you money depends entirely on your drinking habits. If you only plan to have a few drinks per day, you’re likely better off paying per drink. However, a 2022 survey showed that people with drink packages consumed, on average, 30% more alcoholic beverages than those without them.
Myth: All Drink Packages Include the Same Drinks
Drink packages vary significantly in their inclusions. Some may only cover basic beers and wines, while others include premium liquors and specialty cocktails. Always check the fine print to see what’s included before purchasing.
Myth: You Can Share a Drink Package with Your Cabin Mate
This is almost always prohibited. Cruise lines strictly enforce the “one package per person” rule, and sharing can result in the package being revoked. In fact, some cruise lines require all adults staying in the same cabin to purchase the same drink package if one person decides to buy it.
Tips for Maximizing Your Drink Package Value
If you decide to purchase a drink package, there are several ways to maximize its value and ensure you get the most out of your investment.
- Take advantage of included beverages: Make sure to try all the different beers, wines, and cocktails that are included in your package.
- Utilize onboard promotions: Keep an eye out for onboard promotions, such as happy hour specials or drink discounts, that can further reduce your costs.
- Plan your drink consumption: Strategically plan your drink consumption to ensure you’re getting the most value from your package.
- Consider purchasing during pre-cruise sales: Cruise lines often offer discounts on drink packages when purchased online before the cruise.
Explore the drink menus at different bars and restaurants onboard to discover new favorites. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartenders for recommendations.
Many cruise lines offer daily drink specials or discounts during certain hours. Take advantage of these opportunities to save even more money.
For example, you might choose to have more drinks on sea days when you’re spending more time onboard, and fewer drinks on port days when you’re exploring ashore.
Keep an eye out for these pre-cruise sales and take advantage of them to save money on your drink package.
Alternatives to Drink Packages
If a drink package doesn’t seem like the right fit for you, there are several alternatives to consider. These include paying per drink, bringing your own alcohol (where permitted), and taking advantage of complimentary beverages.
Paying Per Drink
Paying per drink allows you to only pay for what you consume. This can be a good option if you only plan to have a few drinks per day or if you prefer to have more control over your spending.
However, keep in mind that individual drink prices on cruise ships can be quite high, so it’s important to budget carefully and avoid overspending.
Bringing Your Own Alcohol
Some cruise lines allow passengers to bring their own alcohol onboard, subject to certain restrictions. This can be a great way to save money on drinks, especially if you prefer to drink in your cabin.
However, be sure to check the cruise line’s alcohol policy before your cruise, as there may be limits on the amount you can bring and restrictions on where you can consume it.
Taking Advantage of Complimentary Beverages
Cruise ships typically offer a variety of complimentary beverages, such as coffee, tea, juice, and water. Take advantage of these options to stay hydrated and save money on drinks.
Many cruise lines also offer complimentary drinks during certain events, such as Captain’s receptions or loyalty program parties.
FAQ
How much do drink packages usually cost per day?
The cost of drink packages varies widely, but typically ranges from $50 to $100+ per day per person, excluding gratuities. The specific price depends on the cruise line, the package inclusions, and the duration of the cruise. Luxury cruise lines often include drinks in the base fare.
Is it worth getting a drink package on a cruise?
Whether a drink package is worth it depends on your individual drinking habits. If you plan to consume several alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks each day, a package can save you money. To determine this, estimate your average daily drink consumption and compare the cost of the package to the cost of buying drinks individually.
What happens if I don’t finish my drink package?
Drink packages are typically non-refundable, so you won’t receive a refund for any unused portion. It’s essential to estimate your drink consumption accurately before purchasing to avoid paying for drinks you won’t use. Some cruise lines might offer alternative compensations in rare cases, but this is not guaranteed.
Do I have to purchase a drink package for all adults in the cabin?
Many cruise lines require all adults staying in the same cabin to purchase the same drink package if one person decides to buy it. This policy is designed to prevent sharing and ensure that everyone who consumes alcoholic beverages has paid for them. However, some lines may make exceptions in certain circumstances.
What drinks are typically included in a premium drink package?
A premium drink package typically includes a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, including top-shelf liquors, specialty drinks, and sometimes even mini-bar items. The specific inclusions vary depending on the cruise line, so it’s important to check the fine print before purchasing.
Can I upgrade my drink package after purchasing it?
Some cruise lines allow you to upgrade your drink package after purchasing it, although this may depend on availability and other factors. Contact the guest services desk on board to inquire about upgrading options. However, downgrading a package is usually not possible.
Are there any restrictions on when I can use my drink package?
Drink packages are typically valid throughout the cruise, but there may be some restrictions on when and where you can use them. For example, some packages may not be valid in certain specialty restaurants or bars. Check the terms and conditions of your specific package for details.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to purchase a cruise drink package requires careful consideration of your individual drinking habits, the specific cruise line’s pricing, and any potential hidden costs. By understanding the factors that influence how much do drink packages cost on cruise ships, you can make an informed decision that maximizes your vacation budget and ensures a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. Remember to compare the options, calculate your break-even point, and drink responsibly.