Imagine yourself lounging on the deck of a cruise ship, the ocean breeze in your hair, but then you remember that you haven’t factored in the cost of drinks! Many first-time cruisers are surprised by the expense of beverages, and it’s important to plan ahead. This article will break down how much drinks cost on a cruise, covering everything from soda and juice to cocktails and wine, and provide tips for saving money while enjoying your vacation.
Average Drink Prices on Cruises
Understanding the typical price range for various beverages onboard is crucial for budgeting your cruise experience. This section delves into the average costs you can expect to encounter for different types of drinks, helping you avoid unexpected expenses and plan your spending accordingly.
Soft Drinks and Juices
Soft drinks and juices, while seemingly inexpensive, can quickly add up over the course of a cruise. These are often not included in the base fare and are charged per drink.
- Soda: Expect to pay around $3-$4 per can or glass of soda. This includes popular brands like Coke, Pepsi, Sprite, and ginger ale.
- Juice: Prices for juice typically range from $3-$5 per glass, especially for freshly squeezed options. Orange juice, apple juice, and cranberry juice are common choices.
- Specialty Sodas and Mocktails: These can range from $5-$8, particularly if they include fancy syrups or garnishes.
Cruises often charge per serving, and these costs can accumulate rapidly if you’re ordering multiple sodas a day. Considering alternatives like water, which is usually complimentary, can significantly reduce your onboard spending.
While juice might seem like a healthier option, remember that it still contains sugar and contributes to the overall cost of beverages. Pre-packaged juices are usually cheaper than freshly squeezed versions.
Mocktails, or non-alcoholic cocktails, can be a fun way to enjoy a variety of flavors without the alcohol. However, their price point is generally higher due to the ingredients and preparation involved.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol is a major revenue source for cruise lines, and prices reflect this. Be prepared for higher costs compared to what you might pay on land.
- Beer: Domestic beers typically cost $6-$8 per bottle or draft, while imported beers can range from $7-$9.
- Wine: A glass of house wine usually costs $8-$12, while bottles can range from $30-$60 and up.
- Cocktails: Mixed drinks generally range from $10-$15 each, depending on the ingredients and the complexity of the drink.
Beer prices can vary depending on the brand and the location on the ship. Some bars may offer happy hour specials or discounts on certain beers.
Wine lists on cruises can be extensive, offering a wide variety of options from different regions. Consider purchasing a bottle to share with your dining companions to save money.
Cocktail prices can fluctuate based on the type of alcohol used and any premium mixers or garnishes. Classic cocktails like margaritas, mojitos, and daiquiris are common choices.
According to a recent survey by Cruise Critic, the average daily spend on drinks for a cruiser who enjoys a few alcoholic beverages is between $50 and $75. This highlights the importance of budgeting and considering drink packages if you plan on consuming alcohol regularly.
Specialty Coffee and Tea
For coffee and tea lovers, the cost of these beverages can also add up quickly, particularly if you prefer specialty drinks.
- Coffee: Basic coffee is often free in the buffet and main dining room, but specialty coffees like lattes and cappuccinos can cost $4-$6.
- Tea: Similar to coffee, basic tea is usually complimentary, but specialty teas and herbal infusions can cost $3-$5.
Specialty coffee shops on cruise ships offer a similar range of options and prices as land-based coffee chains. If you’re a daily latte drinker, this expense can be significant.
Some cruise lines offer afternoon tea services, which may include a selection of teas, pastries, and sandwiches. These services often come with an additional charge.
A real-life example: A family of four taking a 7-day cruise, with each adult consuming two alcoholic beverages and two sodas per day, could easily spend over $1000 on drinks alone. This underscores the importance of pre-planning and considering drink package options.
Cruise Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Cruise lines offer various drink packages that allow you to pay a fixed daily rate for unlimited or discounted beverages. Evaluating whether a drink package is worthwhile depends on your drinking habits and preferences. This section helps you decide if purchasing a drink package is a cost-effective choice for your cruise.
Types of Drink Packages
Cruise lines typically offer different tiers of drink packages, ranging from non-alcoholic options to comprehensive packages that include all beverages.
- Soda Packages: These packages typically cover unlimited soft drinks, juices, and sometimes mocktails.
- Non-Alcoholic Packages: These may include specialty coffees, teas, mocktails, and premium juices in addition to soft drinks.
- Alcoholic Packages: These packages generally cover a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits, up to a certain price limit per drink.
- Premium Packages: These are the most comprehensive packages, covering virtually all beverages onboard, including top-shelf liquors, premium wines, and specialty cocktails.
Soda packages are a good option for families with children or individuals who don’t consume alcohol but enjoy soft drinks throughout the day. They can provide cost savings compared to paying for each drink individually.
Non-alcoholic packages are suitable for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages but still want a variety of options beyond basic water and coffee.
Alcoholic packages are best suited for individuals who plan to consume several alcoholic beverages each day. These packages often come with restrictions, such as a limit on the type of drinks included or a price cap per drink.
Premium packages offer the greatest flexibility and variety but also come at the highest cost. They are ideal for those who want to indulge in a wide range of drinks without worrying about individual prices.
Calculating the Break-Even Point
Determining whether a drink package is cost-effective involves calculating the “break-even point,” which is the number of drinks you need to consume each day to justify the package price.
To calculate the break-even point, divide the daily cost of the drink package by the average price of the drinks you plan to consume. For example, if a drink package costs $60 per day and you typically order cocktails that cost $12 each, you would need to drink five cocktails per day to break even.
Factors to Consider
Several factors can influence the value of a drink package, including your drinking habits, the cruise itinerary, and the cruise line’s policies.
- Drinking Habits: Assess your typical beverage consumption on vacation. Do you usually have several alcoholic drinks per day, or do you prefer water and the occasional soda?
- Cruise Itinerary: Port days can impact the value of a drink package, as you may spend more time off the ship and consume fewer drinks onboard.
- Cruise Line Policies: Some cruise lines require all adults in a cabin to purchase a drink package if one person does.
Understanding your usual drinking patterns is crucial for determining whether a drink package aligns with your needs. If you only have one or two drinks per day, a package might not be necessary.
On port days, you might explore local bars and restaurants, reducing your consumption of drinks on the ship. Consider this when evaluating the cost-effectiveness of a drink package.
Be aware of the cruise line’s policies regarding drink packages, especially if you’re traveling with companions who don’t consume alcohol. This can significantly impact the overall cost of the package.
A case study: A couple taking a 7-day cruise is considering an alcoholic drink package that costs $70 per person per day. They estimate they will each have three cocktails ($12 each) and two beers ($7 each) per day. Their total daily cost without the package would be $50, meaning the drink package would not be financially beneficial.
Example Scenario
- Calculate the daily cost of the drink package: Let’s say it’s $70 per person.
- Estimate your average drink price: Consider the types of drinks you’ll order and their approximate cost.
- Determine how many drinks you need to consume to break even: Divide the daily package cost by your average drink price.
- Assess your typical daily consumption: Compare the break-even point to your usual drinking habits.
- Factor in port days and cruise line policies: Adjust your calculations based on these factors.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the costs with and without a drink package for different drinking habits (e.g., light drinker, moderate drinker, heavy drinker).
Ways to Save Money on Drinks
Even without a drink package, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce your beverage expenses while still enjoying your cruise. This section outlines various tactics to help you minimize your spending on drinks without sacrificing your vacation experience.
Take Advantage of Free Options
Many cruise lines offer complimentary beverages that can help you stay hydrated and save money.
- Water: Water is typically free and readily available in the buffet, dining room, and often in your cabin.
- Coffee and Tea: Basic coffee and tea are usually included in the main dining room and buffet.
- Juice at Breakfast: Some cruise lines offer complimentary juice during breakfast hours.
Staying hydrated is essential, and taking advantage of complimentary water can significantly reduce your need to purchase other beverages.
Enjoying coffee and tea during meals or at designated stations can help you avoid the cost of specialty coffee drinks.
If you enjoy juice, take advantage of the complimentary offerings during breakfast to avoid paying for it later in the day.
Bring Your Own Beverages (Where Allowed)
Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard, which can help you save money on sodas and juices.
Check the cruise line’s policy regarding bringing your own beverages. Some lines allow a limited number of cans or bottles of soda or juice per person. Be sure to adhere to the restrictions to avoid having your beverages confiscated.
Look for Drink Specials and Happy Hours
Many bars and lounges on cruise ships offer drink specials and happy hour promotions, providing opportunities to save on alcoholic beverages.
Keep an eye out for advertised drink specials and happy hours throughout the ship. These promotions often offer discounted prices on select drinks during specific times.
Consider Purchasing a Wine Package
If you enjoy wine, consider purchasing a wine package, which can offer significant savings compared to buying individual glasses or bottles.
Wine packages typically include a selection of wines that you can choose from at dinner or in the bars. This can be a more cost-effective option than purchasing individual bottles of wine.
Utilize Your Loyalty Program Perks
If you’re a member of the cruise line’s loyalty program, you may be entitled to complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages.
Check your loyalty program benefits to see if you’re eligible for any complimentary drinks or discounts on beverages. These perks can help you save money and enhance your cruise experience.
According to a recent study by the International Cruise Line Association (ICLA), cruisers who take advantage of loyalty program perks save an average of 10% on onboard expenses, including drinks.
Avoid Souvenir Cups
While souvenir cups may seem like a fun memento, they often come with a higher price tag than regular drinks. Avoiding these can save you money.
Souvenir cups are often more expensive than regular drinks, and you may not use them after the cruise. Opting for regular glasses can help you reduce your spending.
Common Myths About Cruise Drink Costs
Several misconceptions surround the cost of drinks on cruises. This section addresses and debunks some common myths, providing accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your beverage spending.
Myth 1: All Drinks Are Free on Cruises
This is a widespread misconception. While some basic beverages like water, coffee, and tea are usually free, most other drinks, including soda, juice, and alcoholic beverages, come at an additional cost.
The belief that all drinks are included is a common misunderstanding that can lead to unexpected expenses. It’s crucial to understand which beverages are complimentary and which require payment before embarking on your cruise.
Myth 2: Drink Packages Are Always the Best Deal
Drink packages are not always the most cost-effective option for everyone. Whether a drink package is worthwhile depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences.
While drink packages can offer significant savings for some, they may not be beneficial for those who only consume a few drinks per day. Carefully evaluate your drinking habits before purchasing a package.
Myth 3: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard
Attempting to sneak alcohol onboard is generally prohibited by cruise lines and can result in penalties, including confiscation of the alcohol and potential fines.
While some passengers may attempt to smuggle alcohol onboard, it’s important to abide by the cruise line’s policies. The consequences of being caught can be severe, and it’s not worth the risk.
FAQ
Question: How much is a can of soda on a cruise?
A can of soda on a cruise typically costs between $3 and $4. This price can vary slightly depending on the cruise line and the specific location on the ship. Purchasing a soda package may be a more cost-effective option if you plan to consume multiple sodas each day.
Question: Are alcoholic drinks expensive on a cruise?
Yes, alcoholic drinks on a cruise tend to be more expensive than what you might pay on land. Expect to pay around $6-$9 for a beer, $8-$12 for a glass of wine, and $10-$15 for a cocktail. Prices can vary depending on the brand and the complexity of the drink.
Question: What drinks are free on a cruise?
Generally, complimentary drinks on a cruise include water, basic coffee, and tea. Some cruise lines may also offer free juice during breakfast hours. Anything beyond these basic options will typically incur an additional charge.
Question: Is it better to get a drink package on a cruise?
Whether a drink package is better depends on your drinking habits. If you plan to consume several alcoholic beverages or specialty drinks each day, a drink package can be a cost-effective option. However, if you only have one or two drinks per day, purchasing drinks individually may be more economical.
Question: Can I bring my own drinks on a cruise?
Some cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard, such as soda or juice. However, most cruise lines prohibit bringing your own alcoholic beverages. Check the specific cruise line’s policy before your trip.
Question: Do cruises have happy hour?
Yes, many bars and lounges on cruise ships offer happy hour specials. These promotions often feature discounted prices on select drinks during specific times. Check the daily schedule or ask at the bar for happy hour details.
Question: What is the average daily cost of drinks on a cruise?
The average daily cost of drinks on a cruise can vary widely depending on individual consumption habits. For someone who enjoys a few alcoholic beverages and sodas each day, the average daily spend can range from $50 to $75 or more.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the costs of drinks on a cruise requires careful planning and consideration. By understanding the average prices, evaluating drink package options, and utilizing money-saving strategies, you can enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank. Remember to assess your drinking habits, take advantage of free options, and stay informed about cruise line policies to make the most of your vacation. Armed with this knowledge, you can set sail with confidence and enjoy the refreshing beverages a cruise has to offer!