How Much Do Drinks Cost on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

Drink prices on Carnival Cruise Lines vary widely, from $2.50 for bottled water to over $15 for premium cocktails and specialty coffees. Alcoholic beverages like beer and wine typically range between $6–$10, with discounts available through drink packages such as the Bottomless Bubbles soda plan or the more comprehensive Cheers! alcohol package. Planning ahead and comparing package options can significantly reduce costs for frequent drinkers.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Expect $5–$15 for cocktails, depending on type and location onboard.
• Save with packages: Beverage packages offer unlimited drinks, ideal for frequent imbibers.
• Bottled water costs: Buy reusable bottles or packages to avoid per-bottle fees.
• Happy hour deals: Take advantage of discounted drinks during select daily time slots.
• Specialty drinks pricier: Premium brands and top-shelf liquor carry higher price tags.
• Non-alcoholic options: Mocktails and sodas cost $2–$6; kids’ drinks are cheaper.

How Much Do Drinks Cost on Carnival Cruise Lines Revealed

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers have is: how much do drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines? Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine at dinner, or grabbing a soda between excursions, beverage expenses can significantly impact your overall trip budget. Carnival Cruise Lines, known for its fun-filled, casual atmosphere, offers a wide variety of drink options—from budget-friendly soft drinks to premium liquors and specialty cocktails. However, unlike some cruise lines that include beverages in their base fare, Carnival operates on a pay-as-you-go model for most drinks, with the exception of basic options like water, tea, and coffee.

Understanding the cost of drinks on Carnival is essential to avoid surprise charges and manage your onboard spending effectively. From soda and beer to wine, spirits, and signature cocktails, prices vary widely based on the drink type, location, and time of day. This guide dives deep into the actual pricing structure of beverages across Carnival ships, including tips on how to save money, the best value packages, and hidden costs to watch out for. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Carnival guest, knowing what to expect will help you enjoy your vacation without worrying about the bar tab.

Understanding Carnival Cruise Lines’ Beverage Pricing Model

Carnival Cruise Lines uses a tiered beverage pricing system that reflects the quality, brand, and preparation involved in each drink. Unlike all-inclusive cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages or Norwegian’s Free at Sea packages, Carnival does not include alcohol or soda in its standard fare. Instead, guests pay for each drink individually or opt for one of the beverage packages available. This pay-per-drink model gives you flexibility but also requires careful planning to avoid overspending.

Base Beverage Categories and Pricing

Drinks on Carnival are broadly categorized into several groups, each with its own pricing range:

• Non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, bottled water): $2.50–$5.00
• Domestic beer and canned cocktails: $5.50–$7.50
• Imported and craft beer: $6.50–$8.50
• Standard cocktails (well drinks): $8.00–$10.00
• Premium cocktails and specialty drinks: $10.00–$16.00
• Wine by the glass (house and mid-tier): $9.00–$14.00
• Wine by the bottle (premium labels): $35.00–$120.00+
• Spirits and shots (standard and premium): $8.00–$18.00

These prices are approximate and may vary slightly by ship, region, and time of day. For example, drinks at poolside bars or during happy hour may be discounted, while premium lounges like the Alchemy Bar or the Library Bar often feature higher prices for craft cocktails.

Factors Influencing Drink Prices

Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for a drink on a Carnival cruise:

• Location: Pool bars, main dining rooms, and casual lounges typically have lower prices than specialty bars or the ship’s premium venues.
• Time of day: Happy hour deals (usually 4–6 PM) offer discounts on select drinks, including beer, wine, and well cocktails.
• Ship class and itinerary: Newer ships like the Carnival Celebration or Mardi Gras may have higher prices due to enhanced bar concepts and premium offerings.
• Brand and quality: A well rum and Coke will cost less than a Grey Goose martini or a craft IPA from a local brewery.
• Service and ambiance: Drinks served in a quiet lounge with live music may carry a slight premium compared to self-service options.

For example, a simple rum and Coke at the RedFrog Rum Bar might cost $8.50, while the same drink at the Alchemy Bar—crafted with infused syrups and house-made bitters—could be $12.50 or more. Understanding these nuances helps you make informed choices based on your preferences and budget.

Breakdown of Popular Drink Types and Their Costs

To give you a clearer picture of how much do drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines, let’s break down the most popular beverage categories with real-world examples from recent sailings.

Beer: Domestic, Imported, and Craft

Beer is a staple on any cruise, and Carnival offers a diverse selection. You’ll find everything from classic American lagers to international imports and local craft brews.

• Domestic beer (e.g., Bud Light, Coors Light): $5.95–$6.95
• Imported beer (e.g., Heineken, Stella Artois): $6.95–$7.95
• Craft beer (e.g., local IPA, seasonal brews): $7.95–$8.95
• Frozen beer (e.g., “Froze” at RedFrog Tiki Bar): $7.50

Tip: The RedFrog Pub and RedFrog Tiki Bar often feature rotating craft beer taps. If you’re a beer enthusiast, consider asking about the “Beer of the Day” special, which is usually $1–$2 cheaper than regular price.

Cocktails: From Classic to Craft

Carnival’s cocktail menu is extensive, ranging from simple mixed drinks to elaborate, Instagram-worthy creations.

• Well cocktails (e.g., rum & Coke, vodka soda): $8.00–$9.00
• Standard cocktails (e.g., Margarita, Mojito, Old Fashioned): $9.50–$11.00
• Premium cocktails (e.g., Espresso Martini, Smoked Manhattan): $12.00–$14.00
• Signature cocktails (e.g., “Carnival Breeze” at Alchemy Bar): $13.00–$16.00
• Frozen cocktails (e.g., Piña Colada, Strawberry Daiquiri): $9.00–$11.00

For instance, a classic Margarita at the BlueIguana Cantina might cost $10.50, while the same drink at the Alchemy Bar, made with house-infused tequila and fresh lime, could be $14.50. If you’re a cocktail lover, the Alchemy Bar is worth a visit—but be prepared to pay a premium for the experience.

Wine: By the Glass and Bottle

Wine options on Carnival include a mix of house labels, popular brands, and premium selections. Most dining rooms and lounges offer wine by the glass, while specialty restaurants and wine bars may feature more upscale options.

• House red/white (e.g., Carnival Select): $9.00–$10.00 per glass
• Mid-tier wines (e.g., Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc): $11.00–$13.00 per glass
• Premium wines (e.g., Cakebread Chardonnay): $14.00–$18.00 per glass
• Wine by the bottle (house): $35.00–$45.00
• Premium wine bottle (e.g., Silver Oak Cabernet): $100.00–$120.00

Pro Tip: During dinner, Carnival often offers a “Wine of the Day” special, typically a mid-tier bottle at a discounted rate (e.g., $49 instead of $65). This is a great way to enjoy a better wine without breaking the bank.

Non-Alcoholic Options: Soda, Juice, and More

While Carnival doesn’t include soda in the base fare, it does offer a variety of non-alcoholic drinks at reasonable prices.

• Soda (can or fountain): $3.50

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• Bottled water (500ml): $3.00
• Juice (orange, apple, cranberry): $4.00
• Specialty non-alcoholic drinks (e.g., mocktails, iced tea): $5.00–$7.00
• Coffee (espresso, latte, cappuccino): $3.00–$5.50

Keep in mind that water, iced tea, and coffee are free at self-service stations in the Lido Marketplace and dining rooms. If you’re not a soda drinker, you can save significantly by sticking to complimentary options.

Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

One of the most common questions cruisers ask is whether Carnival’s drink packages are worth the investment. The answer depends on your drinking habits, itinerary, and budget. Carnival offers several beverage packages designed to help guests save money and simplify their spending.

Cheers! Beverage Package

The Cheers! Package is Carnival’s most popular drink package, offering unlimited drinks up to $20 in value per drink. Here’s what it includes:

• All cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits up to $20 per drink
• Non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, bottled water, coffee, mocktails)
• 20% off drinks over $20 (e.g., premium bottles, high-end spirits)
• 15% off bottled wine and champagne
• 10% off wine and drink packages purchased onboard

Cost: $59.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity)

To break even, you’d need to consume approximately 6–7 standard drinks per day. For example:

• 3 cocktails ($10 each) = $30
• 2 beers ($7 each) = $14
• 2 glasses of wine ($11 each) = $22
• Total: $66 → Cheers! saves you $6 + gratuity

Tip: The Cheers! package is most valuable for heavy drinkers, families with teens who consume soda and juice, or couples who enjoy multiple drinks per day. However, if you only drink 1–2 cocktails per day, it may not be cost-effective.

Other Beverage Packages

Carnival also offers niche packages for specific preferences:

• Soda Package: $8.50 per person, per day – includes unlimited fountain soda, juice, and bottled water. Ideal for families with kids or non-alcohol drinkers.
• Premium Coffee & Tea Package: $12.95 per person, per day – includes specialty coffees, teas, and smoothies. Great for coffee lovers who want to skip the à la carte prices.
• Water Package: $35 for 12 bottles – a convenient option for those who prefer bottled water and don’t want to carry them around.

Important: All packages are per person, per day and must be purchased for the entire cruise. You cannot buy it for only a few days. Additionally, packages are only available to guests 21+ for alcohol-inclusive options.

Tips for Maximizing Drink Package Value

• Buy early: Pre-purchase the Cheers! package before your cruise (up to 72 hours before departure) to save $10 per person.
• Use it wisely: Stick to drinks under $20 to get full value. Avoid premium bottles unless you’re using the 20% discount.
• Share with family: If you’re traveling with kids, pair a Cheers! package with a soda package for the whole family.
• Check for promotions: Carnival sometimes offers “buy one, get one free” deals on Cheers! during select sailings.

Hidden Costs and Smart Spending Tips

Even with a drink package, there are hidden costs and strategies to keep your spending in check. Being aware of these can save you hundreds of dollars over a week-long cruise.

Gratuities and Service Charges

Every drink purchase—whether à la carte or via package—includes an 18% automatic gratuity. This is standard across Carnival and most major cruise lines. While the gratuity is included in the package price, it’s still part of your total cost. For example:

• Daily Cheers! cost: $59.95 + $10.80 (18%) = $70.75
• 7-day cruise: $70.75 × 7 = $495.25 per person

Tip: If you’re on a tight budget, remember that gratuities add up quickly. Consider whether you can afford $500+ per person for drinks before committing to a package.

Premium Add-Ons and Extras

Some drinks and experiences come with extra charges:

• Specialty coffee drinks: A caramel macchiato at JavaBlue Café costs $4.50—higher than a basic latte at $3.00.
• Bottled wine service: Opening a bottle at dinner may incur a $10–$15 corkage fee if brought onboard.
• Bar snacks and appetizers: Some lounges charge for food with drinks (e.g., $8 for cheese and crackers).
• Private bar events: VIP tastings or cocktail classes can cost $25–$50 per person.

To avoid surprises, always ask about additional fees before ordering.

Smart Ways to Save on Drinks

Here are proven strategies to reduce your beverage spending:

• Stick to complimentary drinks: Water, iced tea, and coffee are free at self-service stations.
• Buy in bulk: Purchase a 12-pack of soda for $25 (about $2.08 per can) instead of $3.50 at the bar.
• Use happy hour: Take advantage of 4–6 PM discounts on beer, wine, and well cocktails.
• Share drinks: Some cocktails are large enough to share—especially frozen drinks.
• Bring your own: Carnival allows one 12-ounce can of soda and one 750ml bottle of wine per person at embarkation (no corkage fee if consumed in your cabin).
• Use drink vouchers: If you book through a travel agent or loyalty program, you may receive free drink vouchers (e.g., “Buy 5, Get 1 Free”).

Real-World Cost Comparison: Sample 7-Day Cruise Budget

To illustrate how much do drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines, let’s create a realistic budget for a 7-day Caribbean cruise. We’ll compare three scenarios: pay-per-drink, Cheers! package, and a mix of both.

Scenario	Daily Consumption	Total Cost (7 Days)	Notes
Pay-Per-Drink (Light Drinker)	1 cocktail, 1 beer, 2 sodas	$280.70	($10 + $7 + $7) × 7 days + 18% gratuity
Pay-Per-Drink (Moderate Drinker)	3 cocktails, 2 beers, 1 wine, 3 sodas	$536.90	($30 + $14 + $11 + $10.50) × 7 + 18% gratuity
Cheers! Package (Heavy Drinker)	Unlimited drinks up to $20	$495.25	$59.95 × 7 + 18% gratuity
Hybrid: Cheers! + Soda Package (Family of 4)	2 Cheers!, 2 Soda packages	$1,232.50	2 × $495.25 + 2 × $8.50 × 7 × 1.18

This table shows that the Cheers! package becomes cost-effective for moderate to heavy drinkers. However, for light drinkers or families, a hybrid approach (e.g., Cheers! for adults, soda package for kids) may offer better value.

Conclusion: Plan Smart, Sip Happily

Understanding how much do drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines is crucial for a stress-free and enjoyable vacation. With prices ranging from $2.50 for a soda to $16 for a craft cocktail, beverage expenses can add up quickly if you’re not careful. The key is to plan ahead: decide whether a drink package makes sense for your habits, take advantage of happy hour and bulk purchases, and don’t overlook free options like water and iced tea.

Carnival offers flexibility—whether you prefer à la carte pricing or the convenience of a package. By using the tips and data in this guide, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without blowing your budget. Remember, the goal is to relax and have fun, not to worry about the bar tab. So raise a glass (responsibly), savor the moment, and make the most of your Carnival cruise. With smart planning, every sip can be both satisfying and affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Drink prices on Carnival Cruise Lines vary by type and venue. Expect to pay $5–$12 for beer, $9–$15 for cocktails, and $2–$5 for soda or bottled water, with premium options costing more.

Is there a drink package available on Carnival, and is it worth it?

Yes, Carnival offers the Cheers! Beverage Package for around $59.95/day (plus gratuity), covering most drinks under $20. It’s cost-effective if you plan to consume 5+ alcoholic drinks daily or want unlimited soda/specialty coffee.

How much do non-alcoholic drinks cost on Carnival Cruise Lines?

Soda and bottled water typically cost $2–$5, while specialty coffee or smoothies range from $4–$7. Carnival’s Bottomless Bubbles soda package ($8.50/day) can save frequent soda drinkers money.

Are drink prices higher in certain areas of the ship?

Yes, drinks at specialty bars (e.g., Alchemy Bar) or premium lounges often cost more than at main bars or buffet areas. Poolside service and room service may also include additional convenience charges.

Do Carnival drink prices include gratuity?

No, gratuity (15–18%) is added to all drink purchases unless you’re using a prepaid drink package. This applies to individual drinks, room service, and bar tabs.

Can I bring my own drinks on Carnival to save money?

Carnival allows one 750ml bottle of wine per person (no corkage fee if consumed in your cabin), but other alcohol is prohibited and will be confiscated. Non-alcoholic drinks must be in sealed containers and limited to 12 per person.