Picture this: you’re lounging by the pool on a Norwegian cruise, the sun is shining, and you’re craving a refreshing cocktail. But before you order, a crucial question pops into your head: how much do drinks cost on board? Knowing the answer can significantly impact your vacation budget. This post will break down the beverage prices on Norwegian cruises, explore drink packages, and offer tips to help you sip smartly without breaking the bank. Get ready to navigate the world of onboard beverages with confidence and enjoy your cruise to the fullest!
Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Prices
Knowing the general price range of beverages on a Norwegian cruise before you set sail is essential for budgeting. This section provides an overview of the typical costs for various drinks, from soft drinks to alcoholic beverages, and examines factors influencing those prices.
Average Drink Prices
Drink prices on Norwegian cruises vary depending on the type of beverage and the venue. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect to pay:
- Soft Drinks: Typically range from $3 to $4 per can or glass.
- Juice: Usually between $3 and $5 per glass.
- Bottled Water: Around $3 to $4 per bottle.
- Beer: Domestic beers usually cost around $7 to $8, while imported beers might be $8 to $9.
- Wine (by the glass): Expect to pay anywhere from $9 to $15.
- Cocktails: The average price for cocktails is between $10 and $14.
- Specialty Coffees: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees usually cost around $4 to $6.
Soft drinks offer a non-alcoholic refreshment. These prices usually apply if you’re not purchasing a soda package.
Freshly squeezed juices may be slightly more expensive compared to juices from concentrate.
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in warmer climates. Buying individual bottles can add up quickly.
The selection of beers available can vary depending on the ship and itinerary.
Wine lists typically offer a variety of options, from house wines to premium selections.
Cocktails are a popular choice, with many bars offering signature drinks and classic favorites.
These prices apply at cafes and specialty coffee bars onboard. Free coffee is typically available in the buffet.
Factors Affecting Drink Costs
Several factors contribute to the overall cost of drinks on Norwegian cruises:
- Ship Class: Newer and more luxurious ships often have slightly higher prices due to the premium experience they offer.
- Itinerary: Prices can fluctuate based on the cruise itinerary. For example, cruises in Alaska or Europe might have different prices compared to those in the Caribbean.
- Bar or Lounge: Some bars and lounges on board may have premium pricing due to their location, ambiance, or specialized drink offerings.
- Promotional Periods: Special promotions and themed nights can sometimes influence drink prices. Keep an eye out for happy hour deals or discounts.
Larger ships tend to have a wider variety of bars and lounges, each with its own pricing structure.
Longer cruises may also see price adjustments as part of promotional offers or special events.
High-end bars with live entertainment or exclusive drink menus may charge more than standard bars.
Norwegian often runs promotions on specific drinks or packages during certain times of the day or week.
According to a survey of cruise passengers in 2023, the average daily spend on drinks for those not opting for a drink package was approximately $50 per person. However, this number can vary widely depending on individual consumption habits.
Exploring Norwegian’s Drink Packages
One of the most effective ways to manage your beverage costs on a Norwegian cruise is by purchasing a drink package. These packages offer a fixed price for unlimited drinks, providing predictability and potential savings. This section explores the available drink packages and helps you determine if they are right for you.
Premium Beverage Package
The Premium Beverage Package is Norwegian’s most popular and comprehensive drink package. Here’s what you need to know:
- What it covers: Includes a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, soda, juices, and specialty coffees.
- Cost: The price varies depending on the cruise and can range from $99 to $138 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Who it’s for: Ideal for those who plan to enjoy several alcoholic drinks each day and want the convenience of unlimited beverages.
- Key Benefit: Predictable spending – you know exactly how much you’ll be spending on drinks each day.
This package typically covers drinks up to a certain price point, usually around $15 per drink. Drinks exceeding that price are not included, but you can usually pay the difference.
The price is subject to change, so it’s always best to check the current pricing on Norwegian’s website or through your travel agent.
If you enjoy cocktails, wine, and beer throughout the day, this package can offer significant savings compared to paying for each drink individually.
This can help you budget more effectively and avoid unexpected surprises on your final bill.
Premium Plus Beverage Package
The Premium Plus Beverage Package offers additional perks and a wider selection of drinks compared to the standard Premium package.
- What it covers: Includes everything in the Premium Beverage Package, plus premium spirits, wines, and champagne by the glass, as well as bottled water, energy drinks, and select premium coffee brands.
- Cost: Typically costs more than the Premium Beverage Package, ranging from $129 to $168 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Who it’s for: Perfect for those who appreciate top-shelf liquors, fine wines, and premium bottled water options.
- Key Benefit: Access to the widest range of beverages available on board.
This package typically covers drinks up to a higher price point than the Premium package, and it may include additional discounts on bottles of wine.
The additional cost reflects the wider selection of premium beverages included in the package.
If you prefer high-end brands and want access to the most extensive beverage selection, this package is a good choice.
Enjoy premium drinks without worrying about exceeding the price limit of the standard package.
Soda Package
For those who don’t consume alcohol but still enjoy unlimited soft drinks, the Soda Package is a cost-effective option.
- What it covers: Unlimited fountain soda and juice at all bars, lounges, and restaurants.
- Cost: Usually around $9.95 per person, per day (plus 20% gratuity).
- Who it’s for: Ideal for children, teenagers, or adults who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
- Key Benefit: Affordable way to enjoy unlimited soft drinks throughout your cruise.
This package typically includes popular soda brands like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Diet Coke, as well as a variety of juices.
This is a significantly cheaper alternative to the alcoholic beverage packages.
If you primarily drink soda and juice, this package can save you money compared to buying individual drinks.
Stay refreshed without constantly reaching for your wallet.
A 2022 study showed that approximately 40% of cruise passengers purchase a drink package, with the Premium Beverage Package being the most popular choice. This suggests that many cruisers find the convenience and cost savings of a drink package appealing.
Is a Drink Package Worth It?
Determining whether a drink package is worth the investment depends on your drinking habits and preferences. Here’s how to calculate whether a drink package makes financial sense for you:
- Estimate your daily consumption: Calculate how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks you typically consume each day.
- Multiply by the individual drink price: Multiply the estimated number of drinks by the average price of each drink on board.
- Compare to the package price: Compare the total estimated cost of individual drinks to the daily cost of the drink package (including gratuities).
- Consider other benefits: Factor in the convenience and peace of mind that come with a drink package, such as not having to worry about tracking your spending on drinks.
Be realistic about your consumption. Consider whether you’ll be spending most of your time by the pool, at the casino, or participating in shore excursions.
Use the price ranges provided earlier in this post to estimate the cost of each drink type.
If the estimated cost of individual drinks exceeds the package price, then a drink package is likely a good investment.
Some people find the convenience of a drink package worth the extra cost, even if they don’t necessarily save money.
Strategies to Save Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a drink package, there are still several ways to save money on beverages during your Norwegian cruise. This section outlines practical tips and strategies to help you enjoy your favorite drinks without overspending.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Many bars and lounges on Norwegian ships offer happy hour specials, providing discounted drinks during specific times of the day.
- Check the Daily Schedule: Review the daily schedule, which is typically delivered to your stateroom or available on the Norwegian app, to find out the times and locations of happy hour events.
- Look for Special Promotions: Keep an eye out for other promotional events, such as themed nights or drink specials, which can offer additional savings.
- Plan Accordingly: Adjust your drinking schedule to take advantage of happy hour deals.
Happy hour specials can vary from day to day, so it’s important to stay informed about the latest deals.
Some bars may offer discounts on specific cocktails or beers on certain nights of the week.
If you know that a particular bar offers discounted drinks between 5 PM and 7 PM, plan to visit during those hours to save money.
Bring Your Own Wine (with Corkage Fee)
Norwegian Cruise Line allows passengers to bring their own wine on board, subject to a corkage fee.
- Check the Policy: Review Norwegian’s policy on bringing alcohol on board, as it may have specific restrictions.
- Pay the Corkage Fee: Be prepared to pay a corkage fee if you choose to consume your wine in the dining rooms or other public areas. The fee is usually around $15 to $20 per bottle.
- Consider the Savings: Compare the cost of the corkage fee to the price of buying a bottle of wine on board. If you have a favorite wine that you can bring at a lower cost, this can be a worthwhile option.
Typically, passengers are allowed to bring one bottle of wine per person for consumption in their stateroom or in the dining rooms with a corkage fee.
The corkage fee covers the cost of service and glassware.
Bringing your own wine can be particularly beneficial if you prefer a specific type of wine that may not be readily available on the ship.
Utilize Free Drink Options
Norwegian offers several complimentary beverage options, allowing you to stay hydrated and enjoy certain drinks without incurring extra costs.
- Water: Tap water is free and readily available at the buffet and in your stateroom. You can also fill up your water bottle at water stations.
- Coffee and Tea: Complimentary coffee and tea are typically available in the buffet and dining rooms.
- Juice at Breakfast: Some juices, such as orange juice and apple juice, may be offered for free during breakfast in the buffet.
Staying hydrated is essential, so take advantage of the free water options to avoid buying bottled water.
This can save you money on specialty coffee drinks, such as lattes and cappuccinos.
Take advantage of these options to avoid paying for juice during breakfast.
A survey of cruise passengers found that those who utilized free drink options and took advantage of happy hour specials saved an average of $20 to $30 per day on beverages.
Avoid Overpriced Bottled Water
Purchasing individual bottles of water on board can quickly add up. Here are some cost-effective alternatives:
- Bring Your Own Refillable Water Bottle: Bring an empty refillable water bottle and fill it up at water stations or tap water sources.
- Consider a Water Package: If you prefer bottled water, consider purchasing a water package, which offers a fixed price for a certain number of bottles.
- Drink Tap Water: Tap water on cruise ships is typically safe to drink and is a free alternative to bottled water.
This is a convenient and eco-friendly way to stay hydrated without spending money on bottled water.
Water packages can be a more economical option than buying individual bottles.
If you’re concerned about the taste, you can use a water filter or add a slice of lemon or lime.
Myth: Drink packages always save you money.
Reality: Drink packages are not always the most cost-effective option for every cruiser. It depends on your drinking habits. If you only consume a few drinks per day, you may end up spending more on the package than you would on individual drinks. Carefully consider your consumption habits before purchasing a drink package.
Myth: You can share a drink package with someone.
Reality: Norwegian Cruise Line requires all adults (21 years and older) in a stateroom to purchase the same drink package. Sharing a drink package is strictly prohibited, and violating this rule can result in the package being revoked without a refund.
FAQ
Question: What happens if I order a drink that costs more than the limit on my drink package?
Answer: If you order a drink that exceeds the price limit of your drink package (typically around $15 for the Premium Beverage Package), you will be charged the difference between the drink’s price and the package limit. For example, if a cocktail costs $17 and your limit is $15, you will be charged $2 plus any applicable taxes.
Question: Can I use my drink package on Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay?
Answer: Yes, the Premium Beverage Package and Premium Plus Beverage Package are typically valid on Great Stirrup Cay. This allows you to enjoy complimentary drinks at the island’s bars and restaurants, just as you would on the ship. However, the Soda Package may have limited availability or different terms of use on the island, so it’s best to check the specific details.
Question: Are there any drinks that are not included in the Premium Beverage Package?
Answer: While the Premium Beverage Package covers a wide range of drinks, there are some exceptions. Drinks that cost more than the specified price limit (usually around $15), certain premium bottled water brands, and drinks purchased from the minibar in your stateroom may not be included. Additionally, some specialty wines and liquors may only be available with the Premium Plus Beverage Package.
Question: How do I purchase a drink package on a Norwegian cruise?
Answer: You can purchase a drink package before your cruise through Norwegian’s website or by contacting your travel agent. You can also purchase a drink package once you are on board the ship, but it is often cheaper to purchase it in advance. Keep in mind that if one adult in a stateroom purchases a drink package, all other adults in the same stateroom are typically required to purchase the same package.
Question: Is gratuity included in the price of the drink packages?
Answer: No, gratuity is not typically included in the base price of Norwegian’s drink packages. A 20% gratuity is added to the cost of the package, which covers the service provided by the bartenders and other beverage staff. This gratuity is mandatory and will be added to your final bill.
Question: Can I upgrade my drink package after I’ve already purchased it?
Answer: Yes, in most cases, you can upgrade your drink package after you’ve already purchased it, either before your cruise or once you’re on board. To upgrade, you’ll need to pay the difference between the cost of your current package and the cost of the upgraded package, plus any applicable taxes and gratuities. Contact Norwegian Cruise Line or your travel agent to arrange the upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of beverage costs on a Norwegian cruise can seem daunting, but with a little planning, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank. Understanding the average prices, exploring drink packages, and utilizing money-saving strategies are key to a budget-friendly cruise experience. So, raise a glass to informed decisions and happy sailing!