Imagine yourself lounging on a sun deck, ocean breeze in your hair, and a refreshing drink in hand. Cruising is all about relaxation and indulgence, but understanding the costs beforehand can make the experience even smoother. A common question for prospective P&O cruisers is: how much do drinks cost on P&O cruises? This post will provide a detailed breakdown of beverage prices, drinks packages, and helpful tips to manage your onboard spending, so you can sip back and enjoy your voyage worry-free.
Understanding Drink Prices on P&O Cruises
Understanding the pricing structure for drinks on P&O cruises is essential for budgeting and planning your onboard expenses. Drinks prices can vary depending on the type of beverage, the bar location, and any ongoing promotions. This section will break down the general price ranges for different drinks so you can get a good idea of what to expect.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits, represent a significant portion of onboard drink costs. It’s important to be aware of the average prices to budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses. Prices will generally increase in premium bars or for top-shelf brands.
- Beer: Expect to pay around £5 to £7 for a pint of beer, with premium or imported beers potentially costing more.
P&O Cruises typically offer a selection of beers, including lagers, ales, and stouts. The prices vary depending on the brand and whether it’s a draft or bottled beer. Some pubs on board may offer promotional deals on certain beers during specific times.
- Wine: A glass of wine can range from £6 to £12, depending on the varietal and brand. Bottles of wine are also available, often at a more cost-effective price per glass.
P&O ships offer an extensive wine list, from house wines to premium selections. You can purchase wine by the glass or bottle, and some restaurants may offer wine pairing suggestions to complement your meal. Look out for wine tasting events that can provide a more immersive experience.
- Spirits and Cocktails: Single-measure spirits typically cost between £6 and £9, while cocktails can range from £8 to £15, depending on the complexity and ingredients used.
A wide range of spirits is available, including vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey. Cocktails are a popular choice, with classic options like mojitos and margaritas as well as signature creations unique to P&O. Some bars have happy hour specials or offer discounted prices on certain cocktails during specific times.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
While alcoholic drinks often capture the attention, non-alcoholic options are also essential, especially for those who prefer to stay sober or are traveling with children. Knowing the prices for these beverages helps manage overall onboard spending.
- Soft Drinks: Canned soft drinks usually cost around £2.50 to £3.50.
Popular soft drinks like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and various juices are readily available throughout the ship. These are typically priced per can or glass. Purchasing a soda package can be a more economical choice if you consume a lot of soft drinks.
- Specialty Coffees and Teas: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees can range from £3 to £5. Premium teas may also fall within this price range.
Cafés on board offer a variety of specialty coffees and teas, from classic cappuccinos to exotic herbal infusions. These beverages provide a comforting and energizing alternative to alcoholic drinks. Many passengers enjoy relaxing with a coffee while enjoying the ocean views.
- Bottled Water: Bottled water is typically priced at £2 to £4 per bottle.
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in warm climates. Bottled water is readily available, but the cost can add up quickly. Some passengers choose to bring their own reusable water bottles and refill them at water stations, if available, to save money.
Comparing Drink Prices to Land-Based Alternatives
Understanding how P&O’s drink prices compare to those on land can help cruisers make informed decisions about their onboard spending. While onboard prices are generally higher than at your local pub, they can still represent good value, especially when factoring in the convenience and atmosphere.
Generally, drinks on P&O cruises are priced similarly to those at a mid-range bar or restaurant in a major city. You might find the prices slightly higher than in smaller towns or pubs outside tourist areas. However, considering you are on a cruise ship, with all the amenities and entertainment that come with it, the pricing is usually reasonable.
Drinks Packages Available on P&O Cruises
Drinks packages on P&O Cruises offer a way to enjoy a variety of beverages at a fixed daily rate, which can be more cost-effective than purchasing drinks individually. It is crucial to evaluate your drinking habits and preferences to determine if a drinks package is right for you. By understanding the different packages available, you can make a financially savvy decision.
Types of Drinks Packages
P&O Cruises typically offers several types of drinks packages tailored to different preferences and consumption habits. Knowing what each package includes is crucial for choosing the one that best fits your needs.
- The Refresh Package: This package usually includes soft drinks, juices, and non-alcoholic cocktails.
The Refresh Package is ideal for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. It allows you to enjoy unlimited soft drinks, juices, and mocktails throughout the cruise. This can be a great option for families with children or individuals who don’t consume alcohol.
- The Alcohol-Free Package: This package may include specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and a wider range of non-alcoholic options.
Similar to the Refresh Package, the Alcohol-Free Package offers a broader selection of non-alcoholic drinks. This may include specialty coffees, premium teas, and bottled water, in addition to soft drinks and juices. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
- The Classic Drinks Package: This package often includes a selection of beers, wines by the glass, spirits, and cocktails, up to a certain price point.
The Classic Drinks Package is designed for passengers who want to enjoy a moderate amount of alcoholic beverages along with non-alcoholic options. It typically includes a selection of beers, wines by the glass, and spirits, up to a certain price point. This package provides a good balance of options for casual drinkers.
- The Deluxe Drinks Package: This is the most comprehensive package, covering a wider range of premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, often with higher price limits.
The Deluxe Drinks Package offers the most extensive range of beverages, including premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. It usually has higher price limits than other packages, allowing you to indulge in top-shelf spirits, fine wines, and specialty cocktails. This package is ideal for those who want to enjoy a luxurious drinking experience.
Cost of Drinks Packages
The cost of drinks packages on P&O Cruises varies depending on the package type, the length of the cruise, and any ongoing promotions. Evaluating the cost against your likely consumption is essential for determining the package’s value.
The price of a drinks package is usually calculated per day, per person. For example, the Refresh Package might cost around £20 per day, while the Classic Drinks Package could be around £40 per day, and the Deluxe Drinks Package may cost £50 or more per day. The longer the cruise, the higher the total cost of the package will be.
Is a Drinks Package Worth It?
Determining whether a drinks package is worth the investment depends on your individual drinking habits and preferences. By calculating your likely consumption and comparing it to the cost of the package, you can make an informed decision.
- Calculate your average daily drink consumption. Estimate how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks you typically consume in a day.
Think about how many drinks you usually have on a typical vacation day. Do you enjoy several cocktails by the pool, or do you prefer a glass of wine with dinner? Estimating your average daily consumption is the first step in determining if a drinks package is worth it for you.
- Compare the cost of individual drinks versus the package price. Add up the cost of your estimated daily drinks if purchased individually and compare it to the daily price of the drinks package.
Once you have an estimate of your daily drink consumption, calculate how much it would cost to purchase those drinks individually. Compare that total to the daily price of the drinks package. If the package price is lower than the cost of individual drinks, it might be a good investment.
- Consider the convenience factor. A drinks package allows you to enjoy drinks without constantly worrying about the cost, making for a more relaxed and enjoyable cruise experience.
One of the main benefits of a drinks package is the convenience it offers. You can order drinks without having to worry about tracking your spending or signing receipts for every purchase. This can make your cruise experience more relaxed and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on having fun.
- Factor in potential promotions or discounts. P&O Cruises sometimes offers promotions on drinks packages, which can make them even more cost-effective.
Keep an eye out for promotions or discounts on drinks packages. P&O Cruises may offer special deals during certain times of the year or as part of a larger cruise package. These promotions can significantly reduce the cost of the drinks package, making it an even more attractive option.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
There are several strategies you can use to save money on drinks while enjoying your P&O cruise. By being mindful of your choices and taking advantage of available options, you can reduce your onboard spending without sacrificing enjoyment.
Take Advantage of Happy Hour
Many bars on P&O cruise ships offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Taking advantage of these promotions can significantly reduce your overall beverage costs.
Happy hour typically occurs during the late afternoon or early evening, offering discounted prices on select drinks. Check the daily schedule or ask at the bars to find out the times and locations of happy hour specials. This is a great way to enjoy your favorite drinks at a lower cost while socializing with other passengers.
Consider Bringing Your Own Drinks
P&O Cruises generally allows passengers to bring a limited amount of their own non-alcoholic beverages on board. This can help reduce your reliance on onboard purchases.
Check P&O Cruises’ policy regarding bringing your own drinks. Typically, passengers are allowed to bring a certain number of non-alcoholic beverages, such as bottled water or soft drinks, per person. This can be a cost-effective way to stay hydrated without having to pay for every bottle on board. Note that bringing your own alcoholic beverages is often restricted.
Look for Drinks Specials
Keep an eye out for daily or themed drinks specials advertised around the ship. These can offer significant savings compared to regular prices.
P&O cruise ships often feature daily or themed drinks specials at various bars and lounges. These specials might include discounted cocktails, special wine promotions, or themed drink nights. Check the daily schedule or ask at the bars to find out what specials are available each day.
Use Your Loyalty Rewards
If you are a member of P&O Cruises’ loyalty program, you may be eligible for discounts or complimentary drinks. Be sure to utilize these rewards to save money.
P&O Cruises’ loyalty program offers various benefits to frequent cruisers, including discounts on drinks, complimentary beverages, and other perks. Check your loyalty level and see what rewards you are eligible for. Be sure to present your loyalty card or membership number when ordering drinks to take advantage of these benefits.
Be Mindful of Automatic Gratuities
P&O Cruises typically adds automatic gratuities to drink purchases. Be aware of this additional cost when budgeting for drinks.
Most cruise lines, including P&O Cruises, add automatic gratuities to drink purchases. This is usually a percentage of the total bill, such as 15% or 18%. Factor this additional cost into your budget when calculating the overall cost of drinks. Some drinks packages may include gratuities, so check the details of the package to understand what is covered.
Insert a comparison chart here, comparing the costs of different drinks and packages, as well as a summary of the tips mentioned.
Understanding Onboard Credit
Onboard credit is essentially “free money” that can be used to cover various expenses during your cruise, including drinks. Understanding how to obtain and utilize onboard credit can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for beverages.
How to Get Onboard Credit
There are several ways to acquire onboard credit, including booking promotions, loyalty rewards, and travel agent incentives. Being aware of these opportunities can help you maximize your savings.
- Booking Promotions: Cruise lines often offer promotions that include onboard credit as an incentive to book.
Cruise lines frequently offer special promotions that include onboard credit. These promotions may be tied to specific sailing dates, cabin types, or booking periods. Keep an eye out for these deals when booking your cruise, as they can significantly reduce your overall expenses.
- Loyalty Programs: Members of cruise line loyalty programs may receive onboard credit as a perk.
If you are a member of P&O Cruises’ loyalty program, you may be eligible for onboard credit as a reward for your loyalty. The amount of credit you receive typically depends on your loyalty level. Check your loyalty program benefits to see if you qualify for onboard credit.
- Travel Agent Incentives: Travel agents sometimes offer onboard credit as an added bonus for booking through them.
Travel agents often have access to exclusive deals and incentives that are not available when booking directly with the cruise line. These incentives may include onboard credit. Consider booking your cruise through a travel agent to take advantage of these potential savings.
How to Use Onboard Credit for Drinks
Onboard credit can be used to pay for drinks purchased throughout the cruise. It is typically applied automatically to your onboard account.
Onboard credit is typically applied automatically to your onboard account, which is used to track all your onboard expenses. When you purchase drinks, the cost will be deducted from your onboard credit balance. If you use all your onboard credit, any additional drink purchases will be charged to your credit card or other payment method on file.
Strategies for Maximizing Onboard Credit
To get the most out of your onboard credit, prioritize using it for higher-priced items like alcoholic beverages or specialty cocktails. Also, be aware of any restrictions or expiration dates.
- Prioritize Higher-Priced Items: Use your onboard credit for more expensive drinks, such as premium cocktails or bottles of wine, to maximize its value.
Since onboard credit is like free money, it makes sense to use it on the more expensive items first. This will help you reduce your overall out-of-pocket expenses. For example, if you enjoy premium cocktails, use your onboard credit to cover those purchases before using it on less expensive items like soft drinks.
- Check for Restrictions: Be aware of any restrictions on how onboard credit can be used. Some credit may not be applicable to certain items or promotions.
Some onboard credit may have restrictions on how it can be used. For example, some credit may not be applicable to certain promotions or specific items. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of your onboard credit to understand any limitations.
- Be Aware of Expiration Dates: Onboard credit typically expires at the end of the cruise, so be sure to use it before then.
Onboard credit typically expires at the end of the cruise, so it’s important to use it before it’s gone. Keep track of your onboard credit balance and make sure to use it up before the last day of your cruise. Any unused credit will typically be forfeited.
Common Myths About Drink Costs on P&O Cruises
There are several misconceptions about the cost of drinks on P&O cruises. Understanding the reality can help you plan your budget more accurately and avoid surprises.
Myth 1: Drinks are always exorbitantly expensive
Many people assume that drinks on cruises are always outrageously priced, but this isn’t necessarily true. While some premium drinks can be costly, there are plenty of reasonably priced options available, especially during happy hour or with drinks packages. Comparing prices to land-based alternatives, as mentioned earlier, reveals that onboard prices are often comparable to those in major cities.
Myth 2: Drinks packages are always the best deal
While drinks packages can be a great value for some, they aren’t always the most cost-effective option for everyone. If you only consume a few drinks per day or prefer to abstain from alcohol, the cost of a drinks package might outweigh the benefits. It’s crucial to calculate your average daily consumption and compare it to the package price to determine if it’s truly worth it.
Myth 3: You can sneak your own alcohol on board without any consequences
Attempting to smuggle alcohol onto a P&O cruise ship is generally not a good idea. Cruise lines have strict policies against bringing outside alcohol on board, and they may confiscate any alcohol found in your luggage. In some cases, you could even face penalties or be disembarked. It’s best to adhere to the cruise line’s policies and enjoy the drinks available on board.
FAQ
How much is a pint of beer on P&O cruises?
A pint of beer on P&O cruises typically costs between £5 and £7, depending on the brand and bar location. Premium or imported beers may cost slightly more. Look out for happy hour specials or package deals to save money.
What are the average cocktail prices on P&O cruises?
Cocktails on P&O cruises generally range from £8 to £15, depending on the complexity of the drink and the ingredients used. Classic cocktails and signature creations are available at most bars.
Are there non-alcoholic drinks packages available on P&O cruises?
Yes, P&O Cruises offers non-alcoholic drinks packages, such as the Refresh Package and the Alcohol-Free Package. These packages include soft drinks, juices, specialty coffees, and other non-alcoholic beverages.
Can I bring my own drinks on board a P&O cruise?
P&O Cruises generally allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages, such as bottled water or soft drinks, on board. However, bringing your own alcoholic beverages is typically restricted.
Are gratuities included in the price of drinks on P&O cruises?
P&O Cruises typically adds automatic gratuities to drink purchases, usually a percentage of the total bill. Some drinks packages may include gratuities, so check the details of the package.
How does onboard credit work for drinks on P&O cruises?
Onboard credit can be used to pay for drinks purchased throughout the cruise. It is automatically applied to your onboard account. If you use all your onboard credit, any additional drink purchases will be charged to your credit card or other payment method on file.
Are there any promotions or discounts on drinks available on P&O cruises?
Yes, P&O Cruises often offers promotions on drinks packages, happy hour specials, and daily or themed drinks specials. Keep an eye out for these opportunities to save money on drinks.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on P&O cruises is a crucial step in planning your onboard budget and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable voyage. By familiarizing yourself with drink prices, exploring drinks package options, and taking advantage of money-saving tips, you can indulge in your favorite beverages without breaking the bank. Remember to check for promotions, utilize onboard credit, and always drink responsibly!