Planning a Princess cruise and dreaming of relaxing by the pool with a refreshing cocktail? You’re probably wondering about the drink prices. Many factors affect your budget, and understanding the costs of beverages onboard is crucial. This post will break down how much do drinks cost on Princess Cruise Lines, covering everything from individual drink prices to drink packages, so you can plan accordingly and enjoy your vacation without any budget surprises. We’ll also explore alternative options to save money and make the most of your onboard experience.
Understanding Princess Cruise Line Drink Prices
The cost of drinks on Princess Cruise Line varies depending on the type of beverage, the venue where it’s purchased, and whether you have a drink package. This section explores the general pricing structure and factors that influence the final bill. By understanding these nuances, you can better anticipate your spending and make informed decisions about purchasing individual drinks or a beverage package.
Individual Drink Costs
Individual drinks are priced similarly to what you might expect at a land-based bar or restaurant. Prices generally depend on the type of drink. Knowing what to expect for common drinks helps you budget effectively.
- Cocktails: Expect to pay around $9 to $15 per cocktail. Specialty cocktails or those with premium liquor will be at the higher end of this range. Consider happy hour specials for reduced prices.
- Beer: Domestic beers usually cost $6 to $8, while imported or craft beers can range from $7 to $9. Draft beers may be slightly cheaper than bottled options.
- Wine: Wine by the glass typically ranges from $8 to $15, depending on the varietal and quality. Bottles of wine can range from $30 to hundreds of dollars for premium selections.
- Sodas and Juices: Sodas and juices generally cost around $3 to $4 each. These can quickly add up, especially for families.
- Specialty Coffees: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees usually cost between $4 and $6.
Cocktails are a popular cruise indulgence. The price reflects the ingredients and the craftsmanship of the bartender. Keep an eye out for daily specials or promotions offered at different bars.
Princess offers a selection of beers to cater to different tastes. Checking the beer menu at each bar will help you find your favorite at a price you’re comfortable with.
Wine lovers will appreciate the variety available on Princess cruises. Consider purchasing a bottle to share with dinner, which can be more economical than buying individual glasses.
If you’re a frequent soda drinker, consider the soda package to save money. Alternatively, some onboard venues may offer complimentary juice during breakfast hours.
Enjoying a specialty coffee is a great way to start the day or relax in the afternoon. Coffee cards might be available for purchase, offering a discount on multiple drinks.
Factors Affecting Drink Prices
Several factors influence the price of drinks on a Princess cruise. Understanding these can help you navigate the options and potentially save money.
- Premium Brands: Drinks made with premium liquor or higher-end wines will naturally be more expensive. Opting for well liquor or house wines can be a cost-effective alternative.
- Location: Prices might vary slightly depending on the bar or lounge. For example, a poolside bar might have slightly different prices than a specialty restaurant bar.
- Promotions and Happy Hours: Princess often runs promotions or happy hour specials, offering discounted drinks at certain times or locations. Keep an eye out for these opportunities.
Premium brands offer a distinct taste and quality. If you’re not particularly brand-conscious, sticking with well liquor can significantly reduce your spending.
Different venues offer different atmospheres and drink menus. Taking a look at prices across different locations onboard can help you find the best deals.
Happy hours are a great way to enjoy discounted drinks and socialize with fellow passengers. Check the daily cruise program for specific times and locations.
Princess Cruise Line Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?
Princess Cruise Line offers various drink packages that can potentially save you money if you plan on consuming a significant amount of beverages. This section will explore the different packages available and help you determine if purchasing one is the right choice for you. Carefully consider your drinking habits and compare them to the package costs to make an informed decision.
Types of Drink Packages
Princess offers several different drink packages, each with varying levels of inclusions and price points. Choosing the right one depends on your preferences and consumption habits.
- Premier Beverage Package: This is the most comprehensive package, including virtually all alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages up to a certain price point (typically around $15 per drink). It also includes premium coffees, bottled water, and discounts on bottles of wine.
- Plus Beverage Package: This package includes a wide selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages, but may have a slightly lower price limit per drink than the Premier package. It often includes some discounts on premium beverages as well.
- Classic Soda Package: This package includes unlimited sodas, juices, mocktails, and other non-alcoholic beverages. It’s a good option for children or adults who don’t drink alcohol.
- Coffee Card: While not a traditional “package”, Princess often offers a coffee card that allows you to purchase a set number of specialty coffees at a discounted price.
The Premier Beverage Package offers the most freedom and variety. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a wide range of drinks and don’t want to worry about individual drink prices.
The Plus Beverage Package is a good middle-ground option for those who enjoy alcoholic beverages but are also mindful of their budget. It offers a good selection without the premium price of the Premier package.
The Classic Soda Package is perfect for families with kids or individuals who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. It eliminates the worry of racking up a large bill for sodas and juices.
The Coffee Card is a great option for coffee lovers who enjoy lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffee drinks. It offers a significant discount compared to purchasing individual coffees.
Calculating Your Potential Savings
Determining if a drink package is worth the investment requires careful calculation and consideration of your drinking habits. Estimate how many drinks you would consume per day and compare the total cost to the package price.
- Estimate your daily drink consumption: How many cocktails, beers, wines, sodas, or specialty coffees do you typically consume in a day?
- Calculate the cost of individual drinks: Multiply the number of each type of drink by its average price.
- Multiply by the number of cruise days: Multiply the total daily cost by the number of days in your cruise.
- Compare to the drink package price: Compare the estimated cost of individual drinks to the price of the drink package you’re considering.
Think about your typical day on vacation. Do you enjoy a cocktail by the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, or several sodas throughout the day?
Refer to the individual drink prices mentioned earlier in this post to estimate the cost of each type of beverage.
This will give you an estimate of the total cost of purchasing individual drinks throughout your cruise.
If the drink package price is lower than the estimated cost of individual drinks, it’s likely a good value for you.
For example, imagine you typically drink 2 cocktails ($12 each), 2 beers ($7 each), and 3 sodas ($4 each) per day. That’s a daily cost of $24 + $14 + $12 = $50. Over a 7-day cruise, that’s $350. If the Premier Beverage Package costs $70 per day ($490 total for 7 days), it might not be worth it. However, if you upgrade your cocktail choices and have a couple more, the package may make sense.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing a Drink Package
Beyond the simple cost comparison, several other factors can influence the value of a drink package. Consider these before making your final decision.
- Port Days: On days when the ship is in port, you might spend less time onboard and consume fewer drinks. This can reduce the value of a drink package.
- Shared Drinks: Drink packages typically cannot be shared. Each adult in the cabin must purchase the package if one person chooses to do so.
- Gratuities: Most drink packages include gratuities, which can be a significant cost if purchasing individual drinks. This can make the package more appealing even if you’re on the fence.
- Beverage Preferences: Some drink packages have limits on the type or price of beverages included. Make sure the package covers the types of drinks you typically enjoy.
Port days offer opportunities to explore local bars and restaurants. If you plan on spending most of your time ashore, a drink package might not be as beneficial.
Princess Cruises often requires all adults in a stateroom to purchase the same beverage package. This can be a significant cost factor if not all adults are heavy drinkers.
Gratuities can add a significant amount to your onboard spending. Including them in the drink package can provide peace of mind and simplify your budgeting.
Carefully review the inclusions and exclusions of each drink package to ensure it aligns with your beverage preferences. If you primarily drink premium liquors, make sure the package covers them.
A 2022 survey by Cruise Critic found that 45% of cruisers who purchased a drink package felt it was a worthwhile investment, while 55% were unsure or felt it wasn’t worth the cost. This highlights the importance of carefully considering your own drinking habits and preferences before purchasing a package.
Saving Money on Drinks Without a Package
If a drink package doesn’t fit your budget or preferences, there are still several ways to save money on drinks while enjoying your Princess cruise. This section explores various strategies to minimize your beverage costs without sacrificing enjoyment. By being resourceful and taking advantage of available options, you can keep your onboard spending under control.
Bring Your Own Wine (With a Corkage Fee)
Princess Cruise Line allows passengers to bring a limited amount of wine onboard, subject to a corkage fee. This can be a cost-effective way to enjoy your favorite wines without paying onboard prices.
- Corkage Fee: Princess charges a corkage fee for each bottle of wine consumed in the dining room or other public areas. This fee typically ranges from $15 to $25 per bottle.
- Quantity Limits: Princess typically allows each passenger to bring one bottle of wine (750ml) onboard at embarkation. Check the current policy for specific limits.
- Enjoy in Your Cabin: You can enjoy your brought-on wine in your cabin without paying a corkage fee. This is a great option for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxing evening on your balcony.
The corkage fee covers the cost of service, glassware, and other amenities associated with serving your wine in the dining room.
Be sure to check the latest Princess Cruise Line policy regarding bringing wine onboard as policies can change. Exceeding the limit could result in confiscation.
Enjoying your wine in your cabin is a cost-effective way to avoid the corkage fee and enjoy your favorite beverage in a private setting.
Take Advantage of Complimentary Beverages
Princess Cruise Line offers several complimentary beverage options that can help you stay hydrated and save money. Knowing what’s available for free can significantly reduce your overall drink bill.
- Tap Water: Tap water is always free and readily available in the dining room, buffet, and at water fountains throughout the ship.
- Coffee and Tea: Complimentary coffee and tea are typically available in the buffet and dining room during breakfast and other designated times.
- Juice at Breakfast: Some juices, like orange juice and apple juice, are often offered for free during breakfast hours in the buffet and dining room.
- Iced Tea and Lemonade: Sometimes, iced tea and lemonade are available at select locations during certain hours for free. Check the daily schedule.
Staying hydrated is important, especially in warm climates. Taking advantage of the free tap water is a healthy and cost-effective way to do so.
Enjoying a cup of complimentary coffee or tea can be a great way to start your day or relax in the afternoon without spending extra money.
Taking advantage of the complimentary juice at breakfast is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and save money on beverages.
Keep an eye out for special promotions or complimentary beverage stations offering iced tea and lemonade during specific times of the day.
Look for Drink Specials and Happy Hours
Princess Cruise Line frequently offers drink specials and happy hour promotions throughout the day and at various bars and lounges. These are great opportunities to enjoy discounted drinks.
- Daily Specials: Each day, different bars might feature specific drink specials, often at reduced prices. Check the daily cruise program or ask the bartenders for details.
- Happy Hour: Many bars host happy hour promotions, offering discounted drinks during specific hours. The times and locations vary, so check the daily cruise program.
- Loyalty Program Benefits: Members of Princess’s loyalty program may receive complimentary drinks or discounts on drinks as a benefit of their status.
Daily specials can offer significant savings on a variety of cocktails, beers, and wines. Be sure to check the daily schedule to see what’s on offer.
Happy hour is a popular time to socialize and enjoy discounted drinks. It’s a great way to try different cocktails without breaking the bank.
If you’re a frequent Princess cruiser, make sure to take advantage of any loyalty program benefits that include complimentary drinks or discounts.
A real-life example: On a recent Princess cruise, a passenger saved over $50 by consistently taking advantage of the daily drink specials and happy hour promotions throughout the week. By being mindful of the available discounts, they were able to enjoy their favorite drinks without exceeding their budget.
Debunking Common Myths About Cruise Drink Costs
Several misconceptions surround the cost of drinks on cruise ships. This section aims to dispel some common myths and provide accurate information to help you make informed decisions. Understanding the reality behind these myths can prevent surprises and ensure a smoother cruise experience.
Myth: All Drinks Are Included in the Cruise Fare
This is a common misconception. While your cruise fare includes accommodations, meals in the main dining room and buffet, and certain entertainment options, most beverages are not included.
Only basic beverages like tap water, coffee, and tea (during mealtimes) are typically included in the cruise fare. Alcoholic beverages, sodas, juices, and specialty coffees usually cost extra. This can come as a surprise to first-time cruisers, so it’s important to be aware of this upfront.
Myth: Drink Packages Are Always the Best Deal
Drink packages can be a good deal for some, but not for everyone. Whether or not a drink package is worthwhile depends entirely on your individual drinking habits and preferences.
If you only consume a few drinks per day, a drink package might not be the most economical option. It’s important to calculate your potential savings based on your estimated consumption before purchasing a package. For example, if you only plan on having one or two alcoholic beverages per day, it’s unlikely a Premier Beverage Package is worth the expense.
Myth: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard Easily
While some passengers attempt to sneak alcohol onboard to avoid paying for drinks, cruise lines have strict policies and security measures in place to prevent this.
Cruise lines often scan luggage and confiscate any alcohol that is found. Some cruise lines may even impose penalties for attempting to bring alcohol onboard illegally. It’s generally not worth the risk, as the consequences can be significant.
Insert a comparison chart here comparing the costs of individual drinks vs. drink packages, and the pros and cons of each.
FAQ
Question: How much is a beer on Princess Cruises?
The cost of a beer on Princess Cruises typically ranges from $6 to $8 for domestic brands and $7 to $9 for imported or craft beers. Prices can vary slightly depending on the bar or lounge. Check the bar menu for specific pricing on the ship you are cruising on.
Question: Are soft drinks free on Princess Cruises?
Soft drinks are generally not free on Princess Cruises, however, Princess offers a “Classic Soda Package” that includes unlimited sodas and juices for a fixed price. Purchasing this package can save you money if you consume several soft drinks each day. Check the Princess website or your cruise planner for the current price of the soda package.
Question: What alcoholic drinks are included in the Premier Beverage Package?
The Premier Beverage Package on Princess Cruises includes a wide variety of alcoholic drinks, up to a certain price point (typically around $15 per drink). This includes most cocktails, beers, wines by the glass, and spirits. Premium or super-premium liquors might exceed the price limit, requiring an additional charge. Consult the Princess website for the most accurate details.
Question: Can I bring my own water bottles on a Princess Cruise?
Yes, you can bring your own water bottles on a Princess Cruise. Empty reusable water bottles are allowed, and you can fill them at water fountains throughout the ship. Bringing your own water bottle helps you stay hydrated and reduces your reliance on purchasing bottled water.
Question: Are there any drink discounts for Princess Elite members?
Yes, Princess Elite members, the highest tier in the Captain’s Circle loyalty program, often receive complimentary drinks or discounts on alcoholic beverages. The specific benefits can vary, so check the current loyalty program details on the Princess website for the most up-to-date information.
Question: Is it possible to buy single alcoholic drinks as a non-drinker if my partner has a drinks package?
If your partner purchases an alcoholic drinks package, Princess may require that you also purchase a package. Policies vary, however, and you should check with Princess directly regarding the rules for your specific sailing. If it is mandatory, you could opt for a non-alcoholic package if you don’t wish to buy the alcoholic one. In some cases, if only one person drinks, it may be cheaper to buy drinks individually than purchase the drinks package for both.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much do drinks cost on Princess Cruise Lines and planning your beverage strategy is vital for a budget-friendly vacation. While individual drink prices can add up, exploring drink packages or opting for complimentary options can significantly impact your overall spending. Consider your drinking habits, compare the costs, and take advantage of any promotions to make the most of your cruise experience without any financial surprises. Now, start planning your Princess cruise and enjoy the voyage!