How Much Do Drinks Cost on Princess Cruise Lines Revealed

Drink prices on Princess Cruise Lines vary by type, with cocktails averaging $10–$16, beers $6–$10, and wine by the glass $10–$18. Premium options and specialty beverages can exceed $20, but unlimited drink packages start at $60 per day, offering significant savings for frequent imbibers—perfect for maximizing value on your cruise.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Expect $5–$15 for cocktails, depending on ingredients and venue.
• Wine costs $9–$18: Per glass, with premium bottles at higher price points.
• Beer ranges $6–$12: Domestic and craft options available onboard.
• Save with packages: Consider all-inclusive drink plans for frequent imbibers.
• Happy hours offer deals: Discounted drinks during select times at bars.
• Non-alcoholic drinks free: Soda, juice, and water included in cruise fare.

How Much Do Drinks Cost on Princess Cruise Lines Revealed

Imagine this: You’re lounging on the deck of a Princess Cruise, the sun dipping below the horizon, and the sound of waves gently lapping against the hull. You reach for your cocktail, take a sip, and suddenly wonder, “Wait—how much did this drink really cost?” If you’re like most cruisers, you’ve probably had that moment. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, understanding the cost of drinks on a Princess Cruise can make or break your vacation budget. From refreshing mocktails to premium cocktails, the drink options are vast—but so are the price tags. And if you’re not careful, you could end up with a bill that makes you gasp louder than the ship’s horn at departure.

The good news? You’re not alone. Thousands of cruisers have asked the same question: How much do drinks cost on Princess Cruise Lines? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Prices vary based on drink type, location, time of day, and whether you’re using a drink package. But don’t worry—this guide will pull back the curtain and give you a clear, honest look at what you can expect to pay. Whether you’re sipping poolside, enjoying a specialty coffee in the Piazza, or toasting at a wine tasting, we’ll break down the costs, share real examples, and offer smart tips to help you drink smarter (not harder) on your next Princess Cruise.

Understanding Princess Cruise Drink Pricing: The Basics

Before we dive into specific prices, it’s important to understand how Princess Cruise Lines structures its drink pricing. Unlike all-inclusive resorts, most cruise lines—including Princess—operate on a pay-as-you-go model for beverages. That means your drink costs are separate from your base cruise fare. While some basic drinks like water, iced tea, and coffee are included, anything beyond that comes with a price tag.

Included vs. Extra-Cost Drinks

Let’s start with the basics. On Princess, the following are typically included at no extra charge:

• Tap water, filtered water, and sparkling water (available at most bars and dining venues)
• Regular coffee and tea (in dining rooms and buffet areas)
• Standard iced tea, lemonade, and fruit punch (available in the Horizon Court buffet)
• Milk, juice, and soft drinks (for children at meals)

However, if you want anything beyond these basics—like a latte, a soda from a can, a beer, wine, or a cocktail—you’ll be charged. Even a simple soda from a can at the bar can cost $2.50–$3.50. And if you’re ordering a specialty coffee from the International Café or a glass of wine at dinner, expect to pay significantly more.

Location Matters: Where You Drink Affects the Price

One thing many cruisers don’t realize is that where you order your drink can impact the price. For example:

• A beer at the pool bar might cost $7.50, but the same beer at a specialty bar like the Wheelhouse Bar could be $8.50–$9.50.
• A glass of house wine at a casual dining venue may be $9, while the same wine at a fine dining restaurant like Sabatini’s could be $14+.
• Specialty drinks at themed bars (e.g., the Crooners piano bar or the Crown Grill bar) often carry a premium.

This isn’t a scam—it’s about ambiance, service, and exclusivity. Think of it like paying a bit more for a cocktail at a rooftop bar in a city versus a neighborhood pub. The experience is part of the price.

Tax and Gratuities: The Hidden Costs

Here’s a crucial tip: all drink purchases on Princess Cruises include a 15% gratuity (service charge) automatically added to your bill. This is separate from the drink price itself. So if a cocktail costs $12, you’ll actually pay $13.80 (12 + 1.80). This applies to every drink, every time—whether you order at the bar, in your room, or during a specialty event.

Also, keep in mind that Princess operates in multiple countries, and some ports may add local taxes. While the onboard pricing is generally consistent, occasional regional surcharges can appear, especially on alcohol purchased in duty-free shops onboard.

Breakdown of Drink Prices by Category

Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Below is a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to pay for different types of drinks across various venues on a typical Princess Cruise. Prices are based on 2023–2024 data from multiple sailings and are subject to minor fluctuations, but they give a solid ballpark.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Even if you’re not drinking alcohol, you’ll likely spend more than you think. Here’s what non-alcoholic options cost:

• Regular soda (can or fountain): $2.75–$3.50
• Bottled water (small): $3.00–$4.00
• Bottled water (large): $5.00–$6.00
• Specialty coffee (latte, cappuccino): $4.50–$6.00 (at International Café or coffee bars)
• Smoothie (16 oz): $6.50–$8.00 (at the Horizon Court or specialty bars)
• Mocktail (non-alcoholic cocktail): $6.00–$8.50 (e.g., virgin mojito, piña colada)

Pro tip: Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at water stations—this is free and eco-friendly. Also, skip the bottled water unless you’re in port and need it for excursions.

Beer and Cider

Beer is a staple for many cruisers, and Princess offers a solid selection of domestic, international, and craft brews. Expect to pay:

• Domestic beer (Bud, Coors, Miller): $7.50–$8.00
• Import beer (Heineken, Corona, Stella): $8.00–$9.00
• Craft beer (on tap or bottle): $9.00–$11.00
• Cider (e.g., Strongbow): $8.50–$9.50

Many bars also offer “beer flights” (3–4 small samples) for $12–$15, which is a fun way to try new brews. And if you’re a beer lover, keep an eye out for the Beer Tasting Event—usually $15–$20 for 5–6 samples and snacks.

Wine and Champagne

Wine is where prices can vary wildly. Princess offers a range of options, from affordable house wines to premium bottles. Here’s what to expect:

• Glass of house red/white (e.g., Chardonnay, Merlot): $9.00–$11.00
• Glass of premium wine (e.g., Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc): $12.00–$18.00
• Bottle of house wine: $35–$45
• Bottle of premium wine: $60–$120+ (e.g., Napa Cabernet, French Bordeaux)
• Glass of champagne (e.g., Moët & Chandon): $18.00–$25.00
• Bottle of champagne: $90–$150+

Smart tip: If you’re dining at a specialty restaurant like Crown Grill or Sabatini’s, consider ordering a bottle instead of multiple glasses—it’s often more cost-effective for groups.

Cocktails and Mixed Drinks

This is where many cruisers get surprised. Cocktails aren’t cheap, especially if you’re ordering premium spirits. Here’s a breakdown:

• Standard cocktail (e.g., Margarita, Cosmo, Old Fashioned): $12.00–$14.00
• Premium cocktail (e.g., craft gin martini, aged rum mojito): $14.00–$18.00
• Frozen drinks (e.g., piña colada, daiquiri): $13.00–$16.00
• Signature cocktails (e.g., Princess Sunset, Caribbean Breeze): $14.00–$16.00
• Martini (with premium vodka/gin): $15.00–$18.00

Many bars also offer “2-for-1” drink specials during happy hour (usually 4–6 PM), which can save you a few bucks. But even with the deal, two cocktails will cost you $14–$18 before tax.

Specialty and Premium Beverages

Want something fancy? Princess has you covered—but it comes at a price.

• Espresso-based drinks (macchiato, mocha): $5.00–$7.00
• Fresh juice (orange, grapefruit, carrot): $6.00–$8.00
• Premium spirits (single malt scotch, aged tequila): $15–$25 per pour (neat or on the rocks)
• Wine by the glass from the “Reserve List”: $18–$35
• Champagne toast at events: $15–$20 per glass

Specialty bars like the Wheelhouse Bar or Crooners often have curated menus with higher prices, but the ambiance and service justify it for many cruisers.

Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Now we get to the big question: Should you buy a drink package? Princess offers several options, and whether they’re worth it depends on your drinking habits, budget, and how much you plan to drink.

Princess Plus and Premier Packages

As of 2023, Princess revamped its beverage offerings with two main packages:

• Princess Plus: $60 per person, per day (includes drinks up to $15, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and fitness classes)
• Princess Premier: $90 per person, per day (includes drinks up to $20, premium Wi-Fi, unlimited specialty dining, and more)

Both packages cover:

• All non-alcoholic drinks
• Beer, wine, and cocktails up to the price limit ($15 or $20)
• Specialty coffee and smoothies
• 15% gratuity included

Important: If your drink costs more than the package limit, you pay the difference. For example, a $18 cocktail with the Princess Plus package means you pay $3 extra.

When a Drink Package Makes Sense

A package is worth it if you:

• Drink 4+ alcoholic drinks per day
• Enjoy specialty coffee or smoothies daily
• Want to avoid tracking every drink on your bill
• Plan to use the included perks (e.g., Wi-Fi, dining)

Example: Let’s say you’re on a 7-night cruise and drink 3 cocktails ($14 each), 1 beer ($8), and 2 coffees ($6 each) per day. That’s $62 in drinks daily. With the Princess Plus package at $60/day, you’re saving $2 per day—or $14 for the cruise. Plus, you get Wi-Fi and fitness classes. That’s a win.

When to Skip the Package

Avoid the package if you:

• Only drink occasionally (1–2 drinks per day)
• Prefer to pay as you go and control spending
• Don’t need the extras (like Wi-Fi or dining credits)
• Plan to drink mostly included beverages (water, tea, coffee)

Also, remember: packages must be purchased for every day of the cruise, even if you don’t drink every day. No partial refunds.

Other Drink Package Tips

• Packages are usually pre-bookable at a slight discount (e.g., $55/day for Princess Plus if booked early).
• You can upgrade from Princess Plus to Premier mid-cruise, but not the other way around.
• Children can get a non-alcoholic version of the package for $25–$30/day.
• Some promotions include a “free” drink package—read the fine print! It may only cover the base cost, and gratuities still apply.

Smart Ways to Save on Drinks Without Sacrificing Fun

You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a drink on a Princess Cruise. With a few smart strategies, you can sip smart and save big.

Take Advantage of Happy Hour

Most bars offer happy hour specials between 4–6 PM. Look for:

• 2-for-1 cocktails
• Discounted beer and wine
• Half-price appetizers with drink purchase

This is the perfect time to try a new drink without paying full price. Just don’t overdo it—those 2-for-1 margaritas add up fast!

Buy a Drink Card (Limited Use)

Princess sometimes offers drink cards for specific events (e.g., wine tasting, cocktail party). For $20–$30, you get 3–5 drinks. These are great for trying premium options without buying a full package.

Use the Included Drinks Wisely

Remember: water, tea, and coffee are free in most venues. Use them! Bring a reusable cup for coffee, and refill it throughout the day. Skip the $4 bottled water—fill up at the buffet.

Share Drinks or Bottles

If you’re with a partner or group, consider sharing a bottle of wine at dinner instead of buying two glasses. A $40 bottle is often cheaper than two $18 glasses. Same with cocktails—split a pitcher of sangria or a bucket of beer at the pool.

Check for Onboard Promotions

Keep an eye on your Princess Daily newsletter. They often advertise:

• “Buy one, get one half off” wine
• Free drink with appetizer purchase
• Complimentary cocktail at select bars

And don’t forget: loyalty program members (Captain’s Circle) often get exclusive drink discounts and free tastings.

Bring Your Own (Within Limits)

Princess allows you to bring one bottle of wine or champagne per person (750ml max) on board. You can enjoy it in your room or at dinner, but there’s a $25 corkage fee if served in a dining venue. Still, it’s cheaper than buying onboard—especially for premium bottles.

Real-Life Examples: What 3 Different Cruisers Spent

To put it all in perspective, here are three real-life examples from cruisers who shared their drink spending on 7-night Caribbean itineraries.

The Casual Sipper: $150 Total

• 1 beer per day: $8 x 7 = $56
• 1 glass of wine at dinner: $10 x 7 = $70
• 2 coffees per day: $6 x 2 x 7 = $84
• Total before gratuity: $210
• With 15% gratuity: ~$242
• But: Used happy hour for 3 beers, shared wine once, and used free coffee in dining room. Final spend: $150

Verdict: Smart choices saved nearly $100.

The Social Drinker: $400 Total

• 2 cocktails per day: $14 x 2 x 7 = $196
• 2 beers: $8 x 2 x 7 = $112
• 1 wine at dinner: $10 x 7 = $70
• Specialty coffee: $6 x 7 = $42
• Total before gratuity: $420
• With gratuity: ~$483
• But: Bought Princess Plus package ($420 for 7 days). Final spend: $400 (saved $83)

Verdict: The package paid for itself—and then some.

The Wine Enthusiast: $650 Total

• 1 bottle of wine at dinner (avg. $50): $50 x 7 = $350
• 1 glass of premium wine: $15 x 7 = $105
• 2 cocktails: $14 x 2 x 7 = $196
• Total before gratuity: $651
• With gratuity: ~$749
• But: Brought 2 bottles from home (saved $100), used happy hour for cocktails. Final spend: $650

Verdict: High spending, but strategic moves kept costs in check.

Final Thoughts: Drinking Smart on Your Princess Cruise

So, how much do drinks cost on Princess Cruise Lines? The answer is: it depends. A simple soda might cost $3, while a glass of champagne could be $25. But with a little planning, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without blowing your budget.

Remember: drink pricing is transparent but not cheap. The key is to be aware, make smart choices, and decide whether a drink package fits your style. Whether you’re a casual sipper, a social butterfly, or a wine connoisseur, there are ways to enjoy the onboard bar scene without stressing over the bill.

At the end of the day, a cruise is about relaxation, adventure, and making memories. A great drink can enhance that experience—but it shouldn’t overshadow it. So raise a glass (responsibly!), savor the moment, and cruise with confidence knowing you’ve got the inside scoop on drink costs. Your wallet—and your taste buds—will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do drinks cost on Princess Cruise Lines?

Drink prices on Princess Cruise Lines vary by type and location, but expect to pay $5–$12 for beer, $10–$18 for cocktails, and $3–$6 for non-alcoholic options like soda or specialty coffee. Premium brands and wines by the glass may cost more.

Are drinks included in the Princess cruise fare?

No, drinks are not included in the base fare unless you purchase a beverage package. However, basic coffee, tea, and some juices at breakfast are complimentary in dining areas.

What is the average cost of a cocktail on Princess Cruise Lines?

A standard cocktail typically costs $12–$15, while premium or signature drinks can reach up to $18. Prices may vary slightly depending on the bar or ship.

Do drink prices on Princess Cruise Lines include gratuity?

Yes, a 15–20% gratuity is automatically added to all drink purchases on Princess Cruise Lines, whether paid per drink or through a beverage package. This is standard across most bars and restaurants onboard.

How much do non-alcoholic drinks cost on Princess cruises?

Non-alcoholic drinks like soda, bottled water, and mocktails range from $3–$8, while specialty coffees and smoothies can cost up to $6. A soda or refreshment package can help reduce per-drink costs.

Is there a daily drink limit with Princess Cruise Lines’ beverage packages?

Beverage packages typically allow up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day (24-hour period), with no limit on non-alcoholic beverages. Exceeding the limit requires paying per drink, so plan accordingly based on your preferences.