Planning a Virgin Voyages cruise and wondering about the onboard drink prices? I remember meticulously budgeting for my own trip, and the cost of drinks was definitely a factor. Understanding how much drinks cost on Virgin cruises is essential for managing your vacation spending. This guide will break down the pricing of various beverages, available drink packages, and tips for saving money on drinks while enjoying your voyage.
Understanding Drink Prices on Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages operates differently from many traditional cruise lines. While some offer extensive all-inclusive packages, Virgin Voyages takes a more à la carte approach. Understanding the price range for different types of drinks is crucial for budgeting your trip. This section details typical costs for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, allowing you to estimate your onboard spending.
Cocktails and Mixed Drinks
Cocktails and mixed drinks onboard Virgin Voyages generally range from $9 to $14 USD. This price point reflects the use of premium spirits and fresh ingredients in many of their signature cocktails. The menu features a wide array of options, from classic favorites to unique creations crafted by expert mixologists, allowing you to indulge in a variety of flavors throughout your cruise.
- Classic Cocktails: These typically include drinks like Mojitos, Margaritas, and Old Fashioneds. Expect to pay around $9-$12 for these.
- Signature Cocktails: Virgin Voyages often features unique cocktails developed specifically for their ships. These might cost $12-$14.
- Premium Cocktails: If you opt for cocktails made with top-shelf liquor, expect to pay a bit more, possibly $14 or higher.
Classic cocktails provide a familiar and reliable option for those who appreciate traditional flavors. Their consistent quality and widespread appeal make them a popular choice.
Signature cocktails showcase the creativity and expertise of the onboard mixologists, offering a unique and memorable drinking experience. These often incorporate unusual ingredients or innovative techniques.
Premium cocktails cater to those with discerning tastes, using high-quality spirits and meticulously crafted recipes to create an elevated drinking experience.
Beer and Wine
The prices for beer and wine can vary significantly based on the brand and type. Beers typically range from $6 to $8, while wine can be purchased by the glass or bottle, with prices starting around $9 per glass. Exploring the different beer and wine options available allows you to find choices that suit your preferences and budget.
- Domestic Beers: Expect to pay around $6-$7 for common domestic beers.
- Imported Beers: Imported beers usually cost a bit more, around $7-$8.
- Wine by the Glass: Prices typically start at $9 and can go up to $15 or more for premium selections.
Domestic beers offer a familiar and affordable choice, perfect for casual enjoyment. They are often readily available throughout the ship.
Imported beers provide a taste of international flavors and brewing traditions, offering a more diverse selection for beer enthusiasts.
Wine by the glass offers flexibility and allows you to sample different varieties without committing to an entire bottle. This is a great option for pairing with meals or enjoying a relaxing evening.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Virgin Voyages offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, including soda, juice, coffee, and specialty drinks. While some options are complimentary, such as basic coffee, tea, and water, other beverages like specialty coffees and premium juices come at an additional cost. Understanding which beverages are included and which ones require payment can help you manage your onboard expenses.
- Soda and Juice: Expect to pay around $3-$5 for soda and juice.
- Specialty Coffees: Lattes, cappuccinos, and other specialty coffees usually cost $4-$6.
- Bottled Water: Prices can vary, but expect to pay around $3-$4 for a bottle of water.
Sodas and juices provide refreshing options for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, offering a variety of flavors to suit different tastes.
Specialty coffees offer an indulgent treat, perfect for starting your day or enjoying an afternoon pick-me-up. These beverages are often made with high-quality coffee beans and expertly crafted.
Bottled water ensures you stay hydrated throughout your cruise, offering a convenient and refreshing option. Staying hydrated is important for your overall well-being.
Exploring Drink Packages on Virgin Voyages
While Virgin Voyages doesn’t offer traditional “all-inclusive” drink packages, they provide options that can help you save money if you plan to consume a certain amount of drinks. Understanding these options and how they work is essential for making an informed decision about whether a drink package is right for you. This section will detail the available options, their costs, and whether they offer good value.
The Bar Tab
The Bar Tab is a pre-paid credit that can be used at any bar or restaurant onboard for drinks. It’s a popular option for Sailors who want to budget their drink expenses in advance. By purchasing a Bar Tab before your voyage, you can often receive bonus credit, effectively reducing the overall cost of your drinks.
- How it Works: You purchase a Bar Tab before your cruise and receive a certain amount of credit to spend on drinks.
- Bonus Credit: Virgin Voyages frequently offers promotions where you receive bonus credit when you purchase a Bar Tab. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of your drinks.
- Flexibility: The Bar Tab can be used on any type of drink at any bar or restaurant onboard.
The Bar Tab operates like a gift card specifically for drinks, allowing you to track your spending and avoid unexpected costs at the end of your cruise. It simplifies the payment process and enhances your onboard experience.
Bonus credits add extra value to your Bar Tab, providing you with more funds to enjoy a wider range of drinks without exceeding your budget. These promotions can make the Bar Tab an even more attractive option.
The flexibility of the Bar Tab allows you to sample different drinks at various venues, ensuring you can always find something that suits your mood and preferences. It’s a versatile option that enhances your onboard experience.
Comparing the Bar Tab to Individual Drink Purchases
To determine if the Bar Tab is a good value, consider how many drinks you typically consume on a daily basis. By comparing the cost of the Bar Tab to the price of individual drinks, you can estimate whether you’ll save money. If you plan to drink several alcoholic beverages each day, the Bar Tab is likely a worthwhile investment.
- Estimate Your Drink Consumption: Calculate how many cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine you expect to drink each day.
- Calculate the Total Cost: Multiply your estimated daily consumption by the average price of each drink.
- Compare with Bar Tab Cost: Compare the total cost of individual drinks with the cost of the Bar Tab, including any bonus credit.
Estimating your drink consumption helps you determine whether the Bar Tab aligns with your typical spending habits, ensuring you don’t overspend or miss out on potential savings. This assessment is a crucial step in your budgeting process.
Calculating the total cost provides a clear picture of your potential expenses, allowing you to compare it with the cost of the Bar Tab and identify potential savings. This calculation helps you make an informed decision.
Comparing the costs highlights whether the Bar Tab offers a significant discount, making it easier to determine whether it’s a cost-effective option for your cruise. This comparison is essential for making a smart financial decision.
When is a Drink Package Worth It?
A drink package, or in this case the Bar Tab, is generally worth it if you plan to drink multiple alcoholic beverages per day. If you primarily consume water, soda, or the included beverages, the Bar Tab may not be the best value. Consider your drinking habits and budget to make the right choice.
- Heavy Drinkers: If you enjoy several cocktails, beers, or glasses of wine each day, a Bar Tab is likely worth the investment.
- Moderate Drinkers: If you have a few drinks each day, the Bar Tab might still be beneficial, especially with bonus credit promotions.
- Light Drinkers: If you primarily drink water, soda, or other non-alcoholic beverages, the Bar Tab may not be the best value.
For heavy drinkers, the Bar Tab offers significant savings and convenience, allowing you to indulge in your favorite drinks without worrying about the individual costs. It simplifies your onboard experience and enhances your enjoyment.
For moderate drinkers, the Bar Tab can provide peace of mind and potential savings, ensuring you stay within your budget while enjoying a few drinks each day. It’s a balanced option that caters to your preferences.
For light drinkers, focusing on individual drink purchases might be more cost-effective, allowing you to pay only for what you consume. This approach ensures you don’t overspend on unnecessary packages.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the cost of individual drinks vs. a Bar Tab, highlighting potential savings.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
Even if you don’t opt for a Bar Tab, there are several strategies you can use to reduce your onboard drink expenses. Taking advantage of happy hour specials, bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages, and being mindful of your consumption can all help you save money while still enjoying your cruise.
Happy Hour Specials
Many bars onboard Virgin Voyages offer happy hour specials with discounted drinks. Taking advantage of these specials can significantly reduce your overall drink expenses. Check the daily schedule for happy hour times and locations, and plan your drinking accordingly.
- Check the Daily Schedule: Consult the daily schedule for information on happy hour specials and locations.
- Plan Accordingly: Adjust your drinking schedule to take advantage of happy hour discounts.
- Try Different Bars: Explore different bars onboard, as they may have varying happy hour offerings.
Checking the daily schedule ensures you stay informed about the latest deals and promotions, allowing you to plan your day around the best opportunities for savings. This proactive approach helps you maximize your budget.
Planning your drinking schedule helps you make the most of happy hour specials, ensuring you can enjoy your favorite drinks at discounted prices. This strategic approach contributes to significant savings.
Exploring different bars allows you to discover unique atmospheres and drink specials, ensuring you find the best options for your taste and budget. This exploration adds variety to your onboard experience.
Bringing Your Own Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Virgin Voyages allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. Taking advantage of this policy can help you save money on water, soda, and juice. Pack your favorite non-alcoholic drinks to enjoy in your cabin or while lounging by the pool.
- Check the Policy: Review Virgin Voyages’ policy regarding bringing outside beverages onboard.
- Pack Your Favorites: Bring your favorite non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy throughout your cruise.
- Stay Hydrated: Having your own water bottles helps you stay hydrated without incurring extra costs.
Reviewing the policy ensures you comply with the regulations and avoid any potential issues. Staying informed is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.
Packing your favorite beverages allows you to enjoy familiar tastes while saving money on onboard purchases. This personalized approach enhances your comfort and satisfaction.
Staying hydrated is essential for your well-being, and having your own water bottles makes it easier and more affordable to maintain proper hydration throughout your cruise.
Mindful Consumption
Being mindful of your consumption habits can help you save money on drinks. Pace yourself, alternate alcoholic drinks with water, and avoid impulse purchases. By making conscious choices, you can enjoy your cruise without overspending on drinks.
- Pace Yourself: Avoid drinking too quickly, as this can lead to overspending.
- Alternate with Water: Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to stay hydrated and reduce your alcohol consumption.
- Avoid Impulse Purchases: Think before you order, and avoid making impulsive drink purchases.
Pacing yourself allows you to savor your drinks and avoid impulsive decisions, contributing to better financial management and a more enjoyable experience.
Alternating with water is a healthy and cost-effective strategy, helping you stay hydrated and reduce the overall amount of alcohol you consume. This approach promotes well-being and responsible spending.
Avoiding impulse purchases requires conscious effort, but it can lead to significant savings and prevent buyer’s remorse. This mindful approach helps you stay within your budget and make informed decisions.
Debunking Common Myths About Drink Costs
There are several misconceptions about drink costs on Virgin Voyages. This section clarifies these myths and provides accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your onboard spending. Separating fact from fiction can help you budget more effectively and avoid surprises.
Myth: All Drinks are Included
Reality: While Virgin Voyages offers some complimentary beverages, such as basic coffee, tea, and water, most alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic drinks come at an additional cost. It’s important to understand what’s included and what’s not to avoid unexpected charges.
- Included Beverages: Basic coffee, tea, and water are typically included in your cruise fare.
- Additional Costs: Most alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic drinks, such as cocktails, beer, wine, and specialty coffees, require payment.
These included beverages provide essential hydration and basic refreshments without incurring additional costs. They offer a convenient and complimentary option for staying hydrated and caffeinated.
Understanding which drinks come at an additional cost is crucial for budgeting and avoiding surprises. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your onboard spending.
Myth: Drink Packages Always Save You Money
Reality: Drink packages, or the Bar Tab, are not always the best value for everyone. If you don’t plan to drink a significant number of alcoholic beverages each day, you may end up spending more on the package than you would on individual drinks. Consider your drinking habits before purchasing a Bar Tab.
- Consider Your Drinking Habits: Assess how many drinks you typically consume on a daily basis.
- Compare Costs: Compare the cost of the Bar Tab with the potential cost of individual drinks to determine if it’s a good value.
Assessing your drinking habits allows you to determine whether the Bar Tab aligns with your typical spending patterns, ensuring you don’t overspend on unnecessary packages. This analysis is essential for making a smart financial decision.
Comparing costs highlights whether the Bar Tab offers significant savings, making it easier to determine whether it’s a cost-effective option for your cruise. This comparison is crucial for making an informed decision.
Myth: You Can Sneak Drinks Onboard
Reality: Virgin Voyages has strict policies against bringing alcoholic beverages onboard. Attempting to sneak drinks onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties. It’s best to adhere to the cruise line’s policies and purchase your drinks onboard.
- Strict Policies: Virgin Voyages prohibits bringing alcoholic beverages onboard.
- Consequences: Attempting to sneak drinks onboard can result in confiscation and potential penalties.
These policies are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, and adhering to them is crucial for a smooth and stress-free cruise experience.
The consequences of violating the policy can be severe, potentially impacting your overall cruise experience. It’s best to avoid any risks and comply with the cruise line’s regulations.
Real-Life Examples of Drink Spending on Virgin Voyages
To provide a better understanding of potential drink expenses, here are a couple of real-life examples of how different travelers might spend on drinks during a Virgin Voyages cruise. These examples illustrate how individual consumption habits can impact overall costs and help you plan accordingly.
- The Casual Drinker: A traveler who enjoys one or two cocktails per day and occasionally a glass of wine might spend around $30-$50 per day on drinks. Over a 7-day cruise, this could amount to $210-$350.
- The Social Drinker: A traveler who enjoys several cocktails and drinks with friends each day might spend $75-$100 per day on drinks. Over a 7-day cruise, this could amount to $525-$700. A Bar Tab would likely be beneficial in this scenario.
This example demonstrates that even moderate drinking can lead to significant expenses over the course of a cruise. By understanding these potential costs, travelers can budget more effectively and avoid surprises.
This example highlights the importance of considering your social drinking habits when budgeting for a cruise. A Bar Tab can offer significant savings for those who enjoy frequent drinks with friends.
| Traveler Type | Daily Drink Consumption | Estimated Daily Spend | Estimated 7-Day Spend | Bar Tab Worth It? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual Drinker | 1-2 Cocktails | $30-$50 | $210-$350 | Maybe |
| Social Drinker | Several Cocktails | $75-$100 | $525-$700 | Yes |
FAQ
Question: Are there any free drinks on Virgin Voyages?
Answer: Yes, Virgin Voyages offers complimentary beverages like basic coffee, tea, water, and juices during breakfast at certain venues. Additionally, some events or parties might offer complimentary drinks. However, most alcoholic beverages and specialty non-alcoholic drinks will cost extra.
Question: How much is a beer on Virgin Voyages?
Answer: The price of a beer on Virgin Voyages typically ranges from $6 to $8 USD. Domestic beers are generally at the lower end of that range, while imported beers tend to be slightly more expensive. Prices can vary based on the specific brand and location on the ship.
Question: What is the Bar Tab on Virgin Voyages?
Answer: The Bar Tab is a pre-paid credit that can be used to purchase drinks at any bar or restaurant onboard Virgin Voyages. When you purchase a Bar Tab before your cruise, you often receive bonus credit, effectively reducing the cost of your drinks. It’s a convenient way to budget your onboard drink expenses.
Question: Can I bring my own drinks on Virgin Voyages?
Answer: Virgin Voyages allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard, such as water, soda, and juice. However, bringing alcoholic beverages onboard is prohibited. Check the cruise line’s policy for specific guidelines on the quantity and type of non-alcoholic drinks allowed.
Question: Is it worth buying a drink package on Virgin Voyages?
Answer: Whether or not a drink package, or Bar Tab, is worth it depends on your individual drinking habits. If you plan to consume multiple alcoholic beverages each day, a Bar Tab is likely a worthwhile investment. However, if you primarily drink water, soda, or the included beverages, it may not be the best value. Consider your average daily consumption to make an informed decision.
Question: What happens if I don’t use all of my Bar Tab credit?
Answer: Any unused Bar Tab credit will be refunded to your onboard account at the end of your cruise. You can then use the credit for other onboard purchases, such as spa treatments, retail items, or gratuities. If there’s still a remaining balance, it will be refunded to your original form of payment.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how much drinks cost on Virgin cruises is a crucial part of planning your voyage. By considering your drinking habits, exploring available options like the Bar Tab, and taking advantage of money-saving tips, you can enjoy your cruise without breaking the bank. Remember to check for promotions and special offers before your cruise, and always drink responsibly. Cheers to a fantastic voyage!