Planning a Carnival cruise? You’re probably dreaming of sun-soaked decks and exciting ports of call. But one question always pops up: how much do drinks on Carnival cruises cost? It can be a significant factor in your vacation budget. This blog post will break down the costs of various beverages onboard, from cocktails and beer to soda and bottled water, so you can plan your spending and sip stress-free.
Understanding Carnival’s Drink Pricing
Before you set sail, it’s crucial to understand Carnival’s drink pricing structure. This knowledge allows you to budget effectively and potentially save money by considering drink packages or taking advantage of specific promotions. Knowing what to expect in terms of cost will help you avoid any surprises on your final bill and ensure a more enjoyable and financially predictable cruise experience.
Base Drink Prices
Knowing the general price ranges for different types of drinks is essential. Prices are subject to change, but here’s a general idea:
- Beer: Expect to pay around $7 – $8 for domestic beers and $7.50 – $9 for imported beers.
- Cocktails: Cocktails typically range from $9.50 – $14, depending on the ingredients and complexity.
- Wine: Wine is available by the glass or bottle, with prices ranging from $8 – $15+ per glass.
- Soda & Juices: Non-alcoholic beverages like soda and juices usually cost around $3 – $4 each.
- Bottled Water: Bottled water is usually around $3 – $4 per bottle.
Beer prices vary depending on the brand and size. Domestic beers, like Bud Light or Coors Light, are generally more affordable than imported options such as Heineken or Corona. Specialty craft beers available on board might also command a higher price point due to their unique brewing processes and ingredients.
Cocktails can vary in price significantly depending on the ingredients and the complexity of the drink. A simple rum and coke will be on the lower end of the price range, while more elaborate cocktails with premium liquors and fresh fruit juices can be more expensive.
Wine prices can fluctuate significantly depending on the vintage and the varietal. House wines are typically the most affordable option, while premium wines from renowned vineyards will be more expensive. Consider the bottle price if you plan to enjoy multiple glasses of wine during your cruise.
While seemingly inexpensive individually, the cost of sodas and juices can add up quickly, especially if you are traveling with children or prefer non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day. Consider the alternative of bringing your own non-alcoholic beverages on board or purchasing a drink package to save money.
Staying hydrated is crucial on a cruise, particularly in warm climates. However, bottled water prices can be a hidden cost. Consider bringing your own refillable water bottle and utilizing water stations on board, or purchasing a bottled water package.
Gratuities on Drinks
An automatic gratuity is added to each drink purchase. The standard gratuity is around 18%, so keep this in mind when calculating the final cost.
Gratuities are a standard practice on cruises and are automatically added to your drink purchases to compensate the bar staff for their service. Knowing this percentage allows you to accurately calculate the total cost of your drinks, ensuring that you factor in this additional expense when budgeting for your trip.
Happy Hour Specials and Promotions
Carnival often offers happy hour specials and other promotions at various bars throughout the ship. These can be a great way to save money on drinks.
Keep an eye out for happy hour specials or promotions announced daily or through the Carnival HUB app. These discounts can significantly reduce your spending on drinks, particularly if you time your visits to the bars accordingly. These specials may include discounts on specific drinks or “buy one get one free” offers.
Carnival’s Drink Packages: Is it Worth it?
Carnival Cruise Line offers different drink packages that can potentially save you money if you plan on enjoying several alcoholic beverages each day. However, it’s important to calculate your potential consumption and compare it to the package costs to determine if it is truly a worthwhile investment. This section will delve into the details of the drink packages available and help you decide if purchasing one is the right choice for you.
The Cheers! Drink Package
The “Cheers!” package includes most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks up to a certain price point (currently $20 USD). Here are the key details:
- Cost: Approximately $64.99 USD per person, per day if purchased before the cruise, and $74.99 USD per person, per day if purchased onboard.
- Requirements: All adults (21+) in the same stateroom must purchase the package.
- Limitations: There is a limit of 15 alcoholic drinks per day. Sharing drinks is not allowed.
- Inclusions: Covers cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, soda, juice, specialty coffee, and energy drinks.
Purchasing the “Cheers!” package before your cruise can offer significant savings compared to buying it on board. The difference in price can be substantial, especially for longer cruises, making pre-purchase a smart financial decision.
This requirement ensures that individuals do not share the benefits of the package, maintaining fairness and controlling costs for the cruise line. Therefore, if one adult in a cabin wants the package, all adults in that same cabin must purchase it as well.
The daily limit on alcoholic drinks prevents excessive consumption and controls the financial impact of the package on the cruise line. The prohibition of sharing drinks ensures that the package is used only by the individual who purchased it.
The “Cheers!” package provides comprehensive coverage of a wide variety of beverages, allowing you to enjoy a broad range of drinks without worrying about individual costs. The inclusion of specialty coffee and energy drinks can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy these beverages throughout the day.
The Bottomless Bubbles Package
For non-alcoholic drinkers, the “Bottomless Bubbles” package offers unlimited soda and juice.
- Cost: Around $9.50 USD per person, per day if purchased before the cruise, and $10.99 USD per person, per day if purchased onboard.
- Requirements: Available to guests of all ages.
- Limitations: Only includes soda and juice; specialty drinks like smoothies or energy drinks are not included.
Similar to the “Cheers!” package, purchasing the “Bottomless Bubbles” package before your cruise offers a cost-effective way to enjoy unlimited soda and juice. This price difference is worth considering, especially for longer cruises or when traveling with children.
Unlike the “Cheers!” package, the “Bottomless Bubbles” package is available to guests of all ages, making it an ideal option for families with children or individuals who do not consume alcohol. This inclusive availability ensures that everyone can enjoy unlimited non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise.
The package is limited to soda and juice, so if you plan on consuming specialty drinks like smoothies or energy drinks, you will need to purchase them separately. Consider your beverage preferences when deciding if this package is the right choice for you.
Calculating Your Potential Savings
To determine if a drink package is worth it, estimate how many drinks you typically consume per day. For example, if you plan on having 6 alcoholic drinks, 2 specialty coffees, and 2 sodas each day, calculate the total cost of these drinks individually and compare it to the cost of the “Cheers!” package.
Accurately estimating your daily beverage consumption is essential for determining whether a drink package is financially beneficial. Take into account your drinking habits, the length of the cruise, and the preferences of everyone in your stateroom to make an informed decision about purchasing a drink package.
Tips for Saving Money on Drinks
If drink packages aren’t for you, there are other ways to save money on drinks while cruising. Staying informed about alternative options and utilizing cost-saving strategies can significantly reduce your overall spending on beverages without sacrificing enjoyment.
Bringing Your Own Beverages
Carnival allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. Specifically, each passenger is allowed to bring one 12-pack of sealed, unopened cans/bottles of non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, water) and one bottle of wine or champagne (750ml) per person.
Taking advantage of this policy can save a significant amount of money, especially for families or individuals who consume a lot of non-alcoholic beverages. Be sure to adhere to the quantity and packaging restrictions specified by Carnival to avoid any issues during embarkation.
Utilizing Water Stations
Carnival ships offer complimentary water stations throughout the ship. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated without purchasing bottled water.
Staying hydrated is essential, especially in warm climates, and utilizing the complimentary water stations on board is a simple yet effective way to save money. Bringing a refillable water bottle ensures that you always have access to water without the need to purchase individual bottles.
Ordering During Happy Hour
Take advantage of happy hour specials at the various bars onboard. These can offer significant discounts on select drinks.
Keep an eye out for announcements regarding happy hour specials, which can offer substantial savings on select drinks. Timing your visits to the bars during these promotional periods can significantly reduce your overall spending on beverages.
Using Carnival Gift Cards
Purchase Carnival gift cards at a discount and use them to pay for your onboard expenses, including drinks. Some retailers offer discounts or rewards on gift card purchases.
Purchasing Carnival gift cards at a discount is a strategic way to save money on your overall cruise expenses, including drinks. Some retailers offer discounts or rewards on gift card purchases, further enhancing the potential savings. Consider using this method to maximize your budget for onboard spending.
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies
To illustrate the potential savings or costs associated with drinks on Carnival cruises, here are a few real-life examples and case studies.
Case Study 1: The Budget-Conscious Couple
A couple on a 7-day cruise decided against the “Cheers!” package. They each brought a 12-pack of soda and one bottle of wine. They utilized the water stations and only ordered a few cocktails during happy hour. Their total drink cost was approximately $200, significantly less than the cost of the drink packages.
This case study illustrates how couples can enjoy a cruise without incurring high drink costs by bringing their own beverages, utilizing water stations, and taking advantage of happy hour specials. This strategy is particularly effective for those who do not consume a large amount of alcoholic beverages.
Case Study 2: The Cocktail Enthusiast
An individual who enjoys several cocktails each day purchased the “Cheers!” package before the cruise. They enjoyed a variety of cocktails, specialty coffees, and other beverages throughout the week. They estimated that they saved approximately $300 compared to purchasing each drink individually.
This case study demonstrates how the “Cheers!” package can be a worthwhile investment for those who enjoy a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day. By purchasing the package, the individual was able to enjoy their preferred drinks without worrying about the individual costs, resulting in significant savings.
Scenario: Deciding Whether to Purchase a Drink Package
- Estimate Your Consumption: Determine how many alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks you typically consume per day.
- Calculate Individual Costs: Calculate the cost of each drink you plan to consume based on Carnival’s pricing.
- Compare to Package Costs: Compare the total cost of individual drinks to the cost of the “Cheers!” or “Bottomless Bubbles” package.
- Consider Restrictions: Take into account the limitations of the drink packages, such as the daily limit on alcoholic drinks and the requirement that all adults in the same stateroom must purchase the “Cheers!” package.
Accurately estimating your daily consumption is the most important step in determining whether a drink package is beneficial. Consider your drinking habits, the length of the cruise, and the activities you plan to participate in.
Use the estimated drink prices to calculate the total cost of purchasing each beverage individually. Remember to include the automatic gratuity in your calculations to get an accurate estimate of the total cost.
Compare the total cost of individual drinks to the cost of the drink package, keeping in mind that all adults in the same stateroom must purchase the “Cheers!” package. If the cost of individual drinks exceeds the package cost, purchasing the package may be a worthwhile investment.
Consider the restrictions of the drink packages when making your decision. If you do not plan on consuming more than 15 alcoholic drinks per day, the “Cheers!” package may still be a good option. If you are traveling with others, discuss their beverage preferences to determine if purchasing the package is a feasible option for everyone in your stateroom.
Debunking Common Myths About Carnival Drink Costs
There are several common myths and misconceptions about the cost of drinks on Carnival cruises. Let’s address some of these.
Myth 1: Drinks are Always Cheaper Onboard
Contrary to popular belief, drinks are not always cheaper on the ship. In fact, individual drinks can be quite expensive, especially with the added gratuity. That’s why planning and considering drink packages are important.
While some may believe that drinks are cheaper onboard, this is often not the case. Individual drink prices, coupled with automatic gratuities, can quickly add up, especially if you are not careful. Therefore, it is essential to research prices and consider alternative options to save money on drinks.
Myth 2: You Can Sneak Alcohol Onboard
Carnival has strict policies against bringing alcohol onboard beyond the allowed limits. Attempting to sneak alcohol on board can result in confiscation and other penalties.
Attempting to circumvent Carnival’s alcohol policies by sneaking alcohol on board is strongly discouraged. Violators may face penalties such as confiscation of the alcohol and potential restrictions on future cruises. It is best to adhere to the cruise line’s policies to avoid any issues.
Myth 3: The Drink Package is Always Worth It
While the “Cheers!” package can be beneficial for some, it’s not always the best option for everyone. If you only plan on having a few drinks per day, purchasing drinks individually might be more cost-effective.
While the “Cheers!” package offers unlimited drinks within certain limitations, it may not be the best option for everyone. Those who consume a limited number of drinks or have specific preferences may find that purchasing drinks individually is more cost-effective. It is essential to evaluate your drinking habits and preferences before making a decision.
Insert a comparison chart here showing the cost of individual drinks vs. the Cheers! package based on varying daily consumption levels.
FAQ
How much is a beer on Carnival cruise?
A domestic beer on Carnival generally costs around $7 to $8, while an imported beer may range from $7.50 to $9. Prices can vary slightly depending on the specific bar and brand of beer. Don’t forget to factor in the automatic 18% gratuity added to each purchase.
Is it worth it to get the Cheers! package on Carnival?
Whether the “Cheers!” package is worth it depends on your drinking habits. If you plan to consume at least 5-6 alcoholic beverages per day, along with specialty coffees and other drinks, the package can be a good value. Consider your average daily consumption and compare it to the package cost to determine potential savings.
Can I bring my own drinks on a Carnival cruise?
Yes, Carnival allows passengers to bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages onboard. You can bring one 12-pack of sealed, unopened cans/bottles of non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, water) and one bottle of wine or champagne (750ml) per person. Any additional beverages will be confiscated.
Are drinks free on Carnival cruises?
Generally, no, drinks are not free on Carnival cruises, with the exception of some basic beverages like water, tea, and coffee available at designated stations. All other beverages, including soda, juice, alcoholic drinks, and specialty coffees, are subject to a charge.
How much is a soda on Carnival cruise?
Individual sodas on Carnival usually cost around $3 to $4 each, plus the 18% gratuity. If you or your family members drink a lot of soda, the Bottomless Bubbles package could be a worthwhile investment.
What happens if I try to sneak alcohol onto a Carnival cruise?
Carnival has strict policies against bringing alcohol onboard beyond the allowed limits. If you are caught trying to sneak alcohol onto the ship, it will be confiscated, and you may face additional penalties. It is important to abide by Carnival’s alcohol policies.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the cost of drinks on Carnival cruises involves a bit of planning and consideration. Understanding the pricing structure, evaluating drink package options, and utilizing cost-saving strategies can help you enjoy your vacation without breaking the bank. So, whether you opt for the “Cheers!” package or prefer to pay as you go, remember to budget wisely and savor every moment of your cruise. Cheers!