How Much Does a Beer Cost on Carnival Cruise Line Revealed

Beer on Carnival Cruise Line typically costs between $6.50 and $9.50 per bottle or draft, depending on the brand, location, and time of day. Premium craft beers and specialty brews may reach up to $11, while drink packages can significantly reduce the per-unit cost for frequent imbibers.

Key Takeaways

• Beer prices start at $6.50 for domestic drafts at Carnival bars.
• Import and craft beers cost more, averaging $7.50–$9.50 per serving.
• Save with drink packages: The Cheers! package can lower per-beer costs significantly.
• Happy hour deals offer 50% off select beers for limited-time savings.
• Free beer is rare, but loyalty members get occasional complimentary brews.

How Much Does a Beer Cost on Carnival Cruise Line? Let’s Break It Down

Ah, the open sea, the salty breeze, and the clink of ice-cold beer glasses—there’s something undeniably magical about sipping a cold one while cruising on Carnival Cruise Line. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, watching a sunset, or dancing the night away, a beer in hand just feels right. But before you raise that glass, you might be wondering: how much does a beer cost on Carnival Cruise Line? It’s a fair question, especially when you’re trying to budget for your vacation without sacrificing fun. After all, no one wants to be surprised by a $15 beer at dinner or a $100 bar tab after a single night out.

The truth is, beer pricing on Carnival isn’t one-size-fits-all. It varies depending on the type of beer, where you order it, and whether you’re using a drink package. As someone who’s spent more than a few sunsets sipping brews on deck, I’ve learned that understanding these nuances can save you money—and stress. In this post, I’ll walk you through the real costs, share insider tips, and help you make the most of your cruise without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just enjoy a classic domestic, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to expect.

Beer Prices on Carnival Cruise Line: The Basics

Let’s start with the core question: how much does a beer cost on Carnival Cruise Line? The short answer? It depends. But the average price for a standard beer ranges from $6.50 to $9.50 per drink, depending on the type and location. This might sound steep compared to your local bar, but remember—you’re on a cruise, where convenience, service, and ambiance come at a premium.

Standard Domestic and Imported Beers

Most bars and lounges on Carnival ships offer a solid selection of well-known domestic and imported beers. Think Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, Heineken, Corona, and Stella Artois. These are typically served in 12-ounce bottles or on draft.

• Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light: $6.50–$7.50
• Heineken, Corona, Stella Artois: $7.00–$8.00
• Draft beer (where available): $7.50–$8.50

On my last cruise, I grabbed a Corona by the pool for $7.25. It was served with a lime wedge (a must!) and came with a smile from the bartender. Not bad for a mid-afternoon refreshment with an ocean view.

Craft and Specialty Beers

If you’re into craft brews, Carnival has stepped up its game in recent years. Many ships now feature dedicated craft beer bars like The Alchemy Bar or RedFrog Pub, where you’ll find rotating taps from regional breweries.

• Local or seasonal craft beers: $8.50–$9.50
• Premium craft (e.g., IPA, stout, sour): $9.00–$10.00

On the Carnival Horizon, I tried a citrusy IPA from a Florida-based brewery at the RedFrog Pub—it cost $9.25 and was absolutely worth it. The flavor was bold, and the atmosphere was lively. But if you’re on a tight budget, these craft options can add up fast. One tip: check the menu or ask the bartender if they offer a “beer of the day” special. Sometimes they’ll feature a craft beer at a reduced price to clear inventory.

Where You Buy Matters

Location plays a big role in pricing. A beer at the main pool bar might be $7.50, but the same beer at a specialty lounge (like the Alchemy Bar or a jazz club) could be $8.50 or more. Why? These venues often have higher overhead, live entertainment, or curated experiences.

For example, on the Carnival Breeze, I ordered the same Heineken at the main pool bar ($7.00) and at the Alchemy Bar ($8.00). The difference? The Alchemy Bar had mood lighting, craft cocktails, and a mixologist who made me a complimentary garnish. Was it worth the extra dollar? Maybe not for beer—but if you’re pairing it with a cocktail or enjoying the vibe, it can be.

Beer Pricing by Ship and Region: What to Expect

Not all Carnival ships are created equal—and neither are their beer prices. While the base pricing is standardized across the fleet, there are subtle differences based on the ship’s age, size, and itinerary. Plus, international ports can influence availability and cost.

Newer vs. Older Ships

Newer ships like the Carnival Celebration, Mardi Gras, and Radiance-class vessels tend to have more modern bars, better draft systems, and a wider selection of craft beers. As a result, you might see slightly higher prices—especially for draft and specialty brews.

Older ships (like the Fantasy-class) may have fewer draft options and rely more on bottled beers. Prices here are usually on the lower end of the range, but the variety might be limited. For example, on the Carnival Fantasy, I only saw two draft options—Bud Light and Heineken—both at $7.00. On the Mardi Gras, I found six draft lines, including a seasonal pumpkin ale at $9.00.

Itinerary and Regional Influence

Cruises to different regions can affect beer pricing and availability. For instance:

• Caribbean cruises: You’ll see more tropical beers like Carib, Presidente, and local craft brews. These are often priced at $7.50–$8.50 and can be a fun way to try something new.
• Alaskan cruises: Expect regional craft beers from Alaska (e.g., Alaskan Brewing Co.). These are usually $9.00–$10.00 but offer a unique taste of the Last Frontier.
• Europe cruises: European beers like Guinness, Peroni, and Belgian ales are common. Prices range from $7.50–$9.00, and you might get a larger pour (e.g., 16 oz).

On a 7-day Alaska cruise, I paid $9.50 for a 16-ounce Alaskan Amber at the RedFrog Pub. It was rich, malty, and perfect for the cool evenings. While pricier, it felt like a local experience—not just another beer.

Port Days vs. Sea Days

Here’s a fun fact: beer prices on Carnival don’t change between port days and sea days. Unlike some all-inclusive resorts, Carnival keeps pricing consistent. But availability might shift. On port days, bars near the gangway or in high-traffic areas might run out of popular beers faster. Sea days? You’ll have better access, and bartenders are more relaxed—great for asking about specials or off-menu options.

Beer and Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to buy a Carnival drink package. These can drastically change how much you pay per beer—and whether you feel “sticker shock” when you see your final bill.

Overview of Carnival’s Drink Packages

Carnival offers several packages, but the most relevant for beer lovers is the Cheers! Beverage Program. Here’s the current structure (as of 2024):

• Cost: $59.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity = ~$70.75/day)
• Includes: Beer, wine by the glass, cocktails, soda, energy drinks, specialty coffee, and bottled water. Up to 15 drinks per day (any combo).
• Beer coverage: All standard and craft beers up to $15 per drink. Premium beers over $15 require a $1.50 surcharge.

There’s also the Soda Package ($9.99/day) and Bottomless Bubbles (for kids), but they don’t cover alcohol.

When the Cheers! Package Makes Sense

The Cheers! package breaks even when you drink about 6–7 beers per day (at $7–$8 each). If you’re a moderate to heavy drinker, it’s a no-brainer. But if you only have 2–3 beers a day, you’ll overpay.

Let’s do the math:

• 3 beers/day × $7.50 = $22.50/day → Cheers! costs $70.75 → You lose $48.25
• 7 beers/day × $7.50 = $52.50/day → Cheers! costs $70.75 → You lose $18.25
• 9 beers/day × $7.50 = $67.50/day → Cheers! costs $70.75 → You break even
• 12 beers/day × $7.50 = $90.00/day → Cheers! saves you $19.25

On my last cruise, I averaged 8–10 drinks per day (beer, wine, and cocktails). The Cheers! package saved me around $120 for the week. But my friend, who only had 2–3 beers a day, ended up paying $200 extra. Ouch.

Tips to Maximize the Cheers! Package

• Buy early: Purchase before your cruise (via the Carnival website) for a small discount. Onboard, it’s full price.
• Share with a friend: You can split the package with a travel companion, but only one person can use it at a time. Not ideal, but helpful if one of you is a light drinker.
• Track your drinks: Use the Carnival Hub app to see how many drinks you’ve used. Aim to hit 8–10 per day to justify the cost.
• Ask about exclusions: Some premium beers (e.g., rare imports, large-format bottles) may not be included. Always confirm before ordering.

Hidden Costs and Smart Ways to Save on Beer

Even with a drink package or careful planning, there are sneaky ways beer costs can creep up. Let’s talk about the hidden fees and how to avoid them.

Gratuities and Service Charges

Every beer you buy without a drink package includes an 18% automatic gratuity. That means a $7.50 beer actually costs $8.85. Over a 7-day cruise, that adds up fast.

Example: 10 beers at $7.50 = $75.00 + 18% gratuity = $88.50. That’s like paying for an extra beer and a half!

With the Cheers! package, gratuity is included in the daily rate, so you avoid this extra charge. But if you’re paying per drink, tip mindfully—you’re already paying it automatically.

Upselling and Premium Options

Bartenders are trained to upsell. You order a Bud Light, and they’ll say, “Would you like the craft IPA instead? It’s only $2 more.” Before you know it, you’re drinking a $9.50 beer instead of a $7.00 one.

My tip: Know your limit. Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend per beer, and stick to it. If a bartender suggests a premium option, say, “I’ll stick with the Bud Light, thanks.” No pressure, no guilt.

Happy Hours and Promotions

Carnival runs daily happy hours (usually 4–6 PM) at select bars. During these times, you can get:

• Buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) beers
• Half-price craft beers
• Discounted cocktails (which can include beer-based drinks like shandies or radlers)

On the Carnival Vista, I scored two craft IPAs for $9.00 during happy hour—normally $18.00. The key? Check the daily Fun Times newsletter or ask your cruise director for the schedule.

Bringing Your Own Beer?

Carnival’s alcohol policy is strict: you cannot bring beer or other alcohol onboard at embarkation. If you try, it will be confiscated and returned on the last day. The same goes for port stops—don’t smuggle beer back to your cabin.

Why? Carnival wants to protect its onboard revenue. It’s frustrating, but it’s the rule. Your best bet is to enjoy the onboard selection—or stick to non-alcoholic options and buy drinks as needed.

Beer Culture and Onboard Experiences

Beyond the price, beer on Carnival is about experience. It’s not just a drink—it’s part of the cruise vibe. From themed bars to beer-pairing dinners, Carnival offers unique ways to enjoy your brew.

Themed Bars and Beer Zones

Each Carnival ship has its own beer-centric venues:

• RedFrog Pub: A Caribbean-inspired bar with live music, board games, and a rotating tap list. Great for casual sipping.
• Alchemy Bar: A speakeasy-style lounge with craft cocktails and a curated beer menu. Perfect for a date night.
• Limelight Lounge: Often hosts beer tastings and trivia nights. Check the schedule!

On the Carnival Horizon, I joined a “Taste of the Caribbean” beer tasting ($15, not included in Cheers!). We tried four local brews, each paired with a small bite. It was fun, educational, and a great way to meet other cruisers.

Beer and Food Pairings

Carnival’s main dining room and specialty restaurants (like Bonsai Sushi or Fahrenheit 555) offer beer pairings with meals. These are usually $8–$12 per beer and can elevate your dining experience.

Example: At Fahrenheit 555, I paired a smoked stout with my ribeye. The rich, malty flavor cut through the meat’s fat perfectly. Worth the $10 upgrade? Absolutely.

Community and Events

Beer brings people together. On my last cruise, I joined a “Beer Lovers” meetup at the RedFrog Pub. We shared favorite brews, swapped cruise stories, and even did a blind taste test. No extra cost—just good vibes and cold beer.

Data Table: Beer Prices Across Carnival Ships (2024)

Beer Type	Standard Price Range	Included in Cheers?	Notes
Domestic (Bud Light, Miller Lite)	$6.50–$7.50	Yes	Widely available at all bars
Imported (Heineken, Corona)	$7.00–$8.00	Yes	Often served with lime wedge
Draft Beer	$7.50–$8.50	Yes	Available at pool bars and pubs
Local Craft Beer	$8.50–$9.50	Yes	Rotates by itinerary
Premium Craft (IPA, Stout)	$9.00–$10.00	Yes	Check for daily specials
Beer Over $15 (e.g., rare imports)	$15.00+	No (surcharge applies)	$1.50 extra with Cheers!

Final Thoughts: Is Beer Worth the Price on Carnival?

So, how much does a beer cost on Carnival Cruise Line? Now you know: it’s $6.50 to $10.00 per drink, depending on type and location. Add gratuities, and it’s closer to $8–$12 per beer if you’re paying out of pocket. But here’s the thing—it’s not just about the price. It’s about the experience: the sunset, the laughter, the feeling of freedom that comes with being on the water.

If you’re a casual drinker, skip the Cheers! package and stick to happy hours, domestic beers, and poolside specials. If you love variety and want to try craft brews, the package can be a smart investment—especially if you’re drinking 8+ drinks a day. And if you’re all about the vibe, don’t miss themed bars, tastings, and community events. They turn a simple beer into a memory.

My final tip? Budget for beer like you budget for excursions or souvenirs. Set a daily limit, track your spending, and enjoy every sip without stress. Because at the end of the day, a cruise is about relaxation—and a cold beer is the cherry on top.

Cheers to smooth sailing and great pours!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a beer cost on Carnival Cruise Line?

On average, a domestic beer (12 oz) on Carnival Cruise Line costs $6–$8, while imported or craft options range from $7–$10. Prices vary slightly depending on the ship and location onboard (e.g., bars vs. poolside).

Are beer prices included in Carnival’s drink packages?

Yes, Carnival’s Cheers! drink package covers most beers under $15, including domestic, imported, and craft brews. The package is worth it if you plan to drink 5+ beers daily.

Does Carnival Cruise Line charge extra for draft beer?

Draft beer prices are similar to bottled or canned options, typically $6–$9. Some premium draft beers may cost slightly more, but most fall within the standard range.

How much does a beer cost on Carnival Cruise Line during happy hour?

Happy hour (often 5–7 PM) offers discounted beers, with prices dropping to $3–$5 for select drafts and bottles. Check your daily schedule for deals.

Are there daily beer specials or promotions?

Yes, Carnival frequently runs beer specials like “Buy One, Get One Half Off” or themed happy hours. These are advertised in the ship’s daily newsletter or app.

Is gratuity added to beer purchases on Carnival?

Yes, a 15–18% gratuity is automatically added to all beverage purchases, including beer. This is standard across Carnival Cruise Line’s bars and lounges.