How Much Is a Carnival Cruise Line Drink Pass Worth in 2024

The Carnival Cruise Line drink pass in 2024 costs $59.95 per day, offering unlimited access to sodas, juices, bottled water, and select alcoholic drinks up to $20 per serving. It’s a solid value for heavy drinkers or families, especially when purchased pre-cruise at a discount, but casual sippers may find it less cost-effective depending on consumption habits.

Key Takeaways

• Costs start at $55/day: Base price for the Carnival Cheers! drink pass in 2024.
• Unlimited drinks up to $20: Most cocktails, beer, wine, and soda included.
• Pre-cruise discounts available: Save up to 15% by booking before boarding.
• Not all drinks covered: Premium brands and bottles over $20 cost extra.
• Break-even in 5-6 drinks: Worth it if you drink heavily daily.
• Gratuities included: No extra tips required for covered drinks.

Is a Carnival Cruise Line Drink Pass Worth It in 2024?

Let’s be honest: one of the first things that pops into your mind when you think about a Carnival cruise is the fun, the parties, and, of course, the drinks. Whether it’s a frosty pina colada by the pool, a craft cocktail at a swanky onboard bar, or just an ice-cold soda with your dinner, drinks are a big part of the cruise experience. But here’s the catch: drinks on a Carnival cruise aren’t included in your base fare. Sure, you get basic coffee, tea, and water, but if you want anything else—especially alcohol—you’re looking at paying a la carte. And those costs can add up fast.

This is where the Carnival Cruise Line drink pass comes in. It’s like a magic ticket that unlocks unlimited drinks (within certain limits, of course) for your entire cruise. But the big question on everyone’s mind is: how much is a Carnival Cruise Line drink pass worth in 2024? Is it a smart money-saving move, or just a clever upsell? In this post, we’ll break down the costs, the benefits, the fine print, and the real-world value so you can decide whether it’s right for you—without the sales pitch.

What Is a Carnival Drink Pass and How Does It Work?

If you’ve never cruised before, the idea of a “drink pass” might sound a little mysterious. Think of it as a subscription for drinks. You pay one flat fee upfront, and for the duration of your cruise, you can order eligible drinks without paying extra each time. But it’s not *all* drinks—there are rules, limits, and exceptions. Let’s dig into the details.

Types of Drink Packages Offered by Carnival

Carnival offers a few different drink packages, but the main one most people consider is the Cheers! Beverage Program. This is the flagship drink pass, and it’s the one we’ll focus on here. It includes:

• Alcoholic drinks up to $20 in value (cocktails, wine by the glass, beer, spirits, etc.)
• Non-alcoholic drinks like soda, energy drinks, bottled water, specialty coffees, and mocktails
• Fountain drinks and iced tea
• 15% discount on drinks priced above $20 (like premium wines and top-shelf liquors)

There’s also the Bottomless Bubbles package, which is strictly for soda, juice, and non-alcoholic drinks. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with kids or non-drinkers, or if you just want unlimited soda without the alcohol component.

How the Cheers! Program Works Day-to-Day

Once you buy the Cheers! pass, you’ll get a special wristband or card that identifies you as a pass holder. At any bar, restaurant, or lounge on the ship (and even in private areas like the spa or pool deck), you just show your wristband, and you can order any eligible drink up to $20. No need to swipe your card or pay—just order and enjoy.

One thing to note: the pass is per person, per day, and it must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise. You can’t buy it for just one or two days. So if you’re on a 7-day cruise, you’re paying for 7 days, even if you only use it for 5.

Also, the pass is non-transferable, so you can’t share it with your partner or kids. Everyone who wants unlimited drinks needs their own pass.

When Can You Use It?

The Cheers! pass is valid from the moment you board the ship until the morning of disembarkation. That means you can use it during embarkation day (yes, you can start drinking right after boarding!), throughout your cruise, and even on the last morning at breakfast. However, it does not cover drinks in port—only onboard the ship. So if you’re in Nassau and grab a mojito at a beach bar, that’s not included.

Another pro tip: if you’re on a cruise with a private island stop (like Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays), the pass does work there too. So you can keep sipping your margarita while lounging on the beach—no extra charge.

How Much Does a Carnival Drink Pass Cost in 2024?

Now let’s get to the heart of the matter: the price. The cost of a Carnival Cruise Line drink pass has gone up over the years, and 2024 is no exception. But the exact price depends on a few factors, including when you book, the length of your cruise, and whether you’re buying it before or after you board.

Current Pricing for the Cheers! Program

As of 2024, the Cheers! Beverage Program costs $59.95 per person, per day if you purchase it before your cruise. That’s the best rate available. If you wait and buy it onboard, the price jumps to $64.95 per person, per day. That’s a $5 per day difference—so on a 7-day cruise, that’s an extra $35 per person.

Here’s a quick example:

• 7-day cruise, booked pre-cruise: $59.95 x 7 = $419.65 per person
• 7-day cruise, bought onboard: $64.95 x 7 = $454.65 per person
• Difference: $35 more if you wait

So the takeaway? Book early and save. Carnival often runs promotions where you can get the pass for as low as $49.95 per day if you book during a special sale, but those are time-limited and subject to availability.

Bottomless Bubbles Pricing

If you’re going the non-alcoholic route, the Bottomless Bubbles package is much more affordable. It costs $12.95 per person, per day if booked in advance, or $14.95 per day if purchased onboard. That’s a steal if you’re a soda lover or have kids who want unlimited juice and pop.

For a family of four on a 7-day cruise, that’s only $362.60 total for Bottomless Bubbles—compared to nearly $1,700 for four Cheers! passes. So if you’re not big drinkers, this could be the smarter choice.

Taxes and Service Charges

Here’s something many people don’t realize: the price you see isn’t the final price. Carnival adds an 18% service charge on top of the Cheers! pass. That means:

• $59.95 x 7 days = $419.65
• + 18% service charge = $75.54
• Total cost: $495.19 per person

Yes, you read that right—nearly $500 for one person. The service charge is mandatory and applies to both pre-booked and onboard purchases. It’s not a tip per se, but more of an automatic gratuity for the staff who serve your drinks.

Bottomless Bubbles also has an 18% service charge, but because the base price is lower, the impact is smaller. Still, it’s important to factor in.

Is the Drink Pass Worth the Cost? A Real-World Value Breakdown

Now that we know the price, let’s answer the big question: is it worth it? The answer depends on your drinking habits, your budget, and what kind of cruise you’re on. Let’s break it down with real examples.

When the Cheers! Pass Pays Off

Let’s say you’re a moderate drinker. On a typical day, you might have:

• 1 cocktail at the pool ($12)
• 1 glass of wine at dinner ($10)
• 1 beer at the bar ($7)
• 1 soda or energy drink ($3)

That’s $32 in drinks per day. Multiply that by 7 days, and you’re looking at $224. Even with the service charge, the Cheers! pass ($495.19) still costs more than what you’d pay a la carte. So at first glance, it doesn’t seem like a good deal.

But wait—here’s the catch: the Cheers! pass includes unlimited drinks. So if you’re the type who likes to try a different cocktail every day, or you enjoy a few extra drinks at a themed party, the math changes.

Let’s say you have:

• 2 cocktails at the pool ($24)
• 1 wine at lunch ($10)
• 2 drinks at a live music bar ($18)
• 1 mocktail at the spa ($8)
• 2 sodas throughout the day ($6)

That’s $66 per day. Over 7 days, that’s $462. Now you’re getting close to the pass price—and you haven’t even factored in the 15% discount on premium drinks, or the convenience of not pulling out your wallet every time.

Break-even point: You’d need to spend about $70 per day on eligible drinks to make the Cheers! pass pay off. That’s 3–4 alcoholic drinks and a couple of non-alcoholic ones.

When It Might Not Be Worth It

On the flip side, if you’re a light drinker or only drink occasionally, the pass might not be worth it. For example:

• If you only have 1 drink per day, you’re spending $10–$15. Over 7 days, that’s $70–$105. The pass is overkill.
• If you’re on a shorter cruise (3–4 days), the daily rate is the same, but you’re paying for fewer days. The break-even point is harder to hit.
• If you’re on a budget and want to limit alcohol spending, a la carte might give you more control.

Also, remember: the Cheers! pass doesn’t cover bottled wine, champagne, or premium spirits over $20. If you love a $25 glass of Dom Pérignon, you’ll still pay full price (though you get 15% off). And if you’re a wine lover who wants to bring a bottle to dinner, that’s not covered either.

Special Considerations for Families and Groups

If you’re traveling with kids or non-drinkers, consider mixing packages. For example:

• Buy Cheers! for the adults who drink regularly.
• Buy Bottomless Bubbles for the kids and non-drinkers.
• Skip the pass entirely for light drinkers who only have a drink or two.

This way, you’re not overpaying for people who won’t use it. Carnival allows different packages per person, so you can customize your group’s plan.

Fine Print: What the Drink Pass Doesn’t Cover (and Other Gotchas)

Every drink pass has its limitations, and Carnival’s is no exception. Before you hit “buy,” here are the things you need to know—because they matter.

Drinks Not Included in the Pass

Even with the Cheers! pass, some drinks are not covered:

• Bottled wine, champagne, or liquor (you can buy them, but the pass doesn’t apply)
• Drinks at specialty restaurants (like Bonsai Teppanyaki or Steakhouse—some have separate policies)
• Room service drinks (though you can use the pass at the bar and bring it to your room)
• Drinks in the casino (yes, really—Carnival casinos don’t accept the pass)
• Mini-bar items in your stateroom
• Drinks purchased through shore excursions or in ports

One common myth: the pass doesn’t cover the “free” drinks at the art auctions or bingo games. You still have to pay for those, even if they’re “complimentary.”

Daily Limit and Fair Use Policy

Carnival says the Cheers! pass is for “reasonable consumption,” and they reserve the right to refuse service if they think you’re overdoing it. While there’s no official daily limit (like 15 drinks max), bartenders are trained to cut off guests who appear intoxicated. So don’t expect to chug 20 shots and get away with it.

Also, the pass is meant for personal use. You can’t order 10 margaritas and hand them out to your friends. That’s a quick way to get your pass revoked.

Cancellation and Refund Rules

Good news: if you cancel your cruise, Carnival will refund the drink pass. But if you buy it and then decide to cancel the pass itself, the rules are stricter:

• If you cancel the pass more than 3 days before sailing, you get a full refund.
• If you cancel within 3 days of sailing, you get a 50% refund.
• No refunds if you cancel after the cruise starts.

So if you buy it early and then realize you won’t use it, act fast to avoid losing money.

Smart Tips to Maximize Your Drink Pass Value

If you decide to go for the Cheers! pass, here are some insider tips to get the most bang for your buck—without overdoing it.

Buy Early and Watch for Sales

As we mentioned, booking the pass before your cruise saves you $5 per day. But you can do even better by watching for Carnival’s “Cheers! Sale” events. These pop up a few times a year and offer the pass for as low as $49.95 per day. Sign up for Carnival’s email list to get alerts.

Use It at High-Value Spots

Not all bars are created equal. Some offer higher-value drinks that stretch your pass further:

• The RedFrog Pub & Brewery has craft beers and rum punches that hit the $10–$15 range.
• The Alchemy Bar serves creative cocktails that are $14–$18—perfect for the $20 limit.
• The Serenity Bar (adults-only area) has premium wines and cocktails.

Stick to these spots instead of the pool bar, where drinks are often cheaper and less value-heavy.

Take Advantage of the 15% Discount

Use your pass to get 15% off drinks over $20. For example:

• A $25 glass of premium wine becomes $21.25—saving you $3.75.
• Order a bottle of wine at dinner and get 15% off (though you’ll still pay corkage if dining at a specialty restaurant).

This discount adds up, especially if you’re a wine or whiskey lover.

Share the Experience (Responsibly)

You can’t share the pass itself, but you can share the fun. For example, order a round of drinks for your friends using your pass, then they can buy you a non-alcoholic drink in return. It’s a great way to socialize without breaking the bank.

Don’t Forget Non-Alcoholic Options

The Cheers! pass includes unlimited soda, energy drinks, and mocktails. If you’re not a big drinker, use it for:

• Specialty coffee at JavaBlue Café
• Bottled water (saves $3–$5 per bottle)
• Red Bull or Monster energy drinks

This way, even if you only have 1–2 alcoholic drinks a day, you’re still getting value from the pass.

Final Verdict: Is the Carnival Drink Pass Worth It in 2024?

So, after all that—what’s the final word on how much a Carnival Cruise Line drink pass is worth in 2024? The truth is, it depends. But here’s the bottom line:

If you’re a moderate to heavy drinker—someone who enjoys 2–3 alcoholic drinks a day, plus sodas, coffee, and maybe a mocktail—then the Cheers! pass is likely worth it. You’ll hit the break-even point, enjoy the convenience, and get some extra perks like the 15% discount.

If you’re a light drinker or non-drinker, skip the Cheers! pass and go for Bottomless Bubbles or pay a la carte. You’ll save hundreds.

And if you’re on a budget or shorter cruise, the pass might not pay off. In that case, set a daily drink budget and stick to it.

One thing’s for sure: the Carnival drink pass isn’t a scam—it’s a tool. Used wisely, it can enhance your cruise experience, reduce stress, and even save money. But used poorly, it can be a costly mistake. The key is knowing your habits, doing the math, and planning ahead.

At the end of the day, a cruise is about fun, relaxation, and making memories. Whether you sip a cocktail by the pool or a soda at the buffet, what matters most is that you enjoy every moment—without worrying about the bill. And if the Cheers! pass helps you do that, then yes, it’s worth every penny.

Pass Type	Price (Pre-Cruise)	Price (Onboard)	Includes	Best For
Cheers! Beverage Program	$59.95/day	$64.95/day	Alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks up to $20, 15% off premium	Moderate to heavy drinkers
Bottomless Bubbles	$12.95/day	$14.95/day	Soda, juice, bottled water, energy drinks	Families, non-drinkers, soda lovers

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Carnival Cruise Line drink pass in 2024?

The cost of a Carnival Cruise Line drink pass, known as the Cheers! Beverage Program, typically ranges from $59.95 to $69.95 per person, per day, depending on the cruise length and destination. Prices may vary slightly based on promotions or booking timelines.

Is the Carnival drink pass worth it for my cruise?

The Carnival Cruise Line drink pass is worth it if you plan to consume at least 5-6 alcoholic or premium drinks per day, as individual drinks can cost $10-$15 each. It also includes non-alcoholic options like specialty coffees and bottled water, adding further value.

Does the Cheers! drink pass cover all beverages on Carnival cruises?

The Cheers! program covers most alcoholic drinks (up to $20 each), fountain sodas, energy drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water. However, premium wines, spirits over $20, and bottled beverages are excluded and charged separately.

Can I buy a Carnival drink pass for only part of my cruise?

No, the Carnival Cruise Line drink pass must be purchased for the entire duration of your cruise. It’s not available for partial-day use, and all guests in the same stateroom must purchase it if one person does.

Are there discounts on Carnival drink passes for kids or non-drinkers?

Yes, Carnival offers a non-alcoholic version of the drink pass (called “Bottomless Bubbles”) for kids and non-drinkers, priced lower than the Cheers! program. It includes sodas, juices, and mocktails, making it a budget-friendly alternative.

Can I share my Carnival drink pass with someone else?

No, the Carnival Cruise Line drink pass is non-transferable and can only be used by the person who purchased it. Each pass is linked to your Sail & Sign account and requires ID verification when ordering drinks.