How Much Is a Drink Package on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is, “How much is a drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?” Whether you’re sipping a tropical cocktail by the pool, enjoying a glass of wine with dinner, or treating yourself to a premium spirit at the onboard bar, beverage costs can add up quickly. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a variety of drink packages designed to simplify your spending and enhance your onboard experience—but understanding which one is right for you, and how much it will cost, is key to maximizing your vacation value.

Norwegian Cruise Line has built a reputation for its Freestyle Cruising concept, which emphasizes flexibility and choice—and this extends to their beverage offerings. Unlike some cruise lines that include drinks in the base fare, NCL operates on an à la carte model, meaning most drinks are extra. This gives guests the freedom to pay only for what they consume, but it also makes drink packages an attractive option for those who plan to enjoy multiple beverages daily. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the pricing, types, inclusions, and value of Norwegian Cruise Line’s drink packages. We’ll also compare them to alternatives, explore hidden costs, and share practical tips to help you decide whether a drink package is worth it for your next voyage.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Package Options

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several drink packages to suit different budgets, drinking habits, and vacation goals. The primary options are the Unlimited Open Bar Package, the Premium Plus Beverage Package, and a few specialty packages for coffee, soda, and non-alcoholic drinks. Each package comes with its own set of inclusions, limitations, and price points. Knowing the differences between them is essential to avoid overspending or missing out on your favorite beverages.

Visual guide about how much is a drink package on norwegian cruise line

Image source: oceanblissjourneys.com

1. Unlimited Open Bar Package

The Unlimited Open Bar Package is NCL’s most popular and widely advertised drink option. Designed for guests who plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout the day, this package allows unlimited access to a wide range of drinks, including:

Beer (domestic and imported)
Wine by the glass (up to $15 per glass)
Spirits and cocktails (up to $15 per drink)
Non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, bottled water, etc.)
Specialty coffee and tea

This package is ideal for social cruisers, couples, and groups who enjoy a variety of drinks. It’s especially valuable on longer cruises (7+ nights) or on itineraries with multiple sea days, where drink consumption tends to be higher.

2. Premium Plus Beverage Package

The Premium Plus Beverage Package is NCL’s top-tier offering, perfect for guests who appreciate premium brands and higher-end experiences. It includes everything in the Unlimited Open Bar Package, plus:

Wine by the glass up to $25 per glass
Premium cocktails and spirits up to $25 per drink
Top-shelf liquors (e.g., Johnnie Walker Blue, Grey Goose, Patron)
Specialty drinks at premium lounges and bars
Enhanced coffee and tea selections

This package is ideal for connoisseurs, frequent cruisers, or those celebrating a special occasion. It’s also a great choice if you plan to visit NCL’s upscale bars like the Spice H2O or The Cavern Club, where premium drinks are standard.

3. Specialty Non-Alcoholic and Coffee Packages

For guests who don’t consume alcohol or prefer lighter options, NCL offers two niche packages:

Unlimited Soda Package: Unlimited fountain sodas, bottled water, and select juices. Great for families with kids or those who prefer non-alcoholic options.
Unlimited Coffee & Tea Package: Unlimited access to specialty coffees (espresso, cappuccino, latte), teas, and hot chocolate at onboard cafés like Starbucks or The Coffee Bar.

These packages are more affordable and can be combined with other packages or used independently. They’re particularly useful for guests who want to save on daily coffee runs or keep kids hydrated with soda and juice.

Pricing Breakdown: How Much Does a Drink Package Cost?

Now, let’s get to the heart of the question: How much is a drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line? Pricing varies based on the package type, cruise length, departure date, and whether you book in advance or onboard. As of 2024, here’s a general pricing guide (prices are per person, per day, unless otherwise noted):

Standard Pricing (Per Person, Per Day)

Unlimited Open Bar Package: $89–$119
Premium Plus Beverage Package: $119–$149
Unlimited Soda Package: $29–$39
Unlimited Coffee & Tea Package: $24–$34

These prices are not inclusive of the 18% service charge, which is automatically added to your onboard account. For example, an $89 Open Bar Package will actually cost $105.02 per person per day after tax.

Factors That Influence Pricing

Cruise Length: Longer cruises (e.g., 10+ nights) may offer slightly lower per-day rates due to volume discounts.
Season and Demand: Peak seasons (summer, holidays) often see higher prices, while off-peak cruises may have promotions.
Booking Timing: Pre-purchasing online (before your cruise) typically saves 10–20% compared to buying onboard.
Special Promotions: NCL frequently runs “Free at Sea” deals, which may include a free drink package with certain fare types.

Example: 7-Night Cruise Cost Comparison

Let’s say you’re booking a 7-night Caribbean cruise for two adults. Here’s how the total cost would break down:

Unlimited Open Bar: $89/day × 2 people × 7 days = $1,246 + 18% service charge = $1,470.28
Premium Plus: $119/day × 2 people × 7 days = $1,666 + 18% service charge = $1,965.88
Soda Package: $35/day × 2 people × 7 days = $490 + 18% service charge = $578.20

As you can see, the cost can add up quickly—especially for couples or families. This is why many cruisers opt to book early or take advantage of promotions.

When Is a Drink Package Worth It? (Value Analysis & Scenarios)

Determining whether a drink package is worth the investment depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of scenarios where a package makes financial sense—and when it might not.

Scenario 1: The Frequent Drinker (7+ Nights)

Let’s say you’re on a 10-night cruise and plan to drink:

2 cocktails at lunch ($14 each)
1 glass of wine at dinner ($12)
2 drinks at the bar in the evening ($14 each)

Daily total: $68. Over 10 days: $680 per person. With the Unlimited Open Bar at $89/day ($890 + tax), you’d need to consume just over 6 drinks per day to break even. For most social drinkers, this is easily achievable—especially on sea days or during happy hours.

Scenario 2: The Casual Sipper (Short Cruise)

On a 3-night weekend cruise, you might only drink:

1 cocktail per day ($14)
1 glass of wine at dinner ($12)

Daily total: $26. Over 3 days: $78 per person. At $89/day, the Open Bar package would cost $267 + tax—over 3.4 times more than what you’d pay à la carte. In this case, a drink package is not cost-effective.

Scenario 3: The Premium Experience Seeker

If you enjoy top-shelf liquor, fine wines, or specialty cocktails (e.g., $22 mojitos, $25 aged bourbons), the Premium Plus Package becomes highly valuable. For example:

3 premium cocktails per day at $22 = $66/day
1 glass of $20 wine at dinner = $20/day

Daily total: $86. With Premium Plus at $119/day, you’d break even at around 5–6 premium drinks. Given the higher base price, this package is best for guests who regularly order premium brands.

Scenario 4: Families with Kids

For families, the Soda and Coffee Packages can offer great value. Kids often consume multiple sodas and juices daily. At $1.50–$2.50 per soda onboard, a 7-day cruise with two kids drinking 3 sodas/day would cost $63–$105 per child. The $35/day soda package saves money and reduces the hassle of paying per drink.

Hidden Costs, Restrictions, and Fine Print

While drink packages seem straightforward, there are important limitations and hidden costs to consider. Understanding these will help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

1. Service Charge (18%)

All drink packages are subject to an 18% service charge, which is automatically added to your onboard account. This means the advertised price is not the final price. For example, a $100/day package becomes $118/day after tax.

2. Daily Limitations and Caps

Drink Value Caps: The Open Bar package covers drinks up to $15; Premium Plus covers up to $25. If you order a $28 cocktail, you pay the difference.
Daily Drink Limit: NCL enforces a “reasonable consumption” policy. While not strictly enforced, guests are expected to drink responsibly. Excessive consumption may result in temporary suspension.
No Sharing: Packages are non-transferable. You cannot buy one package and share it with a friend or spouse.

3. Exclusions and Special Cases

Bottled Wines and Champagne: Not included. You’ll pay full price for bottles, even with a drink package.
Specialty Events: Some onboard events (e.g., wine tastings, mixology classes) require separate tickets, even with a package.
Private Bars and Lounges: Some premium lounges (e.g., The Haven) may have restricted access or require additional fees.

4. Port Day Usage

Drink packages are valid only during the cruise (onboard). They do not apply to drinks purchased on shore excursions, private islands (e.g., Great Stirrup Cay), or port stops. However, you can use your package on NCL’s private island bars, which is a nice perk.

5. Cancellation and Refund Policy

Drink packages are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you cancel your cruise, you lose the package cost. However, if you upgrade your package onboard, you may receive a prorated credit for the difference.

Smart Booking Tips and Money-Saving Strategies

Now that you know the costs and limitations, here are practical tips to get the best value from your drink package—or avoid one altogether if it’s not right for you.

1. Book Early (Online Pre-Cruise)

Pre-purchasing your package online through NCL’s website can save 10–20% compared to buying onboard. For example, the Open Bar package might be $89/day online but $109/day at the onboard desk. Always compare prices before boarding.

2. Look for “Free at Sea” Promotions

NCL frequently offers “Free at Sea” deals, where you get one or more packages (including drinks) for free when you book a qualifying fare. These are often available for cruises 3+ nights and can include:

Free Unlimited Open Bar
Free Specialty Dining
Free Shore Excursions
Free Wi-Fi

Check NCL’s website or work with a travel agent to find current promotions.

3. Use Happy Hours and Drink Specials

Even with a package, take advantage of onboard happy hours (e.g., 5–7 PM at the pool bar) where drinks are discounted or buy-one-get-one-free. This maximizes your value and lets you try new cocktails.

4. Consider a “Pay-As-You-Go” Approach

If you’re a light drinker, skip the package and pay à la carte. Use your onboard credit (if you have it) or budget a daily drink allowance. Many cruisers find this more cost-effective for short trips.

While not officially allowed, some couples or friends coordinate their orders to maximize value. For example, one person orders two drinks at once. This works best in casual bars, not fine dining or specialty lounges.

6. Use Your Package on NCL’s Private Island

Great Stirrup Cay (NCL’s private island in the Bahamas) has bars that accept drink packages. Enjoy unlimited drinks while relaxing on the beach—this is a unique perk not offered by all cruise lines.

7. Track Your Spending

Use the NCL app to monitor your onboard account. Check daily to see how much you’re spending on drinks. If you’re approaching the break-even point, consider upgrading to a package mid-cruise (if available).

Comparative Table: Drink Package Costs and Inclusions (2024)

Package	Price (Per Person/Day)	Max Drink Value	Alcohol Included	Non-Alcoholic Drinks	Special Notes
Unlimited Open Bar	$89–$119	$15	Yes (beer, wine, spirits)	Yes (soda, juice, water, coffee)	18% service charge applies; pre-book for best rate
Premium Plus	$119–$149	$25	Yes (premium brands)	Yes (enhanced coffee/tea)	Best for connoisseurs; includes top-shelf liquor
Unlimited Soda	$29–$39	N/A	No	Yes (soda, bottled water, juice)	Great for kids and non-drinkers
Unlimited Coffee & Tea	$24–$34	N/A	No	Yes (espresso, cappuccino, tea, hot chocolate)	Ideal for coffee lovers; valid at onboard cafés

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Cruise

So, how much is a drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer depends on your drinking habits, cruise length, and vacation goals. The Unlimited Open Bar Package starts at $89/day (plus tax), while the Premium Plus can reach $149/day. For frequent drinkers on longer cruises, these packages offer excellent value and convenience. For casual sippers or short trips, paying à la carte may be more economical.

Ultimately, the key is to plan ahead. Use our scenarios to estimate your daily consumption, compare costs, and book early to save. Take advantage of promotions like “Free at Sea” to get a package included with your fare. And don’t forget to explore NCL’s non-alcoholic options—they’re perfect for families, designated drivers, or those who just enjoy a great cup of coffee.

Whether you’re toasting the sunset in the Caribbean, celebrating a milestone in Alaska, or simply relaxing on a transatlantic voyage, a well-chosen drink package can enhance your experience without breaking the bank. By understanding the options, costs, and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that suits your taste—and your budget. Cheers to your next Norwegian cruise adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cost of a Norwegian Cruise Line drink package varies by cruise length and destination, typically ranging from $20 to $30 per person, per day. Premium options like the Premium Plus Beverage Package may cost more for expanded drink selections.

Is the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package worth it?

It depends on your drinking habits—if you plan to enjoy multiple alcoholic or specialty drinks daily, the package can offer savings. Compare the per-day cost to your expected consumption to determine if it’s a good deal.

What drinks are included in the Norwegian drink package?

The standard Premium Beverage Package covers cocktails, beer, wine by the glass (up to $15), spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails and premium coffee. Exclusions include bottled wine, specialty coffees above a certain price, and mini-bar items.

Can I purchase a drink package after boarding the Norwegian cruise ship?

Yes, you can buy a drink package onboard, but it’s often cheaper to book it in advance through Norwegian Cruise Line’s website. Availability may also be limited once the cruise has started.

Does the Norwegian Cruise Line drink package cover gratuities?

Yes, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to the total cost of the drink package when purchased. This covers service charges for bartenders and servers across the ship.

Are there any discounts on Norwegian Cruise Line drink packages?

Norwegian occasionally offers promotions like “Free at Sea,” which may include discounted or free drink packages when you book a qualifying fare. Check their website or ask your travel agent for current deals.

Key Takeaways

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