How Much Is Alcohol on Carnival Cruise Line A Complete Guide to Drinks Pricing

Alcohol prices on Carnival Cruise Line vary widely, from $6–$15 for beers and wines to $12–$20+ for premium cocktails and spirits, depending on the venue and drink selection. Guests can save significantly with drink packages like the Cheers! Program, starting at $59.95 per day, offering unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for one flat rate.

Key Takeaways

• Drink prices vary: Cocktails start at $6.50, premium drinks up to $15.
• Buy a drink package: Save up to 30% with the Cheers! Beverage Program.
• Happy hour deals: Enjoy 50% off drinks during daily specials onboard.
• Free non-alcoholic drinks: Water, coffee, tea, and juices are included.
• Bring your own wine: $15 corkage fee applies per bottle.
• Check for promos: Early bookings often include drink discounts or credits.

How Much Is Alcohol on Carnival Cruise Line? A Complete Guide to Drinks Pricing

Let’s face it: one of the first things many cruisers think about when booking a vacation is the cost of drinks. Whether you’re a cocktail lover, a wine enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys a cold beer by the pool, alcohol is often a big part of the cruise experience. And if you’re sailing with Carnival Cruise Line, you’re probably asking yourself: *How much is alcohol on Carnival Cruise Line?*

As someone who’s sailed on Carnival more than a handful of times, I’ve been there—standing at the bar, staring at the menu, wondering if I should just grab a water or go all-in on that mojito. The truth? Alcohol pricing on Carnival isn’t always straightforward. There are daily drink specials, package options, seasonal changes, and even differences between bars and restaurants onboard. But don’t worry—this guide breaks it all down in a way that’s easy to understand, practical, and (dare I say) fun. Whether you’re budgeting for your first cruise or trying to cut costs on your next one, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to expect—and how to save a few bucks without missing out on the fun.

Standard Drink Prices on Carnival Cruise Line

Before diving into packages and deals, let’s talk about what you’ll pay for individual drinks. This is the baseline—what you’d spend if you’re buying drinks à la carte. Carnival’s pricing varies slightly by ship and itinerary, but most drinks fall within a predictable range. The good news? You won’t be shocked by outrageous prices like you might find in some tourist traps on land. The not-so-good news? It’s not exactly cheap either.

Beer: From $5 to $10

Beer is one of the more affordable options on Carnival. Domestic beers like Budweiser, Miller Lite, and Coors Light typically cost $5.50 to $6.50. Craft and imported beers (think Heineken, Corona, or Blue Moon) are a bit pricier, usually $6.50 to $8.50. On some ships, especially newer ones like the Mardi Gras or Carnival Celebration, you might find local or specialty craft beers for $8 to $10. I once grabbed a Florida-brewed IPA on a Bahamas cruise for $9—tasty, but I felt it in my wallet.

Wine: $8 to $18 per Glass

Wine lovers, listen up. A standard glass of house red or white (like Chardonnay or Merlot) runs about $8 to $10. Mid-tier wines—say, a Pinot Grigio or Cabernet Sauvignon—are usually $10 to $14. If you’re feeling fancy and order a premium bottle (e.g., a Napa Valley Chardonnay), you’re looking at $14 to $18 per glass or $60 to $100+ per bottle. Pro tip: If you’re sharing, a bottle is often cheaper per glass than ordering individually.

Cocktails: $10 to $16

This is where things get interesting—and a little pricey. A basic rum and Coke or vodka soda is around $10 to $11. But once you step into the world of frozen drinks, tiki mugs, or craft cocktails, prices climb fast. A classic daiquiri or piña colada? $11 to $13. A themed cocktail from the Alchemy Bar (like a “Mojito Royale” or “Smoky Old Fashioned”)? Expect to pay $13 to $16. I remember ordering a “Tropical Sunset” on a sunset sail—it looked amazing in photos, but at $15, I made sure to savor every sip!

Non-Alcoholic & Specialty Drinks

Don’t drink? No problem. Carnival has a solid non-alcoholic menu. A soda or iced tea is $3.50 to $4.50. Specialty coffees (lattes, cappuccinos) are $4 to $6. Mocktails—yes, alcohol-free cocktails—are $7 to $9, which is a fair price for something that looks and tastes like the real deal. I once ordered a “Virgin Mojito” at the Alchemy Bar—refreshing, fizzy, and no guilt. My friend who had the real version paid $14. Ouch.

Mini Bar & Room Service

Want to drink in your room? You can, but it’ll cost you. Mini bar beers are $7.50, cocktails $12 to $15, and wine $12 to $20 per glass. Room service adds a $7.95 delivery fee, so ordering a single drink isn’t worth it. But if you’re splitting a bottle with your partner, it might make sense—just don’t forget the tip!

Alcohol Packages: Are They Worth It?

Now we get to the big question: *Should you buy a drink package?* Carnival offers several options, and they can be a great deal—or a total waste of money—depending on your drinking habits. The key is to do the math *before* you book.

The Cheers! Beverage Program (Alcohol Package)

The Cheers! package is Carnival’s most popular alcohol bundle. It costs $59.95 to $64.95 per person, per day (plus 18% gratuity), and includes:

• Up to 15 alcoholic drinks per day
• All sodas, juices, specialty coffees, and bottled water
• Discounts on bottles of wine (25% off)

Each drink must be under $20. So if you order a $16 craft cocktail, it counts as one of your 15. But if you go for a $25 bottle of premium tequila, you pay the difference.

Is it worth it? Let’s break it down:

• If you drink 4-5 cocktails a day, the package pays for itself.
• If you’re a wine lover, 3 glasses of $10 wine = $30 saved.
• But if you only have 1-2 drinks a day? You’re likely overpaying.

I once bought Cheers! on a 7-day cruise. I averaged about 6 drinks a day—mostly beer and mojitos. I saved roughly $150 compared to paying out of pocket. But my husband, who only had 1-2 drinks daily, lost money. So it’s all about your personal habits.

Non-Alcoholic Drink Packages

For non-drinkers or light imbibers, Carnival offers a Bottomless Bubbles soda package for $8.50 per day (plus gratuity). It includes unlimited sodas, juices, and mocktails. If you’re a soda fan, this is a no-brainer. I’ve seen kids (and adults!) go through 10+ sodas a day—this pays off fast.

Wine & Beer Packages

These are less common but available on select ships and itineraries. For example, a Wine Lovers Package might include 3-5 bottles of wine at a discount. Or a Beer Lovers Package with 12 craft beers for a fixed price. These are great if you know you’ll drink that much, but they’re not always advertised upfront. Ask your cruise agent or check the Carnival Hub app before boarding.

Tips for Maximizing Package Value

• Buy early: Packages are cheaper when booked pre-cruise (sometimes $5-10/day less).
• Split with a friend: If two people buy Cheers!, they can share the 15-drink limit (though Carnival discourages this).
• Use for non-alcohol too: Don’t forget—specialty coffees, bottled water, and mocktails count toward your daily drinks!
• Check port day rules: Some packages don’t work at private islands (like Half Moon Cay). Confirm before relying on it.

Happy Hour, Daily Specials & Discounts

Want to save money without buying a package? Carnival runs daily drink deals that can slash your costs by 30-50%. The key is knowing when and where to look.

Happy Hour (3 PM – 5 PM)

Most bars offer happy hour specials from 3 to 5 PM. During this time, you can get:

• Buy one, get one free cocktails
• Half-price draft beer
• $5 house wine

I always plan my afternoons around this window. One cruise, I grabbed two mojitos for the price of one at the RedFrog Rum Bar—perfect timing for a poolside nap!

Daily Drink of the Day

Every day, Carnival features a “Drink of the Day” for $8 to $10—usually a themed cocktail tied to the destination. On a Caribbean cruise, it might be a “Bahama Mama”; on a Mexican route, a “Tequila Sunrise.” These are often served in souvenir cups (great for Instagram). At $8, it’s a steal compared to the regular $14 price.

Early Bird & Late Night Deals

Some bars offer discounts during off-peak hours. For example:

• 10% off cocktails at 10 PM at the Alchemy Bar
• Free shot with any drink purchase after midnight at the disco

These aren’t always advertised, so ask your bartender. Bartenders love tips and often share insider deals—especially if you’re a regular.

Loyalty & Group Discounts

If you’re a Carnival VIFP Club member, you might get:

• Free drink coupons (Gold members get 1 free drink per cruise)
• Discounts on packages (up to 15% off)
• Priority access to bars during peak times

Group cruisers (16+ cabins) can sometimes negotiate custom drink packages with their travel agent. Always ask!

Where to Drink on Carnival: Bar & Location Differences

Not all bars on Carnival are created equal. Prices, atmosphere, and even drink quality can vary from one spot to another. Knowing where to go can save you money—and enhance your experience.

Poolside Bars (RedFrog & BlueIguana)

These are your go-to spots for casual drinks. The RedFrog Rum Bar (Caribbean-themed) and BlueIguana Tequila Bar (Mexican-inspired) serve:

• Beer: $5.50 – $7
• Cocktails: $10 – $13
• Happy Hour: BOGO mojitos, $5 margaritas

Prices here are slightly lower than indoor bars, and the vibe is relaxed. Perfect for a quick drink between swims.

Indoor Lounges (Alchemy Bar, Piano Bar, etc.)

Indoor bars are pricier but offer a more refined experience. The Alchemy Bar (craft cocktails) charges $13-$16 per drink but uses premium ingredients. The Piano Bar has a $10 cover after 9 PM but includes a free drink. If you’re into ambiance, it’s worth the extra cost.

Casino & Nightclub Bars

Bars in the casino and nightclub often have:

• Free drinks while gambling (if you’re actively playing)
• Discounted cocktails during late-night events

I once got a free rum punch while playing blackjack—small bet, big payoff! But be careful: the casino can be a money pit.

Specialty Venues (Steakhouse, Chef’s Table)

Upscale dining venues have higher prices. A glass of wine at the steakhouse might be $12-$16, but you’re paying for the setting. If you’re celebrating, splurge. If you’re budgeting, stick to the main dining room or casual bars.

Hidden Costs & Smart Drinking Tips

Even with packages and deals, there are sneaky costs that can add up. Here’s how to avoid them—and drink smarter.

Gratuities & Service Charges

Every drink has an 18% automatic gratuity added. That means a $10 cocktail actually costs $11.80. If you’re buying 20 drinks, that’s an extra $36 in tips. Some cruisers tip extra, but it’s not required.

Port Day Restrictions

Most drink packages don’t work at private islands (e.g., Half Moon Cay, Princess Cays) or when docked at foreign ports. You’ll pay full price or use local vendors. Plan ahead: bring a refillable water bottle or buy a local drink to save.

Mini Bar & Room Service Fees

As mentioned earlier, mini bar prices are marked up, and room service adds a $7.95 fee. If you’re craving a late-night drink, head to the 24-hour bar instead.

Smart Tips to Save Money

• Bring your own wine: Carnival allows one bottle of wine per person (750ml) at embarkation. You’ll pay a $15 corkage fee per bottle at dinner, but it’s still cheaper than buying onboard.
• Use refillable cups: Buy a souvenir cup (~$15) and get discounted refills for the cruise. Saves $1-2 per drink.
• Skip the souvenir glass: Many “Drink of the Day” specials include a keepsake glass—great for collectors, but you’re paying a premium. Opt for the regular cup to save $3-5.
• Track your spending: Use the Carnival Hub app to monitor your drink purchases. It helps you stay within budget.

Sample Drink Budgets for Different Cruisers

To wrap things up, here’s a quick look at how much you might spend based on your drinking style. These are estimates for a 7-day cruise.

Drinker Type	Daily Drinks	Estimated Total (7 Days)	Best Strategy
Light Drinker	1-2 drinks/day	$100 – $150	Pay as you go + happy hour
Moderate Drinker	3-5 drinks/day	$250 – $400	Cheers! package (if drinking 4+/day)
Heavy Drinker	6+ drinks/day	$500+	Cheers! package + happy hour
Non-Drinker	0 drinks	$0 – $50	Bottomless Bubbles (if soda fan)
Wine Lover	3-4 glasses/day	$300 – $500	Cheers! package + bring your own bottle

Remember: these are just estimates. Your actual costs depend on drink choices, port stops, and whether you take advantage of deals.

Final Thoughts: Drinking Smart on Carnival

So, how much is alcohol on Carnival Cruise Line? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. You could spend as little as $100 for the whole week or over $500 if you’re not careful. The key is to know your habits, plan ahead, and take advantage of deals.

Whether you choose to buy a package, stick to happy hour, or bring your own wine, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a great drink at sea. And hey—part of the fun is trying new cocktails, meeting bartenders, and toasting to another perfect sunset. Just remember: the goal isn’t to drink the most. It’s to have the most fun—without the post-vacation wallet regret.

So raise a glass (or a souvenir cup), cheers to your next cruise, and drink smart. You’ve got this!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is alcohol on Carnival Cruise Line compared to other cruise lines?

Alcohol prices on Carnival Cruise Line are generally competitive with other major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian. Expect beer to start around $6–$8, cocktails $10–$15, and wine by the glass $9–$14, with slight variations depending on the ship and bar venue.

Does Carnival Cruise Line offer an all-inclusive alcohol package?

Yes, Carnival offers the Cheers! Beverage Program, an all-inclusive alcohol package priced around $59.95 per person per day (plus 18% gratuity). It includes beer, wine, cocktails, spirits, and soda up to $20 per drink.

How much are drinks without a Carnival alcohol package?

Without a package, individual drink prices on Carnival Cruise Line range from $6 for domestic beers to $15+ for premium cocktails and top-shelf liquors. Wine by the glass typically costs $9–$14, and specialty drinks like frozen cocktails are $10–$13.

Are there any discounts or promotions for alcohol on Carnival cruises?

Yes, Carnival frequently offers drink specials, happy hour pricing (often 2-for-1), and discounts when purchasing multi-day drink packages in advance. Check the HUB app daily for onboard promotions and limited-time offers.

How much is a beer on Carnival Cruise Line?

A standard domestic beer on Carnival Cruise Line costs $6–$7.50, while craft and imported beers range from $7–$9. Prices may vary slightly by bar or dining venue on the ship.

Can I bring my own alcohol on a Carnival Cruise Line ship?

Carnival prohibits bringing beer, spirits, or hard liquor onboard but allows one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person (max 2 bottles) on embarkation day. A $15 corkage fee applies if consumed in dining areas.