How Much Is Alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Alcohol prices on Norwegian Cruise Line are surprisingly competitive, with drinks starting as low as $5 for beer and $8 for cocktails. While premium spirits and wine can reach $15–$20 per serving, NCL offers value through drink packages—like the Unlimited Open Bar at $59–$99 per day—ideal for frequent imbibers. These packages often pay for themselves after just a few drinks, making them a smart choice for budget-savvy cruisers.

Key Takeaways

• Drink packages start at $50/day for unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails.
• Premium spirits cost extra even with most drink packages—check inclusions first.
• Happy hour offers 2-for-1 deals—timing your purchases saves money.
• BYOB is allowed for wine, but corkage fees apply onboard.
• Specialty bars charge premium prices—stick to main bars for better value.
• Kids’ drink packages available for non-alcoholic options at lower cost.

How Much Is Alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Imagine sipping a perfectly crafted cocktail as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea or enjoying a crisp glass of wine with a gourmet dinner while cruising the Norwegian fjords. For many travelers, alcohol is an essential part of the cruise experience—adding relaxation, celebration, and even a touch of luxury to the journey. If you’re considering a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) voyage, one of the most common questions is: how much is alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line? The answer isn’t a simple one, as pricing varies widely based on drink type, location, time of day, and whether you opt for a drink package. But fear not—this comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know to make informed decisions, save money, and enjoy your favorite beverages without unexpected sticker shock.

NCL, known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, offers a flexible and modern approach to onboard experiences, including its alcohol offerings. From casual poolside beers to premium spirits and rare vintages, the cruise line caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a connoisseur, understanding how alcohol is priced, where to find the best deals, and how drink packages compare to à la carte options can make a significant difference in your overall cruise cost. In this deep dive, we’ll explore drink pricing, package options, hidden costs, and expert tips to help you navigate the world of NCL alcohol with confidence.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line Alcohol Pricing Structure

How NCL Sets Its Alcohol Prices

Norwegian Cruise Line operates its beverage pricing using a combination of market-based strategies, onboard demand, and competitive positioning. Unlike traditional cruise lines that may include certain drinks in the base fare, NCL follows an à la carte model where most alcoholic beverages are priced individually. This means you pay per drink unless you purchase a beverage package. The pricing is influenced by several factors:

• Location on the ship: Drinks in specialty restaurants (e.g., Cagney’s Steakhouse) or upscale lounges (e.g., The Observation Lounge) tend to be 10–20% more expensive than those in casual bars or the main dining room.
• Time of day: Happy hour specials (usually 4–7 PM) offer significant discounts, often 25–50% off select drinks.
• Drink category: Premium spirits, craft cocktails, and imported wines command higher prices than domestic beers and house wines.
• Port of embarkation and itinerary: Cruises departing from U.S. ports may have slightly different pricing than those from Europe or Asia due to import regulations and local alcohol taxes.

Typical À La Carte Alcohol Prices (2024 Estimates)

Below is a general breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a single drink across different categories. These prices are based on recent passenger reports, NCL’s onboard menus, and industry data:

• Domestic beer (12 oz): $7.95–$9.95 (e.g., Budweiser, Miller Lite)
• Imported/craft beer (12 oz): $8.95–$11.95 (e.g., Heineken, Blue Moon, local brews)
• House wine (5 oz glass): $8.95–$10.95 (e.g., Kendall-Jackson Chardonnay, Bogle Cabernet)
• Premium wine (5 oz glass): $12.95–$24.95 (e.g., Duckhorn, Cakebread, Champagne)
• Well liquor (1.5 oz): $9.95–$11.95 (e.g., Smirnoff, Jim Beam, Jose Cuervo)
• Call liquor (1.5 oz): $12.95–$15.95 (e.g., Absolut, Tanqueray, Maker’s Mark)
• Premium/Top-shelf liquor (1.5 oz): $16.95–$24.95 (e.g., Grey Goose, Macallan 12, Patron)
• Classic cocktail (e.g., Mojito, Martini): $12.95–$16.95
• Specialty/craft cocktail: $14.95–$19.95 (e.g., smoked Old Fashioned, espresso martini)
• Non-alcoholic specialty drink (e.g., mocktail, soda with flavor): $5.95–$7.95

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary slightly by ship and itinerary. A 20% automatic gratuity is added to all drink purchases unless you opt out (not recommended).

Where to Find the Cheapest Drinks

To save money on à la carte drinks, consider these strategies:

• Stick to the main dining room: House wine and beer are often $1–$2 cheaper here than in specialty venues.
• Visit the pool deck bars: These often have the same prices as indoor bars but may offer more casual service and quicker access.
• Look for themed nights: Events like “Margarita Monday” or “Wine Down Wednesday” often feature discounted drinks or buy-one-get-one deals.
• Ask about daily specials: Some bars post a “Drink of the Day” at a reduced price (e.g., $5.95 for a margarita).

NCL Drink Packages: Are They Worth It?

Overview of Available Beverage Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers several drink packages designed to provide savings and convenience. The most popular options include:

• Premium Plus Beverage Package (PPBP): The most comprehensive package, covering all alcoholic drinks up to $15 per drink, including premium cocktails, top-shelf liquor, wine by the glass, and specialty coffees. Also includes non-alcoholic drinks and bottled water.
• Premium Beverage Package (PBP): Covers all drinks up to $12 per drink. Excludes premium wines, top-shelf liquor, and specialty cocktails over $12.
• Wine & Dine Package: Designed for wine lovers, includes a selection of premium wines at dinner and in select lounges. Priced per person, per day.
• Soda Package: Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages (soda, juice, bottled water) for a flat daily rate.

As of 2024, the Premium Plus Beverage Package is priced at $109.99 per person, per day, while the Premium Beverage Package costs $89.99 per person, per day. These prices include the 20% gratuity. Packages must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise and for all guests in the same stateroom who are 21+ (or 18+ in some international itineraries).

Break-Even Analysis: When Does a Package Pay Off?

To determine if a drink package is worth it, calculate your expected daily alcohol consumption and compare it to the package cost. Here’s a practical example:

• Scenario 1: You plan to drink 2 beers ($9 each = $18), 1 glass of house wine ($10), and 1 well cocktail ($11) per day. Total: $39/day. Even the Premium package ($89.99) would cost more than double your daily spend—not worth it.
• Scenario 2: You enjoy 2 premium cocktails ($17 each = $34), 1 glass of premium wine ($18), and 1 top-shelf whiskey ($18). Total: $70/day. The Premium Plus package ($109.99) is still more than your spend, but if you add in non-alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees, it may break even.
• Scenario 3: You’re a heavy drinker—3 craft cocktails ($18 each), 2 glasses of premium wine ($18 each), and 1 top-shelf spirit ($22). Total: $112/day. The Premium Plus package now starts to save you money.

Rule of thumb: If your average daily drink cost exceeds $75–$80, the Premium Plus package is likely worth it. For lighter drinkers, stick to à la carte or consider the Premium package if you enjoy call liquor and mid-range wines.

Hidden Costs and Package Limitations

While drink packages offer convenience, they come with important restrictions:

• Drink cap: The $15 limit on PPBP means drinks over $15 (e.g., vintage champagne, rare single-malt Scotch) require additional payment.
• No sharing: Each drink must be consumed by the package holder—sharing is strictly prohibited.
• No refunds: If you don’t use the package (e.g., due to illness), you still pay the full amount.
• Port days: Packages cover drinks on port days, but if you spend most of your time ashore, you may not get full value.
• Non-alcoholic drinks: While included, specialty coffees, smoothies, and bottled water may have limited availability in some venues.

Happy Hour, Promotions, and Discounts

Happy Hour Deals on NCL

One of the best ways to save on alcohol is by taking advantage of NCL’s daily happy hour specials, typically offered from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in most onboard bars. These promotions include:

• 50% off select cocktails: Popular drinks like mojitos, margaritas, and martinis are often discounted during this window.
• $5 domestic beer: A significant drop from the regular $8.95–$9.95 price.
• $6 house wine: Down from $9.95–$10.95.
• Buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) on select drinks: Common during themed nights (e.g., “Tequila Tuesday”).

Pro tip: Visit the Spice H2O (adults-only pool bar) or The Cellars (wine bar) during happy hour for quieter service and better drink selection. Avoid peak times (5–6 PM) to reduce wait times.

Pre-Cruise and Onboard Promotions

NCL frequently runs promotions that can reduce alcohol costs:

• Pre-cruise package discounts: Book your drink package 30+ days before departure and receive up to 20% off (e.g., $109.99 → $87.99/day).
• Onboard sales: During the first 2–3 days of the cruise, the bar manager may offer package upgrades or discounts to fill unsold inventory.
• Loyalty member benefits: Latitudes Rewards members (NCL’s loyalty program) often receive drink coupons, free upgrades, or exclusive happy hour access.
• Group and charter discounts: If traveling with a group of 8+ or on a charter, ask about customized drink packages or bar tabs.

Specialty Events and Tastings

NCL hosts numerous alcohol-focused events that offer value and education:

• Wine tastings: $25–$45 for a 90-minute session with 5–6 premium wines (e.g., Napa Valley, Bordeaux). Often includes light appetizers.
• Whiskey and rum seminars: $30–$50, featuring rare bottles and expert pairings.
• Cocktail classes: $20–$30 to learn how to make classic and signature drinks.

These events are not included in drink packages and must be booked separately, but they’re excellent for trying high-end drinks at a fraction of the retail price.

Bringing Your Own Alcohol: Rules and Fees

NCL’s Alcohol Embarkation Policy

NCL allows guests to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard at embarkation, but with strict rules:

• Wine and champagne: One 750ml bottle per adult (21+) may be brought onboard. A $15 corkage fee applies if opened in dining venues.
• Beer and spirits: Not permitted. Any beer, liquor, or hard seltzers found at embarkation will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.
• Non-alcoholic drinks: Unlimited (e.g., soda, juice, bottled water), but must be in original, unopened containers.

Important: The policy applies to all ports of embarkation, including international departures. If you’re boarding in Europe, you cannot bring spirits purchased at duty-free.

Strategic Use of BYOB

For wine lovers, bringing your own bottle can be a smart move:

• Save on premium wines: A $40 bottle of Napa Cabernet costs $120+ onboard. Bring it for $15 corkage = $55 total savings.
• Enjoy wine in your stateroom: No corkage fee if consumed in your room or on your balcony.
• Pair with room service: Order a cheese platter or dessert and enjoy your wine without extra charges.

Tip: Bring a wine opener and glasses to avoid using paper cups. Some ships provide complimentary stemware upon request.

What Happens if You’re Caught with Alcohol?

Security checks at embarkation are thorough. If unauthorized alcohol is found:

• It will be tagged and stored in a secure area.
• You may be warned or fined for repeat offenses.
• On rare occasions, boarding may be denied if the violation is severe (e.g., large quantities of liquor).

Always declare your wine at embarkation to avoid delays.

Smart Budgeting and Money-Saving Tips

Track Your Spending in Real Time

NCL’s My Cruise app allows you to monitor your onboard spending, including drink purchases. Set a daily budget and receive alerts when you’re approaching your limit. This is especially helpful if you’re not using a package.

Choose the Right Package for Your Habits

Match the package to your drinking style:

• Social drinker (1–2 drinks/day): Skip the package. Use happy hour and à la carte.
• Wine enthusiast: Consider the Wine & Dine package or bring your own.
• Heavy drinker (4+ drinks/day): Premium Plus is likely cost-effective.
• Non-drinker with a drinker: Only the drinker needs the package. Non-alcoholic soda package available.

Use Non-Alcoholic Alternatives

Many guests overestimate their alcohol consumption. Try:

• Mocktails: Creative, alcohol-free drinks (e.g., “Virgin Mojito”) for $5.95–$7.95.
• Infused waters and smoothies: Available at the buffet or juice bar.
• Specialty coffee: Included in Premium Plus; otherwise, $4.95–$6.95.

Alcohol Pricing Comparison Table (7-Day Caribbean Cruise)

Drink Type	Average À La Carte Price	Premium Plus Coverage	Premium Coverage	Happy Hour Price	BYOB Option
Domestic Beer	$8.95	Yes	Yes	$5.00	No
Craft Beer	$10.95	Yes	Yes	$6.00	No
House Wine	$9.95	Yes	Yes	$6.00	Yes ($15 corkage)
Premium Wine	$18.95	Yes	No	$12.00	Yes ($15 corkage)
Well Liquor	$10.95	Yes	Yes	$6.50	No
Top-Shelf Liquor	$20.95	Yes (if ≤$15)	No	$12.00	No
Classic Cocktail	$13.95	Yes	Yes	$8.00	N/A
Specialty Cocktail	$17.95	Yes (if ≤$15)	No	$10.00	N/A

Conclusion: Maximizing Value on Your NCL Cruise

Understanding how much is alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line is key to enjoying a stress-free, budget-conscious vacation. Whether you choose the Premium Plus Beverage Package for ultimate convenience, stick to à la carte with smart timing, or bring your own wine, NCL offers flexibility for every preference and budget. The key is to plan ahead: research your itinerary, estimate your drinking habits, and take advantage of happy hour deals, pre-cruise discounts, and loyalty perks.

Remember, alcohol is just one part of the cruise experience. By balancing indulgence with awareness—using tools like the My Cruise app, attending tastings, and enjoying non-alcoholic alternatives—you can savor every moment without overspending. Whether you’re toasting to a milestone, unwinding after a shore excursion, or simply enjoying the view from the deck, NCL’s diverse drink options ensure there’s something for everyone. Now that you’re equipped with insider knowledge, you can raise your glass with confidence, knowing exactly what you’re paying—and why it’s worth every penny.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Alcohol prices on Norwegian Cruise Line vary by drink type and venue, but expect cocktails to range from $10–$16, beers from $6–$9, and wine by the glass from $10–$18. Premium brands and specialty bars may cost more.

Is there an all-inclusive drink package on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, Norwegian offers the Premium Plus Beverage Package, which includes unlimited cocktails, beer, wine, and soda for a flat daily rate (typically $120–$150 per person, per day, depending on the cruise).

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

Norwegian’s alcohol prices are competitive with other major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean or Carnival. However, their drink packages often provide better value for frequent drinkers due to fewer restrictions.

Can I bring my own alcohol on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian allows each guest to bring one sealed bottle of wine or champagne (750ml) on embarkation day, but additional alcohol will be confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.

Are there happy hour or discounted drinks on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, many bars and lounges offer daily happy hour specials, such as 2-for-1 drinks or discounted cocktails, especially during early evening hours. Check the daily schedule onboard for details.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line charge gratuities on alcohol purchases?

Yes, a standard 18–20% gratuity is automatically added to all alcohol purchases, including individual drinks and drink packages, unless you adjust it at guest services.